Asylum seekers have reboarded the Bibby Stockholm barge after they were evacuated when Legionella bacteria was discovered two months ago.
The vessel – docked at Portland Port in Dorset – is part of the government’s plans to deal with illegal migration into the UK. The Home Office says using the ship – with a capacity of more than 500 – is cheaper than using hotels to house people.
When the Bibby Stockholm was evacuated, it was reported that 39 people had been staying on it. That number is now understood to be 21 after the activity today.
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At least one coach carrying people arrived at the port complex today, and people carrying suitcases and other bags were seen boarding the ship.
The arrival was met with a small number of protesters, who said the nautical detention was “inhumane” and “like a prison”.
Members of the climate protest group Just Stop Oil also tried to prevent the coach from reaching Bibby Stockholm, with a post on social media showing the group holding orange banners as the vehicle kept driving.
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A spokesperson for Dorset Police said “two men were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage. A further report was received of criminal damage to a police vehicle and a third man was also arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.”
Some people helped produce “welcome bags” for the arrivals which included shampoo, toothpaste, notebooks and a map of the local area.
It is expected that people will be housed on the Bibby Stockholm for around six to nine months, and it has been berthed there for a period of 18 months. Those who refuse to board the boat risk losing their support from the Home Office.
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Asylum seekers moved off barge ‘displayed symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease’
A Home Office spokesperson said: “From today, we are beginning to move people back on to the Bibby Stockholm in Portland. All necessary tests including health, fire and water checks have been completed, and are all satisfactory.
“The number of people on board will increase gradually with more arrivals in the coming days and months, as part of a carefully structured, phased approach.
“This is part of the government’s pledge to reduce the use of expensive hotels and bring forward alternative accommodation options which provide a more cost-effective, sustainable and manageable system for the UK taxpayer and local communities.”
They added that everyone being moved onto the barge would get five days’ notice and would get assessed against suitability criteria while also being checked against police and immigration databases. Fingerprints and identities would be taken down as well.
A full system cleanse of the plumbing has been completed, and the vessel had been given the all clear for Legionella bacteria.
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Since the introduction of the government’s Illegal Migration Act, those who arrive in the UK illegally are unable to claim asylum and instead face being deported to countries like Rwanda to have their asylum claims heard.
This hinges on the legality of the Rwanda scheme, which is being decided by the Supreme Court.
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