Solidarity across borders

Conference is appalled by the treatment and conditions that refugees suffer and are subjected to whilst taking refuge in the camps of Calais.

Conference agrees that refugees deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and opposes the populist and xenophobic attitudes directed at refugees by the far right and Conservative Party.

Conference recognises the very many reasons why those fleeing war, persecution and the increasing effects of climate change would want to seek asylum and refuge in the UK. Many refugees have family in the UK, speak English and have been unable to settle elsewhere due to persecution and hostility. All they seek is an opportunity to live and thrive in safety.

Conference resoundingly rejects the false narrative that refugees are risking their lives in order to reach the UK to access free welfare and housing provisions without any desire to contribute to society and the economy.

Conference applauds the solidarity visits by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) to the refugee camps in Calais. It is right that our Union’s solidarity does not recognise borders and our solidarity is not confined to our profession.

Conference condemns the small minded and bigoted attacks on this initiative and utterly condemns any cowardly anonymous attacks.

Conference also recognises the important educational aspect of these visits. Listening to the refugees personal stories and understanding their circumstances is crucial in tackling the false and divisive rhetoric that is pushed by the right-wing media and those who are ignorant to their plight.

Conference instructs the Executive Council that the FBU solidarity visits to the refugee camps in Calais are vitally important, justified and must continue.

Conference agrees that these visits should expand when possible and may involve solidarity visits across any other borders where our solidarity is needed.