Samstag, 1. September 2012

New transfers from the Lampedusa CSPA -the Centre empties


Following Monday's transfer (27th August) of 180 migrants from the  Lampedusa CSPA (First Reception Centre) to the Mineo CARA (Hosting Centre for Migrants) (CT), a further 79 migrants were yesterday (31st August) taken by ferry to Porto Empedocle (AG). Among the group were around 20 sub Saharan minors and 50 Tunisian adults.
The migrants were placed in cabins on the ship's upper deck, after spending 9 hours under the surveillance of 14 Carabinieri armed with guns and batons. Only the minors were allowed out on deck in small groups of 6 or 7 to get a few moments of fresh air. And they were forced to remain seated "for safety reasons" under the watchful eye of 4 security guards. It was forbidden for them to speak to any of the other passengers, especially the young Italians who were returning from their holidays on Lampedusa and were curious about the presence of the migrants aboard the ship.
Some passengers were informed by the Carabinieri to not take seats in the lounge on the floor where the migrants were staying because, "Tunisians smell".
When they  arrived in Porto Empedocle, the minors were sent to various reception centres on the island, while the Tunisians were sent to Pozzallo where they will stay until their repatriation.
Germana Graceffo
Borderline Sicilia Onlus