Still angry over Bridge2's Calais mission

Before writing in detail what was mentioned on their (HRF's) own website can I draw your attention to a live interview given by Mr Kassim Tokan, their deputy chief executive, to ITV in a news bulletin aired earlier this year. It concerned his visit to the illegal camp (The Jungle) and his findings there. (Sarah Griffith and Martin Gavet please note). I now quote his remarks: 'I saw migrants burning unwanted food and clothes.' He saw an estimated 95% to 97% of migrants in the camp were young fit men, some of whom allegedly told him they were happy to stay in the camp. 'They have enough food, they have enough clothes and we have seen clothes everywhere thrown. I think we need to find other places. These people come from certain countries, which are safe, everything is there, they can work, but I don't know why they came here. I thought they have valid reason, but most of them they haven't any valid reason, they want to go to the UK to get money, a better economic situation.'

I would now like to remind the Guernsey public that the camp at Calais was established by illegal migrants themselves, against the wishes of the French people. Just as a matter of interest I have obtained via the internet a picture of the shop selling food in the camp, with food and water readily available. Here are the internet comments from the HRF viewed by myself at the suggestion of Ms Griffith, and I quote:

'Following a recent news report, Human Relief Foundation would like to clarify its position in regards to its work in Calais. Our Path of Mercy project and volunteers have been operating on the ground in Calais since 5 September.

'The need to give humanitarian support to those in the ''Jungle Camp'' there was recognised early on. We have since been working hard with many others to facilitate this much needed assistance.

'In a news interview, the opinions of a member of our team who had spent less than a day in the camp were shown. Opinions were based on the first impressions of this individual. HRF has, however, been reviewing the need for work in Calais on a continuous basis, and there is a need in Calais for now, hence the continuous presence of our Path of Mercy project team. The Path of Mercy project is aimed to help refugees and migrants in Europe.

'Through donations and people's generosity, we purchased aid that was desperately needed such as food, hygiene kits, men's shoes and clothes and distributed them efficiently in addition to facilitating the efficient distributions of aid with other individuals and charities. We will continue to coordinate efforts and have a presence in the camp and will be building communal kitchens and portable shower units for camp residents. HRF is encouraging convoys and individuals from the UK who have been giving up their time and money to travel to the camp to provide assistance to continue their work.'

Could I suggest to Sarah Griffith she takes over some wire cutters, knuckle-dusters and pepper spray to be distributed to the many criminals in this camp as it would no doubt assist them in their quest to break into vehicles and get to the UK.

As for the HRF not believing or accepting information given to them by their deputy chief executive, words fail me.

I intend to contact this French resident as this person will no doubt be able to explain the legal situation regarding the visits to France of both Guernsey Bridge2Calais and the Human Relief Foundation, both apparently intent on doing building work in France, possibly without permission.

E. MAUGER,

Address withheld.

Editor's footnote: Sarah Griffith replies:

I feel it is pointless trying to reason with someone with such a closed mind.

I am not about politics, I am about helping another in distress – human beings in distress – that is all.