The boss of the RNLI has condemned threats and abuse directed at the charity’s volunteers and staff following the recent interception of a migrant boat off the coast of the Isle of Wight.
RNLI CEO Peter Sparkes has spoken out after what he describes as ‘deliberate misinformation and a misunderstanding’ about the charity, its purpose and how its crews are tasked.
His comments come after Bembridge and Yarmouth RNLI lifeboats were tasked at around 10:35 on Sunday (6th September) to a large migrant dinghy around halfway between the Isle of Wight and Cherbourg, France, as previously reported by Island Echo.
More than 150 migrants were subsequently brought ashore at Eastney, where Police in riot gear were deployed as protesters gathered.
Since Sunday’s incident, the RNLI has come under fire, including criticism directed at those involved in the operation.
Mr Sparkes has now revealed that some RNLI volunteers, including those from Bembridge and Yarmouth, and staff have been subjected to online and, in the worst cases, physical abuse.
He has said:
“Recent events have generated deliberate misinformation and a misunderstanding about the RNLI – our purpose, our tasking, and particularly our lifesaving work in the Channel.
Article continues below this advertisement “Sadly, as a result, some of our volunteers and staff have been the subject of online and, in the worst cases, physical abuse.
“The RNLI’s people represent the very best in our society, they selflessly give up their time to keep others safe. Yet they and their families are being threatened by those who would hide behind a balaclava or a keyboard.
“Their action, in contrast, is wholly unacceptable in a civilised society. We will take whatever steps we can, to care for and protect our people and their families.
“To those who stand for and by the RNLI, thank you. This charity will continue to save lives at sea all around the UK and Ireland – as we always have and always will.”
More than 150 migrants were subsequently brought ashore at Eastney, where Police in riot gear were deployed as protesters gathered.
You can view Peter Sparkes’ statement in full here.
