The RNLI has temporarily halted its lifeboat service in Portsmouth following incidents of abuse directed at its volunteers. This decision comes after the charity’s crew members faced hostility for assisting migrants at sea, with some volunteers being labelled as ‘traitors’ during recent protests.
The charity’s spokesperson confirmed that the Portsmouth Lifeboat Station has been off service since September 10, although search and rescue operations continue through other RNLI stations. The situation escalated after a dinghy carrying around 140 migrants arrived, prompting protests aimed at preventing further crossings.
The RNLI has advised its volunteers to refrain from wearing branded clothing due to safety concerns stemming from the protests, which have included road blockades and anti-migrant demonstrations. RNLI chief executive Peter Sparkes condemned the abuse, stating that it reflects a misunderstanding of the charity’s lifesaving mission in the Channel.
This incident highlights the growing tensions surrounding migration in the UK, as the RNLI’s role in rescuing those in peril at sea becomes increasingly politicised. The charity aims to resume normal operations as soon as it is safe to do so, but the impact of public sentiment on volunteer safety raises serious concerns for the future of maritime rescue efforts.
Source: LBC News
