We are not heartless, say Greenwood Park residents
Tension is still brewing in the Greenwood Park community as residents claim the municipality has given them little communication and assistance after hundreds of foreign nationals were brought to the Maurice Benjamin Hall.
AS thousands march toward the Durban City Hall against the violent xenophobic attacks that have flared up across the country, tension is still brewing in the Greenwood Park community regarding the foreign nationals, who the residents say have been ‘dumped‘ in the heart of their community.
Since Wednesday last week, hundreds of displaced victims have been moving in and out of the shelter set up at the Maurice Benjamin Hall. Residents have, however, opposed the presence of the foreign nationals, expressing concern for their safety as well as the safety of the refugees. Reports have indicated that by Wednesday afternoon more than 500 foreign nationals were seeking refuge at the hall.
While addressing various council members at the makeshift refugee camp yesterday, a resident, Darrien Lortan, said the motives behind the residents’ opposition were misconstrued.
“We are being perceived as heartless and insensitive to the plight of the foreigners’ situations, but the truth is that we do empathise with them, and we have been actively involved in helping the xenophobic victims by donating clothes and food,” he said.
According to Lortan, the community has had no assistance or communication with regards to the foreign nationals who are seeking refuge at the hall. He also said that the municipality initially assured residents the hall was a temporary solution and that no more individuals would be brought to stay. However, days later, approximately 100 additional refugees were transported to the hall – once again without any warning or consultation.
“All we want is to be included and for someone to address our concerns. What plans have been made to ensure the safety of the community members, especially school children? The hall lies between three of our schools. What is the long-term plan for the refugees? The hall is not big enough to cater for so many people. Will additional facilities be provided to alleviate the sanitation situation before the building becomes a haven for disease?” he said.
According to ward councillor, Deochand Ganesh, the hall only has the capacity to cater for 50 people.
At least five people, including a 14-year-old boy, have been killed in the waves of xenophobic violence that has intensified over the last few weeks.
To view additional photos of the conditions at the shelter follow the Gallery Link.
