Protesters urge RNLI ‘stop the taxi service’ in migrant demonstration in Poole | UK | News
Activists from groups calling themselves Poole Patriots and Bournemouth Patriots took part in a demonstration outside the headquarters of the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) on Saturday 14 February. The groups are calling on the RNLI to “stop the taxi service”, citing accusations that the charity is acting as a ‘taxi’ for those trying to enter the UK illegally by crossing the Channel in small boats.
The event was fiercely opposed by local activist groups, councilors and the Green Party, and many counter-protesters gathered outside the RLNI building.
The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Green Party said the right to protest was “important and protected”; but is deeply concerned about the far right targeting the RNLI.
The RNLI is the largest charity dedicated to saving lives at sea off the coasts of the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. It is an independent relief agency, separate from the government and the Coast Guard.
Protesters say ‘All life is sacred’
The Green Party opposed the protest, saying its members were “deeply disappointed” by the events.
IT stated: “To present some clear facts:
1. The RNLI is an independent charity and receives almost no government funding.
2. Incidents involving refugees on small boats account for less than 3% of RNLI call-outs and less than 1% of all refugees arriving in the UK. In most cases people are either returned to French waters or handled by the Border Force.
3. When the RNLI has to rescue people from water it is because they are at risk of dying. This alone speaks to the desperation that drives people to cross the border.
4. International maritime law is clear: If a ship is in distress and it is safe to assist, you must provide assistance. “The RNLI is doing exactly what the law and basic humanity requires.”
(Image: Getty)
Counter-protesters gathered at the event
Counter-protesters demonstrate against Poole and Bournemouth Patriots.
Their banner reads: “Love the RNLI, Hate Racism.”
Neil Duncan-Jordan, Labor MP for Poole, said: “It concerns me to hear of a protest targeting the RNLI. “Living and working in Poole, near its headquarters, I see first-hand how vital the RNLI is, not only to our port and town, but to everyone who uses our waters.
“I’m proud Poole is home to the RNLI. It’s an independent charity that relies on public support and saves lives as people are in real danger at sea. The RNLI operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, responding to need, not where someone comes from or what’s in their bank account.”
“Channel crossing rescues accounted for 1.2% of RNLI rescues in 2024, with volunteers saving 1,371 lives responding to emergencies.
“There is nothing patriotic about denigrating one of our nation’s most important and beloved charities.”
(Image: Getty)
