Community
Direct Flights Could Bring Refugees to the Island
Tynwald is debating a motion condemning the actions of Putin’s Russia.
Minister for the Cabinet Office Kate Lord-Brennan has told Tynwald the gov is working on a plan to fly refugees fleeing Ukraine directly to the island.
Ms Lord-Brennan was speaking as members spoke on a motion condemning the actions of the Russian regime under Vladimir Putin.
The Minister said that while the island was working with the UK to supporting Ukrainian refugees in coming to the island, they gov was working on its own plan to fly people in. She told members: ‘If this island wants to have a shred of credibility as an international jurisdiction, it is essential that we play our part in the international response.’
Ms Lord-Brennan added: ‘There are people that need us to act and need us to act now. We have to have an immediate response. Our first phase is well underway, the community response, the offers of accommodation. Since we put the email inbox live, we have received over 260 offers of accommodation and support in all manner of ways. To each and every person who has been in touch, thank you.
‘But we need to get those in need here, the next phase of our response. We cannot wait, there is not the luxury of time. That is why we must look at all options and that is what is has been requested that we actively look to organise a direct flight from an appropriate location to the Isle of Man. This flight would be for Ukrainian refugees, those women and children in need, who wish to come to the Isle of Man. It is something that is work in progress, but that absolutely needs exploring.’
The Minister said that the gov will work with authorities and humanitarian organisations to fill the flight and that the Chief Minister has been in contact with the Polish Ambassador [to the UK] as to what assistance they need while other talks are ongoing with the Irish and UK governments.
She added: ‘We will not turn our back on those who need us, that is the Isle of Man I know and am so very proud to serve. The priority now is getting that first group of women and children out of danger and here to the Isle of Man where they will be welcomed and supported, not only by the government but our wonderful and passionate community.’
