The sign justifies this withdrawal by a use that “could endanger the lives of people who use them as part of a crossing” towards England
Le Monde with AFP
An unprecedented decision about a question regularly at the origin of friction between London and Paris, the multiplication of illegal attempts to pass through the United Kingdom by the sea.
Kayaks that can be used by migrants to cross the handle have been removed from the sale in the DECATHLON stores in Calais and Grande-Synthe, said the sign Tuesday, November 16, confirming information from the northern voice . “The purchase of these kayaks will no longer be possible” in the shops of Calais (Pas-de-Calais) and Grande-Synthe, near Dunkirk (North), “in reaction with the current context,” said the service of Decathlon press.
“The recent increase in crossing attempts actually brought our teams from Decathlon Calais to question the position to be held on the sale of products that can be diverted from their sports use and serve as boats for Cross the Channel, “says the brand solicited by the regional daily. The sign of sports articles indicates that “it is not the design that is given to these products, nor their first utility”.
Decathlon justifies this withdrawal by a use that “could endanger the lives of people who use them as part of a crossing”. It indicates that the decision was made “at the store” and “validated by the company”.
Vests, Rams remain available for sale
For years, migrants flock on the coast of Hauts-de-France in the hope of rallying the United Kingdom, with a flight from 2020 crossings aboard small boats. According to the United Kingdom, 22,000 migrants have managed to rally England since January.
The North Channel and Sea Maritime Prefecture, which coordinates relief operations in the area, counted, until 31 August, 15,749 people supported during sea rescue operations involving crossings or attempts to crossing, compared with 9,551 in 2020 and 2,294 in 2019.
Decathlon adds that these kayaks remain available for online sales and other stores, and specifies that “products that improve sea safety such as vests, rowing or thermal protection will be, them, Always available for sale “in Calais and Grande-Synthe.
Friday, three migrants had been missing after trying to cross the Channel on kayaks. Two kayaks had been found to drift off Calais Thursday, and two commodities rescued by the gendarmerie.