Activists from groups calling themselves Poole Patriots and Bournemouth Patriots attended a demonstration outside the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) headquarters on Saturday, February 14. The groups are calling on the RNLI to « stop the taxi service », referring to accusations that the charity acts as a ‘taxi’ for people attempting to enter the UK illegally by crossing the Channel in small boats. They argued the governmentshould not rest on RNLI volunteers to ‘ferry’ asylum seekers in small boats across the English Channel.
The event has been strongly opposed by local activist groups, councillors, and the Green Party, with many counter-protesters gathering outside the RLNI building.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Green Party said the right to protest is « important and protected »; however, it is deeply concerned about the far right targeting the RNLI.
The RNLI is the largest charity dedicated to saving lives at sea around the coasts of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. It is an independent charity, separate from the government and the Coastguard.
Poole and Bournemouth Patriots gathered outside RNLI offices
Poole and Bournemouth Patriots picketed the RNLI headquarters on Saturday, February 14.
The Poole and Bournemouth Patriots have called for a demonstration for people who share their belief that the RLNI are facilitating the bringing of undocumented migrants to the UK.
One of the organisers of the protest said: « We respect the RNLI and we respect the volunteers. But this [taxi service] cannot continue. »
An attendee who travelled from London for the event, said: « I think the RNLI are great and do a fabulous job.
« The issue here is what they are doing is bringing economic migrants over from France and a safe Europe so they can enjoy all the benefits of being here.
« The RNLI is going out of its way to facilitate them by going to collect them from French waters. They have got it wrong by being a taxi service for illegal immigrants. »
(Image: Getty)
‘Every life is sacred’ protesters say
The 50 campaigners chanting « stop the boats, send them home » were outnumbered by almost 100 left-wing protesters from Stand Up to Racism.
The Green Party has opposed the protest, claiming that its members are « deeply disappointed » about the events.
It stated: « To provide some clear facts:
1. The RNLI is an independent charity and receives virtually no government funding.
2. Incidents involving refugees in small boats make up less than 3% of RNLI callouts, and account for under 1% of all refugees arriving in the UK. In most cases, people are either returned to French waters or handled by Border Force.
3. When the RNLI does have to rescue people from the water, it is because they are at risk of dying. That alone speaks to the desperation driving people to attempt the crossing.
4. International maritime law is clear: if a vessel is in distress and it is safe to help, 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 signs say « Love RNLI, Hate Racism ».
Labour MP for Poole Neil Duncan-Jordan said: « I am concerned to hear about a protest targeting the RNLI. Living and working in Poole, near its headquarters, I see first-hand how vital the RNLI is, not just for our harbour and town, but for everyone who uses our waters.
« I’m proud Poole is home to the RNLI. It is an independent charity, relying on public support, and it saves lives because people are in genuine danger at sea. The RNLI operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, responding to need, not where someone is from or what is in their bank account.
« Channel crossing rescues made up 1.2% of RNLI rescues in 2024, with volunteers saving 1,371 lives while responding to emergencies.
« There is nothing patriotic about denigrating one of our country’s most important and loved charities. »
(Image: Getty)
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