Repatriation center plagued by bedbugs again, staff on strike: “There is a minimum service” (Steenokkerzeel)

The staff of the 127bis repatriation centre in Steenokkerzeel has gone on strike. The asylum centre is once again being plagued by bedbugs.

The 127bis centre along the Tervuursesteenweg in Steenokkerzeel is not the first time that it has been plagued by the persistent bloodsuckers. Bedbugs are very small insects that live on the blood of humans and animals. Their favourite spot in the house is in and around the bed. For the staff of 127bis it is enough to go on strike, especially now that since the night of Thursday to Friday there is also a suspicion that there are also bedbugs in the staff room.

READ ALSO: Steenokkerzeel shelter evacuated after bed bug infestation

Mayor Kurt Ryon (Klaver/N-VA) confirms the strike. “There is a minimum service in effect. The main posts are guarded and meals are also delivered. For the time being everything is quiet but our police zone KASTZE is on standby in case there are any problems.”

According to Ryon, negotiations are underway with the unions and a specialized firm has been called in to exterminate the bedbugs. They are also considering tackling the staff room immediately. “There are currently around forty asylum seekers staying in the center. They are being accommodated in the living areas and cannot go to their rooms for the time being. There is currently no evacuation of the building.” It is not yet clear when the staff will return to work.

READ ALSO: “Our police services have more important tasks to perform”: angry mayor opposes construction of new departure center for those who are in our country illegally

(dbg)