NGO running Marsa Open Centre not to renew contract

A change in management is set to take place at the Marsa Open Centre next month, as the NGO which currently runs the immigrants’ centre has decided not to renew its contract.

When contacted, Oliver Gatt, the general manager of the Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem, said the decision to discontinue the NGO’s work in the centre was not taken because of any clash with the government.

“We just want to put more focus on our other projects. But we will keep concentrating until the very last day we are here,” Mr Gatt said.

The last day of their contract is September 15 and sources said the government’s Agency for the Welfare of Asylum Seekers will be taking over. AWAS also runs the Ħal Far open centre and tent village.

However, when contacted, the Justice Ministry did not specify to whom the open centre will be transferred.

“Following discussions between the ministry and Suret il-Bniedem, the latter have confirmed they would not be in a position to renew their current contract for the daily running of the Marsa Open Centre.

“The ministry is now in the process of reviewing the various options available, keeping i n mind the best interests of the migrant population accommodated therein.”

It is not yet known whether the people who work at the centre, including its Ghanaian manager, Ahmed Bugri, will be staying on.