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Keijzer Vows to Cut Ter Apel ‘Safe‑Country’ Group Below 100, With Dispersal, Extra Policing and Business Relief

Local officials voiced cautious approval, citing years of unmet promises.

Overview

  • During a visit Monday, the demissionary asylum minister said those remaining would be dispersed to other reception centers across the country after the group is reduced below 100.
  • Emmen’s mayor said extra municipal enforcement officers and immigration police will be deployed on a short timetable, aiming to start within one to two months.
  • Keijzer proposed a compensation scheme for shopkeepers in Ter Apel and the municipality of Emmen, promising simpler claims and broader coverage, though implementation will take longer.
  • Estimates of the current group vary, with RTV Noord reporting about 300 people and RTV Drenthe reporting 400 to 650.
  • Keijzer linked lasting relief to Senate action to shorten asylum procedures, as local leaders repeated their “first see, then believe” stance after past assurances.