European Commissioner: Bira is a practical solution, can accommodate 1,500 people

(Patria) - Ylve Johansson, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, commented today on the crisis regarding the migrant shelter in Lipa.

"The situation faced by more than 900 migrants in Lipa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is extremely difficult. These people do not have adequate shelter in harsh winter conditions. This morning I spoke with Zoran Tegeltija, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the call followed yesterday's conversation with Mustafa Ružnić, Prime Minister of the Una-Sana Canton. It is clear that the reopening of the private Bira center is a practical and instant solution.
I welcome this morning's confirmation from the Council of Ministers that this is the primary option.

This center has adequate heating, electricity, running water, and can accommodate around 1,500 people. Thanks to the secured and promised EU funds, this is an instant and obvious solution to alleviate the suffering of people left in the snow.
We call on the BiH authorities at the state and local levels to work together to provide the shelter these people deserve," said the Commissioner.