David Powell
Updated on: October 10, 2024 10:29 pm GMT
Saint-Gilles Mayor Jean Spinette is firing back against claims of insufficient collaboration among local authorities managing Brussels-Midi station, which has faced significant scrutiny due to drug-related crimes. He expressed his disbelief at comments made by a spokesperson for Home Affairs Minister Annelies Verlinden, who described the response to ongoing efforts around the station as “very weak.”
Response to Criticism of Cooperation
Mayor Spinette’s remarks followed a POLITICO article that cited the anonymous cabinet spokesperson’s assertion that it was impossible to coordinate effectively among various services and stakeholders involved in addressing the drug-related issues at the station. “When I read that, I fell off my chair,” Spinette stated during a media briefing, emphasizing that collaboration has been ongoing for over a year.
The mayor outlined the various collaborative efforts taking place among police, social services, and local government agencies in the vicinity of Brussels-Midi, known for its troubled reputation. Since the introduction of the “Plan Midi” last September, initiated by Minister Verlinden, authorities have implemented a number of security measures, including a more significant police presence at the station along with plans for a new police commissariat.
Police reform efforts focus on increased visibility and support in the Midi Zone, coordinating with railway police. According to Spinette, a total of 420 arrests have been made since “Plan Midi” was announced, highlighting the commitment to combating crime at this critical transit hub.
Initiatives Beyond Policing
Spinette noted that the authorities are taking a holistic approach toward improving conditions at Brussels-Midi station, with an emphasis on cleanliness and social support for vulnerable populations. “Our teams of street social workers are in daily contact with homeless people,” he explained, indicating broad community engagement.
The enhanced efforts include a partnership with Bruxelles-Propreté, the city’s cleaning service, which plays a key role in maintaining a cleaner environment. Additionally, support services for drug users are integral to the strategy, aiming to address the root causes of the drug-related crime plaguing the station area.
Regular Coordination Meetings
The Mayor stressed that his office actively engages in regular meetings concerning infrastructural development in the area. He maintains an ongoing dialogue with the mayors of neighboring municipalities, including Fabrice Cumps from Anderlecht. Together, they represent the Midi Police Zone, one of six police districts in Brussels.
Spinette’s insistence on collaboration comes amidst discussions at the federal level about merging the city’s six police districts into one centralized force. While proponents argue that this could enhance cooperation and reduce crime, the proposal has faced stiff resistance, particularly from the Socialist Party, which Spinette represents.
Debate Over Police Centralization
Advocates of a unified police force assert that centralization could streamline operations and enhance efficiency among the districts. All Flemish parties have indicated support for this move, while Ecolo, the sole French-speaking party backing it during recent election campaigns, has faced political backlash.
Conversely, the Socialists, including Spinette, assert that Brussels can function effectively despite its fragmentation. “The ‘Brussels is badly managed’ tune is playing again,” he stated, calling for stakeholders to reassess the issues at play and collaborate effectively to improve the environment around Brussels-Midi station.
Call for Infrastructure Improvements
Beyond addressing immediate security and cleaning concerns, Spinette highlighted the urgent need for the installation of the long-promised police station at Brussels-Midi. Originally slated for completion by the end of summer, the delay has only intensified local calls for improved safety measures in the bustling transit area.
As discussions about the future of policing and community safety in Brussels continue, the pressure is mounting on both local and federal authorities to demonstrate their commitment to effectively managing the challenges posed by crime, particularly in the high-traffic areas like Brussels-Midi station.
While people argue about how police should be organized, Spinette believes in working together. He thinks we should put money into both police and social support. This way, everyone can feel safer and more included, especially in one of Europe’s busiest train stations.
