Flemish separatists N-VA have weighed in on the Brussels-Midi station debate, calling for "a political leap forward" in the fight against insecurity surrounding international train stations in Brussels.
The Flemish conservatives have drawn up a plan that includes a ban on alcohol consumption and gatherings in and around stations, as well as the establishment of a permanent police station at Brussels-Midi station.
In recent years, Brussels North and Brussels South stations have been the scene of several attacks, sometimes even involving knives or firearms. These incidents threaten the safety and well-being of passengers and local residents and damage the image of Brussels, the N-VA stresses.
Last week, SNCB CEO Sophie Dutordoir even sent a letter to the federal, regional and municipal authorities, asking them to improve both safety and cleanliness around Brussels-Midi station. According to the SNCB, the situation in and around the station is currently "dramatic" in terms of nuisance and incivilities.
A coordinated approach
The Flemish party's plan includes a ban on alcohol consumption, gatherings, begging, street sex work and the erection of tents in and around stations at night. N-VA is also advocating for the creation of a task force via the regional security council to strengthen the coordination among the local police, the federal police, Sécurail and the railroad police.
Additionally, the cameras installed in the stations should be integrated into the regional video surveillance system to facilitate the sharing of recordings with the police. The party also favours setting up a police station at Midi station and reinforcing the regional security antenna at the North Station.
In agreement with Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden, N-VA also believes that the Minister-President of the Brussels Region, Rudi Vervoort, should facilitate the integrated approach.
