This is based on the statistics and the arrival numbers on European shores since the wave of irregular migration some years ago.
Recently, the government of The Gambia and the Kingdom of Spain entered into a Bilateral Labour Agreement, the modalities of which are still in their preliminary stages. The move was intended to allow Gambians to travel regularly to Spain seasonally for employment. It was also designed to create opportunities or regular pathways for Gambians to travel to Europe. This many believe would curb the growing number of youth risking their lives to reach European shores.
On Monday, the government through the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment issued a release claiming that it has come to their notice that some unscrupulous elements or agencies are involved in illegal recruitment of Gambians to work in Spain. This is not only a cause for concern, but a move trying to taint the whole programme.
Let’s remember that migration is an old phenomenon. However, in view of that fact, the government, since the wave of the irregular migration, is hellbent and urging all especially youth to use the right channels to travel.
Evidently, the country’s strategic location and proximity of Spain Canaries Island, make it an ideal spot for many youngsters to venture into this clandestine journey by using rickety boats.
The question is who authorize these private agencies? The government should take a firm stance and ensure sanity in the whole issue. Also, they should take a firm stance or prosecute anyone found wanting.
If government doesn’t take a firm stance, the objective and purpose of this programme would be defeated. As a country, we can’t afford to see this agreement fail. Thus, prosecuting those found wanting would serve as a deterrent for others who would want to venture in it.
Remember that some of these unscrupulous agencies would go extra mile to lure Gambians in believing that they are the right agencies just to take monies from them. So the government should always remain vigilant to deter would-be so-called agents. It should start arresting and prosecuting people.