Inspraakreactie 04062024 ENG

We stand before you today with a heart filled with gratitude and a deep sense of appreciation. It's not often to find ourself in a situation where we are compelled to express a common profound opinion. Yet we are here. So, first and foremost, on behalf of all Ukrainian refugees residing in Hoge Veer, we would like to express recognition to the Netherlands, the municipality, and involved persons who have stood by us during this extremely difficult period that Ukraine is going through, facing severe aggression from a neighbouring country. Currently, there are 170 people who have escaped from the war living in the Hoge Veer, spanning from newborns born in the Netherlands to elderly individuals. We are well aware of the circumstances surrounding this building. We know that it is originally designated for demolition, a fate that once seemed inevitable. However, due to the impact of the war and the genuine support extended by the Dutch people to Ukrainian refugees, these plans have been changed. As a result, the timeline for its demolition has been extended twice or so. We understand the disappointment among the local residents who were expecting new housing here and may have been concerned about the negative impact that would come to their quiet and peaceful town of Raamsdonkveer with the arrival of new residents.

Having spent quite a significant amount of time here, we have adapted to the Hoge Veer, the city, its people, mentality, traditions, and continue to strive to do so. This building, though perhaps not the most glamorous or modern, holds a special place in our heart. It has been our refuge in times of uncertainty. It has sheltered us, embraced us, and provided us with a sense of security that is especially valuable now for people from Ukraine. We understand that the days of Hoge Veer are numbered, and eventually, it will be demolished to pave the way for something new. However, until that inevitable day arrives, we would be honoured to still call this building our temporary home and reside there. We have formed our small Ukrainian community here in which we offer each other mutual support and uphold our daily lives. We have our work, schools, day-care centres and associations for our children in the municipality and surrounding area. We have also made friends with people in this municipality and surrounding area.

It's fair to say that every Ukrainian who fled the war to seek a peaceful life has encountered significant stress. The sudden outbreak of war took us by surprise, despite rumours that it might break out. Within our community, there are individuals who have permanently left behind their homes, families, and friends. Relocating to another country, even to a prosperous and stable one like the Netherlands, wasn't part of the plans for many Ukrainians, presenting an unexpected challenge. Recently, we gathered and discussed what the Hoge Veer, this municipality, and its people mean to us. We feel great respect, a certain kinship with this municipality, we feel comfort and stability, peace and protection. Obviously, a change of residence will provoke quite serious changes in our lives and add stress and challenge. This will certainly have a negative impact on our stable and predictable existence, because we will lose jobs, our children will not be able to go to their local schools and associations, which they really enjoy. We will lose the environment we have built during this period. We are aware that the day will inevitably come when we must leave the Hoge Veer. However, we also belief that the war will one day come to an end, and nobody is certain about what will happen sooner; hence, we cannot make long-term plans.

Meanwhile, we're in a scenario where the potential for leaving this building could be postponed. Currently, the owner has no plans to demolish it, offering us a ray of hope to prolong our stay. Given this situation, we respectfully ask you to continue our stay here. Whatever you decide, we are grateful for your support over the past two years. Thank you!