Les gens du voyage express their disappointment at the refusal of a large transit area near Toulouse, calling it discrimination

IN SHORT Toulouse Métropole plans to acquire a 4-hectare plot in Aussonne for a transit area. Opposition from the local residents, who mention fertile agricultural land. Frédéric Lievy from the RLGDV association asserts that this is discrimination. The residents call for objectivity regarding the establishment of the area. Concerns over visual and olfactory nuisances without planned sanitation facilities. Call from the travelers to be consulted by local authorities. Accusations of discrimination and incitement to hatred against the itinerant community.

The recent decision by Toulouse Métropole to establish a transit area for travelers in Aussonne has sparked strong reactions. While the authorities put forward arguments in favor of this installation, those who will use it feel a profound sense of disappointment. They denounce the behavior of local residents opposing this project, labeling this opposition as discrimination.

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An essential project for travelers #

The project for a transit area on a 4-hectare agricultural plot is designed to accommodate families of travelers looking for a place to park their caravans. Frédéric Lievy, president of the RLGDV (Recognition of Travelers’ Tenants) association, emphasizes that the creation of this space is a legal obligation that must meet the needs of a often marginalized population. However, this necessity is not perceived this way by some residents of Aussonne, who firmly oppose this project.

The concerns of local residents #

Those opposing the establishment of the transit area highlight the importance of preserving agricultural land. They stress that this fertile land should be cultivated and utilized for agricultural activities. One of the spokespersons for the residents’ collective, Céline Fernandez, states: “We are not against travelers, nor against the establishment of a second welcome area. We are against this setup, here.” Thus, they are calling for an objective and detailed study on the chosen location.

Promises that do not reassure #

The dialogue between residents and municipal authorities has taken place, but it seems that concerns remain. The vice-president of the Métropole, Karine Traval-Michelet, tried to reassure residents by mentioning the accessibility of the area and the planned developments. Yet, residents retort that the access road is in fact narrow and difficult to navigate for large caravans. They also fear visual and olfactory nuisances that could result from the proximity of such an area.

A call for consultation #

In light of this situation, travelers express their frustration and disappointment. They demand to be consulted by the competent authorities, insisting that their voices be heard. Frédéric Lievy states: “This is discrimination and incitement to hatred, which is punishable by law.” This situation highlights the need for public authorities to address the concerns of travelers with respect and seriousness, to avoid future conflicts.

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A bitter observation #

Tension is rising between the residents of Aussonne and the traveler community. Residents fear for the decrease in the value of their properties and the disturbances that the area might cause. On their side, the traveler community cannot help but feel a profound injustice in the face of this opposition, interpreted as a will to refuse the coexistence of different ways of life. Neighbors come across as opponents, without considering the fundamental rights of travelers who are merely seeking a place to live in peace.