Noordoostpolder has received €125,000 in government funding to prevent nuisance associated with asylum seekers at and around the asylum seekers’ centre in Luttelgeest. The municipality says the current nuisance is limited, so the money is being used mainly to maintain that situation and reduce the risk of new incidents rather than to respond to an acute increase. The centre houses about 1,000 residents, including 80 unaccompanied minor asylum seekers.

The municipality plans to fund training and courses, including pathways to volunteering, internships or paid work for refugees likely to receive a residence permit. Cultural and musical activities focused on developing talents may also be financed. If the full amount is used, the centre’s management must prepare an evaluation covering the experiences and results.