There will be a compensation fund for entrepreneurs in Ter Apel who are burdened by the nuisance of asylum seekers.
As it stands now, this scheme will be launched in the first three months of next year. It is not yet known exactly what that will look like. The fund is a joint arrangement of the municipality, the COA and the Ministry of Justice and Security.
Many entrepreneurs suffer damage due to the constant nuisance. This involves both reduced turnover and damage to image.
Mayor Velema has pointed out to the council that compensating for loss of income is complex, because this could involve state aid. What can be reimbursed are the extra costs they have to incur to limit the nuisance.
It is not clear whether entrepreneurs in Nieuw-Weerdinge in the municipality of Emmen can use the scheme. It is known that asylum seekers cause nuisance in the Drenthe village, as well as in Ter Apel.
The ministry is now preparing an action plan. State Secretary Eric van der Burg of Asylum Affairs has promised to come to Ter Apel to explain this plan to the municipal council and the entrepreneurs of Ter Apel.
The municipality has already started preparations for setting up a counter where entrepreneurs can go.
Meanwhile, the Westerwolde municipal council is very concerned about the financial situation of many entrepreneurs. For example, there is fear that entrepreneurs will collapse before they can appeal to the compensation fund that has yet to be established.