TNAG-1527-FCO40-2091-Hong-Kong-Vietnamese-refugees-general-1986 — Page 194

CAMF VISIT (7)

-

1ST to 3RD DECEMBER 1985

Ban Na Pho

(40,000 people)

The help given by SCF in providing transport (52 km each way) was much appreciated and guidance round the camp on the first day by Dr. Alex Fasro and Dr. Fatrick kolsteren (Belgians). Once again my wife was useful as interpreter we talked a great deal to refugees. There is NO desire to return to Laos unless

(a) the Vietnamese withdraw all military personnel,

and

(b) there are concrete assurances from Lao Government ra non-interference

or re-education.

There is an overwhelming need for education at all levels some 8,000 youngsters of school age have no education.

There is 'private tuition' for those who can afford it (i.e. have relatives in U,. or elsewhere sending funds) 300 baht per month for 1 hour daily

sessions 10 baht per session.

-

-

I spoke to UNHCR representative who is appreciative of the problem (as is the Governor of the province) the problem is with NOI who do not encourage such programmes.

Ferhaps a youth training scheme could be set up, i.e. Physical Training and community work? The OHI programme is working well with co-operation from capable Lao doctors.

This camp is unusual in that very few expatriate staff were evident.

There is a flourishing market trade and many individual stalls of all kinds access to the camp is easy for Thai/Lao traders.

There is a traditional medicine centre being sat up by the French "Order of Malta".

I met Virawan Trichaiyaporn

UNHCR field:fficer (who was on leave). I suggested that HCI may eventually relax attitude on education she will inform us if there is a possibility of a youth training programme.

Recommendation:-

We should maintain contact with UNHCR on this subject and with SCF for local information.