Foreign swimmers face limitations at a Swiss pool due to repeated instances of disruptions caused by certain groups.
The Porrentruy District Municipal Association, which manages the outdoor swimming pool in the Jura canton of Switzerland, has imposed temporary restrictions on foreigners accessing the facility due to persistent issues with misconduct, harassment, disorderly behaviour, and overcrowding. The pool's mayor, Lionel Maitre, who is also the head of leisure at the Association, made statements regarding the situation.
The majority of those affected by the ban are young people from neighbouring French regions, particularly the departments of Territoire de Belfort and Doubs. Despite increased security measures, such as the hiring of private guards, the pool has faced ongoing issues with incivility and unacceptable behaviour.
The recent closure of an outdoor swimming pool in the French border town of Delle has contributed to increased pressure and crowding at the Porrentruy pool, potentially exacerbating the problems. Authorities expect problems to recur in Delle after its reopening on 8th July.
The ban allows only Swiss nationals, residents with settlement permits, and holders of valid Swiss work permits (including French cross-border workers with permits) to use the pool. This measure aims to avoid penalising lawful commuters while addressing the disturbances caused by mostly unaccompanied young people from France.
Over 20 people have been excluded from the swimming pool and denied access due to their misconduct. The misconduct includes harassment of young women, inappropriate language, swimming in underwear, and violent behaviour after being reprimanded.
However, it's important to note that the access restriction is not solely due to foreigners' behaviour but also to keep visitor numbers at a manageable level. The pool will be limited to access between 4th July and 31st August.
Foreign tourists staying in a hotel or campsite in Porrentruy can still buy a holiday card to use the pool. The last time foreigners were restricted from using the pool was in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Porrentruy District Municipal Association has made statements about the situation, expressing their commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all pool users. They are currently working on long-term solutions to address the ongoing issues.
In light of the persistent incivility and unacceptable behavior at the outdoor swimming pool, a temporary ban has been imposed on non-Swiss nationals, including those from neighboring French regions such as Territoire de Belfort and Doubs. The ban, which aims to control crowds and address disturbances caused mainly by unaccompanied young people, has been implemented due to misconduct that includes harassment, inappropriate language, and violent behavior. Yet, it's essential to note that this decision is not solely due to foreigners' behavior but also to keep visitor numbers at a manageable level.
