“Councils are finding it harder and harder to do their jobs,” she wrote. The VNG pointed to repeated overcrowding at the Ter Apel registration centre, incidents involving disruptive asylum seekers, and growing hostility in local debates about housing. The letter was sent on Monday night, shortly after police intervened at a heated council meeting in Noordwijk about plans for a new asylum centre. It is demanding “political backing,” clearer and more consistent rules, and faster action to deal with asylum seekers who cause problems. Local councils are required by law to accept and provide accommodation for their fair share of refugees, but local protests have led dozens to shelve plans.