Increase in migration from Tunisia
10.10.2017
Question for written answer E-006341-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Salvatore Domenico Pogliese (PPE)
According to data provided by the Ministry of the Interior of the Italian Republic, the number of migrants arriving from Tunisia has increased by 371.8% compared to 2016. The number of arrivals has risen from 572 last year to 2 708 already recorded in 2017. There is a bilateral agreement in force between Italy and Tunisia to return irregular migrants. Unfortunately, due to the increase in arrivals and the shortage of places in repatriation centres, the Italian authorities are unable to carry out all of the necessary return operations. Furthermore, as reported by some Sicilian mayors, there are significant concerns about the possibility of infiltration by individuals belonging to jihadi groups.
In the light of the above:
- 1.Does the Commission plan to provide special assistance to Italy in order to repatriate Tunisian citizens who are illegally resident in the EU?
- 2.Does the Commission plan to promote specific initiatives to combat possible jihadi infiltrations in Sicily?
- 3.In the light of the data on arrivals in 2017, does the Commission plan to propose joint and urgent action to prevent and obstruct arrivals from Tunisia?