The situation of migrants in Greece

8.2.2012

Question for oral answer O-000030/2012
to the Commission
Rule 115
Georgios Papanikolaou, Monika Hohlmeier, Manfred Weber, Simon Busuttil, Salvatore Iacolino
on behalf of the PPE Group

Arrivals of irregular migrants at the Greek-Turkish border accounted for 90% of irregular entries to the EU in 2010 and continued to be significant in 2011. Greece bears the responsibility for securing the rights and providing for the needs of these migrants.

Frontex conducted the first ever RABIT deployment at the Greek-Turkish border in 2010, which initially decreased the number of irregular entries. Despite the ongoing Joint Operation Poseidon Land, the inflow of irregular migrants has risen again, with more than 300 apprehensions per day. Turkey contributes to this critical situation by refusing to fully enforce or cooperate on readmission agreements, to develop a comprehensive and functioning asylum system and to prevent and fight against the trafficking and smuggling of human beings by organised crime.

In 2010, Greece adopted a National Action Plan; some progress has been made since. The country is also receiving support through EASO since spring 2011, in order to set up a modern asylum and reception system. Yet, despite Greece’s difficulties in absorbing EU funds, new infrastructures for the initial screening and referral of migrants and asylum-seekers need to be established urgently.

–     How will the Commission contribute to ensuring that the increasing migration flows in Greece will be dealt with in accordance with the asylum acquis?

–     Has the Commission observed any progress regarding the return through Turkey of migrants who have irregularly crossed European borders?

–     What steps is the Commission envisaging in order to improve the cooperation with Turkey on border control and combating irregular migration? What measures is the Commission planning in order to push for a more effective fight of organised crime by the Turkish authorities?

–     Does EASO posses enough financial and human resources in order to have a meaningful impact in Greece?

Tabled: 8.2.2012

Forwarded: 10.2.2012

Deadline for reply: 17.2.2012