Way forward for Frontex

17.12.2014

Question for oral answer O-000100/2014
to the Commission
Rule 128
Monika Hohlmeier, Roberta Metsola, Elissavet Vozemberg, Emil Radev, Anna Maria Corazza Bildt, Barbara Matera, Salvatore Domenico Pogliese, Jeroen Lenaers, on behalf of the PPE Group

As migratory pressure continues to grow, the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union (Frontex) is having to take on an increasing number of tasks, including as a result of the recently adopted Regulation (EU) No 656/2014 governing search and rescue in joint operations and Regulation (EU) No 1052/2013 establishing the European Border Surveillance System (Eurosur). Frontex is closely involved in joint border management operations, which include an obligation to search and rescue in accordance with EU law. One of Frontex’s tasks concerns the joint operation ‘Triton’, which it is coordinating and which became fully operational on 1 November 2014; however, it is unclear what contributions will be made by Member States in the future. The Commission is asked to answer the following:

– What are the new challenges faced by Frontex? What resources are needed for Frontex to function correctly at this time of exceptionally high migratory pressure? Is Frontex able to carry out its tasks with the resources currently available, including as regards possible new requests for support from Member States not currently hosting any operations? Do the budget and human resources available match the tasks?

– What support would Frontex need to perform its tasks better? Should there be a clearer definition of its role at the EU’s air, land and sea borders? What are its strategic priorities?

– Are the Member States’ contributions sufficient? Are there any plans for contributions in the long term? Have Member States been supporting joint operations to the extent necessary? What difficulties are encountered in Frontex’s collaboration with Member States, and how can open and transparent cooperation by Member States be ensured?