Smart border package

4.3.2013

Question for written answer E-002474-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Alexander Mirsky (S&D)

The smart border package, which consists of a Registered Traveller Program (RTP) and an Entry/Exit System (EES), is meant to facilitate, speed-up and reinforce border check procedures at the EU’s external borders for third-country nationals.

However, this proposal entails high investment costs: at least EUR 1.1 billion will be needed to equip 1 800 EU external border crossing points with the relevant technology.

A similar initiative was a failure in the US. Taking into consideration the current economic and political crisis, the ‘smart border package’, which still has a lot of gaps, seems to be a response to nationalist movements in certain Member States.

How will the Commission ensure that illegal migrants who use non-legitimate means to enter the EU comply with these rules?

How will the Commission ensure that the Member States do not abuse the new system by having an option to determine the amount of the fine or the severity of the sanction?

With the increase in cyber crime, what concrete steps have already been taken to guarantee the protection of personal data?

OJ C 362 E, 12/12/2013