Answer given by Ms Johansson on behalf of the European Commission
6.7.2021
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) is implementing the EU financed Emergency Assistance project for ‘Supporting the Greek Authorities in Managing the National Reception System for Asylum Seekers and Vulnerable Migrants (SMS )’ which covers, amongst other actions, the construction and operational needs of reception centres on the Greek mainland[1].
This includes the construction or maintenance of fences in the sites of Diavata, Ritsona, Malakasa and Nea Kavala, as requested by the Greek authorities, in view of increasing security and safety of residents and staff.
The Commission and the European Asylum Support Office (EASO) were consulted on the technical specifications prior to the construction of the fences.
The fencing must take due account of a number of parameters, notably fire protection, natural light, non-blockage of sight and adequate distance from any accommodation units. A mixed solution is implemented that alternates concrete with chain-link fencing.
The amount contracted for the implementation of the overall project is approximately EUR 180 million, which covers the period from 1 January 2020 until 30 June 2021, out of which approximatively EUR 9 million is dedicated to works in the centres (including but not limited to cleaning, maintenance, repairs, and fences).
- [1] For more information please visit the Financial Support to Greece Factsheet: https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/sites/default/files/what-we-do/policies/european-agenda-migration/202104_managing-migration-eu-financial-support-to-greece_en.pdf