"Greece cannot handle more illegal migrants on its territory and is determined to take all necessary measures to protect the borders, including the construction of the fence along a stretch of its land border with Turkey in Evros prefecture. At the same time, the goal set is that no illegal migrant will be left in the country," he stressed.
Papoutsis made the statement after submitting an amendment in Parliament providing that former army camps will be used as first reception centres for refugees and illegal migrants.
The amendment is included in the draft law on the establishment of an asylum service and a first reception service and harmonisation of Greek legislation to the 2008/115/EC Directive on common standards and procedures in member-states for returning illegally staying third country nationals.
Papoutsis stressed that "aside from the fence, infrared cameras and all advance technology means that we'll use in Evros and our borders, the draft law we are voting today also brings order to the whole situation that plagues our country for years and is an insult to Greece and the European law and order. Based on the draft law, those eligible will be granted asylum and international protection…but those who are in our country illegally, particularly, those who participate in illegal and violent actions will leave Greece…either through voluntary repatriation or through deportation. Greece can not take it anymore; the Greek society can not take it anymore. We have crossed our limits despite the fact that we are a democratic and tolerant society, the most tolerant in Europe."
ANA-MPA
