The Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, has received a letter from the Government of the Canary Islands emphasizing the “essential” nature of Frontex’s work.
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, January 25. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Government of the Canary Islands has expressed its “concern” to the Ministry of the Interior regarding the decision of the European agency Frontex to halt immigration control operations in Spanish waters.
Fernando Clavijo, the president of the Canary Islands, confirmed this on Thursday, expressing his hope for a swift resolution to the differences between the Spanish Government and the European agency. He emphasized that the issue at hand is the “saving of lives” both on the coasts of the Canary Islands and those of Africa.
The Minister of the Presidency, Public Administrations, Justice and Security of the Government of the Canary Islands, Nieves Lady Barreto, has already written to the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, expressing her “concern about the possibility of the European agency Frontex departing from Spain if an agreement is not reached.”
Barreto underlined the “essential” nature of collaboration with Frontex for immigration control, particularly in the critical situation in the Canary Islands, in addition to the fundamental work carried out by the State Security Forces and Bodies.
The head of the Canary Islands Executive reiterated their “deep concern” and emphasized the need for Europe to make decisions and commitments with the countries of origin so that Frontex can also operate in those countries.
Fernando Clavijo stressed that the European Union must comprehend that migratory flows need to be addressed in Africa rather than by erecting more barriers, as this only makes the routes more perilous and results in more fatalities.
He also commended the European Pact on Migration and Asylum, while stressing the necessity for a determined commitment from the European Union and the Government of Spain in cooperation policies, and the deployment of Frontex, as the priority is to save lives.
FOUR PROPOSALS TO AMEND THE LAW
President Clavijo also disclosed that the Canary Islands Executive has formulated four options for legislative amendments concerning the distribution of unaccompanied minors.
These proposals, according to the president, will be presented to the spokespersons of the parliamentary groups in an upcoming meeting and to the Minister of Youth and Children, Sira Riego, with the endorsement of the legal services of the autonomous community.
Clavijo stressed the need for significant political agreements to ensure the realization of these legislative modifications in the coming months in order to address the situation of these minors and guarantee their rights.
He emphasized the importance of providing answers and securing a future for these minors, asserting that their rights must be guaranteed, as they could be our own sons, daughters, grandchildren, and granddaughters.
