Athens News Agency: News in English, 09-06-12

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From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Athens mayor on illegal migration issue, Turkey's inaction

[02] Gov't: Dialogue on public order

[01] Athens mayor on illegal migration issue, Turkey's inaction

?A year ago, when I defined the problem of uncontrolled illegal immigration to Greece, and particularly Athens, in its actual dimensions during my meetings with the prime minister, interior minister and all other political bodies, I was labeled by âprofessional liberalsâ as an extreme right-winger.

"The city of Athens constitutes a unique phenomenon in Europe, in terms of its policy for the integration of legal migrants, which involves a comprehensive social protection network. However, everyone must become aware of the fact that Athens has now exceeded its limits and cannot function as a âreservoir of reception and residenceâ for hundreds of thousands of unfortunate fellow humans who are systematically forwarded by neighbouring countries, particularly Turkey.

"The common European Immigration Policy and actions to remind Turkey that its European journey involves EU Authorities and Legislation are two imperative measures which, in combination with repatriation treaties, must be implemented," Kaklamanis, a former health minister, said, adding:

The governmentâs measures are initially a move in the right direction.?

[02] Gov't: Dialogue on public order

Government spokesman Evangelos Antonaros said the government steadfastly and consistently seeks to consult with opposition parties on issues of crucial importance for the country and citizens, charging however, that its efforts have faced a constant and permanent 'no' - primarily from main opposition PASOK.

Antonaros said Markoyiannakis had sent a similar letter on May 5 but had received no reply from any of the political parties. He stressed that those who again refused would be "solely responsible" for their refusal to participate and that the government had done its duty.

The spokesman pointed out, meanwhile, that the issue of illegal immigration will be discussed at the upcoming European Council next week as a result of the Greek government's diplomatic initiatives.

"We are interested in tangible results and not the ephemeral and noisy drum-beating that others resort to in the hope that their voice will be heard," he added, contrasting the government's stance with "those who restrict themselves to general wish-lists or who present existing actions as their own initiatives".

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