Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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131. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the issues that were discussed and, in particular, the actions which were being taken to address the migration issue at the June 2017 EU council meeting in view of the fact that thousands of persons are still crossing the Mediterranean Sea; and if a new policy is being introduced at EU level or at government level. [29803/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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At the European Council meeting on 22-23 June, the Heads of State of Government endorsed the comprehensive approach on Migration, including effective control of external borders to stem illegal flows; the reform of the Common European Asylum System; and the implementation of the EU-Turkey Statement of 18 March 2016. This issue of Migration was also discussed at the Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting on 8-9 June.

While there have been some positive developments, particularly along the Eastern Mediterranean route, the situation in terms of arrivals through the Central Mediterranean route remains critical. In this regard, the European Council agreed in its Council Conclusions to step up coordination and delivery on all elements contained in the Malta Declaration, the Partnership Framework and the Joint Valletta Action Plan, to try to put an end to the tragic situation where there are so many people losing their lives in the Mediterranean while attempting to reach Europe. Enhanced cooperation with countries of origin and transit will also be important.

The migration crisis is a highly challenging issue and has been central to discussions at meetings of the Justice and Home Affairs Council and the European Council over the past two years. I expect that it will continue to be a focus of discussion over the coming months.