Plevris on migration ministry's bill

Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris addressing the parliament on Tuesday during the debate on the bill reforming the framework and procedures for the return of third-country nationals stated that "on one hand are the rights of someone whose asylum request was rejected and who is illegally in the country, and on the other hand are the rights of Greeks, who want their country protected and want illegal migration tackled. This balance tips in favour of the Greeks, whether you like it or not”.

According to Plevris, the choice for those not entitled to asylum will now be either voluntary return or detention. "We will no longer allow some to procrastinate and obtain a residence permit through seven years of presence in Greece. The only option they will have is: 'either you go to five years in prison without parole or you return home,'" he stated.