Archive of posts from Saba-News.com Archive Saba News
Only two other European Union countries support Dutch Immigration Minister Gerd Leers’ proposals for stricter rules on family reunion for immigrants. Three countries reject the idea of changing European immigration law.
The minister had asked all 27 EU countries for their views on stricter immigration laws. They had until 1 March to respond. So far only 14 countries have done so. Even so, Minister Leers still expects more reactions to follow.
Many countries do not want changes in the rules, because the European Parliament will be involved in any decision-making on the issue. Mr Leers claims Germany is also concerned about family reunion, but does not want to see the rules changed.
The Dutch minority government has promised the Freedom Party, whose support it relies on in parliament, that it will tighten rules on immigration. However, to do so, The Hague needs the cooperation of other EU countries. The minister aims to make it more difficult for immigrants with poor prospects to enter the country.
(nc/imm)
© Radio Netherlands Worldwide Published on 6 March 2012 – 10:54pm