Migration dominates meeting of Europe Ministers

Minister for European Affairs and Data Protection, Dara Murphy TD today attended the General Affairs Council meeting of Europe Ministers in Brussels. The meeting focused on preparations for the October European Council, with a particular focus on migration. Ministers were also updated by the Luxembourg Presidency on priorities for its term, while Commission Vice President Frans Timmermans briefed Ministers on Commission plans for 2016.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister Murphy said:

"Strong views were expressed around the table at today's meeting of the General Affairs Council where discussion was very much focused on migration, in anticipation of the special meeting of Justice and Home Affairs Ministers taking place this afternoon, and in the context of preparations for the forthcoming October European Council."

"I very much hope that Justice Ministers will be able to reach agreement this afternoon on the proposed relocation of 120,000 persons, as part of a more effective EU response to the migration and refugee crisis."