Statement by MP George Karoullas on immigration policy
Another important bill that completes the legislative amendments for the implementation of the New Immigration Policy, was passed by the Parliament.
In order to reduce the migratory flows that continue unabated to Cyprus, we are increasing the penalties for traffickers of illegal immigrants up to 15 years in prison and up to 500.000 euros fine. Taking into account the data of the sources of irregular immigration in Cyprus, it is expected that these penalties will act as a deterrent to the illegal entry, transit and stay of third-country nationals in the Republic.
We also emphasize here that we are trying to address holistically the phenomenon of trafficking in people from war and non-war zones and to prevent the exploitation of human dignity.
This development in combination with the other measures taken, upgrade the protection of our country, with every respect to the real refugee who needs protection and human dignity.