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2 clusters · 4 sources · 2 days · First seen · Last updated

Greek migration infrastructure planning in Heraklion

Overview

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced plans to establish a temporary migration hosting structure in Heraklion to manage migration flows on Crete. Mitsotakis emphasized the need for specialized infrastructure and highlighted the importance of active return policies for those ineligible for international protection, describing returns as a “best deterrent” to dangerous sea crossings.

Following this announcement, the Ministry of Migration and Asylum met with local officials to discuss a proposed site in the Athanata area near the Heraklion–Moires National Road. The Mayor of Heraklion, Alexis Kalokairinos, opposed the specific location, citing concerns over traffic safety, lack of water and sewage infrastructure, and the impact on urban expansion. While Minister Thanos Plevris maintained that a facility for approximately 400 migrants is necessary in the region, he expressed a willingness to consider alternative sites, such as gymnasiums or stadiums, if formal proposals are submitted by local authorities.

Entities

Ministry of Migration and Asylum · Thanos Plevris · Municipality of Heraklion · European Union · Heraklion

Timeline

  1. 4 days ago

    [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Heraklion officials contest proposed migrant facility in Athanata

    Heraklion officials met with the Ministry of Migration and Asylum to contest the placement of a 400-person migrant facility in Athanata, seeking alternative sites to avoid infrastructure and safety issues.

  2. 5 days ago

    [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Kyriakos Mitsotakis announces new migration hosting structure in Heraklion

    Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced a new temporary migration hosting structure in Heraklion, Crete, to improve regional management and emphasized the importance of EU-wide return policies.

Sources

businessdaily.gr · cretaone.gr · ertnews.gr · rethnea.gr