MEPs back rapid response teams to tackle illegal immigration / European Parliament, 3 May 2007
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"MEPs last week gave their backing to new Rapid Border Intervention Teams that will provide assistance should any EU state face a large influx of illegal immigrants. The teams will work under the authority of national border guards and in cooperation with Frontex - the EU's border agency. In 2006 an estimated 20,000 African immigrants landed in Lampedusa in Italy with a further 30,000 in the Canary Islands. The authorities were often unable to cope - especially as many needed medical help."