The two conditions for extending to 18 months the maximum length of time irregular migrants and failed asylum seekers can be detained in pre-removal centres (CPR) under new rules are lack of cooperation on the part of the person due to be repatriated and delays in obtaining the necessary documentation from third countries, according to the text of the decree published in the Official Gazzette on Wednesday.
Stays in CPR can be extended to a maximum of to 18 months if, "despite all reasonable efforts, the removal operation has lasted longer due to the foreigner's lack of cooperation or delays in obtaining the necessary documentation from third countries," reads the decree also containing measures in support of southern Italian regions.
On Monday the government of Premier Giorgia Meloni introduced the change as part of efforts to counter irregular immigration to Italy.
It also announced plans to establish new pre-removal centres (there are currently 10 in Italy), drawing opposition from local and regional authorities on both sides of the political spectrum.
According to the decree, pre-removal detention facilities are now to be considered part of "works intended for national defence for specific purposes", on a par with airports, missile bases, ammunition depots, barracks and naval bases, for example.
The defence ministry has been tasked with creating the facilities and will be able to adopt accelerated procedures provided for in the new Code of Contracts "in the event of emergency and civil protection".
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