House to vote on refugee, migrant bill

Greek MPs were expected to vote legislation regarding the deportation of migrants following a deal signed by the European Union and Turkey for the return of refugees and migrants from Greece to Turkey. The returns were expected to start on Monday, while over 50,000 refugees and migrants were estimated to have been stranded in Greece following the closure of the country’s borders with Balkan countries.

The bill includes provisions for a revamp of asylum services in Greece and outlines conditions set for refugees and migrants who will be sent back to Turkey. 

Migration Minister Yannis Mouzalas defended the bill in Parliament on Friday prior to the vote. Meanwhile, opposition New Democracy was expected to vote against the legislation on principle, but approve articles regarding the implementation of the EU-Turkey deal.