Deputy Baran raises the issue of congestion at Kipi border crossing

Burhan Baran, Independent MP for Xanthi, submitted a parliamentary question to the Minister of Finance Kostis Hacidakis about the congestion at the Kipi border crossing during the holidays.

"Due to the unacceptable infrastructure and lack of staff at Kipi Customs, the tolerance of residents and visitors in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace is about to run out," the parliamentary question said.

Burhan Baran's parliamentary question included the following statements:

"The so-called Kipi Customs House, the 'first gateway to Europe', is currently in a state of disrepair. Much-needed upgrading of the facilities has yet to be realised. International media, business people, tourism professionals, visitors and residents are united in their protest against the inadequate level of infrastructure, endless waiting times and minimal staffing.

According to the bilateral agreement, border and customs authorities should have an equal number of staff. In these days when the number of entries and exits is increasing, the question of why this number is not increased comes to mind.

The people of the region need a modern customs office that meets all these requirements, which will help tourists and professionals to arrive and transit smoothly through our country.

In the light of the above, I ask the responsible Minister?

What does the Government plan to do to provide an urgent solution to the problem faced by thousands of travellers piling into the Kipi customs office to pass the required inspection?

What do you plan to do to modernise the buildings by creating a new infrastructure to meet modern needs?

Do you plan to reinforce the customs office with additional staff to ease the situation?"