Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has questioned the future of the Schengen border agreement, as passport controls have been reintroduced in France.
Arriving in Strasbourg for the European Parliament’s plenary session, Mr Nicholson said:
“Following the ´lockdown´ in Brussels this weekend, I boarded the plane to Strasbourg and for the first time I witnessed passport control between two countries in the Schengen border area. Similar scenes were reported at Brussels ‘Midi’ Station this morning as passengers travelling to France had to present their passports upon arrival.
“It is becoming clear that Schengen as we know it may not last for much longer. I welcome the move by the French authorities. If European Member States do not secure their borders, they will always have a fundamental weakness in the fight against the terrorist threat.
“I would also like to commend the Belgian authorities as they continue the hunt for the terrorists behind the brutal attacks in Paris, and I know that the citizens and residents of Brussels will remain vigilant at this time.”