“I do not know these latest measures in detail, and I do not make summary judgments on legal proceedings, but we will make our assessment and appeal,” said Piantedosi.
“We are deeply convinced that the government’s measures are legitimate and in compliance with the legal framework,” continued the minister in reference to provisions made under the April Cutro migration law for asylum-seekers from so-called safe countries of origin, such as Tunisia, to be held in pre-removal detention centres at border locations while their asylum claims are examined at first instance.
“The issue of detention for the sole purpose of identification and fast-track (asylum) procedures at the border is a key theme of current and future European legislation, with the approval of the Migration and Asylum Pact,” said Piantedosi.
On Wednesday sources said Apostolico had rejected another detention order against four Tunisian migrants after a similar recent decision on grounds of illegitimacy sparked a political storm.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini’s League subsequently posted a video showing the judge at a protest demonstration in Catania in 2018 against the closed-ports policy he introduced as interior minister that year and calling for the immediate disembarkation of hundreds of rescued migrants and refugees being kept onboard the coast guard ship Diciotti.
The League said the video showed that the judge was biased.
On Sunday another Catania judge rejected six more detention orders.
On Tuesday, League sources said the party was mulling proposals to reform the specialised sections at Italian courthouses dealing with migration - of which Apostolico is a member - allegedly to speed up proceedings and ensure that rulings are fully independent.
ANSA
