At a joint session of the parliamentary committees for EU affairs and the interior, MPs were acquainted with the current refugee situation in the European Union and Slovenia's readiness to cope with an influx of migrants.

Slovenia's members of parliament are interested in how government offices are preparing for a possible influx of migrants. On Friday, after a meeting with NGO representatives, PM Miro Cerar said the government would deal with the refugee crisis on the principles of solidarity and humanitarianism. He asserted that Slovenia was prepared for an influx of migrants.

NGO representatives warn that Slovenia's Ministry of the Interior only has plans for dealing with around 900 refugees. There are concerns as to what would happen if the country faces several thousand refugees in a short while.

There should be no difficulties in securing health assistance and water, food and clothing. Humanitarian organizations in Slovenia have the needed experience and logistics. According to NGOs, providing safety to those seeking international protection will be a bigger problem. Non-governmental organizations fear that migrants will have to wait for several months before their status is arranged. The Ministry of the Interior explains that it is preparing for such situations. The ministry will also activate additional teams if necessary, to help expedite the reviewing process of asylum applications. The ministry also assures that it will not close the borders for refugees. The police will refugees in a dignified and humane way.

Representatives of local communities meanwhile say they miss information about where refugees will be accommodated. PM Cerar announced a meeting with the representatives of municipalities in the coming days.

L. D. R. (Radio Slovenia); translated by K. J.