MEPs debate the EU Commission proposal to replace Frontex with an EU Border and Coast Guard System as the recent surge in migration strains confidence in Schengen.

Ministering to Europe's borders

https://api.multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/documents/20125/12149483/n005-151215-002-en.srt

With the influx of more than 700,000  migrants into the EU in recent months,

there are questions over Europe’s external  borders and the Schengen Agreement.

The current security risks so tragically  illustrated by the Paris attacks

Given the urgency, the European  Commission has tabled a proposal

to set up a new European Border  and Coast Guard system

The agency will be able  to deploy equipment

and a standing reserve of at least  1,500 border guards from member states.

The new border guard system  will replace Frontex,

the agency which has come into criticism  from some corners for lack of efficiency.

Concerns however remain  over member state sovereignty -

How are you going to get this option  past the different states

who complain about the permeability  of the borders yet refuse to work together?

If a country is both failing to control  its borders and refusing to ask for help

take the help or the rest of the EU  will be in its rights to take action.

The proposals will be further debated  in the Committees from early 2016.