German economist denounces Roma ‘benefits tourism’

The migration of Roma to Germany has prompted one German economist to urge the EU to amend its Free Movement Directive ahead of a January 2014 deadline for lifting labour restrictions on Bulgarian and Romanian nationals.

Hans-Werner Sinn, president of the Ifo Institute at the University of Munich, wrote recently that the migration of Roma will inevitably erode the German welfare state.

This position contradicts earlier statements by the European Commission, which said it had no evidence of so-called ‘benefit tourism’ from newer member states.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background Information: Commission doubtful over 'benefits tourism' claims http://www.europeansources.info/record/commission-doubtful-over-benefits-tourism-claims/

ESO: Background Information: German politicians blame Romania for Schengen roadblock http://www.europeansources.info/record/german-politicians-blame-romania-for-schengen-roadblock/

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