Spanish unions oppose expulsions

Spanish unions have come out strongly against their government's plans

to expel tens of thousands of immigrants living in Spain without the

appropriate documentation.

The threat from the government comes as it introduces a new "foreigners'

law", which tightens Spain's immigration procedures, and only four

months after those already in Spain were invited to regularise their

legal status.

In total 225,000 requests were received and it is expected that around

50,000 will be denied the status they were seeking. The government has

stated that this group will be expelled.

The unions played an active role in helping immigrants, who work in a

variety of industries, to apply for residency permits.

The unions have now condemned the government's plans. Jos‚ Antonio

Moreno of the CCOO union confederation warned that "we would be talking

about a massive expulsion". Ana Corral of the other large confederation,

the UGT, said: "I trust the government will not decide to expel all

those who have been unable to regularise their position and will look

for another solution."

what they do

Activity of those seeking legal status

Domestic services

(eg cleaning) 34.5%

Construction 19.6%

Catering 11.8%

Retail 3.6%

Agriculture 1.8%

Others 28.7%