Fine Gael MEP calls on EC to address Calais migrant crisis

An Irish MEP is calling on the European Commission to do more to help truck drivers coping with illegal migrants in the French port of Calais.

Deirdre Clune said Irish truck drivers don't know how to deal with illegal migrants trying to board their vehicles.

The Fine Gael MEP, who is on the European Parliament's Transport Committee, said drivers are finding the situation very difficult.

"It's a very dangerous situation - and it's difficult for the drivers, because if they're caught with immigrants when they cross to the UK, there's a fine of €2,000 per person" she said.

It's a serious concern for those drivers, because it effects them directly. There's also the issue of safety - and commerce, [because] if migrants do get into the back of these trucks, then the load is contaminated, and will have to be destroyed."

The migrant crisis in Calais has escalated in recent months, with around 3,000 people displaced from countries including Eritrea, Syria and Afghanistan setting up camp near the port.

French authorities have faced claims that they are not doing enough to safeguard lorry drivers from intimidation, violence and attempts by migrants to climb on.