Brussels, 08/12/2010 (Agence Europe) - The outsourcing of the European asylum policy in Libya has created “serious concerns”, according to the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU). “Outsourcing our international duties on asylum is certainly not the answer, be it to Libya, or any country that does not fulfil its international obligations”, said the secretary general of EPSU, Carola Fischbach-Pyttel, after Tuesday's meeting of the executive committee of her Federation. “What we need is more investment in public services so that asylum claims can be dealt with fairly, not measures that shirk our responsibilities to care”, she added. The executive committee of EPSU also spoke out against the agreement reached on 4 October between the EU and Libya on cooperation in immigration and asylum matters. Amongst other things, this agreement deals with bilateral cooperation regarding controls on illegal immigration and the possible readmission of third-country nationals who reached Europe via Libya. The EU has also pledged to help Tripoli to develop its border control capacities and in identifying people requiring international protection. Additionally, EPSU stresses that the agreement refers “vaguely” to the burden represented by recognised refugees and asylum seekers whose claims have been turned down. As part of broader cooperation with Libya, a budget of €60 million has been earmarked for the period 2011-2013. (B.C./transl.fl)