Brussels, 15/03/2011 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 14 March, the EU Council of Ministers adopted a regulation amending the 2004 regulation on the creation of a network of immigration liaison officers (ILO). This technical review above all establishes a legal basis for cooperation between liaison officers of member states and the Frontex agency which manages operational cooperation at the external borders of EU member states. The ILOs are invited to gather information on illegal immigration and to share this information with Frontex in order to enrich its risk analyses. Amendments adopted promote the use of the ICONet network, a secure-web-based information and coordination network for member states' migration management services, for regular exchange of information and practical experience. They also highlight the possibility of using available Community funds for the creation and smooth operation of ILO networks and rationalise the reporting system related to the activities of established ILO networks, ensuring also that the EP, co-legislator in this policy area, is properly informed. (S.P./transl.jl)