- 16 32. The arrangements for providing medical care to foreign nationals detained in all the establishments visited (both police directorates/stations and detention facilities specifically designed for holding illegal aliens) were inadequate. There was no medical screening on arrival, and no provision had been made for periodic visits by either a doctor or nurse. In case of serious health problems, detainees could be transported to an outside hospital facility. However, the delegation met a number of detainees who required medical attention (e.g. with tooth abscesses, hyperthyreosis, skin diseases, epilepsy) but had not had access to a doctor/dentist. * * * 33. The CPT appreciates the great difficulties with which the Greek authorities have been - and remain – confronted, because of the large influx of illegal immigrants in recent years. However, problems – especially when they persist – should be provided with solutions. The situation prevailing at the police establishments visited by the CPT’s delegation is absolutely untenable. Keeping any human being in the conditions described above for prolonged periods of time can easily be considered as inhuman and degrading treatment. This is all the more of concern to the CPT because of the large numbers of persons concerned (at the time of the visit, there were some 550 foreign nationals detained in police establishments in Attica). 34. As already noted (cf. paragraph 8), at the end of the 1999 visit to Greece, the CPT’s delegation made an immediate observation, in pursuance of Article 8, paragraph 5, of the Convention, in respect of the holding of foreign nationals detained under the Aliens’ legislation in police establishments. In their letter of 1 February 2000 in response, the Greek authorities informed the Committee that the following six immediate measures had been taken: 1) the holding facility for illegal aliens in Feres was closed down for a short period of time, and thoroughly cleaned and painted before being re-opened; 2) each person detained overnight is supplied with a clean mattress and blankets; 3) strict orders have been issued to all staff in holding facilities that they must ensure that detainees can comply with the need of nature and are offered adequate washing facilities and appropriate personal hygiene items; 4) instructions have been issued to all detention facilities to the effect that regulations providing for the regular disinfecting are to be strictly observed; 5) instructions have been issued calling on detention facilities staff to ensure that all detained persons are given food at appropriate times; 6) the medical officers of the police are to carry out regular inspections of detention facilities used for holding foreign nationals.