keeping them in detention during this period is not only inhuman but also very costly. There is thus an urgent need for individualized screening of all detained irregular migrants/asylum seekers. In addition, the capacity of first reception and screening centres should be increased. European funds should be directed to this purpose as an important policy priority.  Surveillance schemes alternative to detention. Pilot schemes have been tried in Belgium, Germany, Sweden and the United Kingdom but also Australia and the USA. While state authorities have been often reluctant to adopt such schemes, the overall assessment is positive.  Caseworker scheme – Investment in early legal advice: Early legal advice, preferably through personal contact with an assigned caseworker, can result in quicker and more durable decisions, resulting in overall savings  Investment in language courses: : In many EU Member States, teaching to an irregular migrant the national language is a priority. Not only does this cut down on the cost of translators, but it also speeds up the administrative procedure, as the migrant is able to communicate in the context of daily interactions. In addition, it facilitates integration in cases where regularization eventually takes place. Greece could adopt such measures and seek the financial support of the European Refugee and the European Return Fund rather than mainly targeting the External Border fund’s assistance.  Open/ semi-open accommodations/First Reception: A combination of first reception/screening and open or semi-open centres appears to offer equivalent or actually better value for money, is in line with national and European law, and certainly is more appropriate than detention for asylum-seekers and vulnerable categories of irregular migrants.  Distribution of funding towards voluntary returns and assisted voluntary returns: There is space for distribution of funding in the context of voluntary returns, which may achieve more cost-effective results both in terms of time-frame (realization), available budget and sustainability. In view of the Greek crisis and the difficulty in finding employment in Greece, migrants may be more willing to make use of this option.  Expansion of return counseling programs: Information about return programs should be wider disseminated. Studies show that specific categories of persons (e.g. Families with children) are more likely to agree to return to their home countries.  Seasonal work agreements: The Greek authorities may consider not only the option of bilateral agreements to secure the readmission, but also bilateral agreements of seasonal work. Greece has significant experience with such successful agreements with Egypt, Bulgaria and Albania. Page 62