EU benefits tourism ruling pleases Deputy PM

According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Social Affairs Lodewijk Asscher, benefit tourism can be better used through the ruling of the European Court of Justice. The ruling was that Member States may refuse benefits to EU citizens exercising their right to free movement in Europe with the sole purpose of receiving social assistance. According to Asscher, the ruling means a tightening of current practice. On Tuesday the European Court ruled over an unemployed Romanian who, according to the authorities, makes no effort to find work. The 25 year old woman has been living in Germany since 2010. She feels discriminated against. Germans without adequate means of support receive assistance as a last resort. She also called on the free movement of persons and goods within the EU. According to the European Court, the Romanian woman has no right to living in Germany because she lacks livelihood and has never worked. Germany does provides assistance to foreigners who have lost their jobs. In principle, accommodation with the purpose of looking for work is limited to 6 months. European Parliament Member Jeroen Lenaers (CDA) also reacted satisfied to the ruling. According to him, the ruling supports countries who stand up for hard working citizens and battle against the abuse of social services.