arch/ive/ief (2000 - 2005)

Schengen Accords Suspended
by alivi Thursday, May. 20, 2004 at 12:06 AM

Due to the marriage ceremony of the Prince of Asturias next 22nd May, the regulations of the Schengen Agreement are for security reasons temporarily suspended. Is it a National decision stronger than a European Treaty ?

This information was on the Virgin Express website:

"Aena (company managing Spanish airports) reminds that passengers from Schengen countries must carry their travel documentation. Spanish authorities inform that, due to the marriage ceremony of his Highness the Prince of Asturias next 22nd May, the regulations of the Schengen Agreement are for security reasons temporarily suspended.

So if you are travelling to Spain between 15th May (midnight) and 24th May (midnight) you need to make sure that you have your national identity card or passport in force, with you. Minors will also need to have their documentation.
Click here for more information on the travel documents for children.

Do not hesitate to contact us should you require further information".

I would like to know how is possible that a European agreement (confirmed by the Amsterdam Treaty) signed by Spain as well, can be "temporarily suspended".
As far I manage the topic, the European laws are mandatory and no Member State can afford to suspend it, for internal reasons. Sure, the war on terror is now a good motivation for any unilateral decision, but I think the European Court of Justice should verify the legal basis of this measure.
Sure, Spain has some problems with the Amsterdam Treaty since the Gibraltar story, but anyway.

At individual level, I wonder how Mrs Letizia Ortiz, former journalist, would treat this subject: it is the individual interest (Crown Prince King or President, whatever) stronger than the law?