EC allows Spain to curb Romanians' access to jobs

The European Commission on Thursday decided to make an exception to its full free movement rules among member states and allow Spain to temporarily restrict Romanian workers from seeking jobs in the country.

"This decision has been taken because of the very specific employment situation in Spain," EU Employment Commissioner Laszlo Andor said in a statement. "The Commission understands why, at this particular juncture - because of the dramatic employment situation and the very complex financial environment - the Spanish authorities wish to step back from full free movement."

Under the agreement, Spain can keep Romanians from entering the country until December 31, 2012 and must inform the EC about the progress in imposing such restrictions. The new rules would only affect Romanians coming to Spain to look for jobs without having prior contracts. It will not affect those living in Spain who are registered with and paying into the social security system. The Labor Ministry explained it would also not affect Romanians who just want to visit Spain - only those who come to seek employment.

Diana Diru, a Romanian business community leader in Spain, lamented the decision by Brussels because it only singles out people from her country.

"They are blaming us for high unemployment," she said.

Since Romania joined the EU in 2007, Romanians have become the largest minority group in Spain, surpassing Moroccans and Ecuadorians. According to the National Institute of Statistics, there are 864,278 Romanians living in Spain, making up 15 percent of all migrants in the country.