European leaders have asked the EU Commission to come up with new laws to speed up the return of illegal migrants from the European Union.

It follows a lengthy discussion on migration during the EU Council summit in Brussels.

The European Commission headquarters in Brussels, 19-07-2020. Image: Xinhua/Zheng Huansong

At the meeting, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said just 20% of those who have a return decision in the EU actually returned to their country of origin.

As it came to a close, EU leaders agreed to consider new ways to prevent and counter irregular migration.

They also called for enhanced cooperation with countries of origin and transit to address the root causes of migration and fight trafficking and smuggling.

The leaders also agreed that new ways to prevent and counter irregular migration should be considered in line with EU and international law, with the development of return hubs outside the European Union among the measures discussed.

Simon Harris arrives for the European Council in Brussels. Image: European Union

Taoiseach Simon Harris was among the leaders who agreed that new ways to prevent and counter irregular migration should be considered.

After the meeting, he said Irish people want to know there is a firmness to the system.

The EU Council Summit ended with leaders agreeing migration is a European challenge requiring a European response.

Concern over migration was a key issue in the European Parliament elections earlier this year.

Main image: President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. Picture by: Thierry Monasse/dpa