AD vindicated by Parliament Debate: a rational and firm approach to solving the illegal immigration problem

Alternattiva Demokratika - The Green Party expressed its satisfaction at the level of debate held in Parliament to discuss the illegal immigration problem. The proposals made by members from both sides of the House are congruent with AD’s consistent position on the matter, which always advocated a balance between the need to implement solidarity according to international obligations, and the urgency to protect the national interest.

Arnold Cassola, AD Chairperson and MEP candidate said: “Rational and firm proposals are the only way forward to produce a sustainable solution for this phenomenon, and to allay the mass hysteria propagated by ignorance, fear and extremist views. Whilst not abdicating form its obligations, Malta should stand firm in front of the European Union and demand concrete aid in view of its limited resources and small size. At the same time, Malta should pursue its diplomatic work to reach an agreement with the Libyan Government, from whose territory most of the illegal immigrant is coming to our shores.  The European Union should be a driving force in ensuring that the agreement with the Libyan Government materializes".

Prof. Cassola added: “We agree that detention centres should be better equipped in order to preserve the detainees’ dignity and well-being, but at the same time there must be a crackdown on any type of illegality and disrespect of the rule of law. Proposals such as the education of detainees regarding Maltese society and culture and their employment in useful work, are identical to what AD has been always been proposing.’

"It is also of utmost importance that the EU, Maltese and Libyan authorities crack down on the inhuman traffickers who are exploiting the migrants.  Penalties for people caught trafficking human beings should be greatly increased".

Yvonne Ebejer Arqueros, AD candidate for the European elections, remarked: "We agree with the need to revise the Dublin II convention and Frontex operations.  The EU should now implement as quickly as possible these changes. It is good to see that Commissioner Barrot has declared that the responsibility sharing of migrants on the part of other European countries should start in the near future.  However, we demand that this co-responsibility on the part of the EU materializes is put into place today before tomorrow".


Ralph Cassar
PRO – The Green Party