The European Parliament discussed the issue of illegal immigration on Wednesday with Vice-President of the European Commission Franco Frattini reiterating the need for the setting up of a centre which will coordinate sea patrols.
In turn in an intervention by Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Stefano Zappalà suggested holding a congress in Malta, granted its high exposure to illegal immigration. Stefano Zappalà insisted that the congress is to outline concrete solutions with which to tackle the issue.
While the President Frattini noted that EU funds provided to aid the problem are to be used better, he stressed the importance of grouping a number of experts which are to provide technical assistance vis-à-vis illegal immigration
During the debate, which lasted over two hours, the Commissioner also replied to the criticism that the Commission is remaining passive in regards to the problem of illegal immigration.
Maltese MEPs Louis Grech, Simon Busuttil and David Casa insisted that the European Union is not taking enough action about the migrants’ issue.
In reply to Simon Busuttil, the President Frattini said that negotiations between Libya and the European Union are underway. Earlier this month Libya had called on the EU to assist it in patrol its deserts so that the Northern African country could participate in sea patrols in the Mediterranean.
Read more about this issue on MaltaMedia's special feature:
Lanċa Ġejja u Oħra Sejra: Malta and its migrations.
See also:
Foreign Minister asks for UN aid with migrants
By MaltaMedia News
Sep 26, 2006, 19:35 CET
EPP for proposal to increase migration budget funds
By MaltaMedia News
Sep 26, 2006, 13:48 CET
Illegal immigrants disembark in Birżebbuġa
By MaltaMedia News
Sep 8, 2006, 09:24 CET
