Jesuits condemn 'all kinds of violence'

Violent attacks on persons and property linked to the immigrant reality in our country are increasing in frequency and seriousness, the Jesuits said yesterday.

"Journalists Saviour Balzan and Daphne Caruana Galizia have paid the price for having dared take a stand against racism and intolerance. Another immigrant has been seriously injured by some people with apparently racist motivation," a statement signed by Jesuit Provincial Fr Paul Chetcuti said.

"Whilst expressing our total solidarity with these victims, we Jesuits unreservedly condemn all kinds of violence, especially that linked with racial intolerance, whose clear objective is to silence those who are striving to promote a culture of respect and tolerance in our country." The Jesuits welcomed the bishops' public statement condemning this violence, and expressed their gratitude for the pastoral guidance they are offering "at this time when our people are facing a new situation".

"We firmly believe that a renewed commitment to our Christian values and the traditional goodness of our people are the best guarantee against intolerance and violence.

At the same time swift and effective action is needed on all levels to ensure that our country continues to enjoy real freedom and peaceful coexistence not only with foreigners who end up in our country, but also among us Maltese," the Jesuits said.