How Libya can help over migration

This is a direct plea to Malta's friends and brothers in Libya.

There has always been a certain affinity between the two countries. The reason why Libya is not cooperating in the problem of illegal immigrants is political but Libya should at the same time appreciate the great impact that the thousands of African illegal immigrants are having on tiny Malta.

We the ordinary citizens support these immigrants through our taxation and hard work. The cost of these immigrants starts from the patrols, with the ever-increasing cost of fuel. The costs than become a recurring expenditure with the provision of security, accommodation, food and medical care. All this is putting a huge pressure on each and every Maltese citizen.

Therefore, while Libya has its reasons why not to stop the immigrants from not leaving its shores, it can help Malta financially. Such help could be either direct or indirect through the provision of cheap/free oil on a per capita basis. I suggest an average of five barrels of crude oil free of charge for each immigrant on a weekly basis. This should at least cover the direct and indirect expenses involved. Such a contribution will be very small from the Libyan aspect but surely it will alleviate the burden on the Maltese. Alternatively, Libya can pay the full inclusive costs involved for the sojourn of the African immigrants in Malta.

I hope that the Libyan Ambassador will pass this plea on to the proper authorities and issue a declaration in the near future.