EU approves €4.8m in migration assistance to Malta

The European Commission has adopted the multiannual programme under the European Refugee Fund 2008-2013 for Malta with assistance of €4.8 million.

Vice President, Jacques Barrot, who is responsible for the Justice, Freedom and Security portfolio, welcomed the adoption of the first multi-annual programme for the implementation of the European Refugee Fund.

"The launch of this multi-annual programme constitutes the expression of the financial solidarity of the European Union towards a member state like Malta, which is faced with significant challenges in this area".

The European Commission said the funds will be used for the provision of essential services for the management of reception centers;

Strengthening infrastructure and integration services for residents through self-empowerment at the Marsa Open Centre and enhancing cooperation for responsibility sharing among member states.

"Taking into account the massive arrival of persons requesting protection at the shores of Malta over the summer period, the Commission is currently also examining a request for emergency support submitted by Malta," the commission said.

"A financial reserve of €10 million is foreseen in the ERF budget in order to provide assistance to member states faced with particular pressures resulting from the sudden arrival of a significant number of persons who are in need of international protection and which place an exceptional burden on the reception capacities or asylum systems of member states."