Updated: EU Justice Commissioner discusses illegal migration

Malta's constraints in dealing with illegal migration were discussed this afternoon during talks between Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici and EU Justice Commissioner Jacques Barrot, who arrived in Malta earlier today.

Dr Mifsud Bonnici explained Malta’s constraints in dealing with the present influx of illegal immigrants, indicating the need for assistance from its European partners.

He emphasised that the provisions of the European Pact on Immigration and Asylum required expeditious implementation.

This included the pledge to relocate beneficiaries of international protection from member states subject to disproportionate measures such as Malta, to other member states.

Commissioner Barrot agreed that Malta needed assistance and said the Commission could help with the reform of the Dublin II system, the establishment of the European Asylum Support office, the conducting of Frontex operations close to North African shores, the conclusion of re-admission agreements with third countries, the promotion of relocation of beneficiaries of international protection to third countries, and financial assistance under the various EU funding mechanisms.

Dr Mifsud Bonnici emphasised that in Malta’s circumstances, action was needed at the earliest possible with a view to avoid the escalation of present difficulties.

The commissioner is tomorrow visiting the Lyster Closed Centre in Ħal Far, currently being refurbished in a project funded by the EU and the Marsa Open Centre.

Mr Barrot’s visit coincides with the suspension of services at the detention centres by the international aid agency Medecins Sans Frontieres.