Migrants 'might be taken back to Libya' - Maroni

Dr Savior Tortell Pisani

May 8th 2009, 17:31

I've come to believe that the only mid-term solution for our problem is for the UNHCR to open an Immigration Office in Libya. The same can be done in any other country that shares borders with defunct states. Here on behalf of the UN, asylum applications would be filed and processed and after the individual cases are scrutinised, these certified genuine refugees will be distributed around the world in accordance to A NEW INTERNATIONAL TREATY. This treaty should specify a predetermined quota per annum in relation to the native population of each recipient nation. Movement of entire populations cannot be allowed to happen in an uncontrolled way. Anyone else who doesn't go through the appropriate channels would risk being sent back automatically... no questions asked! In the meantime the UNHCR should *shut up* and begin working on the new Treaty and associated logistics. This is ITS JOB after all!... The Pontification is best left to the Vatican...

John Azzopardi

May 8th 2009, 11:38

This is all Gaddafi's doing. He is sure happy seeing all the noise being created about this issue. I am sure he is sitting back and having a good laugh at Malta and Italy bickering. Carmelo, please wake up and stop dictating to us not to critisize Libya for this whole mess. JPO is right on target.

c. camilleri

May 7th 2009, 17:46

that's exactly what JPO suggested we should do but here he found the usual 'holier than thou' crowd ganging up on him!

albert muscat

May 7th 2009, 14:36

Why do we presume Libya should serve as a safety-valve for Europe?

The key of African illegal Immigrants issues lies not in Africa, but the Middle East.

Gaddafi says–When the Jews and Christians persuade Israel to accept a two states solutions and give back to the Palestinians a sustainable state to live in, then he will consider helping Europe with illegal immigrants.

Have a look at my comment here please:

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20090418/opinion/is-it-a-case-of-human-pawns

j.schembri

May 7th 2009, 13:51

AT LAST I AGREE WITH SOMETHING THAT MARONI SAID........Migrants 'might be taken back to Libya' - Maroni
SO LET IT BE!!!!!

A. Tabone

May 7th 2009, 10:17

@ Aldo Maranzina,

Your words show that you are not well informed. The immigrants must be taken to the nearest safe port... fullstop! Irrelevant who finds them and where.

Jamse Smith

May 7th 2009, 10:16

Dear Maltese, Dear Italians,

......I have another theory! So far the Italians, and Maltese politicians have both 'independently' and 'jointly/amicably' tried to find feasible and just solutions to the uncontrollable migration problem which hit our shores for years. But so far these efforts always fell short of success. For the man in the street, these recent squabbles between us and our good neighbors, might be seen as a 'fight'.....but I hope you can all see through this......could this be more of a 'coalition' between the Italians and Maltese to join forces....and destabilize the E.U.'s union.......the last thing the EU needs is have internal conflict......thus the only solution would be for the EU to start shouldering some real responsibility on the matter....either by 1)taking immigrants further inland.....or -much more plausible- 2)The EU agrees a pact with Libya.. to send back migrants against.....some sort of vested interest from the libyans. ;)

As the proverb goes.......'United we rise......Divided we fall' - I am Maltese and love my Italian neighbors...as much as I hope they love us and are also able to see through this political mastermind...after all...I hope we will both benefit from this. Keep up the good work!

Michelle Dali

May 7th 2009, 09:30

@ Aldo Maranzina

You accuse Malta of 'pushing its problems to its neighbour!!!!!!!' That is precisely what ITALY is doing. It has always been the case that migrants rescued at sea are taken to the nearest safe port. Now, all of a sudden, Mr Maroni has decided that, and I quote 'they should all be taken to Malta'.

It is Italy who is pushing its problems to its neighbouring country, Malta. The Italian government is completely disregarding the fact that Malta is the smallest country in the EU, the most heavily overpopulated and the one that is carrying the greatest burden of illegal immigration.

The Italian government should be ashamed of the way it is acting towards a fellow member state of the EU. The Maltese have always offered assistance to Italy in its times of need, for example when there have been earthquakes. This is no way to repay the Maltese people's good will and kindness.

Stephen Farrugia

May 7th 2009, 09:25

I agree with Maroni of Lega North, to take them back to Libya. He could have avioded being so bad with Malta but I do understand him because our government does not have his political position, to take a stand. The Italians, made a big mistake with us but it does not surprise me.
We have no moral reason to take in these immigrants, its all an invention or blunt lie. Some innocent people suffered for standing up for their country. Let us not forget. Vote to have a strong man, to tell the europeans, that we have had enough trouble with poor politics. Lets be strong togethere, with europe.

Galea. L

May 7th 2009, 09:24

r cuschieri
Maroni should also remember another principle of international law, rebus sic stantibus, espoused by very famous international lawyers and also Heads of State who also held that the clausula is understood to be included in every treaty even if it was nor specifically written.

lgalea

May 7th 2009, 09:20

Aldo Maranzina, Gianfranco Lorenzi
First of all it's not territorial waters we are talking about.
Secondly Italy's eagerness to get our S&R area shows that Italy has a hidden agenda.

Joseph E Briffa
So for you the illegal Vat on registration, the departure tax and the illegal tax on satellite dishes are trivial. Tell that to those who had paid them Briffa. If they are so trivial, why did your Gonzi not remove them before?

Eman Formosa

May 7th 2009, 09:13

WELL DONE DR GONZI..WELL DONE DR MIFSUD BONNICI......
PL leader Dr Muscat pls note: In the space of 1 week you missed the bus TWICE due to your old fashioned strategies! Without giving the Gov the pairing you could have offered your vote in the national interest for the very important meeting in Brussels regarding the people's health due to the swine flu dangers. That would have made you a HERO. Again this week, with regards to the illegal immigrants on the 2 boats you should have been full square with the Gov in the national interest. I'm sure your advisors told you that Malta was in the RIGHT! Your policies are only pleasing the Italians. This is not the way to get voters back to your party. Most of the lost sheep will see these policies as a photo copy of the MLP previous leaders.

Denis Catania

May 7th 2009, 08:59

@Joe Vella (Mellieha) You wrote
I am sure that you know quite the difference, I am sure that you living in the New York area know quite a few illegal Immigrants, amongst them quite a few Maltese as well.

Don't be so sure, I know any illegal immigrants in the U.S.A. In the area I live in, I don't even know anyone who speaks any other language other than American. As far as knowing any Maltese that are illegal immigrants living in the U.S.A , all the Maltese I know have been living in the U.S.A for 30-40 years now whether they are legal or not, your guess is as good as mine. But I doubt that they are living in the U.S.A illegally.

Please note the U.S government claims that there are 13,000,000 illegals living in the U.S.A and I have no reason not to believe the great government of the United States of America. I wish I could say the same thing for the current Maltese administration, but I don't believe anything the current Maltese administration says about the illegal immigration problem in Malta. I'm sure you swallow everything they tell you.

jcmicallef

May 7th 2009, 08:45

@ Joe Vella - Point taken.

There's an organisation called the African Union, whose motto is Africa must Unite, and whose goal is to bring justice, solidarity and to make Africa a better place in general.

But is it really doing to solve these problems (genocides, etc)? Probably not. M. Ghaddafi is presently chairing it, so you can draw your own conclusions.

While europeans have strived to make their lives better following the individual countries' independence and by uniting where necessary, Africa has gotten worse.

Tribal, and ethnic contrasts abound, and these are certainly holding certain Africa countries from making the much deserved development.

Were they better off when occupied and colonised by other coutries? Certainly not.

The fact is that either there are many powers that be that are not lifting a single finger to make things better, or the opposition to democracy and justice is too strong.

And running away won't solve anything. If there's an African Union, then those that are in some way persecuted should go to the nearest supporting country and try to bring change.

But it seems that African regimes can only be replaced by worse and more corrupt regimes.

d. borg

May 7th 2009, 07:30

Bravo Mr Maroni. This is what you should have done from the very start. If at the beginning both Italy and Malta started sending them back to Libya, we would not now be in this precarious situation. These immigrants are ruining both our countries and in the long run even Europe.

Roderick Theuma

May 7th 2009, 00:57

@Joe Vella (Mellieha.)
"To make a blatant statement that all Maltese that emigrated have done so legally cannot be more wrong. There was a great number of Maltese that throughout time have illegally entered the United States under false premise; and remained there indefinitely. I can guarantee you that the numbers of such individuals doesn't amount to one or two either. You will be surprised to find out that there are some that still do so up to today. "

I am sure you have valid proof with your claim, perhaps you can share it with the NYPD since you seem to know information which they don't.....

P_ Attard

May 7th 2009, 00:07

well said Mercieca....my arguement precisely!!

Joseph E Briffa

May 6th 2009, 23:54

@Anthony Magri ..I agree with your positive comments re Simon Busuttil. He is the most effective and hardest working of our MEPs; D Casa also delivers. Unfortunately the same cannot be said about the other thre MEPs. They have failed so far to address anything of substance; only trivial issues like VAT on car registration, departure tax etc. It seems that their brain is programmed in such a way that they tend to raise issues which crop up locally. They don't seem to have realised that they are sitting in the European parliament and not in the Malta parliament as they seem to be always trying to put the PN in bad light. And bdw who is speculating that if the PN does not have 3 of its candidates elected in the MEP elections they would resign? Frankly I fail to see any connection between the two.

Aldo Maranzina

May 6th 2009, 23:30

Since Malta doesn't have the capabilities of managing its territorial waters why they don't just hand over them to Italy and retain only the small portion they can effectively patrol? Also since Malta is getting EU funds in proportion to the surface of the sea rescue area under their responsability, wouldn't be fair giving that money back to the EU as what they are doing is just pushing the problem to the neighbours?

Stephen Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 23:21

Nothing has been solved because here we are saying that we have to take in the immigrants. No, we do not take in any immigrants, not one.

Kevin Sciberras

May 6th 2009, 23:03

@Joe Vella (Mellieha.)

I am a son (and grandson) of Maltese immigrants. My forefathers were hardworking people as were their compatriots in the US and gave a good reputation to the Maltese in New York. Don't you dare compare any Maltese in the US to these illegal immigrants that are washing up onto our shores. The Maltese in America dont go begging nor do they burden the system nor do they act antisocial.

Having read your blog postings I come to the conclusion that with every event that transpires you do not see them in shades in gray as any other reasonable person would but in shades of blue and red. This mentality that you perpetrate stains the good reputation that any Maltese immigrant has built up in his adopted country whether it is Canada, UK, Australia or the USA.

matthew bonello

May 6th 2009, 22:58

Finally! Why did it take so long to figure out the obvious solution? Send them back to Libya, where they came from.... this lot, and any others that follow . About time, somebody stands up to these Libyans, instead of running scared of them and licking their boots.

Gianfranco Lorenzi

May 6th 2009, 22:36

X Dennis Zammit

So the italians should take all the africans just because long time ago some of us colonized those countries ? Then what about France, GB, Spain and so on ? You are talking nonsense, let's instead send back these so called "disperati", notice by the way that we have already got a few millions of them.

Joseph V. Grech

May 6th 2009, 22:34

Well done to Maroni if Italy returns the illegal migrants to Italy. I hope Malta will do the same to any that arrive here. The sooner Europe understands it is not in its interests to keep these arrivals the better. Luckily our leaders have (belatedly) understood that we just cannot accept any more illegal arrivals. Europe has enough serious problems to see to - and how! Will Brussels be stupid enough to allow Europe to be destabilised? Because that seems to be the real intention behind these illegal arrivals. Wake up Brussels to your real duties - the interests of Europe. Let the United Nations solve the problem concerning illegal migration.

Joseph Agius

May 6th 2009, 22:12

finally I think Maroni is making sense.....it would be a big blow for the criminals who are making millions out of this racket.

Raymond Sammut

May 6th 2009, 22:02

@ v mercieca

What about the 70K Maltese in Australia alone. That's 1/5th of the Maltese on Malta. They all have a fundamental right to return to their native country at any time they want. Do the same for Italy. Number of Italians in Australia is a pittance compared to the 60M in Italy. How will that skew your calculations?

Let's see whether Maroni can return the migrants to Libya and finally square things up with the Tripoli authorities -- stop using Malta as a joker card in this deadly game between Italy and Libya. We lived relatively in peace with the British for 160 years, and have absolutely nothing to do with the historical quarrels that exist between these two countries. We have had nothing but trouble from them.

N.Grima

May 6th 2009, 22:02

It's refreshing to see that in the La Repubblica link given by Battistino, there's at least half the Italians' comments disagreeing with their Government. Last year in Italy I witnessed a train station's ticket office shut down in a matter of seconds in order to not service an African... was gonna end up in jail with all the bow-wow I created, but they relented. But I will definitely stay short of generalising, I know a number of Italians who are far from racist. As other people said, keep in mind that these people have been brainwashed by RAI and Mediaset... during the Pinar E incident I witnessed a whole night - 1am to 12am - of sh**-throwing by all six stations, having even law professors saying we signed the Treaty change! Now they are trying to say that we take more EU funds because of our SAR area or perimeter, which is again completely off base... so take it with the Italian Government not the people - they are no more racist than they used to be last month.

Charles Sammut

May 6th 2009, 21:43

Dr Simon Busuttil keeps flogging the dead horse of "burden sharing". Not only will that not work but it will backfire because it will send the message that if these people make it to Malta or Lampedusa, they are guaranteed to make it permanently to Europe.

God forbid that burden sharing were to materialise because it would speed up the destruction of the European continent.

Maroni is on the right track; send them back to Libya from where they departed illegally. That is the permanent solution. Dr Busuttil is in election mode and is safeguarding his interests.

Guze Xerri

May 6th 2009, 21:43

@ Helena Psaila,

You don't have a clue what your maltese brothers and sisters had to go through as LEGAL immigrants to North America and Australia.
What we had to go through BEFORE we could LEGALLY leave our homeland and the SUFFERING we endured as LEGAL immigrants to the nations we chose to go to.

K Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 21:37

I had been syaing to take them back to Libya to send the message out to their relatives that Europe has finally had enough!!

Anyone noticed the majority of these immigrants are men? Doesn't that seem funny? Why should only men attempt the crossing? Are they leaving their wives and families to suffer back at home? Are they planning a silent invasion and holy war against Europe? These are all questions that should be critically analysed by the authorities for any conspiracies.

K Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 21:37

I had been syaing to take them back to Libya to send the message out to their relatives that Europe has finally had enough!!

Anyone noticed the majority of these immigrants are men? Doesn't that seem funny? Why should only men attempt the crossing? Are they leaving their wives and families to suffer back at home? Are they planning a silent invasion and holy war against Europe? These are all questions that should be critically analysed by the authorities for any conspiracies.

Pierre J Agius

May 6th 2009, 21:34

Italy, you were always a good friend to Malta. And Malta always appreciated you. This is not the Italy we know, this is the Italy of the Lega Nord which wants to pick on a smaller fish weeks before the European Election. Minister Maroni, if you want to bully, do it with those lawless-African countries which are causing this migration-bleeding. Realise that Malta is in your same position, realise that we too are struggling to cope with this, afterall human tragedy. As to us Maltese, faced with this adversity, we again have become one people, one nation that supports the brave decision of our Government.

Malta, unlike Italy, never had colonies, never had overseas ambitions, never occupied other people's territories. Our obligation are only our international commitments and our moral obligations-we have done this. But being good is not being stupid. We will do our part but no more than that. We will never surrender our obligations, let alone our sovereignity.

As the 'migration season' sets, remeber Italy 'l'unione fa la forza'-together we stand better chances-Malta might be small, but it is determined-we have proved ourselves in history.

Thank you Prime Minister.Be steadfast.We are with you.

K.Littlejohn

May 6th 2009, 21:30

Going back to Libya. The root of the problem. This is what should really happen!

lgalea

May 6th 2009, 21:25

Liam Kelly
LIam, I am Maltese and I think that it is you who is living on anther planet or cuckoo land.
If you have the decency to say that you are a Maltese citizen then you should defend Malta and your brethren not those who are invading us.


Helena Psaila
You can object as much as you like but all the illegal immigrants are criminals because they travelled without documents, left a country not from a port, paid to get into another country illegally, travelled on a vessel that was not seaworthy, travelled without the necessary health certificates, want more Helena.

Victor Mamo You are mixing lettuce with gas.

Joe Vella (Mellieha.) There may have been some in the early days but try doing it now.

R.Zammit They forgot that Mussolini tried but ended up hanging down by his own people.

Giorgio Gori Apart from Italy's historical responsibility, Italy cannot interpret international law to suit it. Stop attacking us and attack Gaddafi.

Giorgio Gori

May 6th 2009, 21:24

Thank for all your replies.
@Dennis Zammit

As an Italian, I do not feel responsible at all for the failures of other countries. Before being colonized, those countries were just as poor as when we left. Large parts of my country had been under foreign domination until the 1860s, and if you are Maltese I think you should know something about foreign dominations as well; I do not moan over this more than a century after though, and neither do you. Everybody is responsible for his own fate. Lots of former colonies have managed to rise again and prosper through hard work and they have become very successful countries today. Countries that still blame others for their own faults are condemned to eternal poverty.

Robert Dimech

May 6th 2009, 21:23

Now that's an excellent suggestion on Italy's part! About time too, that somebody thought it up! Establish that all aboard are not in 'distress' , provide them with food and water and inform them that illegal entry into Europe is not allowed. Then direct them towards Libya and tow them to within Libya's territorial waters if need be. The important thing is that a southerly direction is maintained.
About time this charade of 'refugees' and 'people in distress' is seen for what it is.....a scam for a free ticket into Europe at our expense.

v mercieca

May 6th 2009, 21:04

From information taken today from;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Member_State_of_the_European_Union

I got the following statistics-
Italy has 301,318 square kilometres with a population of 59,619,290. that is 197 persons per one square kilometre.
Malta has 316 square kilometres with a population of 407,810. That is 1,291 persons per one square kilometre.

This shows that Malta is 6.5 times more populated than Italy per square kilometre.
Also if we receive 100 illegal immigrants, compared to the land size, Italy would have to receive 96,307 to have the same effect that these 100 create on our island.

I hope the burocrats in Europe will understand our grievous problem as quick as possible, before the summer months come and with them more and more illegal immigrants.

Not forgetting that last year we had an increase in population more by illegal immigration than by the birth rate

T Mifsud

May 6th 2009, 21:03

Lets all subscribe to that newspaper and reply to all those Italians foaming out of their mouth without an idea whats going on! Are these the same ones that scream bluffs and then when you call their bluff they will squeal CORAGGIO FUGIAMO!?!

Anthony Magri

May 6th 2009, 20:51

All is well that ends well in view of the 6th June elections.
Let us crowd the Airport to give a big thank you to Dr. S. Busuttil since he is the hero. And let us not forget he is the prime P.N. candidate for MEP on the 6th June.
He needed this push. He was more effective than Gonzipn more t han his whole government. Electing him will strengthen a inneffective government.
Everything is possible before a crucial election. There is speculation that if the P.N. does not win this election it will resign from the Government. So everything must be done. Let us hope there will be no corrupt practices, and the L.P. will get the majority for the Maltese sake.

Joe Vella (Mellieha.)

May 6th 2009, 20:47

@ Dennis Catania

"@Helen Psaila Do you know what the difference between legal and illegal is? I won't say no more since commentators explained it to you already."

I am sure that you know quite the difference, I am sure that you living in the New York area know quite a few illegal Immigrants, amongst them quite a few Maltese as well.

r cuschieri

May 6th 2009, 20:46

'Pacta sunt servanda'...these are the famous words uttered by Italian Minister Roberto Maroni earlier this evening, when commenting on the latest stand-off episode between Malta and Italy. Mr. Maroni is now notorious after mastering the art of misinterpretation of existing international laws and facts. His acts of omission or commission, verbal or otherwise, are shamelessly intended to misguide all and sundry - including millions of honest Italian citizens - into believing that his stand and version are correct. Notwithstanding that his utterances are faithfully parroted by controlled Italian media...he will fail and fail miserably at that. Truth, legality, seriousness, correctness and professionalism lie with Malta. Yes Mr Maroni - pacta sunt servanda - HEAR HEAR.

laurence schembri

May 6th 2009, 20:37

So much for an union of countries, this Malta/Italy debacle does not augur well towards a European Union.

Alfred Cassar

May 6th 2009, 20:36

I think we should all be united on this issue, no partisan politics, nothing should divide us. We should all support the Government in this urgent difficult matter. Opposition, AD, and all other parties should offer their support to the Maltese Govt as this matter affects all Maltese people. I'm glad that only a few comments here are politically biased.
David Pisani made a very mature comment about 10hrs ago, well done.
Helena Psaila's first comment is an insult to our dear relatives who emigrated legally to Canada, UK, USA or Australia years ago.

Gianninu Saliba

May 6th 2009, 20:33

Well said and well done Dr. Busuttil. Malta needs you, as you continue to prove that your loyalty is not just to the PN but also to our beloved country. He is electorate's first choice for re-election as an MEP and we need to elect another four like him. There are nine on the PN ticket to choose from... and look no further.

By the way, the Nationalist Government won round three with a knock out.

Denis Catania

May 6th 2009, 20:15

@Helena Psaila: Now that you brought up America. The federal system especially on the west coast is full of illegal immigrants in federal and INS detention centers and are charged with felonies for illegally entering the U.S.A. The minimum sentence in the U.S for re-entering the U.S.A after being deported is 5 years in a Federal Prison without a parole system. A person charged for illegally entering the U.S.A must serve 87% of his time before being eligible to get released.

In America we have plenty of cases where an INS raid nets up to and not limited to 900 illegals at one time and all are charged with a felony. There has been companies shut down because all there employees where arrested, especially on the west coast. We had sub contractors for airport custodians shut down after a majority of their employees where arrested for being illegals.

Please note that an immigrant does not break the law when entering a country legally. Only an ILLEGAL immigrant is charged with such offenses. Also when one comes with no papers we don't know IF they are hiding any serous charges that one might of committed in his motherland.

Dennis Zammit

May 6th 2009, 19:54

To Giorgio Gori

As an Italian, you should feel partially responsible for the plight of these Africans. Countries like Italy colonized for many the countries of origin of most of these illegal immigrants. The alleged great empire of the Italians covered Libya, Eritrea and Somalia. The Italians left these countries in pieces and now expect us, a tiny island in the Mediterranean to cover their mistakes.

It is about time the Italian nation through their extreme members of Parliament such as the Lega Nord and Maroni pull up their sleeves and take responsibility for the countries actions; even if these were decades ago. Had countries like Italy not drained the African continent, many countries would be in a better state.

What astonishes me is that the Italian Military and Coast Guard manage to patrol and save people around the world but not in their back yard.

Eugenio Taliana

May 6th 2009, 19:40

If Italy insists that we should take all immigrants found in our search and rescue area, then we should insist that this whole area is all a Maltese Fishing Zone and nobody else can enter to fish in this area except us! Also oil found in this area belongs to us as well! how's that!

A Vella

May 6th 2009, 19:32

It s time for Malta and italy to be honest and admit that they do not want anymore illegals landing in their country, just like Australia does, and is quite succesful in its approaches to deter such entries. Enough is enough. We can not be forced to take in thousands of people without any documents coming up with all kinds of stories to stay here and then expecting more rights than us Maltese. Any country which accuses us should take them itself. The government must either put our foot down or else step down. The Maltese are saying enough and the government must act on it. No more entries and repatriations is what we expect. This is what the majority will be voting for in June elections

R.Zammit

May 6th 2009, 19:30

Just look at the nationalism that immediately follows an international incident in Italian newspapers. :

http://www.ilgiornale.it/a.pic1?ID=349084

Most readers' comments at the bottom of the article and are diatribes full of hatred for us. Its like rewinding to 1942. Several even urge the military to invade Malta and kick us out. One has the audacity to say:

"Qua ci vuole una risposta dura,mandiamo la flotta italiana davanti a Malta con i cannoni puntati,basta farsi prendere in giro da 400.000 abitanti.. Ma ci rendiamo conto? Vi immaginate Mussolini cosa avrebbe fatto?In 24 ore avrebbe risolto il problema.."

This chap really doesn't seem to know his history!

But really, aside of these nasty comments, this is what this invasion of Africans is causing - fights between friends, and one day (if it isn't happening already) we will have serious internal problems too.

A Bezzina

May 6th 2009, 19:08

Giorgio Gori.
The Italian Government has offered to resolve the issue by taking over the Maltese SAR area. Italy is therefore ready to take in the boat people if it gets this large SAR area under its control. What is in it for Italy. Surely it is not the several million euros that air traffic contributes to revenue of the country controlling such areas. If control of an SAR area by a country also entitles it to the mineral wealth in that area than there is no doubt in anybody's mind that the aim of Italy is to extend its claim on mineral finds in Malta's SAR area. I would go a step further, it seems ever more plausible that a deal has already been struck between the Italian and Libyan Government to coordinate pressure to take over Malta's SAR area and than divide the spoils. I find it also hard to believe that in such a totalitarian police state as found on our southern flank, that country has no authority to control such a widespread organized activity of sending thousands of people across the Bay of Sirte. They must have a Mickey Mouse police force at best!

David Muscat

May 6th 2009, 18:58

http://www.corriere.it/cronache/09_maggio_06/lampedusa_barconi_trattative_ab6eb662-3a08-11de-9bf9-00144f02aabc.shtml

The italians blinked first.

V.Battistino

May 6th 2009, 18:37

view latest update :

http://www.repubblica.it/2009/04/sezioni/cronaca/immigrati-6/barcone-fermo/barcone-fermo.html

"....Salvati da navi italiane. Più o meno alla stessa ora, le 17.30, una motovedetta della Guardia costiera italiana salpata da Lampedusa, ha agganciato un barcone con un'ottantina di migranti a bordo mentre il motopesca "Carlotta" si è avvicinato a un altro barcone carico di clandestini, ad est di Lampedusa. Probabilmente, i due natanti segnalati al mercantile sono proprio i due barconi soccorsi dal peschereccio e dalla motovedetta. ...."


what a coincidence that these boats were found anyway by italian boats near Lampedusa !!!

need we say more ?

Joe Vella (Mellieha.)

May 6th 2009, 18:12

@ jcmicallef @ the likes

To make a blatant statement that all Maltese that emigrated have done so legally cannot be more wrong. There was a great number of Maltese that throughout time have illegally entered the United States under false premise; and remained there indefinitely. I can guarantee you that the numbers of such individuals doesn't amount to one or two either. You will be surprised to find out that there are some that still do so up to today.

Having pointed the above, I by no means justify the current influx of illegal immigration to the European continent. The only difference is that the Illegal immigrants that are invading Europe for most part come from sub Sahara Countries and are running away from Genocides and poverty. Those who do not meet Refugees status are repatriated as soon the proper documentation can be arranged; as are those who come from North African countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

A.Gauci Cunningham

May 6th 2009, 17:54

It's pretty much useless repaeting the same thing over and over again.....the only questions we should ask are
1)----Do immigrants in distress go to the nearest port or to the country under which the SAR is??
2)----When CMB went to Brussels or wherever did he discuss this problem or was it just chit-chat u ejje ha mmorru?? If Malta's case is so clear why did Mr.Barrot not reprimand Maroni and made it clear that immigrants in distress should go to the nearest port!!

I'm sorry but all these theatricals are smelling very fishy and it's either the PN government is keeping its cards close to its chest and not being totally honest or that Italy has some other sinister plan or that politicians can't give a hoot about human life and are doing all this to win a couple of votes!!! All three would be bad but the last would be horrible and disgusting!!

v.pulis

May 6th 2009, 17:50

So the Lia Levoli could not find the boats! Ah well! the important thing is they tried. they continue their trip with a clear concience.
Want to bet that the boats are sighted closer to Malta next?

Paul Barrett

May 6th 2009, 17:42

"reported this afternoon that it could not find the boats"
Did anyone check the name of the Captain of the Italian ship - perhaps he is a relative of Nelson !!!

clare spiteri

May 6th 2009, 17:41

Carry on Prime Minister. The Maltese are behind you. We do not put up with bullies. That is entrenched in our long and illustrious History.The entire nation approves of the stance you took today.before we were allowed to enter the US we had to go through rigour tests and interviews.We were in medicine,young healthy and qualified.They gave us an alien visa,to live and work,temporarily in that continent.Compare what we on this tiny island are expected to put up with.

h.jzammit

May 6th 2009, 17:38

'I Maltesi mi hanno stancato,cercano di fare i furbi aumentando le loro acque territoriali e zone di ricerca intascando montagne di euro dall'UE e fanno fare tutto a noi "RAZZISTI E DISGUSTOSI" italiani.. Qua ci vuole una risposta dura,mandiamo la flotta italiana davanti a Malta con i cannoni puntati,basta farsi prendere in giro da 400.000 abitanti.. Ma ci rendiamo conto? Vi immaginate Mussolini cosa avrebbe fatto?In 24 ore avrebbe risolto il problema.. '

This is what's written in IL GIORNALE blog . Once again Italian Embassy take note. This is not liberta' di stampa . Not to mention the other offenses to the Maltese and others directed towards PM Gonzi which are too rude to be seen in a decent newspaper such as The Times.

C. Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 17:37

I just need to raise a question: If indeed these Men....as most of them are men, are leaving ravaged dangerous countries for a *better* life, how can they do it without trying also to bring their loved and dearest ones with them?!!

philip pace

May 6th 2009, 17:30

This whole thing shall be with us for a very long time probably for ever.
It started badly by the wrong people in power and by mypoic people.
One has to understand that Africa was colonized by the Super European forces in the 1890s. The same countries now are turning away from their moral responsibilties. The countries in question are Italy, France,Spain,Germany, Belgium, Holland and the United Kingdom not forgetting the Vatican as well who let a priest do the negotiations for the Italians to grab hold of Italian Somaliland..
The PM is missing one strong and valid point. These countries exploited these African nations right down to the core by invading them, fighting them, killing thousands of them and seduced them with the European high life, Religion, Society, Politics and Culture.
Malta never invaded these countries and this little island is in the center of it all.

Unless Malta brings the whole case infront of the United Nations there wouldbe no solution. The EU? Bah!

Does the Government seriously think of acheiving something positive from Mount Olympus?
The big EU countries have washed their hands out of this by giving them sham independence like British didto us in 1964!

Michelle dali

May 6th 2009, 17:21

@ J Schembri

Click on the link below to find out what the Somali pirates are doing with all the money they get from their criminal activity - becoming rich and powerful fast! They sometimes even attack ships carrying aid to their own countrymen, not caring that their fellow citizens will have to go without as a result of their greed. The sooner the world intervenes to stabilize Somalia, the better for everyone.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/8010061.stm

Chris Park

May 6th 2009, 17:16

Italians have quickly bragged & blown their trumpet on their International High Seas rescues. Such a deliberate downplay of Malta’s claim that the Italians aren't adhering to their International Law obligations rides on their capability of such rescues because as a bigger nation they have far more numerical/qualitative air & naval assets, used also for force projection and show-the-flag purposes around the Med where their merchant navy or fishing fleets operate.

What about Italy's bartering and dodgey business deals with Libya, their main oil/gas supplier, on the agreement reached on WW2 reparations, joint-patrolling & Berlusconi's highway construction between two major Libyan cities. As European sympathy treacling in Italy’s direction is stemmed presently becuase of the Abruzzo earthquake, this blins the international community to the big brother or bully tactics Italy has adopted

If Italy is a bigger voice in the EU, like Spain for instance, & gets away with flagrant disregard to international laws’ obligations, the EU lacks equality amongst its own partners. Why is Italy only now stirring up the issue on acceptance of illegal immigrants in ports nearest to the rescue area? - the standard agreement these last 40 years or so.

Sandro Pace

May 6th 2009, 17:11

One should be careful of what this boat is doing, for 'they may find themselves' near Malta. And be tricked again.

Denis Catania

May 6th 2009, 17:09

@Helen Psaila Do you know what the difference between legal and illegal is? I won't say no more since commentators explained it to you already.

Dr Savior Tortell Pisani

May 6th 2009, 16:53

GREAT!... SO FINALLY COMMON-SENSE PREVAILED!

This is the policy we should have adopted a VERY long time ago. None of these immigrants want to get stuck in tiny barren Malta at the outskirts of the big gold-plated EU. This is a very simple measure which will reduce the burden on our resources by a factor of 100!

WELL DONE TO THE GOVERNMENT... FINALLY!
If a boat is intercepted by the SAR team, it is vetted to see if it is in any trouble and if it is found to be in good shape it is allowed to proceed to its intended destination - giving them food, water, and a GPS!! ... together with a generous helping of good luck!

If anyone on board is found to be vulnerable or is facing difficulties he should be given the choice to either proceed at his own risk or disembark in Malta where he will be treated but then face the usual detention (pending refugee status) or repatriation.

Those hard headed Italians can then sort their own problems on their own now... They asked for it... NOW THEY GOT MORE THAN THEY BARGAINED FOR!

T Pace

May 6th 2009, 16:52

Re the failure of the tanker to find the boats.

We can therefore safely assume that the call was a hoax and we can expect more hoaxes in the future.

Or else it was a call to test our resolve.

Victor Mamo

May 6th 2009, 16:46

lgalea

I always knew you were an ultra realist, and not in the good way, but not to advocate the taking care of the most precious thing which is human life... If they are in danger, we collect them, if not direct them on their way. If you are ever adrift at see, even just by swimming, please do not make any SOS calls, because you know your risks of drowning while going swimming.

J. Borg

May 6th 2009, 16:45

It is self defeating and deporable that the Italians and Maltese stoop so low.

Italy & Malta should make one common front and bring these migrants safely to shore BUT then send them all in a specifically dedicated plane to BRUSSELS airport, and then by coach to the Europen Commission's office, who can then allocate those eligible fairly amongst ALL member states.

If need be we can give the EC a special discount if they decide to house the migrats in Dar Malta in Brussels......at least we'll be getting something out of it!

Franco Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 16:43

@ Sandro Pace: 'A bunch of asylum abusers severed our relation with our neighbour.'
For our 'neighbour' to have 'severed' relations with us, it appears that there wasn't much of a relationship, was there?
Mr Pace, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Now we know what solidarity is all about, don't we, especially 'with our neighbour.'
And as for your 'bunc of asylum abusers', well... do not be hasty in your judgement.

lgalea

May 6th 2009, 16:42

So we now have the Flying Dutchman have we?
Couldn't have been a red herring from the Italian government to see how we would react could it?

Daniel Cardona

May 6th 2009, 16:42

No Trace - Nice Excuse

we should start using it as well :)

AZammit

May 6th 2009, 16:41

Presumably, the Lia Levoli was tracking these boats with their radar equipment and not with look outs !!!!

Trevor Lorenzo Mizzi

May 6th 2009, 16:38

@ A. Muscat,

Can you please copy and paste some different paragraph for a change, that Papal Bull thing is getting kind of over used in your blogs, and is very repetitious.
And by the way, this advice is coming from a person that is not a big fan of the RC church.

Victor Mamo

May 6th 2009, 16:38

Andrea Venturi

The migrants were spotted closer to Liampedusa than to Malta. It is their responsability.
We ARE abiding by international regulations by directing them to Italy since it is their responsability.


Wayne Hewitt

nice way to turn a national and international crisis into campaign publicity.


Joseph Abela

And your beloved PL MEPs can just sit and do nothign on the issue like they ave done for the past 5 years?

Simon Busuttil has time and again intervened in the EP to our benefit. Have you forgotten it was Busuttil who drafted up the Common Immigration and Asylum Policy



Helena Psaila

Many of those you mentioned travelled legally. If you are referring to those few that did not travel legally, then yes, they are criminals.


Dr Gonzi, Dr. Mifsud Bonnici, you are doing very well with dealing this situation, and you are showing us your "par idejn sodi". Now repay our faith in you by not giving in. Well done.

Anthony Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 16:36

I think this time Silvio will be to busy to talk on the phone with Gonzi. As soon as the footy finished yesterday, I had a look at Porta a Porta hosted by the maggiordomo/lackey Bruno Vespa ( who would'nt be given that one of the Berlusconi's subsidiaries publishes two books a year ghosted by Vespa!) where the one and only guest (niente veline) was our Silvio (no other guests to contradict him). The "Psiconano" ,as Beppe Grillo calls him, spent nearly two hours trying to justify his behaviour (wandering eye, etc) and why his wife has been hypnotised by the opposition in order to ask for a divorce; all this from the guy who told the earthquake homeless living in tents that they should consider it as a camping holiday! What about his antics at the recent G8? Insomma it was trash TV at its best or, more so, worst.

Helena Psaila

May 6th 2009, 16:31

I object to immigrants being called criminals.

They are not criminals. A criminal is worse than a law-breaker. Surely some of you have broken traffic laws - are you criminals then? Hardly. Are all the politicians who have broken libel laws criminals? No. So are immigrants who travel without documentation criminals? No.

I do not mind having a drink with someone who got a parking ticket, but I do mind having a drink with a murderer. And that, fellow citizens, is the difference between a law-breaker and a criminal. In American terms, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony.

I suggest that you rethink your choice of words, because you are labelling people unjustly. Then, when we see immigrants in the street, we immediately think 'criminal', and we never even give them a chance to prove their worth.

Michelle Dali

May 6th 2009, 16:28

This time round it is an ITALIAN ship the illegal immigrants are on, picked up just 45 miles off the ITALIAN island of Lampedusa. They must be taken to Lampedusa!

If the Italian government tries to play dirty again this time, Malta must say that WE ARE FULL UP. We have no room to humanely accomodate any more illegal immigrants and therefore MALTA IS NOT A SAFE PORT. (We can play that game too, Mr Moroni!)

I beg the government of Malta not to give in to Italy's bullying. The migrants are safe on a ship now, there is no excuse that they are in distress.

R.Spiteri

May 6th 2009, 16:27

I agree 100% with you Malcolm Azzopardi the needy ones are still in Africa and how come they had the Italian authorities rescue number?

Liam Kelly

May 6th 2009, 16:24

@ lgalea

No im not a foriegner. Just goes to show you shouldn't stereotype people just by their names, colour of their skin or creed.

Although to be fair sometimes i think your from a different planet never mind just a different country based on your opinions.

c.camilleri

May 6th 2009, 16:23

Had the Govt made this stand earlier we would not have been flooded with these illegal migrants roaming our streets.

C Zammit

May 6th 2009, 16:22

Lets not compare migrants with illegal immigrants. All the comments below on maltese migrants are true ... they where all checked and all needed by the host country.

Having said that, If a corrupt, brutal government takes hold of malta, or a military coup, or even a foreign invasion (god forbid all these unlikely and horrendous acts) ... i will be the first one to get a boat and try to flee - if possible with my family ... and yes, i will throw away my documents for fear of repercussions.

Agreed, not all of these boat people are that innocent, some are just here for economic gain.... but to kill them or leave them stranded is cruel - even if they were animals.

This is the only bit i don't understand from the negative comments below ... killing or leaving them is not a plausible option. Are we the same people who help foreigners? Are you all worried for economic reasons? Don't you see that other fellow maltese take money from your pocket on a daily basis (from Social security or otherwise)?

Is it truly that we are racists then?

J Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 16:19

@ Giorgio Gori- to give you an honest picture of what is happening in reality here it is. There is a difference between the SAR (Search and rescue) zone and the TERRITORIAL WATERS. The territorial waters are what they are: a small zone around Malta 30 naut. miles or something like that. The SAR zone covers from Greece to Tunisia and from half of libya to near Sicily. So the SAR is a vast area and this was controlled by the English occupation of Malta. So things are what they are. the SAR area is only there to coordinate search and rescue BUT NOT TO TAKE THEM INTO MALTESE TERRITORIAL WATERS. Otherwise with the same arguments, Lampedusa belongs to Malta. How about that for italian contradictions!

d. borg

May 6th 2009, 16:17

@Helena Psaila
If you are ashamed to call us fellow citizens, then don't. The feeling is reciprocated. The well being of our country and the future of our children are what matter to most of us. If you don't share the same worries then it's your problem.

jcmicallef

May 6th 2009, 16:14

@Helena Psaila and those that share this opinion...

I won't mind if you don't consider me as your fellow citizen, the problem is that most probably you and more like you are enjoying the fruits of the tax that I pay, same tax that would be enjoyed by these migrants. So respect the views of everyone please, whether you agree or not.

Anyhow, when will you pople pls stop making comparisons on issues that rather have more contrasts? I need not repeat the differences of the Italians Maltese and Irish that went to USA or Australian - others have done it before me.

Buy, hoy, saying that these 'overwhelmed' america is taking it a tad too far. There was work waiting for them in America. There was a nation to be built in America. There was an economy to be created in America. There was a Superpower in the making.

A Superpower that , not very long ago, helped Europe halt an evil extreme power (make that two to include Communism!). Our brothers and sisters that 'overwhelmed' America have come to our aid more than once.

Are these migrants going to stop their wars from europe, or start new ones?

lgalea

May 6th 2009, 16:11

Helena Psaila
The Maltese and the rest that you mention were LEGAL immigrants wanted by the countries they went to because the countries needed their work. If you didn't know, Maltese emigrants had to have health check, had to have qualifications certificates and they were also tested again in the countries they went to, and were also discriminated against.

Peter Seychell The ILLEGAL immigrants knew the risks they were taking so they must face the consequences.

A. Muscat

May 6th 2009, 16:09

‘Holy’ immigration with annihilation dogma.
Specifically, in the fifteenth century, two Papal Bulls set the stage for European domination of the New World and Africa. Romanus Pontifex, issued by Pope Nicholas V to King Alfonso V of Portugal in 1452, declared war against all non-Christians throughout the world, and specifically sanctioned and promoted the conquest, colonization, and exploitation of non-Christian nations and their territories. Inter Caetera, issued by Pope Alexander VI in 1493 to the King and Queen of Spain following the voyage of Christopher Columbus to the island he called Hispaniola, officially established Christian dominion over the New World. It called for the subjugation of the native inhabitants and their territories, and divided all newly discovered or yet-to-be discovered lands into two- giving Spain rights of conquest and dominion over one side of the globe and Portugal over the other.
European Immigrants headed west gave birth to what’s today known as USA and the original population (Indian Rouge) have become history!
Using WC Bush' vocabularies, this type of immigration is ‘Holy’ terrorism.
Obviously we feel insecure having immigrants. However since Immigrants in Europe never occupied a country or committed annihilation to indigenous-our fear remains unfounded.

T Mifsud

May 6th 2009, 16:05

@Jeremy Camilleri

No it does not make it ok either, as an illegal immigrant is an illegal anyway. However it remains a fact that the vast majority of the illegal immigrants are muslims and these people have been brought up since their childhood facing violence and persecution. What else do they know? Their culture does not mix at all with ours, never mind political correctness, it's not time for that now! Malta and Europe must rethink the defenition of the word "political correctness". It shouldn't be please the others at the cost of your own!

On another matter: Dr Gonzi and hopefully Joseph Muscat as well should immediately set the words said in this video into a Standard Operating Procedure for the Search and Rescue Operations. Yes it will cost us food and fuel but we will save double fold by not bringing more immigrants in. Also, we should start thinking about repatriation of the whole immigrant community. The tension is rising.

J Schembri

May 6th 2009, 16:01

What did the Italian ambassador say? Did he wish us a happy feast day like the day when the reporters tried to interview him (shown on the 8 o'clock news on TVM).

Talking about Sat phones, what are the Somali people doing with the money they are gathering from ransoms of captured ships? Can someone please tell me from what they are escaping? Somalia must have become one of the richest in the world!

Ernest Vella

May 6th 2009, 15:54

I hope the goverment close the ports to this ship and that she heads to Italy or back to Libya from were they left

jButtigieg

May 6th 2009, 15:52

@ Giorgio Gori

Your government's argument that illegal immigrants should not disembark at Lampedusa since it is an unsafe port, is INVALID too. As are the petty arguments your co-citizens are making on the newspapers of your country, trying to deprecate all Maltese people as 'isolotti'.

Muscat. Pat

May 6th 2009, 15:48

According to the Italian ambassador interviewed on TVM, Malta's and Italy's relations are excellent. Questioned about the present illegal immigration problems between Italy and Malta, he emphasised that given there are European Parliament elections, these tirades are bound to happen, ( both Governments want to give the impression that they are tough)!
I hope that we are not being taken for an other ride by GonziPN and then back to inaction after the elections!

jButtigieg

May 6th 2009, 15:46

Dr Mifsud Bonnici

All Malta is behind you. PLEASE DO NOT GIVE IN.

Sandro Pace

May 6th 2009, 15:43

Nothing is promising.

A bunch of asylum abusers severed our relation with our neighbour.
Not only we will succeed to alleviate our burden, but we are now fighting hard not to accept other burden.

Burden sharing is out of the question once and for all for all those who ever hoped for it. . We are led by amateur politicians who misjudged the European domestic situations even if they were forwarned. They will tell you that this is all due to an election. A further miscalculation. In fact everything is the other way round.

If Italy have it up with migrants, eventually it will happen in countries which may burden share, which will increase the anti-immigrant sentiment in their country. And hence a political threat.
Someone has to stop all this. Frontex is out too.

The government have been complacent here and elsewhere. MEPs have let us down. Except for some non-binding resolutions in the European parliament, correctly timed for election, which many swallowed as a solution.

By not taking it with the Italians, who in the Maltese govt. view is ignoring its obligations, the EU is siding with Italy, by default. The big fish. Imagine the other way round.

K Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 15:38

Just make Lia Levoli take them back to Libya, to start sending the message across to the immigrants' relatives that Europe has now had enough.

MT Caruana

May 6th 2009, 15:38

@ Helena Psaila

So what do you suggest that they come here… the more the merrier??
And you try to travel to a foreign country without any documents, and see if you are treated as a criminal !!
After all you would be breaking the law.

Alex Wright

May 6th 2009, 15:37

the problem is easy to solve all boats or any other transport that is carrying illigal emigrants will be towed to the nearst country of origen so if they are found nearest to Tunisa than they should be towed to there territorial waters and let them deal with the problem. This way all illigal people will know they are risking there lives for nothing

john fenech

May 6th 2009, 15:37

The adage, ‘To pay back in the same coin’ is very appropriate to reciprocate Roberto Moroni’s complement!
While on the other hand, ‘What goes round will come around’ is an apt reminder that a similar solution was forwarded by a PN backbencher but the PN lambasted his statement!
How about, ‘Fair exchange is no robbery’ will our neighbours to the North & South give us the right to share or explore for oil/gas North West of our Island in exchange for part of our SAR area?
We think we know what the government should do but does the opposition know who sells outboards very cheaply to assist our visitor’s aspiration of meeting Mr. Moroni!

PAUL MICALLEF,Ta lingliza

May 6th 2009, 15:34

I am a PL supporter, but i must say prosit to the Goverment on this one,, but have you thought it through??? or its because the european elections are approching that you have taken this stance??. We are behind you on this one,, but the E.U has turned into that dissapointed girl that finds a beautifull lad,, that pays her drinks, take her to restaurants, buys her clothes,, but in the end, ends up wanting to do only one thing TO HER.
I hope not.

Gianninu Saliba

May 6th 2009, 15:33

Why are all these people arguing about this article? Hurrah!! We have won. Italy will have to take them in. I feel confident that it was not the Maltese authorities that have instructed the chemical carrier Lia levoli to change course and approach the two boats. Berlusconi is giving in. Viva Malta, Viva Gonzi round three is ours.

Roderick Theuma

May 6th 2009, 15:31

@Helena Psaila
Those "MILLIONS" you mention were LEGAL MIGRANTS with all papers necessary for immigrations, unlike these illegal imigrants. When you enter a country illegally you are comitting a crime and that alone makes you a criminal. So, yes they are criminals!!!! If you consult the statistics, you will find that most of these boat ppl that lend in malta ARE NOT refugees like you like to hint out, case in point most are in detention and not given refugee status. When these people start obtaining VISAS and enter our country legally maybe then they will earn our respect.

M. Vella

May 6th 2009, 15:27

@ Helena Pace
You must be a young person. That is the only reason why I could understand your arguments.
The nationals you mention had to present a passport and could be refused entry at any time. In later years, some countries, especially Australia, would not consider entry if a person has not applied and been granted a job, before even leaving his homeland. Get in touch with Maltese immigrants to learn about the past.

Peter Aquilina

May 6th 2009, 15:26

Is the chemical tanker " Lia Ievoli" one of those Italian sea vessels which supply fuel ( including aviation fuel ) to Malta ? ......which was perhaps on its way to Malta ?
If so, one wonders whether we shall soon be under an economic "threat" .

Denis Catania

May 6th 2009, 15:24

We will see the backbone the government claimed it had in parliament a few days ago. Give them assistance to reach mainland Europe.

Giorgio Gori

May 6th 2009, 15:23

I'm trying to get an honest representation of the facts, since our government says Malta should take care of those migrants (as the Maltese government is in charge of that area) while your government says just the exact opposite (as Lampedusa is the closest port). How come there are two contraticting interpretations of such an essential principle? Arguments such as "we are fed up with illegal immigrants etc." are invalid - we are fed up as well (there are a couple of million illegal immigrants living in Italy right now).

Charles Grixti

May 6th 2009, 15:21

@ Helen Psaila

The Immigrants that went to America, Australia and other countries were legal immigrants answering the call of these huge countries to help fill their vast empty lands and to provide cheap labour.

I recall my grandfather who had immigrated to America in the early 1900's and him telling me that he and a group of other Maltese immigrants were offered a job in Pennsylvania in a tannery, but instead found themselves working in the middle of the woods, their clothes taken, and working without pay, essentially as slaves. After a year they managed to escape and return to Malta.

Legal immigrants were on their own, (no free welfare), facing discrimination, abuse and exploitation. Suffice it to say, that legal immigrants from Malta to Canada during the 1950's were placed in Ajax Camp, a detention centre purpose built to hold German prisoners of War. Their children faced constant verbal and physical abuse from the day the set foot in these countries and there was no 'legislation' in place either to protect them, it was a free for all when it came to European immigrants. . I can attest to this as I and my siblings bore the brunt.

J.Azzopardi

May 6th 2009, 15:19

@Helena Psaila and the likes.
Then please do not call us fellow citizens if you are of that noble opinion.
All the Italians, Irish and Maltese who emigrated did so legally in their time and under certain conditions because their manpower, skills and knowhow was needed. All contributed to the countries hosting them. You and your likes, who feel disgusted by us who are protesting against this mass invasion, tell us what these "modern" immigrants are contributing to Europe. Actually nothing except for secluded communities, subcultures, crime, gangwars and religious brainwashing. Rascism is wrong and any genuine asylum seeker is to be helped, if necessary integrated into our society but NO to the remaining 99% who all fall into the bracket of plainly tempting illegal immigration because they are "fed up" in their country.

John Pisani

May 6th 2009, 15:12

Dear Helena Psaila I can answer your question "hundreds of Maltese who overwhelmed America in the last two centuries were criminals?"
When back in 1974 I emigrated to Canada, the Canadian Authorities checked my conduct with the Police, interviewed me and made sure I had some relative in Canada that will provide accomodation for and my wife. On our way to Canada we made a stop over in JFK Airport in New York and because of technical fault in the Alitalia plane we had to wait about six hours. But because none of us had a viza to enter the USA, we were not allowed to get off the plane. And none of us, a plane full of Maltese, was a criminal.

Maria Galea

May 6th 2009, 15:12

Immigrants with Satellite phones?????????????

Since when people fleeing their countries, because they can no longer live there, can afford to carry and maintain a satellite phone??

v.pulis

May 6th 2009, 15:10

Helena Psaila you are overlooking one important and very obvious fact. The thousands of maltese who in your words overwhelmed America (and Australia, canada and Britain may I add) entered the country LEGALLY. They were accapted in their host countries after undergoing medical tests, guaranteeing that they would not be a burden on their adoptive country and ensuring that they had assured accomodation. A far cry from entering a country clandestinely, destroying your papers and imposing yourself on the country's coffers.

Joe Vella

May 6th 2009, 15:02

The maltese that went in Australia and USA were immigrant not illegal immigrants, they paid fees and visas of that time, they paid permit official using also legal transport. These such intuders are illegal . . . 'understand' illegal. Maybe if you want to be so generous . . . Take some of these fellow citizens you like at home . . . but i want a country made up of legal citizens.

Charles Portelli

May 6th 2009, 15:02

feedback on LA REPUBBLICA http://www.repubblica.it/2009/04/sezioni/cronaca/immigrati-6/barcone-fermo/barcone-fermo.html is mixed. some strong words in Malta's favour too. Below two are posted as an example:

Sono Italiano e mi vergogno di quanto sta succedendo. Malta ha ragione!!! ... dovrebbe prima informarsi di come si procede per il recupero di uomo in mare ... stiamo facendo una figura pessima!!! - Gli emendamenti alle Convenzioni SOLAS e SAR mirano a preservare lintegrità dei servizi di ricerca e soccorso (SAR), garantendo che le persone in pericolo in mare vengano assistite e, allo stesso tempo, riducendo al minimo gli inconvenienti per la nave che presta assistenza. Essi richiedono agli Stati e alle Parti contraenti di: coordinarsi e cooperare per far sì che i comandanti delle navi che prestano assistenza imbarcando persone in difficoltà in mare siano sollevati dai propri obblighi con una MINIMA ulteriore DEVIAZIONE rispetto alla rotta prevista dalla nave; organizzare lo sbarco AL PIU' PRESTO, per quanto praticabile. Questo è tutto e ...spero sia chiaro!!! Mai più persone abbandonate in balia del mare!!! (uomodimare, 1437hrs)
--
C''è davvero da vergognarsi, addirittura si disattendono le leggi sulla marineria in vigore da secoli. Razzismo? No, è molto peggio, è un comportamento da veri criminali (sergiosp1344hrs)

Nadia Cassar

May 6th 2009, 14:59

It is already funny enough if these boats are really travelling so many miles between sky and sea, unassisted, while overflowing with people in deep waters.....

It is brave enough to leave one's country not knowing where to end up next and without any guarantees.

However, it is not nice to end up in countries where you are unwanted.

So please, think twice before embarking.

Wishing everybody a peace and happiness.

Phil Press

May 6th 2009, 14:58

Malta, should tell, Italy they have no available boats. After all the boot in now on the other foot !!.
Still not to worry plenty of empty and ongoing, properties in Gozo, once Malta starts sinking.

Joanne Micallef

May 6th 2009, 14:56

Now we'll have to wait and see where will the Ship take them, cause I doubt that Italy will accept them....and if they dont we'll we give in after so many hours under the pretext of 'Humanitarian reasons "?

G.Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 14:53

Check this video -> Immigrants leaving Libyan shores

http://tv.repubblica.it/copertina/cosi-i-libici-fermano-i-gommoni/32395?video

h.j.zammit

May 6th 2009, 14:51

It's incredible what latent hate is coming out in the italian newspapers blogs: one wants to sink malta and all maltese, another wants the italian navy off malta, another said we're worse than somali pirates, that maltese are briganti, and we should be kicked out of EU etc etc. it's incredible what resentment they have, and many comments have wartime connotations. Italian Embassy, please note.

Wayne Hewitt

May 6th 2009, 14:16

Next June you have a golden opportunity to make your voice heard loud and clear

VOTE AZZJONI NAZZJONALI

AN will not relent until every single person residing in Malta illegally is repatriated

joe vella

May 6th 2009, 14:02

halleluliah! we are finally standing our ground, keep it up Drs Gonzi and Borg
but pse keep standing ground even after the June 6 elections, whatever the outcome!
stick the full up sign somewhere and stick to it!!

Charles Sammut

May 6th 2009, 13:45

Picking up these illegals is tantamount to aiding and abetting human trafficking. It will only encourage more of the same with no end in sight.

F J Brincat

May 6th 2009, 13:41

Might as well face it, we are being hung out to dry.

Nice picture of Roberto Maroni courtesy of Il Giornale

Peter Seychell

May 6th 2009, 13:40

INCREDIBLE! over 4hours of mostly couch worriers urging the government "to stick by its guns" and a biased Italian dropping in his penny's worth only to continue adding fuel to a burning furnace. 1 question; hypothetical perhaps and I hope it remains that way; Huge storm crops up, The emigrants in question run into extreme difficulties. Does Mr/Ms. Couch Worrier posting below still suggest that Malta sticks to its guns? Viva Malta Catolica u Kristiana.
Difficult times call for cool heads capable of managing complex situations. and the last thing that Malta needs at the moment is for Mr. Italian Ambassador to tell us in that Dr. Gonzi is being pressurised into taking the dissensions that he is taking because he is under intense public pressure as he did yesterday. Talk about patronising. So, just lay off and give the people dealing with the situation some breathing space.

Louis grima

May 6th 2009, 13:35

The italian media are reporting that "Trattative in corso tra Italia e Malta per decidere chi debba prestare soccorso in mare".What " trattattive"!? First they didn't have support vessels,now they are looking for another loophole! The whole issue is now being dragged to the ludicrous, making outright mockery of a soveriegn state and all it stands for.
It Must be stopped now - otherwise we may just as well pack and leave ourselves.

Joseph Cauchi

May 6th 2009, 13:18

.

I am really puzzled at this on-going saga between Malta and Italy when both of our countries have the same objective, i.e. that both countries are FULL UP and none want anymore of this.

We all know the source, and the source is Libya.

Why is not Libya in our equation to solve this PLANNED INVASION?

Has now Libya become “THE UNTOUCHABLE”?

This smells FISHY!

../..

Joseph Cauchi

May 6th 2009, 13:09

.

I am astonished when I read certain comments, like the ones of Mr. F. Mercieca where he says that a “couple of thousand” more of illegal immigrants is no problem for him!

He can speak for himself, but certainly not for Malta.

Sometimes, I wonder if he is really serious or if he is trying to take the mickey out of us?

../..

Helena Psaila

May 6th 2009, 13:07

igalea, kenneth galea and the like,

So even the millions of Italians and Irish, hundreds of Maltese who overwhelmed America in the last two centuries were criminals?

Migration is a world reality, my dears - not everyone wakes up in the morning, switches on his computer and has a coffee tafux! Some are being bombed, some lost their jobs, some are hungry and some are plain fed up. Does that make them a criminal? A criminal???

I am ashamed to call you fellow citizens.

Emma Xerro

May 6th 2009, 12:58

This migrants 'in distress' as they are being called in this blog are that way because they chose to be. They paid money to criminals to assist them in another criminal act, illegal economic migration.

So they have nobody but themselves to blame and Malta owes them nothing. True "bona-fede" refugees that actually reach our shores can probably be counted on the fingers of one hands. The rest are here for the 'freebies'.

@ Jeremy Camilleri. And no, it does not matter a hoot either if these illegal immigrants were Catholic, since Malta cannot take on more people. But the fact that they are Muslims should raise alarm bells as there is an Islamic invasion underway and in fact what we are seeing is part of this plan.

Stephen Grech

May 6th 2009, 12:53

I am sorry but these are not 'innocent victims' but people breaking the law by entering a country illegally. If I were to travel to another country, let's say a European Union country, Shengen or no Shengen, I am still obliged to show identification. If I am not indentified, I am either not allowed to board the aircraft/vessel or else get bundled on the next trip back to Malta to say the least. May one point out, that most of these 'innocent victims' throw away their passports to make identification more difficult.

Bernice Bruno

May 6th 2009, 12:41

Probably this situation and the result of it will be the guidance of how the people of Malta will vote in a month's time.

David Stephen Ganado

May 6th 2009, 12:40

@ Mario Gellel
Wanting to blame the government for all that happened won't open your eyes to the real root of the current crisis. using the words 'GonziPN' clearly shows your political leanings, so once again you and your lot are not being objective.

Anyone with a decent sense of proportion realise that this situation is not our governments' fault and also nothing to do with being part of the EU. If we were not in the EU we would be in a much worse situation especially with the amount of financial aid we get for the immigrant problem - whether its enough or not is irrelevant.

joe camenzuli

May 6th 2009, 12:36

Malta watch out!!!
This is going to be a scene from the movies were the migrants on Italy insistance to call Malta and pretent they are in distress and in turn the maltese will go to assist.
Malta don't be fooled!!!

David Meilak

May 6th 2009, 12:34

This is all a dirty game where the trip organisers are now used to telling these people that once you get to lampedusa or anywhere close to Europe use your satellite phone and you get a free trip to Malta or Italy. We have been playing into the hands of these people too long now. We have to play the game to win..........we have to show the traffickers that we will not play by their rules anymore..........

G.Azzopardi

May 6th 2009, 12:30

The footage ends ..."Nies innocenti f'nofs ta' bahar". You're not serious are you ? Why do you say they are inocent? They are breaking the law, by being illegal immigrants. They are paying good sums of money to do so, so I guess money is no problem for them. They knowingly made the trip. And you call these people innocent.

While some might be escaping persecution, Africa is mega huge with alot of countries within it. therefore they have ample opportunity, terrotory and countries in Africa to seek refuge.
The real reason they are coming to Europe is not for refuge, they are coming here with the thought of earning big bucks. Economic Migrants.

Kenneth Galea

May 6th 2009, 12:28

Both Malta and Italy should NOT go out of their way to rescue these criminals who broke the law already! The message to would be illegal immigrants should be made clear. Stay where you are because both Italy and Malta are full up and these people do not qualify to reside in EU countries.
Take them back to Libya and DR Gonzi do not enrage us further by saying that Malta always behaved in the right legal and moral way. We are NOT interested in these illegal immigrants, we do not want them here because they are economic migrants and we are not prepared to keep them.

DVella

May 6th 2009, 12:27

@ Andrea Venturi . . Since when did Italy have the right to re-interpret (or ignore) international laws and try and dump its obligations on other people??? What your Government is doing is nothing short of political blackmail and trying to bully Malta into conceding part of it's Search and Rescue and Air Traffic Control area . . . wake up and smell the coffee mate, you must be watching too much Mediaset and Rai news!!!!!

d. borg

May 6th 2009, 12:22

@ Frank Mercieca
This is not a matter of a couple of thousand. First of all, there are already much more than that number in Malta. Secondly, this is a continuous flow and if we don't take a firm stand now it will never stop. Besides, you have to look ahead in say 15 or 20 years time, the number will double or even treble. What then? Will it be the end of Malta as we know it now? Will it be a different culture, race and religion? What about our children? The difference for the man in the street? - we are not ready to work and pay taxes to support these people.

A.Zammit

May 6th 2009, 12:07

If Govt. capitulates this time round than they might as well kiss goodby to their second EU seat.

angelo muscat

May 6th 2009, 12:05

WELL SAID P.M. GONZI WE ARE BEHIND YOU TILL THIS PROBLEM IS SOLVED. GIVE THEM WHAT THEY NEED AND LET THEM GO WHERE THEY WANT TO GO.WE WILL SHOW THESE COUNTRIES WHAT WE ARE MADE OF.

Anthony Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 12:03

If you want to keep up to date with what is really happening in Italy have a look at Beppe Grillo's Blog (available also in English). What is shown on RAI and Mediaset channels is far far away from the real situation in Italy . No to get confused, he calls Berlusconi "psiconano" (psychodwarf)!

Brian Maloret

May 6th 2009, 11:52

FRANK MERCIECA (

What planet are you living on. A "couple of thousand" people is going to mean much to the man in the street because that "couple of thousand" who are mainly dependent on the State are competing with the indigenous Maltese population for limited resources in health, housing, education, etc. And when other would be illegal immigrants become aware of the services that those already here are receiving then you can add thousands more to your "couple of thousand". I wonder what that would mean to the man in the street. A great deal I suspect.

mario gellel

May 6th 2009, 11:50

I am 200% against illegal immigration,but why blame the italains? Are they not doing what our Goverment should be doing (ie) safeguarding their country? Was it not our Goverment that accepted with a blind eye (even when all other political parties warned him to stand firm) all that the EU wanted? We should only point our fingers only at GONZIPN,he and only he is to blame.

J Schembri

May 6th 2009, 11:49

I cannot understand the point Andrea Venturi is trying to make! You were accepted to stay in Malta, work in Malta - legally and with permits (I hope!).

But Italy, a rich country with all the blessings in the world, is squirming from the responsibilites and as an EU member is shaming itself by refusing to help immigrants.

By the way is Italy comparing itself with Malta? Check the map and see why we complain!
If you stayed in Malta you know that Malta is only 20 miles with over 400,000 inhabitants and we are stepping on each others toes. We are very tolerant people but what we cannot tolerate is the arrogance (even by foreign representatives on this island) because we are a tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean.

Even if we took 'millions of Euros' as you state, I am sure that all the Maltese will agree with me that, what with the amount of illegal immigrants and their expenses to keep them, these 'millions' are not enough.

Italy is seeing them as a burden, it is better for them to help out than playing the foolish heroes!

J.Azzopardi

May 6th 2009, 11:48

Malta and Italy should team up since they are on the frontline. To hell with the EU and Frontex. The former has buried its head in the sand and the latter is a sad joke. Push back from where they came any illegal boat. The now standard Satellite Phone by which these teams of invaders are equipped spills the whole game. Enough ! Show your teeth now before summer draws favourable seafaring weather. Greece and Turkey are at odds against each other but just try to learn something from them about how together they deal with their illegal boats problems.

Dominic Chircop

May 6th 2009, 11:46

One may have all the legal, moral and ethical rights on his side, but unless one has clout, one can do nothing really.

By clout, I mean both political and otherwise.

It does not appear that our EU fellow member states are queueing in order to support us, whether materially or morally.

So, that must be borne in mind come 6th June.

Jeremy J Camilleri

May 6th 2009, 11:43

T Mifsud, if the immigrants are Catholic, does that make it ok?

Joseph Cauchi

May 6th 2009, 11:37

Well done to our Prime Minister for the stand he is taking.

Malta is four-square with you on this!

However, isn’t this a European problem and if so, why is it that only Malta and Italy are taking the brunt of this situation?

This problem should be taken up in Brussels immediately and decide what course of action should be taken in order not to continue burdening the frontier nations such as Malta and Italy, but be shared by ALL EU countries.

The EU should stop this INFLUX by coordinating with the countries of departure, i.e. Libya, as Libya is the only country that can effectively STOP this influx.

But it seems that no EU country wants to stand up to the Colonel!

Does the EU have ULTERIOR MOTIVES?

../..

David Stephen Ganado

May 6th 2009, 11:35

@ Andrea Venturi
Malta has abided by all International Laws, it is your country Italy wich is not!! The laws of the sea say that any person/boat saved at sea should be taken ashore at the NEAREST safe port.
This means that if Lampedusa is the closest port YOU are obliged to take them in.

Your politicians are trying to gain milage before the European elections, but the fact are there for all to see (if you want to see them!)

Malta and Italy will remain freinds but only when we ALL face up to our responsabilities

v.pulis

May 6th 2009, 11:32

@Andrea Venturi
The law says that migrants in distress are to be taken to the nearest port. it also says that if they refuse to be towed then they can proceed on their way. I propose that they are given assistance like food fuel and if need be an outboard motor if theirs has 'accidentally' fallen overboard and helped to continue their journey. it is a known fact that they do not intend to stop on Malta. They want to reach italy from where they can then continue inland.

John Azzopardi

May 6th 2009, 11:29

Enough enough of this. These people should be turned back immediately. If it weren't for the EP election, they would have been brought to Malta already. We have had enough. Yes, this is an invasion and the rate we keep on going, I forsee the destablization of Malta unless the Maltese all Iqumu f'Daqqa u jghidu, Bizzejjed. Kemm lil EU u Kemm lil partiiti Maltese. The people must be united against any politician who supports this madness.

Andrea Vella

May 6th 2009, 11:28

Solidarity between EU members we were told in 2004--go tell it to the marines or to Simon Busuttil.

T Lombardi

May 6th 2009, 11:27

@ A Venturi
Malta has always respected it's international obligations and brought illegal immigrants that were closer to Malta here (even though I strongly disagree with this!) I will not go into my personal opinion on the matter, but will just stick to stating facts for you (since you seem to have la vista very sfocata!)
The millions of € that you mention are barely enough to deal with the current number of immigrants that we're accomodating - let alone to accomodate ALLthe illegal immigrants that want to reach your beloved country (which by the way is 950 times larger than our island..) Furthermore, millions of €uros will not make Malta any bigger, therefore its no excuse to throw a few millions this way and expect us to shut up and take on this absurd burden.
Which brings me to burden sharing...ever heard of it?? Perhaps a few calculations can put many things into perspective for you - your population density of 200 ppl/km compared to our 1200 ppl/km should make you and your fellow citizens realise that perhaps YOU should begin respecting the EU agreement on burdensharing, rather than try to dump it all on Malta!

carmel Borg

May 6th 2009, 11:25

I do hope that the Government will not give in. If he does, then we will have an invasion of illegal immigrants coming over to Malta this summer. These illegal immigrants are taking us for a ride.
As things stand at the moment, there are already more then enough here in Malta and if they revolt, the police and army will not be in a position to take control of the situation. Drastic measure need to be taken whether with EU approval or not. Dr.Gonzi, you must protect the Maltese people or else step down.

T Pace

May 6th 2009, 11:20

This is an opportunity to show that we mean what we say.

The Italian rescue centre should phone back and inform all those on board including the trafficker who made the call that no assistance is available and that the boats should turn back.

I am certain that if they had navigated the first couple of hundred miles, they would be able to cover the remaining small distance under their own steam and not try to save on fuel and have their accommodation, lunch or dinner, free medical prepared for their arrival.

Unless the message gets through to other prospective immigrants, the situation shall remain the same.

Since our patrol boats have been at sea all winter, it would not be improbable that they need a coat of antifouling paint while the engines need a thorough overhaul before proceeding far out at sea.

J.Cini

May 6th 2009, 11:12

@ Adriana venturi
Malta may be getting EU funds to:..... hear this.........: "Manage the co-ordination of the Search and Rescue zone", NOT, I repeat, NOT to take into our country anyone who strays into the rescue zone! That is the EU agreement you are referring to, and Malta is clearly abiding by this fully.
Only once in territorial waters, is that country obliged to offer political asylum, which Italy is failing to do. And in any case, why are the Italians failing to go to the source of the problem, Libya? I think it's shameful how the country with the world's 6th largest economy is behaving towards their tiny neighbour!

Edward Camilleri

May 6th 2009, 11:07

I fully agree with what David Piasni wrote. That is the right attitude one should have in this very difficult moment. So please let us work together, as a united nation in order to tackle this huge problem. As regards the comments by Mr Venturi, i definitely disagree with him. I think he should be less biased and check the facts before commenting. I do not want to enter in any debate but please check what are the facts. Yes Malta was given a certain ammount of money to cover this problem. But i think that money is not the only resource that our country needs in this difficult moment. Mr Venturi should also be reminded that YES OUR COUNTRY IS VERY VERY SMALL. Let us be completely honest and make a comparison. I think you cannot compare a small island like Malta with all the limited resources, to Italy. Definitely we cannot accept this situation any more. This is definitely not the right attitude neither by Italy nor Libya. I really and sincerely do hope that our nation's plea will finally be heard by ALL OUR EUROPEAN PARTNERS!

Nicky Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 11:06

@ Andrea Venturi

I love your country to bits too !

Unfortunatly this situation came to be when Italy decided not to respect international regulations last week

bryan sullivan

May 6th 2009, 11:01

@andrea venturi.
a minimum of knowledge and common sense would perhaps help you to understand that rescue at sea imposes on rescuers taking survivors to the nearest port ...in this case Lampedusa , in other cases elsewhere . Malta's Search and Rescue obligations are to co-ordinate rescue activities in its' area . Money is received in Malta for various situations , including looking after these illegal immigrants which is not only Malta's problem but is an EU problem . The difference here lies in the fact that money received in Malta goes to alleviate the problem towards which it is intended.

jbusuttil

May 6th 2009, 11:01

@ Andrea Venturi
Not at all surprised that you forgot Italy's obligations.
All Italy wants is money money money because additional airspace and sea space means money. They want it now so that an agreement might be reached before they start petrolling the Libyan shores as agreed with Libya.

DVella

May 6th 2009, 10:53

Why not place a chain of signposts on floating buoys with flashing lights and all, pointing the way towards Italy throughout the straits between North Africa and Malta? We could even start providing an 'Immigrant survival pack' with some food, water, fuel, a compass, a map showing the current position of the immigrants' boat and precise directions on how to get to their desired destination!!!

I also suggest that we should make use of all the dozens of boats confiscated from illegal immigrants that landed in Malta, these could be towed behind our search and rescue boats and patrol vessels and when a boatload of illegal immigrants in distress is encountered, we can give them a new sea worthy boat to continue their journey.

C.ZARB

May 6th 2009, 10:51

With all due respect Mr Venturi but what about Lampedusa's excuse of being too small (and its center is full)? Can we consider that as a pathetic excuse? Let us not forget that many of these immigrants come from lands which nations such as Italy had colonised and exploited per un posto vicino al sole. Im sure that Malta would prefer not taking the money (and therefore the responsability) and leave it to countries like you to carry the entire consequences of your past mistakes.

Joseph Abela

May 6th 2009, 10:50

It seems that Simon Busuttil and David Casa are too busy with their electoral campaign to ask Brussels to intervene!!!

PAJJIZ MITLUQ GHAL RIHU.

A. Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 10:49

Stop whining about the sattelite phone people. It's obvious to everyone that this kind of business is costly. These people pay a big fee for transportation and likely, the phone. The traffickers know what they have to do - ferry them to the middle of the sea, give them a phone, cram them on a boat that cant support them for long, and wish them good luck whilst running away with the money.

From what I've read in the past, many of these immigrants work in Libya to save enough money for the trip, and I'm assuming one of those on board would be given the phone to act as the voice for the group when they end up 'in distress'. I'm sure the phone only reflects the organisation behind these activities, not necessarily the status or wealth of the immigrants themselves.

That said, I hope the Maltese authorities stick to what they said - assist the group or turn them back.

@ Andrea Venturi
Italy is also required to abide by international conventions. Or you would rather have two spoons two measures approach? Cut the crap please, if you love Malta, you wouldn't say that stuff.

d. borg

May 6th 2009, 10:48

@Andrea Venturi
Malta is a small island and that's a fact. So telling us that this is an excuse is ridiculous. What do you suggest, that we leave our country to make space for the illegal immigrants? You love our country my foot.

jcmicallef

May 6th 2009, 10:45

I'm sorry to say but the 'burden sharing' agreement simply won't solve us anything,.

It is just a statement to the illegal immigrants, telling them 'hop over to europe, someone will eventually take you on!'

If someone escaped from Somalia 'cos they're fighting and got to Libya - then why not stay in Libya? I don't know of any civil war in Libya - does anyone of the readers?

Sarah Wright

May 6th 2009, 10:43

@ Andrea Venturi:
You're hopelessly biased and your thoughts, apart from lacking any objective thinking, are a carbon copy of what le iene (ie, berlusconi's poodles) wanted to imprint in italian minds. le iene knew perfectly well the reasoning behind Malta's position, however they thought it would suit their master better if they DISTORTED the FACTS. That's a crime, you know... As for you, better be familiar with BOTH sides of the coin (in an objective manner) before typing any further nonsense.

@ Lawrence Gonzi
Time to change words into action. Give em the fuel they need.. and let them continue their voyage. Or were this week's words only a smokescreen?? I hope it's not the case. Kuragg. Malta is 4 square behind you in this decision.

Ian Bugeja

May 6th 2009, 10:42

Why doesn't the EU give them food/fuel to return back to the port where they left?

These people have surely spent months working & living in Libya to earn the money to pay for the trip. They also have satellite phone which indicates they are well equipped.

Also if this would be the approach taken the word will spread and no more migrants would take the risk of going out to sea knowing they would have to return back from where they left.

john micallef

May 6th 2009, 10:39

a new one now, instead of solidifying our relationship with italy, we are in the middle of a political crisis. if you were offered a choice, would you argue with your neighbour? or would you argue with the one on the opposite side of the street? seems natural no? go against the one on the opposite side. instead of teaming up with the italians against libya and its regime, no we disregard libya and quarrel with italy. UNITED EUROPE, what a shame

FRANK MERCIECA

May 6th 2009, 10:37

I do not care about the petty arguments between Malta and Italy. I am only interested in possible loss of human life. For god sake grow up, this is not world war three, and in any case what difference a couple of thousand extra people taking refuge in Malta going to do to the man in the street.

E Gatt

May 6th 2009, 10:36

Why can't Malta/Italy/EU offer these illegal immigrants a reward to provide information on the illegal people traffickers? Does satellite technology exist to trace where the vessels left from?

G. Mangion

May 6th 2009, 10:33

Mr P.M gonzi, Stay put the whole of Malta depends on You, and are behind you in this mess
italy is trying to put our beloved Malta in, I bet Italy allready know's our reaction , if they are waiting , it is time they are losing and Credibilty with the whole World.
Never give up !!!

Liam Kelly

May 6th 2009, 10:30

If it was oil that was found in Maltese waters i wonder if the government would be so reluctant to go and 'claim' it then!

But of course since its only people then nobody really cares....let them drown right?

lgalea

May 6th 2009, 10:28

Mario Gauci, Martin Vella Pace
There's no need to give them assistance.
According to reports on other media they are some 50 miles SOUTH of Lampedusa.
So how do the Italians expect us to go and help them when they are very much nearer to them?
No, let them face their destiny that they themselves have chosen or let the Italians go for them.
LET THE WORLD KNOW THAT WE THE VAST MAJORITY OF THE MALTESE PEOPLE ARE FED UP WITH THE ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS, WITH ITALY AND THE REST WHO ONLY PREACH SOLIDARITY, INCLUDING THE EU BUT NEVER PUT THEIR MONEY WHERE THEIR MOUTH IS.

T Mifsud

May 6th 2009, 10:27

This is what all this is leading to: Islamic invasion of Europe :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-3X5hIFXYU

mary fiorini

May 6th 2009, 10:26

Libya and Italy are our friends! With friends like these, who needs enemies?

Stefan Gauci Scicluna

May 6th 2009, 10:24

Although we should not escalate the matter more than needed, the Government must show its strong position and does not bow to the pressures made by the Italian authorities. Malta has been too soft over these last years. We have to make news by showing that we keep to our principles of justice and against criminals who think that they can make money out of standoffs between Malta and Italy.

F. Abela

May 6th 2009, 10:24

We all stand foursquare with government and the PL should also immediately show its support. Malta should NOT quarrel with Italy or Libya - remember tra due litiganti il terzo gode - but bring up the issue NOW and not later, with the European Union.

Wayne Hewitt

May 6th 2009, 10:23

Next June...

VOTE AZZJONI NAZZJONALI

the only party who was consistent on the issue of illegal immigration from day one

before the general elections the AN message was denigrated and ridiculed for political convenience..... now it's happening

vote those who have been right all along

for AN, illegal immigration is priority number 1

so again...

Next June...

VOTE AZZJONI NAZZJONALI

david pisani

May 6th 2009, 10:23

im Labour die-hard but at this moment my courage goes with Carmelo mifsud bonnici & Priminister to ensure they wont let them get in our port!

David Zarb

May 6th 2009, 10:19

@ Joe Camilleri,

Exactly what was passing through my mind while reading the article. I'm really wondering now who are the ones who are living an illegal immigrant life, whether them or us. An illegal immigrant trying hoping for a better life, with a satellite communicator. What else do they want? a Ferrari?

@ illegal immigrants: Whom are you trying to fool?

Charles Sammut

May 6th 2009, 10:17

It is depressing listening to Dr Gonzi. He is simply telling everyone what they have to do to ensure rescue by the AFM. Doesn't he realise that we are in a virtual war with a constatnt invasion? Morals, ethics and laws take on a different dimension in war and self-preservation and defence over-rule all else.

If he does not have the fibre to see this through in the best interest of our country he should resign and take up praying.

bryan sullivan

May 6th 2009, 10:17

WHERE IS THE EU COMMISSION ? WHERE ARE OUR EU MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT ? EMPTY VESSELS CAPABLE TO MAKE NOISE ONLY WHEN CONVENIENT FOR THEM !
THE MALTESE WANT ACTIONS AND NOT WORDS OR PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES !

Joanne Farrugia Galea

May 6th 2009, 10:08

Welcome to the new policy. However, I fully agree with JPO to send them back to their country. If they have problems in their country it is up to them to solve them. That is what we did when WE HAD PROBLEMS IN OURS! We did not embark on boats and went on disturbing residents of other countries.

Andrea Venturi

May 6th 2009, 10:02

When Malta decided to join in Europe, Malta decided also to respect all the rules between the EU countries. The excuse that Malta is a small island without possibility to take care of this kind of situation can not be accepted anymore! As you know very well, Malta got some millions of € to manage this kind of emergency. I don't think it's honest from you getting money for something that you cann not assure.
I love your country, I worked in your island but frankly this is not a responsable behaviour!

Tony Gatt

May 6th 2009, 09:58

These "refugees" can't be too hard-up if they can afford to buy satellite phones. This is a people scam- someone is making a great deal of money out of this "refugee" business.

Mario Bonnici

May 6th 2009, 09:56

What is the EU waiting for to intervene in this issue??!!

d. borg

May 6th 2009, 09:54

Let's hope the govt sticks to the statements issued yesterday regarding this matter. We must not give in to any bullying and most of all we must not bring in more migrants as the situation has become unsustainable. You have the full support of the majority of the Maltese people.

Martin Vella Pace

May 6th 2009, 09:53

Thats the spirit give them all the assistance they need to carry on with their voyage.

MT Caruana

May 6th 2009, 09:53

..."The Italian authorities are, however, only monitoring the situation and awaiting Malta's reaction."....Gonzi, I hope you don't give in....let our dear friend Berlusconi handle this one...and the one after this..and on and on....Malta is full up...and Maltese people are tired and annoyed now !!!

malcolm azzopardi

May 6th 2009, 09:49

Quoting- "It is reporting that one of the migrants this morning contacted the Italian authorities by satellite phone, requesting rescue"- then they come and tell us they are very poor and in need of a better life.... U HALLUNA!!! the needy ones are still in Africa

R Spagnol

May 6th 2009, 09:49

A right of passage... what a joke!

Might as well return to Libya.

K Farrugia

May 6th 2009, 09:43

I'm sure that the Maltese representatives have all Malta backing their stance. Do not give in.

Joe Camilleri

May 6th 2009, 09:41

Illegal migrants with satellite phones, and I have been working for my whole life and cannot afford one. It seems that it is better to be an illegal imigrant.....

Ramon Zammit

May 6th 2009, 09:39

We have to keep our stance and not go our to rescue these migrants, since they are near Lampedusa. We should not be pawns of Italy any longer!! HOLD ON TIGHT TO THIS ONE!!

D.Galea

May 6th 2009, 09:38

It's the hour of trial now, the big test! Good luck!!

Brian Maloret

May 6th 2009, 09:37

This is a never ending problem. Why can't the AFM and the Italian navy jointly intercept these two boats and jointly offer them "every assistance", new boats if necessary, and then direct them back to Libya. Instead of Malta and Italy having diplomatic fall-outs over this continuing problem by working together they will have added strength to deal more effectively with each case head on as it arises.

Mario (Marinton) Gauci

May 6th 2009, 09:35

Give them whatever assistance they need and let them continue to their destination.

Charles Sammut

May 6th 2009, 09:33

We wait with bated breath to see whether all the macho words we heard in the last days will be realised.

All that these illegal immigrants have to do is to declare that they are in distress, such as their outboard motor has fallen in the sea. And Malta will have to intervene. This is bound to happen a few hundred times this summer.

clayton xuereb

May 6th 2009, 09:31

This is an international european issue now! why shoud maltese boats assist to the rescue?

L Buhagiar

May 6th 2009, 09:30

Malta should do the same i.e NOTHING. If migrants are near Lampedusa it is within Italy's reach. If we give in again then we are doomed to always give in. Hon Mifsud Bonnici hold strong, Malta is behind you. We are a tiny Island but we stood strong against the Turks, against the Nazis, threw the British Colony out; now we should show Berlusconi that we will not accept any more crap from a "friend".

Samwel Bezzina

May 6th 2009, 09:24

Now we will see how Malta will react. Will it be "il-pupazz" of other countries once again?

Joe Fenech

May 6th 2009, 09:16

We know how it always ends up!

lgalea

May 6th 2009, 09:11

DON'T GO FOR THEM.
THEY KNEW THE RISKS THEY WERE TAKING SO LET THEM FACE THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR ACTIONS.
IF THEY ARE IN TROUBLE LET ITALY AND LIBYA SAVE THEM.

Galea. L

May 6th 2009, 09:08

http://euobserver.com/tickers/5235
Malta escalates Italy migrant dispute
Today @ 08:56 CET
The Maltese government has said it will in future give technical assistance to any African boat migrants trying to get to Italy, Malta Today writes. The provocative move comes after Italy last week turned back a Maltese patrol boat with 66 rescued migrants on board.

Let's see how Gonzi will deal with the situation whether he will be the strong pair of hands he claims to be and as he is where Maltese citizens are concerned or whether he will turn out to be a pair of string hands as usual where foreigners are concerned.