Alternattiva Demokratika is urging Italy and Libya to start patrols, geared to stem illegal immigration from the northern shores of Africa into Europe, immediately and not wait until May 15.

"In view of the extremely slow, late and normally inadequate response by the EU authorities, we urge the Italian and Libyan governments to start these patrols immediately," AD chairman Arnold Cassola said yesterday.

While welcoming the news that a date had finally been set for the joint patrols, AD felt something had to be done now to stop "heartless human traffickers" in their tracks.

Prof. Cassola was speaking in the light of the latest tragedy at sea where more than 200 illegal immigrants were presumed dead after the boat they were travelling in sank about 30 kilometres off the Libyan coast.

"We trust the Libyan and Italian authorities live up to this great responsibility and give their strong commitment to curbing abuse and saving lives," he added.

The planned patrols, which had to start in February, were stalled due to technical problems. Under a collaboration agreement signed in January, Italy will provide six patrol boats to the Libyan authorities to be used for the surveillance operations along its 2,000-kilometre coast.