The plenary session of the European Economic and Social Committee, held between December 15 and 16, was characterised by long meetings discussing and approving highly critical opinions requested by the European Parliament and the Commission.

Some of the most crucial were reform in the sugar sector; increasing the employment of older workers and delaying their exit from the labour market; accomplishing a sustainable agricultural model for Europe through the reformed CAP; fostering an industrial change for an enlarged Europe; and scope and effects of company relocations.

Three other opinions dealt with immigration: Political instruments for immigration; more orderly entry for people seeking international protection; and single procedure for protection in the member states.

As immigration is a highly sensitive issue for Malta, EESC Civil Society representative Grace Attard together with current alternate Doris Bingley made arrangements to invite the EESC rapporteur/expert on immigration, Ms An Le Nouial Marliere, to visit Malta and meet government officials, parliamentarians and NGOs working in this field to give a more clear picture of Malta's situation, in particular as a transit country.

During this visit, recommendations were made to involve sharing of responsibility between states and regions. This should to be reflected in the framing and implementing of durable solutions while guaranteeing respect for the fundamental rights of refugees, as set out in Charter of the Fundamental Human Rights.