MEP Joseph Cuschieri has formally asked the European Commission how it proposes to help Malta in the 'emerging crisis scenario' posed by migration.

In a question tabled in the European Parliament, Mr Cuschieri referred to the arrival of 290 migrants last week. He said these events reflected the impending crisis situation developing in Malta as a consequence of the large influx of migrants coming by boat from Africa.

He noted the strong stand taken by the Prime Minister and formally communicated to the President of the European Council Hermann Van Rompuy.

"The current situation is evidence that burden sharing of irregular immigrants and asylum seekers in the European Union is failing, and that the immigration challenge for Malta, an island on the border of Europe and Africa, continues to grow day by the day.

"In view of this urgent scenario, can the Commission explain how it proposes to help the plight of Malta and other countries facing a similar situation? Can the Commission give details about how it is prepared to assist the Maltese islands to deal with this emerging crisis scenario?" Mr Cuschieri asked.