Letters | Wednesday, 25 March 2009

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I refer to your article of 18 March ‘Stop Criticizing Libya – Carm Mifsud Bonnici’.
Illegal immigration is the greatest challenge facing Malta at present. Financial and economic crises are cycles in world economies – and the present one is no different, the world economy will come out even stronger and so will Malta’s economy.
Illegal immigration however is different. If we do not take action now – matters will continue to deteriorate as they have in recent years.
In dealing with illegal immigrants at all times we must remain rational, honest, and fair and bear in mind that: illegal immigrants are themselves victims of human trafficking; human trafficking is a crime at international law; a large number of illegal immigrants come from Libya; Libya is refusing to abide by international law and closes both eyes; Libya has enough resources to manage its border and enough finances – such as 30 billion dollars in oil revenues in 2008.
Solution – Malta must use increasing pressure on Libya including diplomatic, economic, and sanctions through the EU. There is no place for extremism – extremism comes from inaction, when people become alarmed. Speaking our minds clearly and unequivocally to a country which subjected us to gun boat diplomacy does not constitute a diplomatic incident.
I wish to speak for all Maltese in this ‘Frank’ manner – this can only happen if the Maltese elect me as an MEP to speak on their behalf. I expect all Maltese to do their duty – no Maltese need speak for Libya: Libya has its own minister for home affairs.

Frank Portelli
Attard

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