Political parties ‘must unite’ on migration – Joseph Muscat

In a speech that pushed away from last year’s pushback threat, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat asked how many more lives had to be lost before the European Union takes action on migration.

Hundreds are feared death after another boat capsized today off the coast of Lampedusa, outside Malta’s and Italy’s territorial waters. According to Muscat, over 200 persons have been rescued but several others are feared dead. The boat is believed to have been carrying over 400 migrants.

Addressing a political activity in Msida, Muscat called for a minute of silence in solidarity with the victims and said “Europe has failed again”.

“We had another tragedy. It is now the time to forget about the electoral votes and the elections and, as a nation, both parties have to send a clear message to Europe that Italy and Malta cannot be left alone,” he said.

Muscat added that in the past weeks, Italy and Malta saved thousands of lives through joint operations. Once again, Muscat called for a common policy migration, a proposal being pushed forward by Martin Schulz, candidate for the European Commission President elections.

“This is a Europe that has policies on everything, even on the size of oranges and pavements. Yet, nothing on immigration. How many more people have to die before action is taken?”

Urging the electorate to vote for the Labour candidates on 24 May, Muscat reiterated that a vote for the Labour candidates would help elect Schulz as President of the Commission, giving Malta what it has always called for.

“We have a person who shares our vision who is ready to do what is needed to save people, protect lives and implement a legal migration system where one can apply to come to Europe. Burden would be shared among the 28 member states.”

The event was also addressed by Hannes Swoboda, leader of the Socialist and Democrats in the European Parliament, said it was time for the EU citizens to change Europe.

“You have elected a Labour leader who in one year changed this country to the better. Can you give me one government in Europe which is reducing debt and generating economic growth?”

Swoboda said the EU had to fight youth unemployment and unemployment: “We need a Socialist and Democrat leader as the president of the European Commission. We are offering Martin Schulz, a person who speaks the language of the people, someone who would the president of the citizens and not of the bureaucrats.”

Swoboda urged the Labour supporters to urge the undecided to vote for the Labour candidates.

“Talk to your friends, vote for change. The clear message is a vote for Labour to change Europe.”