PL MEP Miriam Dalli has urged the EU to act fast with  regards to migration, particulary after the latest tragedies in the Mediterranean and in light of the “unprecedented” rise in migrant numbers that entered southern European countries.

Speaking at a meeting of the European Parliament’s migration committee, Dr Dalli said that, whilst pilot projects are a step in the right direction, the EU needs to follow them up with concrete initiatives. Miriam Dalli time is of the essence and cannot be wasted when it comes to migration.

The Maltese MEP said EU and government entities need to pool their resources so as to be able to make a real difference. She also appealed for measures on human trafficking and organised crime to be implemented.

On operation Mare Nostrum, Dr Dalli said Italy is doing sterling work in saving thousands of migrants. The MEP said the pressure of migration is immense, especially when it is borne by one country alone. She also asked what Italy is expecting from the EU. The Italian government has said that Operation Mare Nostrum is costing some €9 million a month.