The church yesterday called for an end to discrimination against immigrants.

In a statement, the four bishops admitted that the phenomenon of immigration was a problem, but one “which we have to face; however, one must not lose sight of the basic and essential values of life which include tolerance and the helping people who suffer persecution, oppression, exploitation and racism”.

They spoke against all forms of discrimination which affected the fundamental human rights of an individual. The bishops called on all Catholics to love and respect their brethren. They also praised those who work with immigrants and refugees for their sterling contribution to the creation of a better society.

The statement was signed by Archbishop Joseph Mercieca, Gozo Bishop, Mario Grech, Gozo Bishop Emeritus Nikol Cauchi and Auxiliary Bishop Annetto Depasquale.