Violent attacks on persons and property linked to the reality of immigration in Malta are increasing in frequency and seriousness, the Jesuits said yesterday.

They said that journalists Saviour Balzan and Daphne Caruana Galizia had paid the price for having dared take a stand against racism and intolerance.

“While expressing our total solidarity with these victims, we Jesuits unreservedly condemn all kinds of violence, especially that linked with racial intolerance, whose clear objective is to silence those who are striving to promote a culture of respect and tolerance in our country.”

They also welcomed the public statement of the Bishops condemning this violence, and they expressed gratitude for the pastoral guidance which they are offering at this time

“We firmly believe that a renewed commitment to our Christian values and the traditional goodness of our people are the best guarantee against intolerance and violence.

At the same time swift and effective action is needed on all levels to ensure that our country continues to enjoy real freedom and peaceful coexistence not only with foreigners who end up in our country, but also among us Maltese.”