From Ms J. Micallef

I was both surprised and shocked at the news that newborn babies and small children are being kept in our detention centres.

I speak out regularly against illegal immigration and am of the opinion that we should hold on to a qualified detention policy. As a mother, however, I cannot be silent when I know that in my country there are children who are being robbed of a proper childhood.

The immigrants' children are the true victims in this whole saga. They have a right to their childhood. As a civilised and democratic country, we must protect these children and shower them with all the loving care they need and deserve. I am aware of the great job the AFM personnel do with all the illegal immigrants held in detention centres. I am sure that the AFM also understands that due to our limited resources in providing proper accommodation, a detention centre is not a safe place for children, as they probably run a high risk of being constantly exposed to various infections, which could have very serious consequences on babies and small children.

As a Maltese citizen, I therefore request the authorities concerned to take the necessary measures to relocate any children under the age of 16, and in future, to always safeguard the health interests of all children who make it to our shores.

Joanne Micallef

SLIEMA