The extent of the success or otherwise achieved at the three-day EPP-ED study visit in Malta will be known if the words that were said are now translated into action.

Because it will have all been a futile exercise, one aimed entirely at making propaganda, if what was said and the promises that were made remain solely in print on our newspapers.

Several subjects were discussed by some 400 delegates who came over to Malta last week, and all carry their importance. Yet the topic that received the most attention – by the media and consequently by the public – was that of irregular migration.

Hundreds of irregular migrants have landed in Malta over the past years, many others have passed close by on their way to mainland Europe, and many more have lost their life as they tried to make the crossing on flimsy boats.

And, as the numbers increased and Malta’s resources continue to be stretched to the limit, it became clear that Malta cannot handle so much on its own. It has done its part, it is still doing its part, but it needs all the support it can get from the European Union. Yet, it did not always get it and has still not obtained as much as it expected, particularly since it became an EU member three years ago.

Over the past years, Malta has tried to make its voice heard on this issue. Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi several times spoke about the need for Malta not to be left on its own to tackle the problem, as other government spokesmen have done too. The opposition has backed the government in its stand.

But Malta’s concerns were not understood, or perhaps not understood as much as it was expected, and the problem remains.

The events that were held last week to coincide with the EPP-ED visit have helped Malta to make itself understood better. Words are important, and the authorities will do well to continue insisting that Malta needs backing to be able to handle such a situation, but there is nothing better than for the people who have the possibility to put pressure on their own governments, and in particular on the European Union as a whole, to see for themselves what Malta’s circumstances are.

And therefore what EPP chairman Joseph Daul said at the end of the conference – “We have understood the crystal clear message of Malta’s plight, as well as Malta’s dissatisfaction with being left alone to deal with the issue” – carries great meaning.

It is now however imperative that these words are translated into action. What the EPP-ED delegates saw during their visit should spur them to push their countries and the EU to act, and act fast, to give Malta the support it needs.

The figures given by Justice and Home Affairs Minister Tonio Borg – that the 7,700 migrants received in Malta were equivalent to 1.5 million arrivals in Germany – wrap up Malta’s “plight” in a few words.

Mr Daul has committed himself to “hold the Portuguese EU presidency to its word of placing the issue of migration and the formulation of a common migration policy at the top of its agenda.” Malta will be expecting this to happen now.

Last week’s study days have already brought good news for Malta. European Commission vice-president Franco Frattini said that Frontex patrols in the vicinity of Malta are to become permanent, year-round fixtures in January.

But, again, this is not enough. Mr Frattini himself admitted that “a lot of member states have not showed solidarity and support” and that “their political commitment needs to be transformed into tangible results” because “we cannot ask Malta to be the EU’s policeman to block off the Mediterranean.”

Words Malta wanted to hear. Words that Malta now wants to be translated into action.