It is said that a smooth sea never made a skilful sailor. I am proud of the skills of the Armed Forces of Malta, who time after time they proved themselves skilful in surpassing the hurdles in the implementation of EU Funded projects.
Last week I was had the privilege to join our Armed Forces in celebrating yet another milestone. Our Armed Forces have raised the bar, set new standards and are a leading example of how EU Funds can to be spent efficiently, effectively and in record time. Thus one can say that they have managed to build a reputable name for themselves in project management.
Time after time, our Armed Forces' performance in the management of the Internal Security Fund is proving that they are exceeding expectations. As our nation, feels secure with the border control services provided by our soldiers, as the Parliamentary Secretary for EU Funds, I feel secure that AFM is managing over €55 million worth of investments in the border protection of our nations land, sea and air. I am proud that through the EU Funds 2014-2020 programme, Malta has seen a number of initiatives, which contribute towards Malta’s, and Europe’s actions aimed at protecting the Maltese and European citizens’ borders.
Last week's inauguration of the Offshore Patrol Vessel valued at €6.5 million, is only another milestone achieved from a series of successes that have bolstered our fleet and capacity. In effect, it is worth noting that even this place itself, the Maritime Squadron Base at Haywharf was modernised through €5.5 million EU ISF Funds bolstering national security at sea and drastically improving the deployment time of vessels in response to AFM’s operations.
Malta is showing how the EU’s Internal Security Fund can be applied on the ground, while addressing present risks that we are all facing as one Europe. The security risks and threats on our seas are becoming more and more complex. The deteriorating overall situation in neighbourhood areas in recent years has given rise to new challenges including sharp increases of migration in the Mediterranean region, human trafficking and smuggling of migrants.
As a Maltese and European citizen, I view our country’s border security as paramount. As a country, we depend on open and secure seas and therefore as a Government, we have a strategic interest in identifying and addressing maritime security challenges.
As a Maltese a citizen, I see Malta as holding a prominent position in the Mediterranean and strategic location makes it inevitably the gateway of Europe. This brings with itself immense prospects and opportunities for our economy, but it also assigns considerable responsibility in maintaining effective border control.
As a European citizen, I expect effective and cost-efficient protection of maritime assets such as ports and offshore installations and of borders. I believe that only if we make sea-borne trade safe and address potential threats from unlawful activities at sea, can we make optimal use of the sea for growth whilst at the same time safeguard the marine environment.
Aaron Farrugia is the Parliamentary Secretary for EU Funds and Social Dialogue