Be the first to comment!AD deplores PM’s lack of dignity on Roma people’s expulsion
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Alternattiva Demokratika – The Green Party said that it deplores the Maltese Government “wait and see” attitude at the recent European Council meeting discussing France’s expulsion of the Roma people.
Prof. Arnold Cassola, Alternattiva Demokratika spokesperson on EU Affairs, stated, “The attitude of the Maltese government of waiting and seeing what the majority decides in order then to side with the majority, in the end, is a very servile attitude and shows a lack of dignity and self respect on the part of the Maltese government. The Maltese government should not be silenced by the shouting of big countries, in this case France, but should instead speak out clearly in favour of what is right, according to the rule of law and EU treaties.”
Arnold Cassola continued: “During the last plenary session, on 9 September 2010, the European Parliament adopted a strong resolution underlining its concerns about the Roma deportations in France and the need for a response from the European Commission. On 14 September 2010, Commissioner Reding criticised the situation in France and stated that the Commission will have no choice but to initiate legal action against France. Alternattiva Demokratika fully supports commissioner Reding’s statement that no Member State can expect special treatment, in particular where fundamental values and European laws are violated.”
Michael Briguglio, Alternattiva Demokratika Chairperson, added, “We are concerned about the pressure that the French government is putting on member states to undermine the role of the Commission, in order to avoid the consequences of its actions regarding Roma. We urge Prime Minsiter Gonzi to insist with the EU Council President Van Rompey to ensure the independence of the Commission and not let one government endanger the authority of the Union´s institutions, and disregard the fundamental rights set out in the Treaties, which all member states and governments are bound to respect.”
AD said that acting unilaterally and outside agreed laws and treaties is a very dangerous precedent. Solutions to problems and issues should be sought around the table and in respect of the EU’s agreed treaties.
