Crisis in Mediterranean

Sir, – The EU’s Operation Triton patrols the Italian coast but urgently needs expanding, with the UN Human Rights Commission urging a more robust search-and-rescue operation. Italy deserves credit for its work in rescuing migrants but further action is necessary to save lives. The EU must review its migration policy to allow asylum seekers safe and legal alternatives to making the hazardous crossing.

However, Operation Triton is pointless without addressing the root causes of the migration crisis.

Earlier this month, US president Barack Obama reiterated his goal of spending $1 billion to tackle the causes of migration in Central America, with 80 per cent of this geared towards developing civil society and economic development.

Such a system could be emulated by the EU, encouraging further growth and security in the Middle East and north Africa to ensure that people are not forced to flee their homes. – Yours, etc,

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NIALL McNELIS,

Galway.