Malta has repatriated 361 irregular migrants since the start of 2021, new figures have revealed.

Speaking following a parliamentary question from MP Joseph Ellis, Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri said that 36 of the 361 returned home voluntarily. 234 migrants have been relocated.

No details were given on the nationality of the migrants repatriated.

The whole operation cost the government €359,899.49, 75% of which was co-financed by the European Union. 

“There were instances where the European Union also provided assistance to the Maltese authorities through its liaison officers present in the country of origin, particularly in those countries where Malta has no diplomatic representation,” Camilleri said.

Malta sees a large number of irregular migrants reach its shores every year, whether by sea or by plane. The government has employed a strong stance over the last two years, with Prime Minister Robert Abela regularly saying that “Malta is full up”.

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