Why don’t we just escort immigrants from Africa?

The absurdity of the mission assigned to the Irish naval vessel, LE Eithne, is relayed to us almost daily.

Contrary to the traditional, accepted role of the defence forces in repelling an invasion, the brief to Europe’s navies is to collect illegal immigrants who have paid money to be smuggled here and to complete their transportation.

These ‘rescues’ are happening not in European territorial waters, but off the coastline of north Africa.

It begs the question as to whether it would not be more logical, and certainly less costly, to merely open up an escorted ferry service across the straits of Gibraltar.

It is clearly understood, among the populations of Africa and Asia Minor, that any attempt to sail across the Mediterranean is now a guaranteed pathway to Europe

Opinion polling in Ireland, and across Europe, shows the majority disfavour the current policy. Who in our Oireachtas will reflect that opinion?

Ted Neville

Carrigaline Rd

Douglas

Cork