The decision to approve the state of emergency was made by the government based on the proposal put forth by Nello Musumeci, the Minister for Civil Protection and Marine Policies.

This comes as irregular migrants continue to flock through the Mediterranean routes in increasing numbers.

According to a statement released by the government after a Cabinet meeting, the state of emergency was necessary to urgently implement measures to reduce congestion.

The Fund for national emergencies has allocated a sum of five million euros to launch the first set of urgent measures. (ILKHA)