'Complaints about NGOs must be listened to' says Salvini

(ANSA) - ROME, MAR 27 - Complaints that search and rescue operations by the coast guard and navy are being obstructed by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) need to be listened to, Deputy Premier and Transport and Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini said on Monday.
    "It is Italy that is under attack, not the NGOs," said Salvini.
    "If there are statements from the Coast Guard or from the Navy, which are proud state corps, complaining that their work is being hindered, they should be taken into consideration," said the Deputy Premier in reference to a statement issued by the Italian Coast Guard on Sunday in relation to the detention in Lampedusa of the NGO rescue ship Louise Michel.
    In it, the authorities claimed the behaviour of the NGO at sea on Saturday had complicated the coordination of rescue operations underway.
    "Immigration cannot be regulated by private bodies funded by foreign countries. That's for sure," Salvini added. (ANSA).