election special ELECTIONS mt survey

5 JOB CREATION dayS to go Pg 5 mIssue 6 • Tuesday,alta 04 March 2008 • www.tmalodaytatoday.com.mt PRICE €0.50 / Lm0.21 JEFFREY FLIPS Pullicino Orlando turns up at the BA press conference to face Alfred Sant, and as pandemonium ensues, Sants walks out of the PBS studios PGS 12-13 Labour reveals ‘consent form’ claiming Pullicino Orlando knew of disco permit PG 3 PHOTOGRAPHY BY gilbert c alle j a FALZON ON CAQNU ‘Purely professional relationship’ pg 15 3

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR BEZZINA TRADING YARD Racecourse Street, Marsa LAMPS Tel: 21 24 25 26 | Fax: 21 24 22 24 Email: [email protected] SALE paper post News 2 maltatoday election special | Thursday 06 March 2008 news news Thursday 06 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 3 MEPA auditor Mistra report concluded

SABRINA tinuous applications Outside AGIUS the Development Zone by reg- ulating that only essential in- On the record frastructure is to be assessed James Debono digs in the archives to see what the candidates have been saying the last few years THE Malta by MEPA, while applications Environment that are blatantly unsuitable and Planning will not even be considered,” Authority’s spokesperson Astrid Vella auditor has said. reportedly FAA added that its is expect- completed his ing that all necessary meas- investigation ures are taken to rehabilitate into the award the ecologically and scientifi- of a permit for cally important saline marsh a discotheque of places like the Mistra Bay on land in area, which has been allowed Mistra owned to degrade and fallen subject by National- to the development threats. ist MP Jef- Austin Gatt John Dalli Michael Falzon Carmelo Abela Harry Vassallo Josie Muscat frey Pullicino [email protected] Orlando, and Austin Gatt tive of who is involved… Yesterday the necessary support and educa- issue…” has handed Andrew calleja jeffrey Pullicino Orlando joe Falzon PN candidate on 1st District On working under Gonzi I told the Police Commissioner tion.” 10 June 2007 his findings On public broadcasting “I feel comfortable working with and Inspector Cordina on what 10 February 2008, MaltaToday to MEPA chairman Andrew Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ah- is a Natura 2000 site. The case refuse a Malta Tourism Au- ‘Farcical’ “In my opinion, the state does a leader who was democratically was being said in the corridors of josie Muscat Calleja. jar (FAA) yesterday called for has now been reported to the thority proposal for the touris- not need to own a station. It elected to lead by the people I am the MLP centre. I also indicated On resurrecting trade schools AN’s candidate on 2nd and 3rd The report was passed on the findings of the auditor to Commissioner of Police by tic development of Mistra Bay, request to should encourage the emergence committed to serve,” the names. I now leave it up to the “The closure of trade schools districts to the chairman yesterday, be made public, while noting both the Prime Minister and on which the open air night of serious private stations and 9 December 2007 police to investigate how the in- left a gap in the secondary level. On far right label according to One News last that Pullicino Orlando had re- the Opposition leader for an club permit depended. farm out the public service obli- formation was divulged.” That is why many students are be- “What is far right in us? We want night, but attempts to contact quested that MEPA revoke the investigation into whether any “FAA is now strongly recom- revoke Mistra gation to these stations. But we On Alfred Sant May 6 2006 speech in Rabat club ing lost in the way simply because to elevate peoples’ status higher, both Calleja and auditor Joe permit on his land. monies exchanged hands over mends that whichever govern- have not reached this stage.” “If it were up to Alfred Sant, I they do not have an inkling for we are concerned with the levels of Falzon yesterday proved fu- The Mistra area was ear- the award of the permit. ment is elected next week, the development 15 October 2006, MaltaToday would not have been sent to the On his intimate friends academic subjects. The mistake taxation being imposed upon the tile. marked for an open air, 8,000- FAA yesterday welcomed new administration should Gulag, but I would have been sent Some intimate friends warned was closing trade schools without middle class so that their monies On the smart Dubai investors to the gallows a dozen times.” me to get rid of him or her even if creating an alternative. MCAST is go to the rich, and we’re concerned Environmental organisation capacity disco in an area that MEPA’s recommendation to put a stop to the threat of con- ZMINIJIETNA – Voice of the “They will have 440 villa and 9 December 2007 they have done nothing. They told not an alternative to trade schools, the gap between rich and poor is Left expressed its objection to apartments. Obviously they will me that if they throw mud at you as it starts after the age of 16.” growing. Is that far right?” the proposed development in PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA

be selling or renting these proper- On disgruntled Nationalists something will stick. But I have 10 February 2008, MaltaToday 17 June 2007 PHOTOGRAPHY BY THERESE DEBONO Mistra of an entertainment ties. They are not here for charity. “I have stated publicly when never abandoned anyone in my Labour will revoke FAA calls for Polidano venue. They are here to make money…” speaking in the Party General life. As a party we say that nobody Harry Vassallo On marriages with foreigners The NGO said that it was Council, in front of everyone, that is disposable, let alone someone AD candidate on 8th and 10th “I’m not saying it’s wrong. I can’t Mistra permit “farcical” that since the pro- Reporter. On the Smart City concept I felt that many diehard National- who worked for the party for the districts Tonight on page 4 tell people who to marry. My uncle permit withdrawal posed development had be- “The Dubia Internet City con- ists were feeling discarded. These past 11 years.” On electing 4 MPs was married to an English woman; MATTHEW VELLA candidate Jeffrey Pullicino Or- come an electoral issue, the cept consists of ICT offices, com- people did not necessarily support May 6 2006 speech in Rabat club “Yes. Up to four people in Par- my daughter-in-law is of mixed lando, whose green credentials owner of the land in question mercial areas and lodging areas. me.” liament. We can elect people stock but born here. But it worries Before carmelo Abela had earned him Nature Trust’s ENVIRONMENTAL NGO dano. The approval of the Safi Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando, Reporter, If we do not want it, we don’t do 9 December 2007 from anywhere…If we don’t get me: look at single-parent families, MLP candidate on 2nd and LABOUR’S environment “Green Politician of the Year” Flimkien Ghal Ambjent Ahjar supermarket was challenged was now requesting MEPA to it… we cannot benefit from the into parliament next time round broken marriages, more cohabiting spokespersons Joe Brincat and award, was aware of an appli- block further applications for advantage of 5,600 jobs without On the dockyard 3rd districts I would resign. Eighteen years is couples and more people refusing has lent its voice to calls for the by Alternattiva Demokratika, Roderick Galdes yesterday said cation for an open-air 8,000 development on his land. including all three components “There is a big increase in ship- enough to give to one’s country.” to get married. It’s this whole state withdrawal of a permit for a which last week revealed the 8pm news a new Labour government will capacity disco on his land at supermarket outside the devel- contents of a report by MEPA “We ask what would have phillipe of the concept… Our premise was building orders and in the prices On doing away with the junior lyc- of affairs that worries me, and it’s that of importing to Malta the of ship repairing. The market is eum exam On resigning from post as AD being compounded. There’s also instantly revoke the outline per- Mistra. opment zone in Safi. auditor Joe Falzon’s, which had happened had this issue not Dubai Internet City model which there. But our costs are still very “Definitely something has to be leader after the election illegal immigrants, which as you mit issued abusively by MEPA “The last days of the PN in The Chamber of Planners of found “gross irregularities” in become public knowledge. is the most successful information high and there must be coura- done, not only because this exam, Irrespective of the result of the know are now allowed to bring to protect Mistra under the government will go down in Wednesday demanded that the the way the permit had been The area in question is clas- Beattie technology hub in the world.” geous changes to address these whether we like it or not, is creat- March 8 general elections, AD their families here.” EU’s Natura 2000 programmes. history for the revelations of ODZ permit, deemed irregular issued. sified by MEPA as a green issues, especially in the areas of ing a lot trauma for students and would have to elect a new Chair- 17 June 2007 The spokespersons said this the unlimited scandal within by MEPA’s own auditor, should After the report, the DCC (A) area of ecological and scien- On the dockyard work practices, productivity, flex- parents, but also because at the person immediately afterwards, would be part of Labour’s re- MEPA… and the Prime Min- be repealed by virtue of the De- board which approved the per- tific Importance and falls out- “We’re in a changing market – ibility, labour costs, and overhead age of 11 we are labeling and at and Vassallo confirmed that he On re-negotiating the EU treaty… forms in the MEPA operations ister wants to keep everything velopment Planning Act 1992, mit resigned en masse. side the development zone. traditional ship repair has moved spending.” times excluding a lot of students… will be calling it a day. on hunting that will ensure the “messing hidden by sending Pullicino Or- Article 13 (5). If the permit is withdrawn, The area also falls under the to low cost countries and special- 9 December 2007 There should be a combination of “I think it is a good thing that “No, and it’s important that we about” with the management lando to challenge Alfred Sant, Last year, MEPA’s DCC (A) all works are expected to be Natura 2000 Conservation ized ship repair has become a new exams and assessments along the nobody stays too long in the lead- stress this. Nobody is above the of MEPA by the Nationalist when documents prove that an Michael Falzon board had approved an ap- stopped on the Safi supermar- area. Rather than issuing an lucrative market – if the ship- scholastic year which would ease ership of political parties for too law. What we want to do is rene- government would only be a outline permit was issued, and plication for a supermarket of ket site. FAA also expect that outline development permit, yards become financially viable MLP candidate on 2nd and the tension that lead to negative long. I believe I can be proud of my gotiate the treaty ‘a modo nostro’… 10th Districts “nightmare from the past”. that Pullicino Orlando was in- the German Lidl chain: one of the land would be reverted into MEPA should not have proc- then we’ll have a great asset for experiences in the early years of work for the benefit of the party. in a way that is acceptable to both Labour are riding on the wave formed of an application and seven applications submitted an agricultural area as soon as essed this application in the Malta. So let’s not start chopping our children.” 17 February 2008 MaltaToday the hunters and the EU.” of revelations that Nationalist took no steps to stop it.” first place.” off heads before we have proved it On dining with Charles Polidano 15 May 2005 MaltaToday 10 February 2008 by entrepreneur Charles Poli- possible. is not viable.” “I am employed at Bank of Val- On Lawrence Gonzi 20 February 2005 MaltaToday letta as a lawyer and my relation- On raising school leaving age to 17 Prime Minister Gonzi is in fact On AN’s proposal stating that“… ship with Mr Polidano is purely “In our final plan we do not re- the only local politician in the last illegal immigrants will be flown On quality programmes on PBS professional. Mr Polidano is one fer to the school leaving age. After 41 years who sat down on a table to Brussels so that the EU, that is “The main argument is that of the biggest clients at the bank discussing with stakeholders we and negotiated a political alliance, so free with its criticism, can deal the quality of broadcasting is not and I speak to some 50 contrac- decided that we should not com- and that political alliance was go- with them…” measurable in any other way ex- tors every day, because I handle all mit ourselves on this. We are not ing to be between PN and AD,” “What’s so illegal about that?” cept subjectively.” the contractors at the bank.” committed to increase the school 17 February 2008 MaltaToday 10 February 2008 MaltaToday 20 February 2005 MaltaToday MaltaToday 4 March leaving age to 17.” 10 February 2008, MaltaToday On Gonzi’s green credentials On breaching the Dublin Conven- Bdq`do\omt On reading newspapers On holding the picture of the Bless- “As PM, Gonzi is responsible tion “I rarely read newspapers; I’m ed Virgin in his pocket for Pullicino’s actions. He has to “The Dublin Convention was not is a course for adults who want to learn how to not a newspapers or television “I am not ashamed of this, I am a On giving children their childhood be extremely bare-faced to now drawn up with illegal immigra- 22ċ / www.illum.com.mt 0.51 DoÐni`q`m use the computer, email and Internet. fan. I normally let my wife tell me Maltese and a Christian.” back say that a mistake might have tion in mind,” he replies. “It was 22ċ / 0.51 ħba tal-biża’ Il-Log www.illum.com.mt Log ħob tal- what’s going on.” MaltaToday 5 March “We want to change the whole been made when he extended intended for people in distress at illum Pajjiżi ż-Żgħar 20 February 2005 MaltaToday concept of education. We want the development zones in 2006, sea. In the case of boat people, this 10 ta’ Ìunju 2007 • Nr 32 Malta fil-ħames post bi 30 midalja On a frame-up against a colleague to give childhood back to chil- when he was PM and he had the distress is self-inflicted. After all, ojjg\o` paġni 6-7 On elections in relation to leaks on MLP’s Du- dren. They spend too much time ultimate responsibility. He has is a course for persons aged 61 years and 17 ta’ Ìunju 2007 • Nr 33 they knew the risks before trying Dan hu l-partit il-ġdid?Ara l-aħħar paġna illum Membru tal-MLP “Basically in a country which bai delegation on homework and private lessons not even promised that he is go- to come here. Now, I am not saying Karl Stagno Navarra fil-kummissjoni over who have basic IT skills and want to learn how to use Intervista elettorali f’battibekk is fully democratic, where there “This was noting but a frame-up and very little time on play. Even ing to reverse this decision which that we should not rescue people 0.51    fil-Vatikan oj 22ċ /   internet banking, ATMs, digital cameras, DVD players, automatic Investigat       Julia Farrugia are no conflicts of principles… against a person who worked with absenteeism is a reaction against was made in violation of EU laws, in distress at sea. As in the case of www.illum.com.mt Nina Zita                    people will decide on the basis me..only to damage me and the this kind of schooling. We are kill- and which constituted a sheer act St Paul, we should take them in… L-attivista Svediża        fuel dispensers, microwave ovens, and mobile phones and how paġni 16-17                    It-Tabib Josie Muscat ħosbien għall-kummerċ ġust ħdejn Philip Beattie of their pockets. It all depends party, I was abroad at that time ing their creativity in the name of of vandalism on Malta’s environ- but only with a predetermined l-uffiċċju ta’                 to purchase online, participate in online fora, access online    sion     on how people are living and the but two contractors who were in the examination rat race.” ment. agreement with our partners in 24 ta’ Ìunju 2007 • Nr 34                    Eurovi      0.51          prospects they see for their chil- that famous meeting tried to con- 10 February 2008, MaltaToday the EU, so that they do not stay 22ċ / Tony Abela          games and be safe on the Internet.   bye bye illumIllum Kurt Sansone             www.illum.com.mt               dren.” tact me to warn me on what was On Gift of Life petition to entrench here longer than necessary.”                  Stħarriġ ta’ paġna 9                     15 October 2006, MaltaToday going to happen” On streaming abortion ban in constitution g`\mi        10 February 2008 MaltaToday                                                     Ta’ l-Uffiċċju tal-PM         May 6 2006 speech in Rabat club “Educational experts do not “I simply told Paul Vincenti that                       Mewt fil-Jerma         Tony Abela: meta sar jaf       john Dalli  Both courses are offered FREE OF CHARGE. The duration is 20 hours. 03 ta’ Ìunju 2007 • Nr 31                       agree on this. Some favour a se- I am in favour of life and he can On MLPN billboards  bl-allegazzjonijiet staqsa                 lill-Kummissarju  tal-Pulizija                  biex jinvestiga   PN candidate on 6th and 10th u tal-PN kontra                On his anonymous admirer lective system while others favour tell the whole world about it. I did “Look at their billboards. One                        Charlot Zahra               district        Visit www.thesmartisland.gov.mt for more information or call 2125 5495.             “I received an anonymous letter comprehensives. Others favour not do any U-turn as I was always accuses the other of being cor- illum    Sena  jitlob   biex  jingħata                             children’s   allowance u                     IL-BOJKOTT  ħadd ma jagħti kasu          On asking forgiveness as well as threats in November… the introduction of both systems against abortion… This is a case rupt, and the other of now having       Pulizija joffri servizzi f’ċirku        Ara paġna 3       Ritratt Ray Attard     Id-DNA: mit-testijiet li qatt ma saru fuq Żeppi l-Ħa sa r-riżultati l-ġodda tal-HIV            Astrid Vella li tmexxi l-għaqda Flimkien għall-Ambjent Aħjar kienet        MILL-MEPA    l-mira taċ-Chairman tal-MEPA li ddikkjara bojkott kontriha        “I was wrongly accused and de- whenever something illegal takes giving parents a right to choose. of fantasy politics. It’s just a lot of any ideas. What kind of a choice is

   Attard Ray Ritratt               Illum ikollna         Wenzu Minto              ta’ prostituzzjoni ‘sofistikata’    famed, therefore it is I who should place I report it to the police…I For us this is not a major issue. smoke in a country where all three that? Hardly surprising that peo-       Il-PartitJulia Laburista Farrugia    F’temp ta’ ftit                Dive Il-katavru tat-Tabib  Saviour   Cilia minn  Ħal Qormi jinħareġ mil-lukandain now.Daqshekkġranet kellna lil tfal fuqwww.maltatoday.com.mt       daily forgive,” told the Commissioner; Mr Rizzo I The most important thing for us is parties oppose abortion and pre- ple are fed up…”     Jerma l-bieraħ  minn  ħaddiem  tal-Protezzjoni  Ċivili wara li ċeda saqaf u Frank Portelli, lil iktar mifrud iżda       l-ewwel radam lill-vittma. Ara paġna 3         Ara l-intervista f’paġni 16 u 17 Josie Muscat,programmi lil Lawrence għall-kbar    9 December 2007 authorize you to proceed irrespec- to ensure that every child is given vents serious discussion on this 10 February 2008 MaltaToday   rebbieħ          Gonzi u anki sezzjoni     Austin Gatt vs Maltapost   – Il-Kummissarju tat-Tfal  James Debono        Jorqod bil-moħbi fil-waiting tal-media Laburista jisħqu         L-‘isfrattati’ ta’ Testaferrata   Franica Pulis        dwar il-bżonn li jiddaħħal              “Ħadtu deċiżjoni mnawra”                  qaddis Malti room ta’ l-Isptar San Luqa              il-Whistleblower’s Act...                                   Gerald Fenech    Julia Farrugia    Imma dan is-suġġett          Editorjal                                             tant jiġi trattat b’mod                                 Valuri għal soċjetà  sekulari                     superfiċjali li kulħadd jisħaq                                                                      li hemm bżonn li ndaħħlu                            Il-każ   ta’ l-anzjana                                            l-protezzjoni fil-Liġi meta                                                             msawta    minn                 din ilha teżisti                                                            għal numru ta’         surġent                           Wara l-ħabs      snin                                                     kar ta’ persuni                  Ara paġna 13 Il-ħlas għal servizzi sesswali jista’ jostor realtà ta’ tra                                    Julia Farrugia    Ara paġna 3                                                                                                                                                      Illum                                                                                   klassifikati                                                    Ara l-paġni tan-nofs                                      OST                24  siegħa  f’nofs ta’  baħar   jistennew                     P APER

  P               il-ħniena ta’ Malta – paġna 4   

       NEWSPAPER POST NEWSPAPER        L-Alternattiva se tapplika għal stazzjon tat-TV – paġna 7                Taste the difference       • Suppliment speċjali fi l-paġni tan-nofs NEWSPAPER POST • Editorjal paġna 11

• Carm Mifsud Bonnici paġna 14 T

• X’kien jgħid Manwel Dimech paġna 21 OS APER P APER

   P

  POST NEWSPAPER                   

    POST NEWSPAPER            Taste the difference - 6% Labour voters favour PN policy

4 maltatoday election special | Thursday 06 March 2008 news maltatodaynews survey Thursday 06 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 5 PN losing ground to Labour Why PN is leading mt SURVEY despite shift to Labour PN ...... 36.0% and growth of AD: MLP ...... 34.3% AD ...... 2.4% THE survey shows the PN voted for the MLP in the 2003 AN ...... 0.7% leading by 1.7% despite a net election, 47% replied that they loss of 6.1% from its 2003 pool had voted for the PN. Not Voting ...... 2.0% of votes to the other three par- This is an indication that Undecided ...... 10.9% ties in the race. On the other former MLP voters were either hand the MLP makes a net more reluctant to state how No Reply ...... 13.6% gain of 5.8% from former PN they had voted in 2003, or have and AD voters. refrained from participating in This discrepancy between the survey. the shift in favour of the MLP Still, the shift towards the and the survey’s overall partly MLP is partly offset by the PN arises from the an over-repre- gaining a majority of new vot- sentation of PN voters in the ers. When all these factors are 36.0 % survey. weighed the election remains 34.3 % While 31% claimed to have too close to call.

No reply How PN voters in 2003 How new voters would vote would vote now: on March 8th: PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA PN ...... 67.3 PN ...... 45.2 Don’t MLP ...... 5.7 MLP ...... 26.2 Not know AD ...... 1.9 AD ...... 2.4 voting AN ...... 0.3 AN ...... 2.4 PHOTOGRAPHY BY THERESE DEBONO Not Voting ...... 1.9 NoT voting ...... 2.4 Don’t Know ...... 11.5 Don’t know ...... 16.7 2.4 % 0.7 % No Reply ...... 11.3 No Reply ...... 4.8 7 pg 1 page 4 How MLP voters in 2003 Methodology This survey was held between would vote now: Friday 29 February and Tuesday MLP ...... 83.4 4 March. A total of 2,115 JAMES DEBONO tal 1,200 respondents par- lowing the MLP’s revelation PN ...... 2.8 ticipated was held between that he owns a tract of land persons were contacted, 1,200 of whom accepted to participate Thursday and Tuesday. earmarked by MEPA for the AD ...... 0.5 AN ...... 0.3 in the survey. Respondents were THE last MaltaToday elec- Compared to last week’s development of a country- randomly chosen from the tel- Not Voting ...... 0.5 toral survey before next survey, a rise of 1.4% in the side discotheque on a Natura ephone directory which covers all Saturday’s general elections number of non committed 2000 site in Mistra. Don’t Know ...... 7.3 Maltese localities including Gozo. shows the PN at 36% - barely voters has resulted in a 2.5% The survey also comes in No Reply ...... 5.3 The survey results were weighed 2% ahead of the MLP. The loss for the PN and a 1.2% the wake of the publica- according to age/sex distribution of the population according to PN’s advantage falls within gain for Labour. tion of a Ministry of Health How respondents had voted the survey’s +/-2.8% margin AD’s vote has remained sta- report suggesting fees on the 2006 Demographic Review in 2003: issued by the National Offi ce of of error. ble at 2.4%. health services, as well as a PN ...... 46.9 Still, the same survey shows Although the number of un- damning Audit Office report Statistics. But the shifts between the parties’ electoral support in the PN making a net loss of decided voters has decreased on Charles Polidano’s ODZ MLP ...... 30.8 AD ...... 1.2 2003 vote and present voting 6.1%, when present voting in- by 2.4% the number of those supermarket in Safi. intentions are based on the raw Underage ...... 6.6 “Why should we tentions of respondents are refusing to divulge their vot- The PN reacted by reveal- fi gures. The survey’s margin of compared to how they claim ing intentions has increased ing that Charles Mangion No Reply ...... 14.5 error is +/-2.82%. take a decision to have voted in the 2003 by 4%. and Karmenu Vella had failed general elections. The PN’s losses come in a to declare income from a SURVEY on the destiny This is a clear indication week during which the PN property owned by MIRCA mt that despite the wafer thin lost the initiative to Labour. properties and rented to the the MLP. While the PN loses party. But while the PN gains of our kids on PN advantage, the election The last few days have been Freeport. 1.9% of its 2003 vote to AD, nothing from AD’s small BEST POLIcY ON jOB cREATION AccORDING TO VOTING INTENTIONS: remains too close to call. dominated by Jeffrey Pul- The survey shows the PN the MLP is losing 0.5% of it’s 2003 pool, Labour gets a PN MLP AD AN NONE NO ANSWER the basis of The survey in which a to- licino Orlando’s antics fol- losing more votes to AD than 2003 vote share to the third small fraction of these votes. PN VOTERS 0.6 96.3 0 0 0.9 2.3 For the fifth consecutive MLP VOTERS 5.9 83.7 0.3 0 1.6 9.4 fear?” time the survey shows the NON cOMMITTED 51.7 26.9 0.5 2 4.5 14.4 BEFORE WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 WEEK 5 Nationalist party losing more votes from its 2003 tally than Tables 40 the MLP. WHIcH PARTY HAS THE BEST POLIcY ON jOB cREATION AccORDING TO AGE GROUP? Which party has the best policy on job creation? This week’s survey shows MLP PN AD AN NONE NO REPLY PN the PN registering a 3.8% net 18-34 40.4 47.4 0.6 0.6 3.2 7.9 PN 51.1 loss to the MLP and a 2.3% MLP 35.9 35 Sant makes Labour reveals MLP 35-54 36 41.3 1.2 1.2 5.6 14.6 net loss to the AD and AN. AD 0.8 full recovery in report stating that 55 34.4 55.2 0.2 0 2.4 7.8 party’s general cabinet agreed in The MLP which is losing AN 0.7 conference principle with fees 2.8% of its 2003 vote to the None 3 30 on health care WHIcH PARTY HAS THE BEST METHODOLOGY No reply 8.5 PN intensifi es PN makes a net gain of 5.5% BEFORE WEEK 1 WEEK 2 WEEK 3 WEEK 4 Jeffrey Pullicino POLIcY ON jOB cREATION? campaign against from the PN and a further AD reveals report Orlando presents 0.3% from the smaller par- This survey was held between Monday 25 February and MLP PN AD A N reception class Wednesday 28 February. A total of 1,735 persons were 25 Lawrence Gonzi on Polidano’s Safi himself as a ties. PN 51.1 None No Reply 40 excludes coalition proposal contacted, 900 of whom accepted to participate in the PN supermarket, journalist for an For the second consecutive MLP 35.9 18-34 40.4 47.4 0 . 6 with AD, promises prompting mass Alfred Sant press survey. Respondents were randomly chosen from the Sant makes Labour leader 0.6 3.2 7.9 Lawrence Gonzi to take MEPA in his resignation of DCC conference week the PN leads the MLP AD 0.8 telephone directory. The survey results (except for the 35 full recovery in 20 exempts private 35-54 36 41.3 1 . 2 MLP announces election hands board among those who would be AN 0.7 shifts between 2003 election) were weighed according to party’s general and massive tax schools from voting for the first time on 8 NONE 3 age/sex distribution of the population. The survey’s margin 1.2 5.6 14.6 conference reception class of error is +/-3.26%. 30 cuts MLP regurgitates Alfred Sant reveals March. Among this category NO REPLY 8.5 55 34.4 55.2 0.2 0 same proposals in proposal 2.4 7.8 Lawrence Gonzi PN intensifi es 15 that MEPA had NO REPLY the PN gets 45.2% against the MLP blasts good electoral manifesto. approved an outline MLP’s 26%. This could be an excludes coalition campaign against causes fund 25 Lawrence Gonzi permit for an open UNDECIDED with AD, promises reception class donation to private indication of the PN’s more announces air disco on land Best policy on job creation according to voting intentions: to take MEPA in proposal 10 company intelligent use of the internet 20 election and his hands Labour leader owned by Jeffrey and the media to target these massive tax cuts MLP regurgitates exempts private Pullicino Orlando voters. PN MLP AD AN None No Answer MLP blasts same proposals schools from Gains among new voters, PN Voters 0.6 96.3 0 0 0.9 2.3 15 good causes 5 in electoral reception class UNDECIDED AD who number 17,000 in all, MLP Voters 5.9 83.7 0.3 0 1.6 9.4 fund donation to AN NOT VOTING manifesto. proposal could partially compensate Non committed 51.7 26.9 0.5 2 4.5 14.4

This is a paid advert by the Malta Labour Party private company 10 NO REPLY % for the shift to Labour. Methodology 5 NOT VOTING AD This survey was held between Monday 25 February and Wednesday 28 February. A total of 1,735 persons AN were contacted, 900 of whom accepted to participate in the survey. Respondents were randomly chosen from 0 the telephone directory. The survey results (except for the shifts between 2003 election) were weighed ac- cording to age/sex distribution of the population. The survey’s margin of error is +/-3.26%.

Login now. www.maltatoday.com.mt daily 6 maltatoday election special | Thursday 06 March 2008 news news Thursday 06 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 7 The battle of the issues: PN trounced on corruption but wins on most issues MLP discusses gender AD slams trivialising equality issues of education by Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca fails to show up main political

DAVID DARMANIN belief, so I decided not to go.” At that point, Helena Dalli complained that she was not in- MLP’S early celebration of vited either. Later, Dalli refused parties Women’s Day was marked by the to answer a question on gender absence of social affairs spokes- equality policy on the grounds person Maire-Louise Coleiro that this was within the remit of MALTATODAY surveys carried are swayed to vote for the other to cut income tax further, the to the big parties when it comes of the Maltese population accord- Preca yesterday, at a gathering of Labour spokesperson for social out over the past three weeks parties. incumbent party has re-invented to bread and butter issues. ing to MaltaToday’s surveys car- around 100 female Labour expo- solidarity Marie-Louise Coleiro show the PN winning on all ma- Yet significantly 44% of those itself as the tax slashing party. The PN’s high rate of approval ried out during the past year. nents addressing gender issues, Preca, who was not present for jor issues except the cost of living who prefer AD’s environmental The electorate does not seem re- on job creation is boosted by The Labour Party has been social injustices, equality at the the meeting. After making a sign and the fight against corruption. policies are either undecided or ceptive to the bold fiscal propos- 6% of present MLP voters who harping on the cost of living issue place of work and sexual harass- to show that she would rather not Although the MLP trounces the refusing to divulge their voting als made by the smaller parties. consider the PN’s job creation for the past years. ment, among others. answer, Simone Cini broke the PN by a wide 17% margin on cor- intentions in the next elections. Significantly the Labour Party policies as better than their own It’s promise to reduce the sur- The event was wrapped up by seconds of silence that followed ruption, the PN soundly beats the only manages to beat the PN party’s. Only 0.6% of present PN charge by 50% is aimed at leaving Labour Leader Alfred Sant, who to ask if it would be better for MLP on taxation, job creation, Immigration among those aged between 35- voters opt for Labour’s employ- more money in people’s pockets. reiterated his party’s position on Coleiro Preca to answer. “I would education, healthcare, immigra- The absolute majority of voters 54. This age group composed of ment policies. Yet during this campaign the the need of gender equality. much rather wait for her.” By the tion and the environment. do not identify with the immigra- persons who are in the middle of MLP has shied away from anach- “At university we have a major- end of the meeting, Coleiro Preca Defying ideological stereotypes, tion policies of the mainstream their working lives are the most Healthcare ronistic solutions to control pric- ity of female students, but then had not yet arrived. PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA the PN is at its strongest on job parties and 11% think that the far inclined to Labour’s policies. The PN is judged to have the es. numbers go down drastically as On her part, former Sea Malta creation where it is preferred right Azzjoni Nazzjonali have the best policy on health care despite soon as you start looking at the chairperson Marlene Mizzi, seat- choice of the absolute majority best policy on this subject. Education the MLP’s revelation of a report corruption number of women in employ- ed right next to Sant, confidently of respondents while the MLP is Like other extreme right par- The survey held – amidst a issued in 2004 which proposed Only one fourth think that the ment,” he said. “When we ap- said: “Although I recognise that strongest on fighting corruption ties in Europe AN has exploited storm of controversy on Labour’s fees for public health services. PN has the best policy to fight point women on government many women may encounter where it is the preferred choice of popular apprehensions on this reception class proposal – shows The report claims that the cabi- corruption. On the other hand PHOTOGRAPHY BY THERESE DEBONO boards, efficiency issues are al- problems at work, we must make 42% of respondents. issue turning a veritable human that the PN’s scaremongering net agreed in principle with the 42% think that Labour has the ways scrutinised before deciding. sure that there is no self-pity. Both parties score their worst tragedy in to political football. campaign which dubbed the re- report but would not implement best policies on this issue. This is not the case with deciding purpose.” domestic violence, garnering the portance of work-life balance, I’m not saying that there are no results on immigration. The MLP With the other parties largely si- ception class proposal as a “re- it because of its “political under- The survey shows that the on board appointments for men. She then explained that by the crowd’s full attention when she stating : “We should be living in problems, but once we encoun-  also scores a lowly 23% environ- lent on this issue during the elec- peater class” has left an impact on pinnings.” page 4 MLP’s focused campaign to de- We are in a situation that allows time children finish school, par- said “we should work together as a society that pays enough wag- ter difficulties we must find the ment. toral campaign AN has emerged the electorate. The survey on health was con- legitimise Lawrence Gonzi’s cabi- women to be appointed in key ents are still at work and that Christians.” es that enable parents to spend strength within ourselves to re- Apart from immigration, the as the vocal party on this issue. The “repeater class” mantra now ducted after the publication of net has left a deep marks amongst positions only because they are there is not enough availability “Up until yesterday, a pregnant more time with their children.” solve them. We must look for so- PN scores its worst score on the AN has called for the closure of features in every speech by PN this report. voters. efficient, whereas men don’t have of services to cater for the time woman was beaten by her hus- On quality of life, Pullicino re- lutions, without expecting other cost of living issue where it is the open centres and has threatened exponents to the extent that the The Prime Minister denied that Through the campaign Labour to be efficient. This is why there between end of school and end band, and was in turn sent to marked that the most popular people to do this for us.” preferred choice of 38% of re- to pull out of Malta’s legal inter- Prime Minister himself warned the cabinet had ever considered has reiterated it’s pledge to prac- should be a quota system.” of work. Appoġġ with her children, while illness among women is depres- Mizzi proceeded to insist on spondents. national obligations in the ab- that a Labour victory would charges on health and declared tice zero tolerance on corruption Moderating the talk was One In another intervention, Vassal- her husband was allowed to stay sion, “whereas we only speak of the need to “change the culture On most issues the PN enjoys sence of help from the European amount to five years in a repeater that he would resign if a future and has continued to highlight TV presenter Simone Cini, who lo also mentioned that politics in home,” Pullicino said. “This is breast screening.” of men, especially at the work the advantage of being the incum- Union. Yet the party favours the class for the whole country. PN government were to impose corruption allegations against started by handing over the mi- Malta are male dominated, due unfair. It was the perpetrator Also present was university place,” suggesting that this is bent party using the tools of gov- importation of foreign labour in The MaltaToday survey was such fees. prominent cabinet members. crophone to Labour candidate to the vast majority of politicians who should have been chucked professor Mary Darmanin, who done by proper parenting and ernment to promote its agenda. sectors where Maltese labour is held days before Alfred Sant Although the report confirms The PN has pre-empted the Helena Dalli. being men, “starting with our out.” clarified why she chose the La- early education – an idea to On the other hand as the party scarce. counter-attacked with his own that Gonzi had resisted pressure campaign by focusing exclusively “The Labour Party is focusing very able leader,” she specified. Addressing Sant directly, Pulli- bour activity over a university which Sant later concurred. in government the PN is more AN’s immigration policy is dose of scaremongering, accusing to introduce charges on health on Lawrence Gonzi whose integ- on continuation of work that we Then came Labour candidate cino concluded her intervention speech over the same issues run- “I agree with Marlene about exposed to accusations of corrup- highest among males (15%) and the government of planning to services during his term in office, rity remains intact. Labour has have been carrying out for the Marlene Pullicino’s turn, the by saying: “As of Monday, God ning at the same time. “I was the need of culture change,” Sant tion than the MLP. those aged under 34 (14%) and close down junior lyceums and to it made a mockery Gonzi’s earlier reacted to this stratagem quot- past 20 years,” she said, before estranged wife of the same PN willing, when you are elected to asked to contribute at a university stated. “Equality needs to be The small parties only leave an lowest among females and those abolish the junior lyceum exams. claim that the cabinet had never ing Eddie Fenech Adami’s maxim being interrupted by Cini in or- candidate involved in the Mistra power, I appeal to you to look event this morning. From all the practised, not just discussed. We impact on their pet issues; in AD’s over 55. Effectively, the two parties have discussed the imposition of any that whoever does not fight cor- der to explain that the talk shall Bay controversy, Jeffrey Pullicino into these matters.” speakers invited it seemed that need to focus on education, as of “Why should we case the environment and in AN’s Significantly, AN attracts its now turned education in to a such fees. ruption is part of it. not only ask for the contribution Orlando. Pullicino spoke about Pullicino also spoke of the im- they are all of the same political a very young age.” case illegal immigration. greatest support among younger game of political football leaving The PN has countered the Yet the prevailing perception of Labour candidates, but also of CHARLOT ZAHRA be the political will to conduct system because it promotes to students. take a decision When it comes to bread and males. Among the males aged little space for intelligent debate MLP’s campaign by reminding that the ruling party failed to ad- all present. a wholesome reform of the pri- It is networking between different Mallia said that in agreement butter issues like job creation vot- 18 to 34 years of age AN’s stance on this matter. voters that a Sant led government dress this issue does not necessar- “OK,” Dalli said. “Take two. I mary education system. “Unfor- schools. with all parties concerned, the on the destiny ers tend to prefer the bigger par- on immigration is more popular had imposed a fee on people col- ily result in a Labour landslide. was talking about continuation, ALTERNATTIVA Demokratika tunately, the system is blocked irresponsible Mallia said it was “high time” school leaving certificate should ties. than that of the three other par- jobs lecting free medicines. While this shows that the PN so this is the continuation of a (AD) Chairperson Harry Vas- as whenever somebody comes that schools were refurbished, be revised so that this reflects of our kids on ties. Among this category 25% Ironically the PN beats the MLP While 39% favour Labour’s has hit rock bottom on this issue, continuation.” But as Dalli was sallo expressed his disappoint- up with a proposal, the experi- that a serious however the focus now needed the real abilities of students and The environment opt for AN’s immigration policy. on job creation, an issue which health policies, 47% favour the it also shows that some people about to start her address again, ment at the fact that education ence of the 1980s is immediately to be shifted on the human re- make it more relevant than it is The survey result reflects AD’s The widespread support for traditionally dominates the agen- PN’s policies. would still vote for the PN even if Labour leader Alfred Sant up- has ended up as a political foot- mentioned,” he complained. matter for the sources needed in the education today. the basis of historic role in raising the profile AN’s immigration policies is not da of social democratic parties. The survey reflects public sat- they are dissatisfied with the gov- staged her with his late entrée, ball with the controversy over Mallia said Eurostat statistics system. AD is proposing that all those of environmental issues and its reflected in electoral support for Riding high on promises of isfaction with the new Mater Dei ernment’s record. In fact 5% of inspiring the crowd to surpass Labour’s reception class pro- showed that Malta has the high- Educators have to be trained who give private lessons should fear?” consistent opposition to spring the very right party which regis- 5,600 new jobs created by Smart hospital which has been hyped as Nationalist voters prefer Labour Dalli’s speech with a hearty, wel- posal. est number of school-leavers future of our in order to operate in the new be regulated with the issue of hunting, golf courses and mega ters only 0.6% in the latest Malta- City and boasting the lowest un- one of Lawrence Gonzi major ac- on this issue but would still vote coming applause. “It is irresponsible that a seri- beforeTables the age of 16 as well the settings of mixed ability set- a licence for which a warrant development projects. Today poll. employment rates in the past dec- complishments. PN. Only 63% of Nationalist vot- When she started again, Dalli ous matter for the future of our lowestWhich number party of students has the who best children like policytings thaton job would creation? result after the would be needed as a require- This is especially the case among 50% of those opting for AN’s ade, the PN is considered as the The survey shows that PN vot- ers think that their party has the cut her speech short by saying children like education has been pursue post-secondary studies. removal of the Junior Lyceum ment in order to cut abuse and younger voters aged between immigration policies would vote party with the best policy on job ers are more enthusiastic on the best policies to tackle corruption that after all, “there is no need to trivialised by the main political In thePN primary field, 51.1 the cur- education has examination. incompetence. 18 and 34. Among this category for one of the other three par- creation by an absolute majority their party’s health policy than compared to 89% of MLP voters mention all the work Labour did parties and has ended up in the riculumMLP is being tilted 35.9 exces- Mallia said that the School Moreover, AD said that the while 26% express a preference ties. More of these would vote for of respondents. MLP voters. who trust their party on this is- in the past years with regard to political arena”, he insisted. sivelyAD in favour of passing 0.8 the been trivialised Psychological Service has been State should invest in a system for AD’s environmental policies the PN (26.3%) than for the MLP While 51% prefer the PN’s job sue. gender issues.” “Parents of children who are JuniorAN Lyceum examination 0.7 at reduced to two school psycholo- of help for students after school only 14.4% express a preference (21.3%). creation policies, only 36% pre- cost of living The survey also shows that a “A lot of work that could have passing through this stage like the endNone of Year 6, with 3 the re- by the main gists who have to cope with the hours in order to assist those for the MLP’s policies. Yet significantly 49% of those fer Labour’s. The small parties The MLP enjoys a slight advan- significant 6.4% opt for the two continued after 1998 has not me, as a parent of a four-year- sult thatNo replystudents are 8.5ending up demands of all students attend- students whose family environ- But widespread support for AD’s who opt for the far right’s poli- are only chosen by 1.5% of voters tage over the PN on the cost of small parties as the bulwark been continued,” she said. This old, do not appreciate how the burn-out at the end. political ing state schools. ment was not conducive to do environmental policies does not cies on immigration are still non confirming that people still turn living issue-the primary concern against corruption. was later confirmed by Alfred future of our children is being AD is proposing the MLP removal PN“AD AD feels that AN this unit, None as well No homeworkReply and study. treated so light-heartedly,” Vas- of the Junior Lyceum exam and as others which give support to AD said it was unacceptable

translate itself in to a landslide for committed on their voting inten- Sant when he said: “When La- 18-34 4 0 . 4 47.4 0.6 0.6 3.2 7.9 PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA sallo added. its replacement with a bench- parties students, should be re-started that there was only one coun- the third party when it comes to tions. How the parties fare on the issues: bour was last in government, we voting intentions. This means that 4.3% of all re- did not have enough time to im- On his part, AD’s spokesper- marking35-54 exercise which 3 6 sums 41.3with 1.2 an adequate 1.2 number 5.6 of 14.6 selor for more than 3,000 Junior While 18% prefer AD’s environ- spondents opt for AN’s immigra- plement all that we had in mind son on Education, Mario Mallia, up what55 the student 34.4 has done 55.2professionals,” 0.2 0 he insisted. 2.4 7.8 College students, which would mental policies to those of the ri- tion’s policy and would not state PN MLP AD AN None No Answer with regards to gender issues, said that Labour’s proposal for over the previous years to assess Mallia also said that AD would be facing the most crucial phase having a reception class was an his performance. gradually introduce five hours of their lives. val two parties, only 2.6% would for which party they would vote Taxation 39.8 33.5 1.5 0.1 6.1 19 but a lot of measures were on the vote for the Greens in the forth- in the forthcoming election. runway,” failing to continue the “interesting” one which should TheBest only policy territory on job in creation the EU accordingof physical to exercise voting intentions:a week in all Finally, with regards to Uni- Environment 38.7 22.8 18.4 1.5 3.9 14.7 coming election. allegory by linking the Labour be discussed. which still had competitive ex- schools in order to combat the versity, AD is proposing the In fact 42.8% of those who think Taxation Immigration 23.5 17.8 2.7 11.1 10.2 34.7 song slogan “the only way is up”. However, he said that the pro- ams like the Junior Lyceum was PNever-increasing MLP AD obesity AN prob- N osetting-up n e of a think-tank to that AD has the best environ- The MLP has spent the last Education 48.9 32.2 1.2 0 3.1 14.7 On her part, Labour candi- posal as made by the Labour NorthernNo Answer Ireland, where the lem. study the present situation of Party was made in a “vacuum” exam was removed this year. Regarding secondary educa- overcrowding and explore pos- mental policies are equally split five years attacking the PN for in- job creation 51.1 35.9 0.8 0.7 3 8.5 date Lorna Vassallo spoke about PN Voters 0.6 96.3 0 0 0 . 9 between the PN and MLP. Only creasing the tax burden, but has a problem faced by numerous and “without enough consid- “The2.3 effects on those children tion, AD is proposing that more sibilities how the University 11% of these would vote for AD. failed to capitalise on fiscal dis- Health care 46.8 39.3 0.7 0.8 2.3 10.4 parents. “The daytime gap be- eration to the reality of tough that areMLP tagged Voters as ‘bad’ are trau- 5.9effort 83.7 should be 0.3 made to 0 address 1 .experience 6 can be made more This is an indication that the contentment. cost of Living 38 39 1.1 0.9 7.2 13.8 tween 14:30 and 17:00 is not be- competition in the education matic,”9.4 Mallia insisted. the “huge fragmentation” that personalized. sector”. He said that AD agreed with exists in the existing curricu- environment is not such a prima- After two consecutive budget corruption 25.9 42.4 3.3 3.1 10.8 14.6 ing addressed,” she said. “A lot Non committed 5 1 . 7 26.9 0.5 2 4.5 [email protected] ry concern for these voters who tax cuts and an electoral pledge of childcare centres are being Mallia said that there should the setting up of the colleges lum and make it more relevant closed at 13:00, serving a useless Methodology This survey was held between Monday 25 February and Wednesday 28 February. A total of 1,735 persons were contacted, 900 of whom accepted to participate in the survey. Respondents were randomly chosen from the telephone directory. The survey results (except for the shifts between 2003 election) were weighed ac- cording to age/sex distribution of the population. The survey’s margin of error is +/-3.26%. 10 maltatoday election special | Tuesday 04 March 2008 news news Tuesday 04 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 11 8 maltatoday election special | Thursday 06 March 2008 news news Thursday 06 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 9 Gonzi asks MEPA auditor to investigate Mistra case

JULIA FARRUGIA permit for an open-air night- initiative. That’s what I did this The PN leader emphasised if in government will spend €855 club on ODZ agricultural land morning, for your information!” Sant’s low points throughout: million. owned by PN candidate Jeffrey the Prime Minister replied with “He froze the EU application, “For me it’s a mystery how the PRIME Minister Lawrence Gon- Pullicino Orlando in Mistra. force. still insists that partnership MLP will use these funds if in zi yesterday asked MEPA audi- Gonzi confirmed this yester- Lawrence Gonzi however won, and this clearly shows that power.” tor Joe Falzon to investigate the day morning while addressing avoided all subsequent ques- Alfred Sant is a Eurosceptic,” PN leader pledged that if re- issue of an outline development media in a press conference at tions on this issue. Gonzi said. elected he will see that the Mal- the Valletta Waterfront. The PN’s press conference, Lawrence Gonzi described ta Shipyards attain good results On Saturday, Labour leader themed “More work and better Sant as the man who, even in and that the quay in Senglea will Alfred Sant revealed that a piece work”, was geared towards the Opposition, damaged the coun- be developed into a berthing of land in a Special Area of Con- importance of Saturday’s elec- try. “Sant was against the intro- place for cruise liners. servation in Mistra belonging to tions. duction of low cost airlines. Now In reply to a question by Mal- De Rohan Antiques Ltd – a com- “A vote for PN will mean more that we attained record figures taToday, Gonzi acknowledged pany 100% owned by Dr Pullici- work,” said Gonzi. “When we in tourism, the tourism subject that thousands of families are no Orlando, will be turned into wake up next Monday we will be simply vanished from Sant’s ra- shouldering a lot of problems a discotheque. asking ‘is my job still secured’? dar,” claimed Gonzi. since their only income comes Answering a ONE journal- Our kids at university – will Warning pensioners, Law- from a part time job since they ist’s question Gonzi stated: “this they be able to find work?” rence Gonzi said that he really could not find a full time work. morning I wrote to the MEPA’s Lawrence Gonzi repeated his hopes that on 8 March pension- “Yes, there are such cases. I be- auditor and I asked him to in- track record mantra saying that ers won’t forget that Sant’s sug- lieve you’re right. There are peo- vestigate. That’s what I did. That 20,000 new jobs were created gestion to devaluate the lira ple who only have a part time means, I asked the auditor, who under his premiership. would have meant Lm90 in their job because they weren’t able to is responsible for seeing to it that Gonzi constantly warned NET pockets instead of Lm100. Same find a full time. There are many things in MEPA are done cor- TV viewers stating that: “If I warning went to the factory reasons which I won’t delve into rectly. This is the same person were you I would get the shivers workers. now. We have to see how some- who at times carried investiga- (kieku jaqbadni l-bard),” refer- Lawrence Gonzi insisted that one who wanted a full time and tions out of his own accord. This ring to the possibility of having the electorate needs to vote that only found a part time, will find George Bonello Dupuis time he will be doing this on my Alfred Sant as Prime Minister. party who already declared how a full time employment.” Gonzi warns against abstention, cross-party voting

JULIA FARRUGIA by a large majority. Last night’s discussion also income,” Gonzi reiterated. Gonzi also admitted that his Lawrence Gonzi described the took a unexpected twist. Asked The PN leader insisted that party “could have done more, MEP election four years ago as by presenter Pierre Portelli why under his administration, health could have done better, and LAWRENCE Gonzi admitted to the “biggest irony and the big- the electorate should choose services will always remain free could have been more sensi- hundreds of supporters in Swie- gest historical unjustice that Gonzi over Sant, the Prime of charge. “I will say this again. tive.” qi last night that he is “worried could ever happen.” Minister answered: “because And I will use the same jargon Fully knowing that he was seeing a number of uncollected “There were people who vot- I’ve got George Bonello Dupuis normally used by lawyers: ‘I’ve holding a discussion in a sensi- voting documents,” referring to ed AD… that vote was wasted next to me.” got proof’. In four years I did tive area for Nationalists, Law- the approximately 9,000 votes because the Labour Party got A few minutes later, the former not introduce any tax!” Gonzi rence Gonzi said that “we appre- not collected by yesterday. three candidates and the PN got finance minister took the floor said to great applause. ciate complaints filed by Swieqi “I know that political parties only two!” and highlighted that when he The Prime Minister said that people,” referring to widespread are in a situation where we can’t Gonzi warned people that introduced tax cuts, govern- Malta has already benefited discontent in the locality be- precisely tell what the situation there could be a situation where- ment’s revenue shot up. from €150 million in grants cause of overdevelopment. is because of the margin of er- by if no party got the “50% plus Lawrence Gonzi pledged that from the EU, stating that these Nationalist leader reminded ror. Every vote is precious. Yes, one”, the party with the most under a new administration funds have been invested in the crowd that his government GILBERT CALLEJA I’m worried even hearing cer- seats in parliament would gov- he will follow in the footsteps the environment, schools em- introduced new building regu- tain talk,” continued Gonzi. ern. The PN leader stressed that of John Dalli and Dupuis. “We bellishments and training for lations, in order to cater for The PN leader insisted that if there could be exactly this same will reduce tax bands and in a workers. building irregularities which people wanted a party to gov- scenario, if people abstained or maximum period of two years, “We still have €855 million to most of the time create distress ern, then the PN needs to win voted AD. we will be able to recoup back spend!” Gonzi added. to residents. PHOTOGRAPHY BY 12 maltatoday election special | Tuesday 04 March 2008 news news Tuesday 04 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 13 10 maltatoday election special | Thursday 06 March 2008 news news Thursday 06 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 11 Jeffrey’s antics prompt Sant’s walk-out From dentist to part-time farmer to part-time journalist, Pullicino Orlando turns up to disrupt Alfred Sant’s press conference. KURT SANSONE recounts first-hand

Alfred Sant descends the PBS staircase, followed by PN secretary-general Joe Saliba and information officer Gordon Pisani... to find Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando seated next to the journalists for the BA press conference

As Sant asks what the Nationalist MP was doing in the studio, Pullicino Orlando launches into a palaver, with a bemused Sant looking unimpressed

Pullicino Orlando challenges, and Saliba looks on with a smiling Sant in the background. Then the MP produces his temporary press card issued by the DOI

Pullicino is quizzed by the press, Sant performs his ‘cool and relaxed’ routine, BA CEO Kevin Aquilina ushers journalists out, and then Sant leaves.

e the PBS building

Sant speeds off in his car. Saliba defends Pullicino Orlando’s appearance, while the MP waits insid given the chance to confront managed to get two minutes of the journalists. Sant face to face. attention. Talking to Pullicino BA chairman Joseph Scicluna leaves PBS after speaking to journalists, then Pullicino Orlando leaves, faces the press and goes in the car with the other PN officials At 12.30pm the six journal- It was here that Pullicino Or- “Why did you escape me Dr Orlando he said: “I already ex- lando was still inside. Saliba IT was supposed to be one of ists, including Pullicino Or- lando flipped. Sant? Why don’t you want to plained to you that the BA was did not stop. derided Sant’s tactic to avoid those mundane press confer- lando and myself were seated Without allowing the BA give me this limited opportu- only informed verbally 10 min- answer a simple question about Earlier on, he had told journal- “This is the new beginning. Pullicino Orlando at all costs ences organised by the Broad- waiting for Sant to make an chairman space to explain the nity to ask you two simple 30 utes before the press conference the police to remove him from when his press card was issued ists that this was a “fascist way” It sounds more like back to the insisting that the MP attended casting Authority in which appearance. The BA was only Authority’s ruling on the mat- second questions? Shame on that the media.link journalist there,” Sant suggested. by the Department of Informa- of stopping a press conference. future. Coward. Dr Sant is a the press conference with the journalists were expected to informed 10 minutes before the ter, Pullicino Orlando went into you!” was not coming. I told you also It was the word Pullicino Or- tion. He just brandished the Pullicino Orlando replied: “I coward,” Pullicino Orlando in- full blessing of the party. quiz, within strict time limits, scheduled start time of Ciap- overdrive hurling one question Saliba who was constantly that it is not BA practice for lando was waiting for. “Bring press card for everybody to expected you to be different Ja- sisted. Asked by myself why he kept Labour leader Alfred Sant. para’s absence and that media. after another towards Sant. watching Pullicino Orlando’s journalists to be candidates so the police. I am not scared. I see. son. Shame on you.” The studio had now been on insisting with Pullicino Or- But all hell broke loose min- link were to send somebody “Why are you afraid of me Dr moves again ordered him to “sit as not to give any undue advan- was attacked by the police at Saliba butted in again. With Saliba again jumped to the cleared. A dumbstruck Kevin lando to “shut up”, Saliba said utes before the recording start- else in her stead. Sant? down.” tage to any one candidate,” Sci- the age of 16 when you made me clenched teeth and a stern rescue. “Jeff, don’t let him pro- Aquilina (the BA Chief Ex- that the Zebbug candidate had ed at 12.30pm yesterday. After 20 minutes sitting si- “I have nothing to hide Dr “These are theatrics,” Sant cluna insisted with the dentist, become a Nationalist. I won’t voice he admonished Pullicino voke you. Don’t say another ecutive) then came back to the said what he had to say and that The press conference was lently at our tables, Sant, ac- Sant. Answer me,” Pullicino was heard saying. cum part-time farmer and part- leave. The police will have to Orlando: “Enough. Enough Jeff. word,” he insisted with the agi- studio and announced that the sufficed. aborted before it even started companied by his entourage, Orlando shouted. With the BA Chairman still time journalist. make me leave. What will hap- Shut up.” tated MP. press conference had been can- On walking out of the PBS after Nationalist MP Jeffrey PN secretary-general Joe Saliba With a forceful “stay there”, trying to explain the Author- But Pullicino Orlando would pen to the Maltese people if The BA officials asked the The BA chairman then asked celled because Alfred Sant had building to a waiting car, Pul- Pullicino Orlando turned up and BA Chairman Scicluna Saliba cautioned Pullicino Or- ity’s ruling, Pullicino Orlando not be silenced. “You even want you become prime minister, Dr party officials and outside Pullicino Orlando to leave the left the building. licino Orlando refused to an- instead of media.link journalist entered the studio. Sant was lando not to move from his continued shouting. to take away my right to defend Sant? Shame on you Dr Sant. journalists who were not part studio according to the ruling The journalist from azzjoni- swer journalist’s questions as Amanda Ciappara with a press greeted by the press conference place while at the same time “Look at me Dr Sant. Are you myself? You are scared of this Look at me Dr Sant. Why don’t of the press conference to leave given. nazzjonali.org.mt thought it to whether he was a journalist card in hand to take his place chairperson Anna Bonanno. defending his presence there. scared of me? Look at me in the man now that he is in Opposi- you want to look at me?” the studio. In the background “I will not leave my place. was a clever ploy to get Pulli- and when was the press card is- among the six journalists. He then turned to us journal- Sant ignored Pullicino Or- eye.” tion what will he do when in The atmosphere was tense Pullicino Orlando kept heck- Bring the police if you want but cino Orlando out of the studio sued. He kept mum, brandish- It was a surreal scene as den- ists for the customary shaking lando’s tirade, standing silently Again Sant let slip a comment, government? This is what will with journalists and camerap- ling a silent Sant. I will not leave my place not so that Sant could be whisked ing the press card from behind tist Pullicino Orlando, who also of hands but stopped short af- next to what should have been this time directed towards the happen if he is Prime Minis- ersons from the two political MLP secretary-general Jason even if my party officials order back into the building. the car’s closed window. claims to be a part-time farmer, ter getting a glimpse of Pullici- his desk for the next hour or visibly agitated MP. ter.” stations relishing every mo- Micallef asked the Nationalist me to do so,” Pullicino Orlando But it wasn’t. The press con- And that was it. A boring was now posing as a part-time no Orlando. Sant immediately so. “You don’t have eyes to look The Labour officials were ment of the comedy that would MP to stop his theatrics. “Now answered back. ference was called off. election turned into a poten- journalist by virtue of a hur- turned towards the BA Chair- Pullicino Orlando continued at,” the Labour leader respond- getting edgy and demanded make it to the newsreels for the start crying. Stop ridiculing The Labour entourage walked Outside of the building Saliba tially explosive tinder keg. riedly issued press card that ex- man and asked him what was his lament, protesting his in- ed. the BA Chairman take action next four days. yourself Jeffrey,” Micallef in- out of the studio. But the Zeb- gave an impromptu press con- pires next Thursday. Pullicino Orlando doing with nocence and demanding he be Finally, the BA Chairman to enforce his ruling. “Bring Pullicino Orlando refused to sisted with a snigger on his face. bug dentist’s verbal theatrics ference while Pullicino Or- [email protected] 8 maltatoday election special | Tuesday 04 March 2008 news news Tuesday 04 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 9 12Sant maltatoday election special promises | Thursday 06 March 2008 good news news Thursday 06 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 13 governance, satisfied with Labour MPs’ tax issue

MATTHEW VELLA Both Labour MPs have filed a hide any evidence in this case.” after Labour criticised a permit “We are in a position today that libel suit over the allegations. Asked about the undeclared issued by MEPA to Polidano. whoever wants to give informa- Speaking of the Mistra case rents never submitted in the “Nothing wrong. I hope it was a tion about something wrong involving Nationalist MP Jef- accounts of Labour MPs’ Kar- good meal”, Sant replied. that is going on, as an employee OPPOSITION leader Alfred frey Pullicino Orlando, Sant menu Vella and Charles Man- He defended his MPs from ac- they have no protection what- Sant yesterday reiterated his expressed scepticism of Gonzi’s gion’s company Mirca Proper- cusations of not having respect- soever. And the way informants party’s pledge to boost econom- treatment of the matter. ties to the financial authorities, ed the Labour ‘whistleblower’ are prosecuted because there is ic growth to higher levels and “Gonzi is doing the same thing Sant said he had already read all who was dubbed a “snake” by no Whistleblower Act is proof assure good governance and he usually does with a person the documents related to the Sant for leaking information of of this. transparency. being projected as part of the matter. a meeting between Labour MPs “Gonzi promised a new style Responding to public allega- new generation of potential Na- “I saw that everything was in and building contractors close of leadership four years ago. tions made by Nationalist MP tionalist ministers. Until some conformity with everything to the party, who together had The Whistleblower Act has now Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando last time ago, Gonzi used to say that the Commissioner for In- travelled to Dubai. been left in abeyance for four week, accusing the two MPs that he would send cases of cor- land Revenue needs and he is “I don’t know what the case years. We promise to introduce of making false declarations of ruption to the Commissioner satisfied with everything he would be in this matter,” Sant it straight away and to remove income from rented property of Police. I don’t why he didn’t seen,” Sant said, with respect to said, saying there was no case of the fear of any whistleblower for several years, Dr Sant said send this case for investigation. the tax agreement reached by wh ist leblow ing involved. “There from being sacked if they give he had seen all the documents If I was prime minister I would the two MPs in 2003 and 2004. is nothing here concerning a information.” presented about this case and it ensure that any traces of abuse Sant was also asked if he found whistleblower, or corruption or He said that Labour would resulted that the company men- of power would not be vitiated anything wrong about his depu- zero-tolerance to corruption.” half the surcharge on utility tioned paid all its dues to the throughout the investigation. I ty Michael Falzon lunching with Sant again reminded that Law- bills from the first week in gov- satisfaction of the Inland Rev- am sure that enough manoeu- construction magnate Charles rence Gonzi had not enacted a ernment and effectively control enue Department. vres have already taken place to Polidano, allegedly just 12 hours Whistleblowers’ Act. inflation. Pullicino rebuts Sant’s criticism of Kennedy Grove plans

ALFRED Sant was yesterday at Kennedy Grove, where he decried the state of the rec- reational park, saying the en- vironment of entire parts of the area were neglected and deteriorating. Sant said the PN had prom- ised one thing after another on Kennedy Grove for the past 14 years. He said that in 1994 minister Francis Zam- mit Dimech had announced informal proposals for tour- ism and recreational facili- ties at Kennedy Grove, which included a water park. A year after, the Nationalist govern- ment announced a new pump- ing station at Kennedy Grove to resolve the drainage prob- lems in the Qawra and Salina coast. He said that in 2004 environ- ment minister George Pullici- no announced an afforestation project for Kennedy Grove which earmarked the expan- sion of the recreation area to a site four times larger. He poured cold water over Lawrence Gonzi’s inaugura- tion yesterday of the Salina park, saying the area was a third of the Kennedy Grove area. “The other parts are full of mud and dirt and in other parts it is evident that the weeds have not been removed gurate half-finished projects “Although Sant showed his said. more afforestation and resto- in a long time. They are a det- “just to win a few votes on the appreciation towards the cre- The Salina park is in fact ration of the salt pans. riment to families and chil- eve of a general election.” ation of a new park, his press a project which is split into He said Sant had visited a low dren who come here to relax.” Environment Minister conference was held in the three phases, with 11,000 part of the surrounding, natu- Sant said the place was also George Pullicino yesterday part of Kennedy Grove where trees having already been ral marshland, where the gov-

filled with rats in the night- said Sant’s press conference the second phase of works for planted through the Tree4U ernment will be applying for GILBERT CALLEJA time, and said dangerous poles yesterday was a poor attempt the Salina park are being car- campaign. a €700,000 EU project with and torn wires from missing at belittling the results of the ried out, where 45,000 square The second phase involves private partners and NGOs to lighting made the place inade- administration in creating metres of afforestation were the restoration of Kennedy preserve the natural habitat, quate for children. Sant said it new recreational spaces for inaugurated by the Prime Grove, the creation of a new cultivate surrounding flora,

was a tactic of the PN to inau- the Maltese. Minister yesterday,” Pullicino play area for children and and create a bird observatory. PHOTOGRAPHY BY 14 maltatoday election special | ThursdayTuesday 04 06 March March 2008 2008 news news ThursdayTuesday 0406 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 15 ‘Purely professional’, Falzon’s claims of relationship with Caqnu

MATTHEW VELLA Sant that Falzon was dining with people” at the time in question. untrue,” Falzon said. with Joseph Fenech ‘il-Hafi’, a Polidano at his Meridien Hotel, “There were other political ac- “I am employed at Bank of Val- suspect turned state’s evidence after news broke of the DCC tivities going on, namely hosted letta as a lawyer, and my relation- in the attempted murder of LABOUR deputy leader Michael board’s resignation on a permit by Francis Zammit Dimech and ship with Mr Polidano is purely Fenech Adami’s assistant Rich- Falzon yesterday emphasised it awarded for Polidano’s Lidl su- John Dalli,” Falzon said. professionally. Mr Polidano is ard Cachia Caruana. that his relationship with con- permarket in Safi, late last week. Asked whether these 180 peo- one of the biggest clients at the Falzon then said it was shame- struction magnate Charles Poli- Sant replied: “If they were eat- ple were diners at the restaurant, bank, and I speak to some 50 ful to make political capital out dano ‘ic-Caqnu’ was “a purely ing together, I hope it was a good Falzon reiterated that the activ- contractors every day, because I of his professional role. “I am professional relationship” con- meal, but it doesn’t have any re- ity in question was “not politi- handle all the contractors at the bound by professional secrecy nected to his lawyer’s role with lation to zero-tolerance on cor- cal”. bank,” Falzon said. and it is shameful that political Bank of Valletta. ruption. Can’t anyone have an Warning that he would insti- “I was certainly not meeting capital is made out of what is a He was asked by MaltaToday informal meal with someone?” tute libel proceedings if he was some criminal beneath the St purely professional relationship. to comment over a question put Contacted by MaltaToday, Fal- not reported factually, Falzon Julian’s tunnel over an amnesty,” This was a non-political activ- to Labour leader Alfred Sant zon described the episode as “an also denied claims that Polid- Falzon said, with reference to ity.” earlier yesterday morning, when activity that was not political” ano had financed his political past allegations of former prime a member of the press put it to and that “there were 180 other campaign. “That is absolutely minister Eddie Fenech meeting [email protected] ‘We were in discussions with Inland Revenue since 1995’ – Vella and Mangion

RAPHAEL VASSALLO company was in dissolution, “As a result of this, our ac- so its assets were being divid- countant suggested that we ed between the shareholders. should seek clarification with LABOUR MPs Charles Man- There was a bank loan which the Inland Revenue and the In- gion and Karmenu Vella yes- we were in the process of trans- land Revenue was knowledge- terday divulged more details of ferring from the company to able of all the circumstances. In their joint agreement with the our own names. And the rents 2002 the issue was resolved and Inland Revenue Department, were also being transferred to consequently all the income ac- currently the subject of libel our names,” Vella said. crued was incorporated in the proceedings after the Nation- On his part, Mangion supplied audited accounts for the years Saviour page 4 alist party accused the MLP a similar but more detailed re- 2003 and 2004 as advised. In candidates of failure to declare ply via email. 2006 the Inland Revenue issued Balzan their income for eight years. “In 1995/96 myself and Kar- the relative tax statement ac- Asked to explain the precise menu Vella assumed all the cepting our submissions.” [email protected] “circumstances” of their com- bank debts that the company Both Mangion and Vella insist pany Mirca Properties Limited, had. At the same time we also that they were never under in- referred to in the joint statement informally partitioned the vestigation by the Tax Compli- released on Sunday, Karmenu property, this meaning that ance Unit during this time and Vella told MaltaToday that the charles Mangion Karmenu Vella matters with regard to the rev- rightly so as the Inland Rev- company Mirca Properties Ltd enue generated and eventual enue was being kept informed was formed in order to demol- and went into dissolution im- “There were three things that income tax implications had to and therefore aware of all the ish and rebuild two properties, mediately afterwards. were going on back then. The be clarified. circumstances.

“Why should we take a decision on the destiny of our kids on the basis of 22ċ / www.illum.com.mt 0.51 fear?” 22ċ / 0.51 Logħba tal-biża’ Il-Logħob tal- www.illum.com.mt illum Pajjiżi ż-Żgħar 10 ta’ Ìunju 2007 • Nr 32 Malta fil-ħames post bi 30 midalja paġni 6-7 17 ta’ Ìunju 2007 • Nr 33 Dan hu l-partit il-ġdid?Ara l-aħħar paġna illum Membru tal-MLP Karl Stagno Navarra fil-kummissjoni Intervista elettorali f’battibekk 0.51    fil-Vatikan 22ċ /   Investigat       Julia Farrugia www.illum.com.mt Nina Zita                   L-attivista Svediża         paġni 16-17                    It-Tabib Josie Muscat ħosbien għall-kummerċ ġust ħdejn Philip Beattie l-uffiċċju ta’                    sion     24 ta’ Ìunju 2007 • Nr 34                    Eurovi      0.51          22ċ / Tony Abela            bye bye illumIllum Kurt Sansone             www.illum.com.mt                              Stħarriġ ta’ paġna 9                                                                                  Ta’ l-Uffiċċju tal-PM                               Mewt fil-Jerma         Tony Abela: meta sar jaf       03 ta’ Ìunju 2007 • Nr 31                        bl-allegazzjonijiet staqsa                 lill-Kummissarju  tal-Pulizija                  biex jinvestiga   u tal-PN kontra                                      Charlot Zahra                              illum    Sena  jitlob   biex  jingħata                             children’s   allowance u                     IL-BOJKOTT  ħadd ma jagħti kasu                Pulizija joffri servizzi f’ċirku        Ara paġna 3       Ritratt Ray Attard     Id-DNA: mit-testijiet li qatt ma saru fuq Żeppi l-Ħa sa r-riżultati l-ġodda tal-HIV            Astrid Vella li tmexxi l-għaqda Flimkien għall-Ambjent Aħjar kienet        MILL-MEPA    l-mira taċ-Chairman tal-MEPA li ddikkjara bojkott kontriha       

   Attard Ray Ritratt               Illum ikollna         Wenzu Minto              ta’ prostituzzjoni ‘sofistikata’          Il-PartitJulia Laburista Farrugia    F’temp ta’ ftit         ġranet kellna lil         Il-katavru tat-Tabib  Saviour   Cilia minn  Ħal Qormi jinħareġ mil-lukanda Daqshekk tfal fuq           Jerma l-bieraħ  minn  ħaddiem  tal-Protezzjoni  Ċivili wara li ċeda saqaf u Frank Portelli, lil iktar mifrud iżda       l-ewwel radam lill-vittma. Ara paġna 3         Ara l-intervista f’paġni 16 u 17 Josie Muscat,programmi lil Lawrence għall-kbar      rebbieħ          Gonzi u anki sezzjoni     Austin Gatt vs Maltapost   – Il-Kummissarju tat-Tfal  James Debono        Jorqod bil-moħbi fil-waiting tal-media Laburista jisħqu         L-‘isfrattati’ ta’ Testaferrata   Franica Pulis        dwar il-bżonn li jiddaħħal              “Ħadtu deċiżjoni mnawra”                  qaddis Malti room ta’ l-Isptar San Luqa              il-Whistleblower’s Act...                                   Gerald Fenech    Julia Farrugia    Imma dan is-suġġett          Editorjal                                             tant jiġi trattat b’mod                                 Valuri għal soċjetà  sekulari                     superfiċjali li kulħadd jisħaq                                                                      li hemm bżonn li ndaħħlu                            Il-każ   ta’ l-anzjana                                            l-protezzjoni fil-Liġi meta                                                             msawta    minn                 din ilha teżisti                                                            għal numru ta’         surġent                           Wara l-ħabs    snin                                                     kar ta’ persuni                   Il-ħlas għal servizzi sesswali jista’ jostor realtà ta’ tra                          Ara paġna 13                       Julia  Farrugia      Ara paġna 3                                                       

This is a paid advert by the Nationalist Party                                                                                    Illum                                                                                   klassifikati                                                    Ara l-paġni tan-nofs                                      OST                24  siegħa  f’nofs ta’  baħar   jistennew                     P APER

  P               il-ħniena ta’ Malta – paġna 4   

       NEWSPAPER POST NEWSPAPER        L-Alternattiva se tapplika għal stazzjon tat-TV – paġna 7                Taste the difference       • Suppliment speċjali fi l-paġni tan-nofs NEWSPAPER POST • Editorjal paġna 11

• Carm Mifsud Bonnici paġna 14 T

• X’kien jgħid Manwel Dimech paġna 21 OS APER P APER

   P

 POST NEWSPAPER                   

    POST NEWSPAPER            Taste the difference 16 maltatoday election special | ThursdayTuesday 04 06 March March 2008 2008 news editorialnews ThursdayTuesday 0406 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 17

Electoral snapshots by Gilbert Calleja PIPPA ZAMMIT cUTAjAR PHOTOGRAPHY BY PIPPA

An animated Lawrence Gonzi at a press conference in Charles Mangion rouses the “lions of change” at Luxol Alfred Sant - Mistra Valletta yesterday PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA

Taking a break - Lino Farrugia gets his pulse checked Not exactly a ‘mass meeting’ - Azzjoni Nazzjonali in Valletta Alternattiva Demokratika has highlighted various irregularities backstage after delivering a heartfelt speech to hunters in in the planning process in its press conferences, in this Rabat photo, being shown at the St Paul’s Bay bypass.

Quote “How do you know that this was committed by Nationalist Party supporters? It could have been committed by somebody else on purpose” – PN secretary general Joe Saliba

Editorial MALTATODAY, MEDIATODAY LTD, VjAL IR-RIHAN, SAN GWANN SGN 9016 • MANAGING DIRECTOR: ROGER de GIORGIO • MANAGING EDITOR: SAVIOUR BALZAN • ACTING EDITOR: MATTHEW VELLA Tel: (356) 21 382741-3, 21 382745-6 • Fax: (356) 21 385075 • Website: www.maltatoday.com.mt • E-mail: [email protected]

Fandom, never missing from Waiting for his moment - Lawrence Gonzi gets ready to At ease - Gonzi is always at his best during mass meetings, mass meetings address the masses. like this one at the Granaries in Floriana Lower the tempo

THE tempo reached in this election try can well do without, as such tactics whether he was lying on the matter. tary replacing the news, blatant biased campaign – arising from scaremonger- only ignite passions, leaving us none the And his decision to disrupt yesterday’s reporting and slanted journalism with ing campaigns, mudslinging, accusa- wiser regarding the political substance press conference with the blessing of little regard to the journalistic tenet of tions of corruption, the filing of libel of the debate. his party, is not politically correct, of- exposing the truth. suits and much unnecessary eyeball-to- Likewise, such political attacks are fensive to the other journalists and an We augur yet again, even at the elev- eyeball confrontation – is unacceptable found in the libel cases filed by the Cab- abusive presence, since as a candidate enth hour, that the debate focuses on the andCHARLOT risks turning ZAHRA violent unless the two inet and the retaliatory poster “Sant is the Broadcasting Authority’s rules for- electoral programmes of the respective party leaders take stock of the situation trouble [inkwiet]” – also a debasing of bid him to participate in the debate as parties, informing people of their pri- and take corrective action immediately. the persona of the Opposition leader. a journalist. While recognising his um- orities, targets, programmes and vision ThisALTERNATTIVA newspaper, as Demokratika well as the party(AD) chairpersonSant’s attack Harry on Vassallo’s Jeffrey Pullicino residence Or- brage at being accused of corruption by for the future of our society, rather than Fiery - AN’s leader Josie Muscat scowls as he makes his AN party president Charles Attard at the hunters’ meeting Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando makes his appearance in Mistra leadersin Sliema themselves, was vandalised had expressed at the end the of thelando’s Nationalist action Party in renting (PN) meeting out a plot in of the Opposition leader, his reaction has a mudslinging game aimed exclusively point last Sunday in Rabat after a press conference held by Alfred Sant on the subject hopeDingli for Street a sober on Sunday and an afternoon. informative land to third parties who applied for been over the top and while to him it at tarnishing reputations that can nev- of a planning application for a disco on his land campaign,An AD creatingstatement a calm issued environment late yesterday a eveningMEPA permitsaid that has unidentified been vicious per- – al- means increasing his personal stand- er be cleared a few days away from an forsons people had to damaged freely exercise the glass their pane demo- coveringthough the big one window is resigned that there to is accept on the this ing among core constituency support- election, with persons accused of cor- craticground right floor to elect of Vassallo’s a government. residence And at Stellaas the Maris new realityStreet: ofa “stone’spolitical throw” election- ers, risks damaging his party. We do not ruption having to defend themselves in yet,away in thefrom past where days the the PN negative mass-meeting cam- waseering, held somethingon the same not day. absent on either question his liberty to chase and con- the court of public opinion rather than paignThe has AD reached chairperson, new his lows, wife and and now his twoside. children were not at their residence front, but he must remember that he is a court of law. risksat the spilling time of over the incident. into unruly behav- Pullicino Orlando has certainly ruined a politician not a journalist. This level of decency in this election iour,Deputy endangering AD Chairperson law and order.Stephen The Cachia his expressed own green the credentials, party members and heand cer- The party leaders should have set campaign risks being debased further ELECTION SpECIaL partyactivists’ leaders unreserved must act now.solidarity with Vassallotainly and committed his family. an He error appealed of judgment for guidelines on corrective behaviour be- unless the political programmes take Thereresponsibility have been and moderation a number in of the bill- politicalin not statements having immediately during these objecteddays “so to fore this campaign. Party journalists centre-stage, rather than the accusa- boardsthat people’s which minds in our are not opinion agitated have and similarthe application incidents made. are avoided”. should focus on their roles, and not tions of corruption which, in the ab- helpedAsked to raisefor his tension reaction with to theirthe vandal offen- actsWhile on Vassallo’s the generic house, accusation PN Secretary- of cor- monitor media workers from either side sence of proof can be nothing but an at- siveGeneral language. Joe SalibaThe Labour told MaltaToday Party advert yesterday ruption evening comes that without he “strongly any substanti- con- of the divide or the independent press, tempt to simply tarnish reputations for tarnishingdemns the all act members without of any the reservations, Cabinet ated irrespective evidence of ofwhoever the very committed act of cor- while the party’s security should not political advantage. Behaviour which is – it”.barring an excluded Michael Frendo ruption, Pullicino Orlando’s belated impede their leaders from being asked not politically correct should be made – asQuizzed “corrupt”, by thiscasting newspaper a wide whatnet over measures decision the PN to intended recommend to take that to ensurethe appli- a question by creating security fencing. known and public, but the vague accu- Cabinetthat similar members incidents where do the not heart take of place the incation future, be Saliba withdrawn said curtly: raises “How questions do After all the quizzing of politicians is sations of corruption on an individual matteryou know is bad that administration, this was committed political by Nationalisttoo, given Partythe publication supporters? of It a could consent the norm in a democracy. The party me- must not be accepted as fair game even maltatoday incompetence,have been committed and improper by somebody conduct else – onform purpose”. bearing the signature of his archi- dia must lower the tempo of their media in the ruthless political world. is questionable.Asked for his This reaction is the to Americani- Saliba’s statement,tect and Vassallo his name told for MaltaToday: the MEPA permit“In which have simply become 24/7 propa- Lower the tempo before the situation WILL BE BAcK NEXT THURSDAY - DON’T MISS OUT zationthe 18 of yearslocal politics,that I have which been our living coun- here, onI have his land. never It suffered now raises a vandal the question act of of ganda machines with political commen- escalates further. any kind. It was only on Sunday after the PN meeting that this happened. The possibility that it might have been somebody else is there, but the probability is remote” 18 maltatoday election special | ThursdayTuesday 04 06 March March 2008 2008 opinionnews news ThursdayTuesday 0406 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 19 OP Charles Attard A brave new economy e do not want taxa- to where is 3% extra VAT parastatal public company so this public company got silver better platform for the Maltese tion to work against went! The water and electric- that a debtor will be raised on service! government. This proposal our economy. This ity surcharge, together with the balance sheet. Soon after This is definitely not the way definitely goes against what isW what has happened in Malta VAT imposed on it: where is Malta’s accession to EU, this Azzjoni Nazzonali proposes to Alternattiva Demokratika said for the past five years, if not this money being allocated? In public company had appealed create an effective economy. when they wanted to make Across more. The government has accounting terms we call these and won the case; but they for- Our intention is to reduce heavier taxes on banks and failed to generate revenue exercises as “cost centres” and got one thing: our fellow busi- gradually taxation to 18%, per- corporations; which taxes re- 9. List of questions (13) from tourism; has renounced our experts in the ministry nessmen and self-employed sonal and corporate. The only flect themselves in the cost of 10. Arrest (3) its rights of servitude over the of finance simply choose to wait for about three years to difference between personal service provided such as loan 11. Continue steadily (7) gas pipe-line currently passing refrain from giving out such have their appeal heard while tax and corporate tax will be interests and related fees. 12. Immense (4) 13. 10 US cents (4) through our geographical do- statistical information; I know the personal rebates currently We did not forget the prop- 15. Inexpensive (5) main, referred to as “the con- they do have the means to do amounting to €10,000, which erty owners who refrain to 17. Confer (7) tinental shelf”; has renounced it, but they simply don’t report! we will augment to €15,000. rent out their property because 19. Body of honeybees (5) millions of Euros over inter The government continued Such a method of taxation they do not wish to pay 35% on 21. Weep (3) vivos revenue on the Tigné & to bank on taxation revenue rules out any need to cut their revenue. Azzjoni Naz- 23. The telling of lies (5) 24. Bow and arrow skill (7) Manoel Island project; and and when the estimated rev- taxation on overtime and all zjonali proposes rent revenue 25. Roof overhang (5) has failed to make the most enue from taxation seemed to other frills offered by political to be taxed at 18% (after the 27. Infant (4) of what Europe is giving in fail, the government squeezed parties, all in a choir of politi- maintenance allowance of 28. Make indistinct (4) terms of financial incentives. the businessmen and the self Azzjoni cal auctioneers. Parents who 20%); and rental revenue from 30. Packed (7) The government has chosen to employed persons over ex sacrifice their career and stay properties built before 1959 32. French vineyard (3) 33. Offi cer ranking below a raise its income from taxes. officio investigations dating Nazzjonali at home raising their children shall be taxed at 5%, also after lieutenant (13) Most taxes were given an between four to eight years “ will be allowed a tax rebate the maintenance allowance of objective but all monies were backwards. This also didn’t believes that amounting to the minimum 20%. put into one kitty and nobody work out, so our “socialist” wage, which tax rebate can be Azzjoni Nazzjonali believes Down PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA knows what purpose is our government forced our busi- the failure of waived onto their husband or that the failure of PN and taxation serving. The eco-tax, nessmen and self employed, wife (as the case may be) in also MLP (in its 22 months 1. Deliberately ambiguous (9) 2. Reposes (5) well favoured by Architect once again, to forecast their PN and also order to allow a wider rebate in power) is due to the heavy 3. Cease (4) Carmel Cacopardo, MEPA three year profits (dictated to the family. financial squeeze on entrepre- 4. Removes errors (8) official then, and endorsed by by the tax Compliance Unit) Azzjoni Nazzjonali always neurs. Our entrepreneurs are 5. Immature (6) the Greens’ Dr Harry Vassallo on an irrevocable contract: MLP is due offers incentives to the hard the economy motors because 6. Grime (4) in a book written by Carmel what a way of budgeting! And worker, employed and employ- they invest and they offer em- Cacopardo, is generating rev- this was not enough to make to the heavy er. No one will continue to be ployment. All machines need enue: but where is this money Malta’s financial position look enticed to under-declare wages adequate environment, fuel being spent? good in the eyes of EU and ac- financial and the government will reappage 4 and air to perform. Let us give There is no direct indication cept us as their brothers. more. With this brave move, this environment, fuel and air in Malta’s financial statements, So the government needed to squeeze on foreign investors will definitely to our entrepreneurs and our which we call “il-budget”. The come up with another finan- come to Malta, bringing pros- countrymen will flourish with increase in VAT from 15% to cial asset to balance Malta’s entrepreneurs perity with them, and pros- them. 18% was intended to balance liabilities, and this is where perity does not only means the extra costs being incurred a brilliant idea came: a VAT wealth but it induces jobs, Dr Charles Attard is presi- on health services: there is assessment of circa €8 million investments, better wages, a dent of Azzjoni Nazzjonali no such direct indication as was imposed on a government good standard of living and a [email protected]

Take advantage of free classifi ed adverts in MaltaToday and MaltaToday midweek Choose category. Fill in the boxes provided. Write in block letters. Your advert will appear for three weeks in both MaltaToday and MaltaToday midweek. You may “Why should we renew this without any charge by simply re-submitting the application. MaltaToday is the only FREE CLASSIFIED newspaper together with Illum which offers free classifi eds to it’s readers. take a decision Send your form to: ADVERTS MaltaToday classifi eds, Media Today, Vjal ir-Rihan, San Gwann SGN 9016. on the destiny classifi [email protected] of our kids on ANTIQUES FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERT 1 BOATS the basis of FURNITURE GENERAL fear?” Name: ______LETTING PETS PROPERTY Address: ______RELATIONSHIPS SITUATIONS WANTED ______SITUATIONS VACANT SERVICE TUITION Tel: ______email: ______VEHICLES WANTED ALL PRICES INDICATED FOR YOUR PRODUCT OR SERVICE MUST BE IN LM AND EUR

FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERT 2 ANTIQUES BOATS FURNITURE Name: ______GENERAL LETTING PETS Address: ______PROPERTY RELATIONSHIPS SITUATIONS WANTED ______SITUATIONS VACANT SERVICE Tel: ______email: ______TUITION VEHICLES WANTED ALL PRICES INDICATED FOR YOUR PRODUCT OR SERVICE MUST BE IN LM AND EUR This is a paid advert by the Nationalist Party 20 maltatoday election special | ThursdayTuesday 04 06 March March 2008 2008 opinionnews news ThursdayTuesday 0406 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 21 OP Edward Fenech More savings, the green way

am not surprised that ticular, feel that they are on a prices. They are not. The role lieve that in order to improve when people are asked perpetual “catching up game”, of government is to ensure people’s purchasing power what their most urgent trying to make ends meet. The that we have a well function- more structural reforms need Across Iconcern is, almost one third cost of housing, healthcare ing, highly competitive market to be implemented. The cur- answer “the cost of living”. and transport have spiralled in every sector – this is the rent situation in the bank- 9. List of questions (13) The middle classes, in par- upwards in the last 10 years, most efficient and effective ing market for example, is in 10. Arrest (3) and recently even the increas- way of keeping prices down. effect a duopoly. This does 11. Continue steadily (7) Every private 12. Immense (4) ing cost of food has started What is Alternattiva not guarantee that consumers 13. 10 US cents (4) to impact the purchasing Demokratika suggesting? In have adequate choice. Al- 15. Inexpensive (5) power of families. Apart from our electoral manifesto for a though the situation seems to vehicle costs 17. Confer (7) increasing prices, people are coalition we have pledged to be improving with the addi- “ 19. Body of honeybees (5) also feeling impoverished work within the next govern- tion of new banks, it will be a you €14 (Lm6) 21. Weep (3) 23. The telling of lies (5) because of the need to en- ment to establish a consumer long while before there is real 24. Bow and arrow skill (7) sure that their children are association. This body will competition in this sector. per day. That’s 25. Roof overhang (5) equipped with the latest and work not only to keep a careful The most neglected politi- 27. Infant (4) The role of best goods and services to eye on price abuse, but also to cal issue by all our political a heck of a lot 28. Make indistinct (4) further their education and report and take appropriate adversaries in this election is 30. Packed (7) government therefore better their career action on any form of consum- that of transport and mobility. 32. French vineyard (3) of money 33. Offi cer ranking below a “ prospects. The cost of private er abuse, whether it is product The cost of getting around in lieutenant (13) is to ensure lessons is perhaps the best (or defects, bad customer services a country the size of ours is worst) case in point. or faulty guarantees. Ger- hideously expensive. This is that we It is the job of the political many operates a world class because in Malta we are highly whether to own two cars or Down PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA class to make proposals on consumer association that dependent upon private trans- not. It is a choice the Greens 1. Deliberately ambiguous (9) have a well how do deal with the “cost of protects the rights of consum- port. Every private vehicle which to provide in the coali- 2. Reposes (5) living”. This requires a strong ers. We are further proposing costs you €14 (Lm6) per day. tion government. Families able 3. Cease (4) functioning, dose of realism. We live in a that this consumer association That’s a heck of a lot of money. to manage with one car can 4. Removes errors (8) liberalised market - the im- is to be funded by govern- We must have a radical reform save as much €5,000 per year. 5. Immature (6) highly position of “across-the-board” ment, but operated independ- in transport, starting with the Our political adversaries can 6. Grime (4) price controls is not an option. ently of government. We are liberalisation of public buses continue selling you pipe- Even if it were, this would only proposing this because we feel and taxis, so that the service dream savings of a few euro competitive stifle competition and lead that this consumer association reaches European standards cent per day. page 4 to further increase in prices. must in no way be influenced within a few years. We must market in Both the Nationalist Party by government; nor should it encourage public transport Edward Fenech is finance and Labour sometimes try and be seen to be influenced by use by expanding routes and and economy spokesperson every sector give the impression that they government. improving service. Then for Alternattiva Demokra- are in a position to control The Greens also be- families would have a choice tika OP Roderick Galdes

“Why should we Land use in our plan for a new beginning take a decision he State of the Envi- coastline no longer retains its candidates go through simi- of the authority’s handling of ronment Report 2005 natural form”. lar experiences, irrespective land matters with the utmost on the destiny stipulates that in the April 2007 saw the publica- of which party they represent. transparency and account- T14 years between 1990 and tion of an important follow-up The situation is quite simple; ability, but also by projecting of our kids on 2004, the developed portion to this report, the State of the it’s a case of the pot calling the MEPA as an institution that of Malta’s 1km coastal buffer Environment Indicators 2006. kettle black. can be trusted. We have placed the basis of area grew by approximately The latter report states that The PN comfortably accuses land conservation as one of 5%. The same report refers to “between 2004 and 2005, the previous Labour governments our top priorities, taking into A Labour fear?” MEPA statistics which then developed portion of Malta’s of land maladministration consideration both sustain- indicated that “21% of the 1km coastal zone grew by 1%”, when George-of-this-con- ability issues and the need government implying that Malta’s ecologi- crete-jungle goes on record as for healthier and safer urban “ cally sensitive coastal areas the minister with the longest environments. A new Labour will be a good are being subjected to further list of controversial develop- Government shall consolidate unwarranted pressure. I shall ment issues in Maltese his- the EIA process, ensuring that listener and a not mince my words – govern- tory: Fort Cambridge, Xaghra Malta’s EIA Regulations are ment’s efforts, if any, to imple- l-Hamra, Qui-si-sana, Ramla applied in accordance with EU ment better coastal zone man- l-Hamra, and the notorious law thus giving the process faithful public agement policies, or perhaps Sant’ Antnin may represent the credibility it deserves not to curb on illegal develop- the most obvious examples, least in full respect of well-de- servant We are aware ments across these areas, are but the outright transfor- fined public consultation legal proving totally ineffective. mation of localities such as provisions. that a very Labour is concerned about Sliema and Marsascala into Strategic Environmental Im- But above all a Labour gov- “ the country’s prevailing land massive building sites is just pact Assessment (SEA) shall ernment will be a good listener significant use t rends. We a re awa re t hat a as worrying. As if the PN stal- serve its purpose as a vital and a faithful public servant, very significant portion of the warts ever bothered about the tool for the implementation of working hard to bring for- portion of the public has lost faith in MEPA’s pleas of so many residents in sustainable land management ward all the talents into our integrity when it comes to these areas! I need more space plans and programmes once fold, and embracing the good- public has lost land management and related and time to delve into the land Labour is in office. We also will of all the environmental issues. My experience dur- rationalisation mess, a clear- intend to prioritize this, given NGOs to guarantee a better faith in MEPA’s ing home-visits is that John cut example of PN hard-head- the current status of agricul- Malta for us all. It’s what the Citizen is unwilling to put up edness, irresponsibility and tural land across the entire “Pjan Ghal Bidu Gdid” is all integrity with the usual inexplicable environmental laissez-faire. span of our islands. Forget about! permit-granting en masse a L abou r ha s it s pla n s. A s a f i rst Gonzipn – there won’t be any week or two before some elec- crucial step we want MEPA senseless tampering with the Roderick Galdes is Labour toral contest. I am sure that to regain its standing with ODZ boundaries under the spokesperson for the environ-

most (if not all!) of the other the public, not just in terms next Labour Government! ment This is a paid advert by the Malta Labour Party 22 maltatoday election special | ThursdayTuesday 04 06 March March 2008 2008 sportsnews sportsnews ThursdayTuesday 0406 March 2008 | maltatoday election special 23 Stompers assert authority Ron Dennis to announce exit this week? ACCORDING to the latest ru- Formula 1 team back in 1981 and Formula 1. While leading his Hakkinen to the top. It is expect- nis starting in Melbourne. Ron mours McLaren team boss and made it one of the most suc- team he brought men like Ayr- ed that Martin Whitmarsh will Dennis has decided he wants to shareholder Ron Dennis will cessful teams in the history of ton Senna, Alain Prost and Mika take over duties from Ron Den- spend more time with his family. announce his departure from the team later this week. The in well-matched encounter 61-year-old Briton has taken this decision without any pressure hit straight back with a fine try Kavallieri York cisk Excel 12 from Mercedes or the rest of the MIKE TURNER seas hit back with a West try and a series of devastating runs off Sharks Saddles 5 Cornthwaite scored another to by Acheson who converted it to the back of the scrums with a fine team. put Stompers ahead at 15-8 at half take the lead. Back came Vella, a burst, supported by Cutajar who Ron Dennis joined the McLaren cISK LAGER LEAGUE time. welcome return after injury, with flipped to Doublesin to score, con- Kavallieri closed the gap on Stompers pushed on with a De- a Kavallieri try, converted by At- verted by Attard. Borg came on Sharks with the second win in Renault needs battista try after finely timed pass- tard, to which he added a penalty. for Kavallieri and his experience succession, and must now feel Stompers TGIFriday 37 ing which inspired Overseas into Then new ‘Gator Cape scored a immediately shone as he won two they have a real chance to retain to rebuild Globalair Overseas 13 territorial advantage from which brilliant try with an evasive solo balls off the head which launched the championship, after yet an- the ball was spun out to Azzopardi run from half way, only to hurt B. Bonavia to set up tries by Dou- other extremely close and tough confidence - STOMPERS started with a bang for a try to keep them in the game, his arm as he scored and leave blesin and Grima, both converted match. and were straight into a series of but from here on Stompers began the field. Acheson converted this by Attard. Bonavia scored a try A lucky bounce from the kick- Alonso hard running and driving attacks. to turn the screw and dominate. too and added two penalties to himself as ‘Gators tired and the off bamboozled Sharks into giv- regain the lead for ‘Gators. However, Overseas defence held Cassar, Overseas, and Diaman- young Schembri, up from the jun- ing away a scrum on their own FERNANDO Alonso says Re- out well and when a fine kick by tino (Stompers) were both yellow Grima scored two tries, one iors scored his first try in his first line, but they defended well and nault needs to rebuild its con- Duffy cleared the line to launch carded after a silly tussle. Further converted by Attard to give Kav- match, converted by Attard. Alli- opened the score when Beverie fidence after a difficult 2007 their own attacking series, which tries were scored for Stompers by allieri a half time lead of 27-20. gators Acheson had to be awarded Sultana broke away with a power- season, if it is to regain the ended with Sparling grabbing the Fountain, Morten and Zammit, Kavallieri opened the second Man of the Match. ful run to score a try. kind of form that helped him lead for Overseas with a penalty. one was converted by Reljic, who half with a slice of luck when Kavallieri hit back with a superb and the team to two champi- The match swung back and forth, was then also yellow carded. Camilleri was awarded a try after BEN BENNETT cUP break from kick-off by Esther Az- WOMENS RUGBY onships in 2005 and 2006. Overseas full back Bocanicci Stompers veteran Diamantino touching the corner flag, only for zopardi to score under the posts. “Two years ago the team had leaving the field with injury, and a was Man of the Match for his con- the Gators’ Acheson to intercept Again the kick off into space Panthers Huggins 0 more confidence in its ability good position for Stompers being stant hard work and guidance. and run in some 60 metres un- bounced badly for Sharks and after two titles,” Alonso said. wasted by a bad kick by Morten. der the posts. Converted by Far- Kavallieri York cisk Excel 31 Kavallieri attacked with gusto. Kavallieri York cisk Excel 63 “Now, every time something Suddenly big Cerketa, who is rugia. Grixti was yellow carded Acquilina was bursting through new is out on track, they feel PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA Alligators cisk Lager 27 learning to play to his weight, for a high tackle and this really Although Panthers are improv- when an illegal tackle by Gauci like then need to keep their burst away and offloaded to the sapped the stamina of his team. ing and made determined efforts earned her a yellow card and gave fingers crossed - that’s the equally strong Ellul to crash The improvement of Alligators Beppe Sammut has developed a to use their strength and tackle Kavallieri a penalty try, converted negative effect 2007 has had.” through for a try to give Stomp- continues and this match was no bad habit of taking quick penal- properly, Kavallieri were never in by Azzopardi to give a half time “However, in 2004 we had ers the lead. Morten then made pushover until the last quarter. ties and running away from his danger of losing. Romina Vella lead of 12-5. problems and the following up for his previous error to make Kavallieri burst into action and own support which wasted much scored two good tries and showed Sharks spent practically all the year we won the champion- a superb dummy, break and 75 Attard scored a good try almost of ‘Gators potential. Bob Bonavia an eye for angled running, mini second half attacking furiously, ship,” Alonso added. “I’m con- metre run for a sweet try. Over- immediately, but the new “Gators at number 8 for Kavallieri began speedster Vicky Aquilina scored but their handling was bad as vinced we can do it again, the three tries and Esther Azzopardi their excitement overcame their  team knows how to do it.” converted three. page 4 control. Time and again overlaps were wasted in the desperation to Shark Saddles walk over score against the sturdy Kavallieri Panthers Huggins. defence. A major part was played Pursuits Panthers were unable to field at scrum half where experienced a team after injuries in the first Kavallieri Sara Vella was always Across match. too quick for Sharks newcomer Sudoku 9. List of questions (13) Claire Casha. 10. Arrest (3) 11. Continue steadily (7) 12. Immense (4) 13. 10 US cents (4) 15. Inexpensive (5) Berlusconi: Adriano 17. Confer (7) 19. Body of honeybees (5) 21. Weep (3) not Cassano 23. The telling of lies (5) 24. Bow and arrow skill (7) SILVIO Berlusconi has insisted 25. Roof overhang (5) 27. Infant (4) “Why should we that he would rather sign Adri- 28. Make indistinct (4) ano for his Milan side than 30. Packed (7) take a decision equally troubled marksman 32. French vineyard (3) Antonio Cassano. 33. Offi cer ranking below a lieutenant Adriano’s career is hanging by (13) on the destiny a thread as he has been threat- ened with the axe at Sao Paulo, Down of our kids on where he is rebuilding his ca- reer on loan from Inter. 1. Deliberately ambiguous (9) the basis of After a dismissal for a head- 2. Reposes (5) butt, skipping training and an Sudoku rules are 3. Cease (4) 4. Removes errors (8) fear?” altercation with a photogra- extremely easy: Fill all empty 5. Immature (6) pher, L’Imperatore’s future is squares so that the numbers 1 6. Grime (4) in doubt, but Berlusconi would to 9 appear once in each row, 7. Provide with fresh air (9) happily see him in the Rosson- column and 9x9 box. 8. One-edged sword (5) eri side. Answers to the MaltaToday crossword will be published in the next issue 14. Soft sweetmeat (5) “Adriano is a great player with 16. Figure out (5) Yesterday’s solution 18. Small brush for cleaning fi ngernails such physical ability,” the media (9) tycoon stressed. Returning to Italy: will this be the 20. Offi ce of a mayor (9) “I’m sure that Milan would be new gear of Adriano on his return Chess 8 22. Largest drum (4,4) the ideal environment for him to Italy? 7 Today’s Weather 26. Fiddle (6) to return to being the Adriano ed player behave in such a way,” 6 27. Cured pig meat (5) 29. Pale reddish purple (5) 8 5 WARNINGS: Nil that played for Parma. the Diavolo chief said. 30. Young bears (4) “I hope that this period in “He has such potential, but he 4 7 WEATHER: Partly cloudy becom- 31. Musical composition for two (4) Brazil can put him back on the just doesn’t have the ability to 3 ing rather cloudy in right track, but I think it is un- behave like a normal person.” 6 2 the afternoon likely that Inter would agree to Berlusconi concluded his in- 1 5 sell him to us.” terview by commenting on the VISIBILITY: Good Sampdoria striker Cassano’s rumour that Marcello Lippi will A B C D E F G H 4 Yesterday’s solution temper is also ruining his ca- replace Carlo Ancelotti should WIND: Light to moderate reer and the gifted hitman faces Milan lose to Arsenal in tomor- White had play and 3 mate in three moves Southwest (force 3 a long spell on the sidelines after row night’s Champions League to 4) becoming light throwing his shirt at the referee last 16 clash. 2 1. Kf6+ Re5 (Kxf4) MOSTLY CLOUDY Northwest (force 3) yesterday following a dismissal “Going out of the Champions 2. Rxe5+ Kxf4 º º for dissent. League will not lead to Lippi be- 1 3. Re4++ 19 C / 14 C SEA: Slight to moderate Unlike Adriano, it seems that ing brought in,” he maintained. A B C D E F G H or UV INDEX: 4 becoming light Berlusconi wouldn’t be willing “I have great respect for Lippi 1. ... Kxf4 to gamble on the Bari native. and consider him to be a great White to play and mate in three moves 2. Re4++ “What a shame to see a talent- Coach, but Ancelotti will stay.” Yesterday’s solution 24maltatoday maltatoday election election special special | Tuesday | Thursday 04 March 06 March 2008 2008 news All parties agree: Lino Farrugia out of line

DAVID DARMANIN month Josie Muscat told Malta- ten agreement between Azzjoni sallo and Deputy Prime Minister turi Nassaba Ambjentalisti (MK- Today that hunting needs to be Nazzjonli to FKNK, Muscat said Tonio Borg were however less NA) representatives met Labour defended, even at the cost of EU “I am sure he would honour all optimistic. According to both, Party officials to discuss “the ALL four political parties concur membership. we’ve agreed on.” Lino Farrugia has already broken future of hunting and trapping, that hunters’ federation (FKNK) But even Dr Josie Muscat “At the end of the day, whoever the law. “Whoever encourages now that Malta is a full member secretary Lino Farrugia stepped stopped short of supporting the breaks the law is a criminal and unlawful behaviour is breaking of the EU,” as a statement issued out of line in Gozo on Saturday, FKNK in its latest tactic. “That I’m quite sure Lino Farrugia will the law,” they said, echoing each by MKNA revealed. Described when he informed hunters that one fights for one’s rights is part not resort to such measures,” other almost to the letter even by MKNA secretary general as he would not encourage them of democracy but nobody should Muscat confidently concluded. though contacted separately. “cordial”, the meeting established to observe the law if the spring ever resort to violence,” Muscat AD chairperson Harry Vas- Borg, when, was asked whether that there is room for more talk hunting season fails to open as told MaltaToday. “Of course, he thinks that the commissioner on the matter in the future. usual towards the end of March. there are certain instances when should take action against Far- “MKNA, while it wishes suc- Quizzed separately by Mal- violence may be required, rugia, he curtly replied: “Ask that cess for the Labour Party for the taToday, spokespersons for the but that would be within question to the police.” 8 March elections, hopes that four political parties distanced the army’s remit.” On his part, Vassallo said: “It what has been discussed and themselves to varying degrees Asked whether he is in the Commissioner’s inter- agreed during this meeting is ap- from Farrugia’s apparent sug- agrees with Farrugia’s est and responsibility to take the plied,” the statement said. What gestion of incitement to unlaw- statements, Muscat necessary action in an adequate exactly has been discussed and ful behaviour, made in front of a said: “This is not a and timely way, considering the agreed, remains unclear. crowd of some 500 hunters and question of agreement current circumstances,” adding Meanwhile, 13 prominent trappers in Victoria on Saturday. or disagreement. One that he is quite sure that action NGOs from environmental, “Whereas I usually encourage has to understand the against Farrugia is already be- social and cultural sectors ad- you not to break the law, this pains of those who ing considered. dressed a letter to both the PM time, if the spring hunting season are affected by anti- Less committal was the po- and the Opposition Leader to will not be opened by whoever is hunting measures. sition of Labour Party spokes- endorse a full implementation of in government after these elec- We have to under- person Gavin Gulia: “Every- the Birds Directive by outlawing tions, I will not say anything,” stand that we are a body must take responsibility spring hunting and trapping in Farrugia told hunters. “And Dr small country, that for his actions. Lino Farrugia de- 2008 and beyond. MIKE TURNER Gonzi: don’t come crying to me we’re very densely pop- cided to express himself in that “Malta’s insistence on allow- afterwards, if hunters do not re- ulated and that everyone manner and he must take re- ing spring hunting and trap- spect the law…” has hobbies.” sponsibility for it,” he said. Asked ping of turtle doves and quails cISK LAGER LEAGUE PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT cALLEjA With the exception of Azzjo- Again, he insisted that “vio- to elaborate further, he added: “I has already become a European ni Nazzjonali, all parties have lence does no good to anyone.” will have to see the exact context wide embarrassment for our publicly agreed that whoever is Muscat described Lino Far- in which the statement has been country,” the letter read. In the Stompers TGIFri- re-elected to power cannot do rugia as a very sensible indi- said.” appeal, the NGOs asked the po- day much with regard to prospective vidual and as one who would Last week, Moviment litical leaders to “avoid further 37 hunting bans imposed by the Eu- “never resort to unlawful Kacca- embarrassment for our country Globalair Overseas ropean Court of Justice. measures.” Referring and ask you to endorse the full 13 Over the last weeks, the Azzjo- to a writ- implementation of the ni Nazzjonali (AN) leader has Birds Directive by STOMPERS started promoted itself as the only outlawing spring with a bang and were political party protect- hunting and trap- straight into a series ing the interests of the Lino Farrugia ping in 2008 and of hard running and hunting lobby. Last beyond.” driving attacks. How- ever, Overseas defence held out well and when a fine kick by Duffy cleared the line to launch their own

“Why should we take a decision on the destiny of our kids on the basis of fear?”