Election Special €0.50

ELECTION SPECIAL €0.50

ELECTIONS

6 maltaISSUE 111 • MONDAY, 01 JUNE 2009 • WWW.MALTATODAY.COM.MTtoday DAYS TO GO

‘Busuttil Jeffrey snubbed the PM on the secretary- slams general offer to retain his lucrative Simon MEP post’ – JPO Pullicino Orlando ﬁ res a broadside at Busuttil over ‘bad taste’ comment on Mistra party

FULL STORY PAGE 8 For more news and info log onto www.maltatoday.com.mt As from today, Saviour Balzan is blogging on the European election Newspaper post Newspaper THIS IS A PAID ADVERT 2 maltatoday election special | Monday 01 June 2009 news We will bring Europe to the centre of every village

JULIA FARRUGIA

FLANKED by his wife Kate, PN leader Lawrence Gonzi addressed an average-sized crowd of PN supporters in one of the most nototiourly polluted towns in Malta: Fgura. ATTARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAY Just six days prior to E-Day, Gonzi once again launched an appeal to the thousands of voters who as yet have not collected their voting documents. “It is very important. We only have five seats in the European Parliament. Each vote is worth gold. Maybe we’ll get the sixth seat, God be willing. I genuinely appeal to everyone – make the right choice. Go and vote.” Gonzi urged PN supporters to vote for each and every National- ist candidate. “I am trusting you. On 6 June go and pick your preferences, make the best choices. Don’t leave any candidate out.” Lawrence Gonzi accused the Labour Party of being irrespon-irresponsible for shrugging it shoulders over important issues suchuch as immigration. “We can make mistakes.akes. And please forgive us if wee do mistakes. But what will thehe country gain if someone simplyy rubs salt Lows into an open wound?”””hN the Na- “Today“T d wee can speakk with i h TheTh PPrime i Ministerinisterii tionalist leader asked. facts at ourouur fingertips. Five said that in ththe past Lawrence Gonzi stressedessed that yearsyears agagoo we joinedjoined the EU. yeyearar there werewe 37 • Sorry, Gonzi, but you are not Bryan during this campaign there was We cancaan say that just with organisations thathat Adams. “Please forgive me (us)” is a cliché a stark difference betweeneen the a smsmallmall part of what applied for EUU uttered by PN leaders during the last six PL and the PN: “PL wants Highs ththehe EU provides, we fundinfunding,g, whwhichh days of every campaign. In Fgura, this state- to go to Europe. We want succeededs in send- in turn amounamount- ment lacked credibility big time. At least the to bring you Europepe • Average delivery but well focused. ing 9,300 young edto €6,300,00€6,300,000. PN leader should have made an effort to here. We want to bringng people on EU According to give a few sincere examples of what he truly Europe to the centree • “We will bring you Europe in the centre of projects.” Lawrence GGon-o believes were the mishaps. If there were of your village, in ourr your village, in the roads and right in your Gonzi said zi, the GhaGharbb any, of course... streets, in our families, homes …” ththatat MaltaMalta anandd SaSann LaLawrenzwre z in our homes. We want manamanagedged to xouncils in GGozoo • Lawrence was very smart in his long- the EU to be a tool in A good punch that lifted the spirit and morale give back a lot applied to get EU sleeved shirt, but it must have been swelter- your hands,” climaxed of the supporters. Managed to create a to the European funds to rerestoreore Gonzi at the uproar off Union, includ- the façade of their ing under the noon sun under the soaring climax in the repeated refrain heard over and temperatures of a ﬂ oodlit tent. the present supporters. over again during this electoral campaign. ing the Maltese churches. “We will get Europe in values and the “This will improveim rove the the centre of the villageage perspectives of a Maltese touritouristicc product, in the centre of housingg es- • “Small is beautiful” – smalls country. more worworkk anand a better ecoecon-n- tates…” Well, it depends… ““SmallSmall is beautiful,” omy …” Taking advantage of the ap- GonGonzizi claimed, as the After the PN activityctivity journal- plause, the PN leader flauntedaunted his crowd lallaughedughed at the vari- ists could not posep se any question party’s track record overer the past ous connconnotationsnotations that this to PN leader aas he was wwhiskedhisked five years. phrase mighmightht evoke. in his car by papartyy officials. 10 maltatoday election special | Monday 01 June 2009 survey Educational divide marks MEP elections Simon Busuttil is ahead among all categories, but PN wins only among those with post-secondary education Anti-immigration pary Azzjo- Voting intention by education level mt survey JAMES DEBONO ni Nazzjonali is likewise also more popular among those with Post-secondary Secondary Primary WHILE voters with a post- a higher level of education. PN 36 30.9 43.6 secondary education are more Immigration is in fact the most PL 25.7 36.3 21.5 likely to vote for the Nation- important issue of the cam- AD 6.3 0.8 1.2 paign according to respondents alist Party and Alternattiva AN 1.7 0 0.6 Demokratika, those with a sec- with a secondary and post- ondary and primary education secondary education, while the Others 1.7 0.3 0 are more likely to vote for the cost of living is the top concern Not voting 6.3 7.7 8.6 Labour Party. of respondents with a primary Don’t know 22.3 24 24.5 This is the main result of a education. MaltaToday survey which pre- Predictably, concern with Top candidates among post-secondary respondents: dicts an absolute majority for bread and butter issues, such as the PL in Saturday’s vote. the cost of living and the hike Simon Busuttil 23.4 While the PN is 10 percentage in utility bills, prevail among Edward Scicluna 7.4 points ahead of the PL among those with a lower level of ed- Arnold Cassola 5.1 those with post-secondary edu- ucation while concern on the Louis Grech 2.3 environment is highest among cation, it lags 22% behind the Roberta Tedesco Triccas 1.7 PL among those with a primary those with a post secondary level of education. education. The PL is also six points ahead Simon Busuttil, Edward Sci- Top candidates among respondents with secondary education: of the PN among those with a cluna and Louis Grech emerge secondary level of education. as the most popular candidates Simon Busuttil 15.8 AD’s support is limited to re- among all categories of re- Edward Scicluna 4.1 spondents with a post-second- spondents. Louis Grech 4.1 ary level of education, among Arnold Cassola is the third Marlene Mizzi 3.8 which it gains 6.3%. most popular candidate among Vince Farrugia 2.1 But the Greens enjoy very lit- respondents with a post sec- tle support among respondents ondary education but enjoys with a secondary or primary no significant support among Top candidate among respondents with primary education level of education. other categories of voters. Simon Busuttil 10.4 Edward Scicluna 4.3 Louis Grech 3.1 David Casa 2.5 Joe Cuschieri 2.1

Most important issue of the campaign

Post-secondary Secondary Primary Immigration 46.9 29.8 14.1 Environment 8 4.4 4.9 Utility Bills 2.9 3.8 9.2 Hunting 2.9 3.3 4.3 Employment 2.2 4.4 1.2 EU rugulations 2.2 0 0 Cost of Living 0 7.4 18.4

Methodology A total of 1,127 respondents were randomly selected and contacted by telephone. Of these, 720 accepted to be interviewed. The results were weighed to reﬂ ect the age/sex balance of the population as represented in the latest demographic review. The survey has a margin of error of +/-3.65. The survey was conducted between Wednesday 20 May and Wednesday 27 May.

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POINTS OF VIEW

MaltaToday asks prominent personalities and opinion formers to comment on the campaign themes and main electoral issues ahead of Malta’s second- ever European election next Saturday

Joseph Cassar SJ Jesuit Refugee Service When the Berlin Wall came down almost 20 years ago, that unbelievable event sparked off a new beginning for Europe, the healing of a deep wound that had scarred the lives of millions of ordinary men, women and children over several decades. Thankfully, today we live in a States. The EP should ensure different Europe, one without that responsibilities are shared internal borders. Ironically, more fairly throughout the this new Europe is increas- EU. Moreover, the EP should ingly putting in place exter- arrive at a common European nal walls of a different sort, asylum system where all per- in the form of measures and sons seeking protection will be legislation that deny access to treated according to the same refugees in need of protection. high standards, in every Mem- For many asylum seekers from ber State. At the same time, it around the world, the only way should ensure that measures to reach a place of freedom to combat illegal employment and security is by travelling do not drive migrants who for and entering in an irregular some valid reason cannot be manner. More effective border returned home to destitution. controls will simply mean that As the EU negotiates vari- their journey will be harder ous Readmission Agreements and the risks greater, but these with third countries, in order will unlikely stop people from to facilitate the return of those moving. The European Parlia- irregularly present in its Mem- continue to do its utmost to age MEPs who transcend the dated reserve of trust, set- ment needs to ensure that ber States’ territories, MEPs ensure a safe and dignified view of the EP as a trading ting standards of humanity refugees can still gain access should use their power to en- life to refugees who are living floor where the compet- rather than consumption. I to territory where they can sure that these agreements in- in such countries. It should ing interests of Member expect our MEPs to push for safely obtain protection. clude human rights safeguards also renew its commitment to States are played out against a Europe where the weakest The Member States which and guarantee that under no the Millennium Development each another. I vote for a have their dignity upheld and are on the borders of Europe circumstance people are sent Goals which, in the face of forward-looking rather than the voiceless are heard. Only receive more asylum seekers. back to a country where they the global economic down- an inward-looking Europe. when the rights of the weak- We, who are on the south- may face persecution. turn, risk being indefinitely I want future generations in est are guaranteed will the ernmost border, are directly Most refugees flee to neigh- postponed or altogether Malta and on the continent rights of all be assured. affected by this situation and bouring countries, many of forgotten. to inherit a Europe aware of the highest proportion of asy- which are among the world’s We must have the courage its Christian roots and firmly Joseph Cassar SJ is director of lum seekers in the 27 Member poorest. Europe should to think differently. I envis- established on a consoli- the Jesuit Refugee Service

Mario needs is to have all its EP rep- East and Africa. Too much lip and forms of distinction mark- resentatives switch to a more service has been paid to Malta ing the countries forming the Azzopardi proactive European mind- as a crossroad island for politics EU. Unfortunately, we have no frame, politically, economically, and cultures but nothing was voices coming from Maltese Playwright, poet socially and culturally. One forthcoming to redimension intellectuals lobbying for and would expect that this involves Malta’s profile. Malta’s proac- encourage open, democratic and author also a departure from a certain tivity can cover various areas, and multi-cultural diver- confessionalist attitude which for instance university social sity, with Malta as a centre for Since joining the EU Malta saddles Maltese voting at the research, once we shed our multilateral and intercultural has had its fair share of EP when it comes to civil rights traditional fixation with teach- initiatives. What we need in achievements: it entered the issues, include gay rights, ing for certificates rather than this context as in others, is to 16-Block Euro zone, gained divorce and other such mat- perceiving third level education become imaginative dreamers success for most of the island’s ters having to do with personal as a source for innovative ideas. but also rational technicians/ SMIs, made marked advance- liberties. A banking network involving entrepreneurs. Malta should ment in the education sector On the other hand, Malta is northern African countries not remain indifferent to con- and created a serious awareness letting slip by important occa- could also be explored in terms ceptual and empirical inves- about responsibility shar- national, almost provincial ele- sions where we could indeed of economic diplomacy. tigation which can bring into ing in respect of clandestine ment has been too pronounced, take a leading role, for instance Given Malta’s accent on its sharp focus its role as a creative immigration. Malta’s draft of as if Malta can’t rid itself of its as regards the notion of the tourism industry, it is a shame catalyst in a Euro-Mediterrane- the EPP electoral programme colonial mentality, clamour- Mediterranean Union and the and a waste that we have not an space. on immigration is also to be ing at most times for support actualisation of the “bridging” entered the field of cultural noted. and assistance and geared on concept between Mediter- research which denotes the Mario Azzopardi is head of But my impression is that the a reactive mode. What Malta ranean countries, the Middle varied sensibilities, lifestyles the Malta Drama Centre 12 maltatoday election special | Monday 01 June 2009 news ON THE RECORD Compiled by James Debono Edward Scicluna Josie Muscat Partit Laburista Azzjoni Nazzjonali

On the deficit: OnOn MintoMintoffff own point. Is this serious? Come on! I would rather keep the deficit as it is On Malta’sa’s WhileWhile workers in Tal-BastjunTa You can’t even call this a Mickey Mouse for a year or two, reduce public expendi- chancess ofof live onon their daily brbread,e Mint- country, because Mickey Mouse will get ture on a yearly basis by one or two per joining the offoff now lives in his OOlive Gar- offended… cent and pass on those cost savings di- Eurozonene denden villa, works iinn a palace MaltaToday , February 2008 rectly to the taxpayer through a tax cut So it seemseems andand ddinesines witwithh tthehe rich. aimed at boosting the productive sec- you are not In-Nazzjon,In-NNazzjon, 19197474 On times gone by tors. Rating agencies and other similar entirely ssureure It is more encouraging to learn that the international agencies are expecting a of Malta’salta’s On thethe ‘new‘new oorder’r majority of you are deeply concerned by significant cut in public expenditures chances at WeWe should propoproposes a totally events unfolding in our island, an island Malta Financial and Business Times, joining thehe eu- differentdid fferent road. WWe should that up to some years ago was known July 2005 ro in 2008?8? showshow the people a newn order for its family values, rule of law, honesty I’m afraidd so… it wherewhere evereveryoneyone earnearnss as much and righteousness. Unfortunately, all On trade unions looks morere like one moneymoney as hehe can andand payspay the least this has gone overboard. Our social and Eurostat statistics show that our unit who is tryinging one’s luck possiblepossible taxes, wwherehere enterenterprise and financial problems worsen as our values labour costs have been increasing by at passing an exam… I’dI’d saysay hardhard workwork ararere rewarrewardedded withwit money reach rock bottom. To add insult to in- about 4%. Although wage increases late- Malta is pushingushing its luck.luck. MyMy cold-blood-cold-blood- andand the best jobs,jobs, and where the high- jury, the illegal immigration problem is ly have not been enormous, in view of ed assessmentment wouldwould bebe thatthat thethe exam- estest values are cultural and spiritual,spi not worsening and as things stand, tends to our declining productivity, unit labour iner wouldd say thatthat overalloverall ttherehere are too monetary.monetary. become worse, with all that brings with costs are increasing making our product many riskss and uncertainties suggesting Ir-Rieda,Ir-Rieda, 1981 it in the immediate and worse still, in more expensive. The unions have to be to us to giveve it another year.year. the not too distant future. shown the statistics. MaltaToday,day, October 2006 OnOn the construction ofof Mater An appeal to Maltese migrants on Malta Financial and Business Times, DeiDei Facebook, January 2009 July 2005 On economicnomic reforms It only serves to make some people p rich The EU, the IMF and the rating agen- but it made Malta poorer. cies are all very keen to see whether MaltaToday , February 2006 the government would credibly start a public finance reform, which includes On the PN government pensions, health, tertiary education and Do we have a government who is lead- social security. ing, or do we have four or five powerful MaltaToday, July 2006 people holding the two political parties by the balls? On the PN’s tax and spend MaltaToday, February 2006 economic policies You have a clearly unproductive ship- On the far right label yard. What do you do? You borrow What is far right in us? We want to el- heavily to subsidise their wages and low evate peoples’ status higher, we are con- productivity for two decades. You pro- cerned with the levels of taxation being vide expensive university education for imposed upon the middle class so that free with a small salary to the student their monies go to the rich, and we’re to boot. You provide the most generous concerned the gap between rich and pension scheme in Europe, free health poor is growing. Is that far right? for all, keep over-staffed ministries and MaltaToday , June 2007 government departments, and so on. And how do you do it? Tax and spend. On marrying foreigners And when you cannot tax, just borrow I’m not saying it’s wrong. I can’t tell peo- and borrow. ple whom to marry. My uncle was mar- MaltaToday, November 2008 ried to an English woman; my daughter- in-law is of mixed stock but born here. On his decision to contest But it worries me: look at single-parent with Labour families, broken marriages, more co- After Labour’s third consecutive elec- habiting couples and more people refus- toral defeat last March, I felt the demo- ing to get married. It’s this whole state cratic deficit was too significant to ig- of affairs that worries me, and it’s being nore,” he begins. “On the one hand you compounded. There’s also illegal immi- have the Nationalist party which is pro- grants, which as you know are now al- jecting the image of ‘party is king’. They lowed to bring their families here. act as though they own the country, and MaltaToday , June 2007 will be in government forever. On the other hand, there was an Opposition On reopening the EU package whose morale was rock-bottom, abso- What we want to do is renegotiate the lutely zilch...” treaty ‘a modo nostro’… in a way that is MaltaToday, May 2009 acceptable to both the hunters and the EU. On stipends MaltaToday , February 2008 “It would be very presumptuous of me to say that we should ‘do away’ with On broadcasting stipends… But even a recent European Let me tell you how serious this coun- Commission document suggests that try is. We have to pay to make our voices they are a burden on the system. But heard. PBS, the national broadcaster, these are things the taxpayer has to de- never invited us on any of their pro- cide. Does the taxpayer want to keep grammes. And obviously both Net and subsidising university students? If not, One TV ignored us completely. So we there are a number of ways the system had to pay to go on Smash TV… and can be revised. They could be converted then, by law, we have to invite repre- to loans, or grants, or part-loans, part- sentatives of the other parties for the grants... it’s not up to me to decide how sake of balance. So from the programme to reform the system.” we have paid for ourselves, we only have MaltaToday, May 2009 one third of the airtime to make our news Monday 01 June 2009 | maltatoday election special 7 Cassola slams Delimara power station contract RAY ATTARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAY

CHARLOT ZAHRA Now Malta had to see how to ergy on the feasibility of eco- then you should vote for us,” he for me, as by doing so, Gonzi tackle this problem, and that industries found that the global said to a huge applause of the agreed with what the Greens all ALTERNATTIVA Demokra- was one of the main aims of market for eco-industries had a activists present. across the EU have been insist- tika (AD) chairperson Arnold AD. volume of around 1,000 billion Cassola explained that unlike ing on the increase of maternity Cassola yesterday slammed the “AD is proposing the ‘Green Euros. the Maltese Parliament, the leave.” award by the Nationalist Gov- New Deal’, which is a new pact Cassola called on all AD ac- EP had eight different political Arqueros-Ebejer explained ernment of the contract for the for work,” Cassola said. tivists not to be disheartened groupings forming it. “During how AD has been insisting for extension of the Delimara Pow- “We want to create work in at the last four days of the elec- the debate on television with the past four to five months er Station to a company that those sectors about which we toral campaign. AD, Simon Busuttil said that that maternity leave should be will be supplying a plant oper- did not think till now,” the AD Referring to the polls pub- there was the need for a bal- increased for various reasons. ating with heavy fuel oil. leader explained. “The econom- lished in yesterday’s MaltaTo- anced representation in the EP. “Irrespective of whether I am Addressing a press conference ic crisis has led us to change our day and other paper, he noted “He is right – there is really elected, hearing the Prime Min- on jobs at the party’s offices in sources of energy and think of that there was a huge dispar- the need for a balanced rep- ister declare that he now agrees Sliema, Cassola said that the alternative energy sources.” ity between them. “In the polls resentation; we need to have a with the extension of maternity Nationalist administration Cassola insisted that had it not you have the MaltaToday poll representation in as much dif- has already been a victory for “has made a mistake and shown been for the crisis, “we would which shows that Cassola, to- ferent groups as possible,” he me,” she said to the applause of its hard-headedness when pur- not have changed our sources gether with Yvonne Arqueros, insisted. the activists present. chasing the power station tur- of energy. will be the fifth candidate that If an AD MEP was elected, The AD candidate for the EP bine operating with heavy fuel “If it had not been for cli- will obtain most votes in the EP Cassola added, “Malta will have elections explained the Estella oil in Delimara when there is mate change – and the world’s elections. 500 deputies that can be lobbied report in the EP did not only in- much cleaner technology avail- climate is changing, even in “On the other hand, The Sun- instead of 450 (200 from the cluded the extension of mater- able.” Malta, with deep cold in winter day Times is predicting that PES and 250 from the EPP, be- nity leave to 20 weeks but also Regarding the economic cri- to searing heat for the next six we will obtain 500 votes across cause there will be fifty Green provided for the introduction sis, Cassola said that “we have months, where we do not even the entire country with 0.25%. MEPs that can be influenced.” of paternity leave where men to concede... that is a crisis that see a drop of rain – we would The polls have their validity. I Yvonne Arqueros Ebejer, who would stay with their families is coming from abroad. We not have changed our lifestyle,” do not think that Malta Today is also contesting next Satur- for a number of weeks. cannot blame the Maltese Gov- the AD Chairperson added. will be 100% correct, neither day’s EP election, expressed her The meeting was also ad- ernment exclusively for what is Under the Green New Deal, The Sunday Times will be 100% happiness with Prime Minister dressed by AD candidates for happening.” “we will try to create five mil- correct,” the AD chairperson Lawrence Gonzi’s declaration the Local Council elections But despite all the bicker- lion new jobs in Europe in the insisted. on the extension of maternity Michael Briguglio (Sliema) and ing on television between the next five years,” the AD leader “We have to fight till the every leave. Mario Mallia (Birkirkara), who main parties and the negativity pledged. end, until Saturday at 10pm, we “I am very happy that Prime were already serving in the two – “because you have not done Cassola explained that accord- have to do our best to convince Minister Lawrence Gonzi at local councils respectively and this and because you have done ing to a study commissioned people,” Cassola insisted. “If the end agreed with us on the were up for re-election on 6 this” – there was however a top- by the Green Party in the EP you think that after 20 years of extension of maternity leave,” June. ic on which everybody was now to the Wuppertal Institute for activity, AD should have one of Arqueros-Ebejer declared. “I agreeing – the need for work. Climate, Environment and En- the six MEPs elected on 6 June, am very satisfied not only [email protected] maltatoday election special | Monday 01 June 2009 news Cuschieri to sue Mument, denies One TV fallback job parliamentary seat to Labour the country still needed Cusch- CHARLOT ZAHRA leader Joseph Muscat so that he ieri’s services and expressed his could be elected in the House admiration for the contribu- LABOUR MEP candidate of Representatives as Leader of tion that Cuschieri gave to the Joseph Cuschieri strongly re- the Opposition,” Cuschieri in- country and to parliamentary butted claims made about him sisted. democracy over the years. that appeared in the National- The Labour candidate de- “Now Lawrence Gonzi and his ist weekly paper Il-Mument scribed the plan mentioned by party are panicked because they yesterday, describing them as a the Nationalists’ media ma- know that in this election I am “fat, big and ruthless lie” about chine as “solely a figment of attracting towards me even Na- him. their imagination”. tionalist voters as well as float- The article in Il-Mument He said the Nationalists were ers who have admired the step claimed Cuschieri and fellow “well aware” that with him that I had taken,” he declared. Labour candidate Glenn Bed- elected an MP, they will not be Cuschieri accused the PN of ingfield were going to be ap- able to “bulldoze on workers, being afraid of the consequenc- pointed as Managing Director pensioners, the middle-class, es that they would be suffering and Head of News at One Pro- students, hunters, and the rest with the electorate, as well the ductions Limited, the company of the people”. fact that Labour leader Joseph running the PL’s radio and tel- Cuschieri explained that the Muscat was increasing his pop- evision stations, if they were only way the Nationalist Party ularity with the electorate. not elected. had at its disposal to stop him In view of this “barefaced lie” Cuschieri accused the Na- from being elected to the EP on about him by Il-Mument, in- tionalists of trying to get their 6 June was by coming out with tended to harm him personally, revenge on him at the eve of a huge lie on him. Joseph Muscat and the Labour the European Parliament elec- The candidate recalled how it Party, Cuschieri had instructed tions. “The Nationalists and was the Nationalist Party lead- his lawyers to start libel pro- Lawrence Gonzi still have not LIES, ALL LIES: Cuschieri denies Mument claims er Lawrence Gonzi himself who ceedings against the National- forgiven me for ceding my had declared in Parliament that ist newspaper. EU must accept Libya’s $1bn demand – Ellul Bonici

SHARON Ellul Bonici yester- the way towards a readmission day welcomed Libya’s proposal agreement with Libya,” Ellul for a $1 billion (€707 million) Bonici added. in EU aid in exchange for col- “Then it should strengthen laboration to stem illegal im- Frontex in order to patrol the migration, saying Malta should EU border and deal with the urge the EU to assist Libya and whole process itself – from asy- ensure that this leads to an EU- lum applications to readmission Libya readmission agreement. and reallocation.” “If the EU could squander €16 Ellul Bonici pointed out that billion on illegal immigration, the EU dishes out billions in then it can spare another billion aid across the globe, excluding to help Libya help us stem the loans. She said that this month tide,” Sharon Ellul Bonici said, alone, the EU had committed referring to recent UK press $640 million in financial aid to reports revealing how the EU Pakistan, €400 million to Kenya squandered over £14 billion and will be committing an as yet (€16 billion) on a project that undisclosed amount to Afghan- was to combat illegal immigra- istan. Even the Solomon Islands tion from North Africa as part are receiving yet another instal- of the Barcelona Process.” ment of $80 million, which is “Some people are saying this roughly what Malta contributed is blackmail on Libya’s part, but to EU funds last year. I don’t see it that way. Combat- “If it takes another billion to- ing illegal immigration is costly. wards solving this problem it The EU should take this oppor- would be a billion well spent,” One billion would be money well spent - Ellul Bonici tunity and make sure it paves Sharon Ellul Bonici concluded. Ministry discussing VAT-free vaccines Nationalist Party says Muscat lied with Brussels about Working Time directive THE government in a before EU accession. even in the case of vacci- THE Nationalist Party hour limit. the three Labour MEPs statement said that it was Both vaccines are not nations, not to apply any yesterday accused La- The vote concerned an voted correctly on im- currently under discus- provided for free by the VAT, to apply a reduced bour leader Joseph Mus- amendment to the report migration when each of sions with the European national health service. VAT rate and even to ap- cat of not saying the truth not to allow workers to them voted differently. Commission to define Malta had requested the ply the normal VAT rate, when talking about the work more than 48 hours And he insisted Malta the list of medicines that Commission to exempt that is, 18%,” the Finance Working Time Directive each week. was a net contributor to would be exempted from vaccines from VAT in the Ministry said in response during an online debate The Nationalist MEPs the EU when it was a net Value Added Tax (VAT) pre-accession negotia- to a statement by Labour with Lawrence Gonzi. voted to allow workers beneficiary,” the PN said. under the terms of the tions, while those selling leader Joseph Muscat It said in a statement to decide for themselves, The party added that extension of the deroga- them would be refunded that Malta would still be that contrary to what whether to work over the Labour was reiterating tion on food and medi- the VAT incurred in their applying a full VAT rate Muscat said, when the 48 hour limit. “the old lie” that the gov- cines agreed a few weeks importation. But the re- to vaccines despite the directive regulating the In its statement, the PN ernment would not allow ago. quest was not accepted. derogation negotiated on 48-hor week started be- said this was not the first free healthcare, and that The government is The European Com- food and medicine. ing debated in the Euro- time the Labour leader it had selectively edited a charging a reduced 5% mission had confirmed Moreover, Cyprus did pean Parliament, two of tried to “twist matters”. speech by PN candidate VAT rate on medical vac- that “in view of the fact not have the right to ap- the three Labour MEPs “An example was when Alex Perici Calascione cines like those against that the government ply a zero VAT rate on abstained when asked to he said that 2,000 jobs on hunting to suit the meningitis and cervical managed to negotiate the food and medicine indef- vote on whether work- were created. The facts party’s purposes. “Mus- cancer, despite an ex- right not to impose VAT initely as Malta obtained ers should be allowed to were that 7,000 jobs had cat acted like an unethi- emption on VAT on med- on food and medicine, last month, the Finance choose how much over- been created while 2,000 cal journalist,” the PN icines granted to Malta Malta “has the right, Ministry concluded. time to work over the 48- were saved. He had said said. 8 maltatoday election special | Monday 01 June 2009 news JPO blitzes Busuttil over ‘bad taste’ jibe “I refuse to be judged by others whose primary concerns, when it comes to their political involvement, are manifested by their behaviour. Busuttil snubbed Gonzi when he offered him the post of secretary-general and chose instead to retain the lucrative position of MEP.”

NATIONALIST MP Jeffrey appraisal of Busuttil’s opinion: post of parliamentary secretary Pullicino Orlando yesterday “It is in even greater bad taste in the Ministry of Finance by hit back at MEP Simon Busut- when the criticism is levelled by Prime Minister Fenech Adami.” til’s comment that the party he someone who, by his own ad- Pullicino Orlando said he organised last Saturday on his mission, puts his personal inter- refused to be judged by Bu- land in Mistra – the controver- ests before those of his party.” suttil, who refused to serve a sial site that nearly cost the PN He was referring to Busuttil’s secretary-general to retain his the elections in 2008 – had been refusal to accept the post of PN MEP’s salary.

After the fall - Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando on Alfred Sant reveals on right in the middle The Mistra scandal is born TV gold as Pullicino Orlando turns up for the Reporter of the March elections televised BA debate with Alfred Sant

“in bad taste”. secretary-general when asked Bad memories “It is the epitome of bad taste, by Lawrence Gonzi. Pullicino Orlando’s decision to and bad form, to unjustly criti- “I refuse to be judged by others hold an electoral party in Mis- cise a colleague who is simply whose primary concerns when it tra has rekindled bad memories exercising his right to legiti- comes to their political involve- of the scandal which Alfred mately use his property,” Pul- ment are manifested by their Sant had revealed, and nearly licino Orlando said when asked behaviour. Dr Busuttil himself managed to tip the election to by MaltaToday to comment on admitted publicly, a few months his favour. Busuttil’s succinct observation, ago, that he snubbed our Prime The dentist, who had won fa- carried in an interview in yes- Minister, Dr Lawrence Gonzi, vour among the PN’s top ech- terday’s edition. when he offered him the post elons for his standing within Some 600 guests attended of secretary-general and chose the environmental lobby, be- Pullicino Orlando’s party in instead to retain the lucrative came embroiled in an explosive honour of MEP candidate Alex position of MEP.” controversy during the election Perici Calascione on Saturday Pullicino Orlando, who has campaign after Labour revealed night. But Perici Calascione been distanced from the party that he had leased his land in himself could was not among since 2008’s events, and has the Natura 2000 site for the them, after being hospitalised meanwhile taken bold stands development of Spin Valley, an for a minor ailment. on immigration and the con- open-air discotheque. The property in question had troversial Cathedral project in While Labour leader Alfred been the scandal of the 2008 Valletta, said he was “proud to Sant milked the revelations be- general election when Labour consider myself a loyal footsol- fore the 2008 election, the PN leader Alfred Sant revealed in dier of the Nationalist Party.” went into attack mode. They the final TVM debate that Pul- “My main political concern defended Pullicino Orlando licino Orlando was about to over the 30 odd years I have publicly and even accompanied lease the area to be used as an been serving my party, first in him to a Broadcasting Author- open-air disco. the youth section of MZPN, ity press conference for journal- Pullicino Orlando has been in then as a local councillor and, ists with Sant, by issuing him defiance mode ever since, and for the past 13 years, as a back- with a temporary press card. on Saturday morning he put in bench MP has been to give my Although Pullicino Orlando an appearance at a press confer- contribution to my party, my claimed he had no knowledge ence by Alternattiva Demokra- constituents and my country to of the lease of the land, Alfred tika – who protested the issue the best of my ability. Sant only revealed the private of a permit for the party – by “It is a well known fact that I contract signed by Pullicino standing on his land behind the have never done this in the hope Orlando and the lessee of his boundary wall, sipping from a of being given a particular post land, on Thursday night during cup of tea. or to further myself personally. a debate between the two party Yesterday, the outspoken It is a publicly known fact that leaders. backbencher was clear in his I actually refused the offer of a Gonzi emerged from the de- news Monday 01 June 2009 | maltatoday election special 9

bate unscathed, as Sant’s excluded from the new Cabi- fleeting reference to the con- net appointed by Lawrence tract, which he momentarily Gonzi, who claimed that he waved to the camera, was not did not want to have a min- Everyone else is doing emphasised enough by the ister under investigation. Dr Opposition leader. Pullicino Orlando said he And on the day of the broad- understood the Prime Minis- cast on TVM, the mass meet- ter’s position at the time. it so why can’t we? ings for both Labour and the In the end, Pullicino Or- PN at Luxol and Floriana lando’s antics – turning FRANICA PULIS spoke to the MEP candidates on were taking place. The tim- up to face Sant at his press ing was such that the deeply conferences, standing in as embarrassing revelation, a journalist at the BA press their electoral spending limits which effectively outed Pul- conference, and his tearjerk- licino Orlando as having lied er performance during a PN EDWARD Demicoli hasn’t done Arnold Cassola (AD) and Jo- If it is not feasible, why create a about his ignorance of the meeting – saw him returned it yet, but thinks he will have by sie Muscat (AN) both said their law and then and put no one to disco development in Mistra, to power from two electoral the end of the campaign. campaigns were held by the enforce it?” could not be reported the districts thanks to a mas- Arnold Cassola and Josie Mus- parties themselves and no per- Candidates who agreed with next day by the press due to sive sympathy vote from PN cat avoided doing it themselves, sonal promotional material was the existence of a limit to per- the silent day of reflection. grassroots voters. but both agree there shouldn’t created. Personal expenses were sonal campaign expenditure Perceived as one of the But his standing within the be a law about it in the first limited to phone-calls, petrol include Deidun, Arqueros Ebe- most promising candidates, party has been dented ever place. and a deposit of €90 for their jer and Abela Baldacchino, who Dr Pullicino Orlando was since. Alan Deidun hasn’t done it yet, candidature. thinks the sum might have to be but thinks everyone else already Glenn Bedingfield (PL), Clau- reviewed. has. And on this, nearly all oth- dette Abela Baldacchino (AN) Those who disagree were Ru- er candidates agree with him. and Marthese Portelli (PN) dolph Cini, Josie Muscat, Ar- MISTRA REVISITED We are talking about over- replied that they chose to fo- nold Cassola and Sharon Ellul spending on their personal cus their campaign mainly on Bonici. Cini believes that nowa- campaigns - a thorny issue, in meeting personally with people, days there shouldn’t be any more Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando’s a country where the national for which reason they did not limitations and one should be legal limit of Lm600 (€1,400) overshoot the financial limit. responsible for his/her expens- per district has been routinely But Cassola, Muscat, Abela es. Ellul Bonici replied: “I don’t fall from grace flouted for decades. Baldacchino, Alan Deidun believe in having these limits. For the MEP election of 6 June (PN), Yvonne Arqueros Ebejer After all, the candidate is work- there are 34 candidates fighting (AD) all hinted that surely other ing for the party and to promote 30 February – With speculation rife over a Labour ‘bombshell’ for Malta’s five available seats candidates were spending a lot what he believes in...” that will expose new allegations of corruption, Labour leader Al- (six, if you include the observer of money, much more than they Those who were Maria Camill- fred Sant summons the press to the MEPA offices. Surprisingly status seat to be decided by the were actually saying. eri (Libertas), Portelli and Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando presents himself at the press conference Irish referendum in October). In fact Muscat, like Demi- Joseph Cuschieri (PL) felt that it but Sant says nothing of the case. Candidates were asked three coli, mentioned the expenses was not up to them to decide on questions: have they spent the involved in posting a letter to this matter. Vince Farrugia (PL) 1 March – Sant holds his damning press conference in Mistra, €1,400 (Lm600) on every dis- all households in Malta and argued that there should be a right next to Pullicino Orlando’s land, to reveal that a permit had trict which totals up to €18,170 Gozo, which according to him limit, otherwise the campaigns been issued by MEPA for the construction of a mega-disco in the (Lm7,800)? If not will they amounts to the total permissi- will depend on donations and protected valley, right on the MP’s land. Pullicino Orlando arrives spend them by the end of their ble sum of €6,000. will lose their independence. soon after Sant leaves, and categorically denies knowing anything campaign? And do they agree Deidun likewise said: “I haven’t However, in certain cases the about the project or the lessee of his own land. He retaliates to with these constraints in the spent more than €5,000. Others limit might not be fair on candi- Sant’s allegations,tions, alleging that Labour deputydep leader Charles first place? spent much more. I know that dates who are not as well known Mangion and MP Karmenu From the 16 candidates we for sure.” as others, and therefore had to Vella failed to declare managed to get hold of, only Cassola further pointed out spend more. earnings fromom apart- Edward Demicoli (PN) admit- that this situation has been on- Christian Zammit (PL) and ments rentedd out to ted that he might go overboard going for ages. Steve Borg (PL) both claimed Malta Freeport.rt. as the sum “does not even cover “People have been breaking to have kept their expenses very sending a flyer by post to all this law for years. One need on- low, by focusing mainly on dis- 2 March – On Sun- Malta and Gozo”. ly check the Sunday newspapers tribution of flyers in specific day, Pullicinono Orlando The rest all said that they to realise that. But nothing has parts of Malta. presents himselfself at a partpartyy haven’t spent the sum yet, and ever been done to change it. I’m Zammit has focused only on activity in Mosta,osta, where hehe will not spend it in the next few against people breaking the law, Gozo, while Borg on the south openly cries and then fliesfliees days. but this law doesn’t make sense. of Malta. into rage, accusingusing Alfred SSantaant of mudslinging.ng.

3 March – Pullicinoullicino Or- BirdLifeBir calls for an end to rabbit hunting ‘loophole’ lando, supplieded with a missioner has also started allow- ultimate responsibility regarding ‘temporary’ press cacardrd MATTHEWMAT VELLA ing the use of airguns to hunt rabbit hunting licenses and legis- by the Departmenttment of rabbits, making it even harder for lation falls under the remit of the Information, is field-field- BIRDLIFEBIRD Malta yesterday said law enforcement officers to catch Office of the Prime Minister. ed as a PN jjournal-ournal- it wasw urging government not to poachers targeting wild birds who BirdLife called for a “serious ist to face Santnt atat thethe issueissu any more rabbit hunting li- use the rabbit hunting season as a review” by the government of BA press conference.ference. censescen as the number of licensed loophole,” a BirdLife spokesper- the current legislation on rabbit Sant leaves thehe PBSPBS rabbitrabb hunters has soared by son said. hunting and repeated its call for studios as thehe MP overove 20% in the last 15 months, BirdLife said that the problem the Prime Minister to set up a refuses to budge. coincidingcoin exactly with the first is further exacerbated by the fact wild life crime unit that concen- After the PBSS ruck- ban on spring hunting in 2008. that from June onwards the Ad- trates on environmental crimes us, Pullicinoo Or- TheT rabbit hunting season due ministrative Law Enforcement throughout the year. lando never made to start today (1 June). unit are no longer focused on another publicic ap-ap- AsA reported by MaltaToday, hunting and trapping incidents, No fun for bunnies pearance again.in. evereve since the ban on spring and instead are put on other du- The rabbit hunting season ex- huntinghu gave migratory birds ties such as beach patrols. tends between 1 June and 31 De- 6 March – somesom respite from an annual “Since the ban on spring hunt- cember. Licenses are issued only On Thursdayday massacre,ma licences for weapons ing, ornithologists have recorded to landowners or persons who evening at the usedus to kill rabbits increased by species such as Turtle Dove and obtain a written permit from PBS debate be- 22%22 since January 2008. Common Kestrel remaining in landowners to hunt rabbits on tween Gonzinzi Comparably,C the licences for Malta after the migration period their land – they can only hunt and Sant, thehe shotgunssh used to hunt birds has ended, carrying out breeding rabbits on a particular piece Labour leaderer fromfro land increased by just displays and pairing up in prepa- of land as specified by their li- discloses thehe 2.9%2.9 over the same period – ration for breeding. However, as cence. Mistra leasese possiblypos indicating the effects of we saw in 2008, as soon as the Sources told MaltaToday that agreement.nt. the BBirds Directive may have led rabbit hunting season opens up the number of licenses for rabbit But the eveningning to morem hunting of wild rabbits. these birds disappear one by one,” shooting increased after hunters broadcast is not seen ThereThe are 1,483 licensed weap- said Dr André Raine, BirdLife’s were allowed to use air guns to by party supportersporters out ons for rabbit hunting in Malta conservation manager. hunt rabbits in 2008. Hunters at the mass meetings;meetings; comparedcomp to 7,364 licences for “It is utterly irresponsible to al- with a shotgun permit had to while the dayy after is the bird hunting. low such a blatant loophole, es- reapply again if they wanted to day of reflection,ction, when BirdLifeBird said that every year it pecially after so much time and hunt rabbits with an airgun. no political messages can documentsdocu numerous instances effort has been put into ensuring Maltese wild rabbits mostly be issued. Labour’sbour’s coup is of illegalill hunting targeting Mal- that these birds survive the dep- live near cliffs and in garigue ar- too late in thee day to create ta’s rarer breeding birds once the redations of illegal hunting dur- eas. Hunters usually wait for the its desired effect.fect. rabbitrabbi hunting season opens on 1 ing the vulnerable spring period,” rabbit to emerge from their bur- June. Raine said. row or else they flush it out with “Furthermore,“Fu the Police Com- As confirmed by MEPA, the a ferret. 14 maltatoday election special | Monday 01 June 2009 opinion Dead man talking Saviour Balzan argues that Lawrence Gonzi is the perfect stand-in for Dead Man Walking

Today’s issue of MaltaToday, cal boomerangs. JPO is not ex- who have no time for silly argu- the election special describes actly someone you can ridicule ments on how to use buttons in Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando’s or send to a gulag. He is in the the European Parliament. No mindset. I have to say I quite enviable position of being in connection to small business- understand his decision to a government with a one-seat men and to the real suffering lambaste Simon Busuttil. majority. the middle class. Simon is today the official Yesterday on NET radio I lis- Simon, according to Deidun, campaign strategist for the Eu- tened to Simon, needless to say is PN leadership material, but JPO is not ropean election (together with talking in his saintly voice – what the hell does Deidun his buddy Stefano Mallia) and which obviously strikes a chord know about the PN or leader- exactly has decided to take on JPO. with thousands of Middle ship? All these upstarts who “ He is of course entirely justi- Earth soft-spoken Nationalists land suddenly inside the PN someone you fied in expressing his opinion. – and he said that we should think they know something But his lack of battle-readiness not forget that this is not the about the PN. But they should can ridicule is apparent when it comes to national election but the Euro- really return to their roots weighing the realities of politi- pean election. In other words, and do what they are best at or post to a he was emphasising that if the doing. In Deidun’s case I guess PN does badly in these elec- it has got to do with biology, tions it does not really matter. SAVIOUR BALZAN you know birds, bees and nasty gulag. He is in What a stupid comment! creepy crawlies! He went on to say that in the Simon is in no position to the enviable last election the people had lecture JPO. The new party he chosen Lawrence Gonzi. Of represents, known as GonziPN, position of course there was the usual is in no position to dictate to applause to such a declaration. JPO. being in a Yet Simon conveniently forgets Log on to www.maltatoday. to mention that had JPO not com.mt for more. government been shielded and positioned Muscat has favourably by Gonzi et al Election frenzy at Ta’ with a one- before the last days of the last Qali looked at the election, there is little doubt in The Labour party is of course seat majority “ my mind that today we would having a field day. Yesterday at surveys and have Alfred Sant as Prime Ta’ Qali with the music score to Minister. And with all the present dis- Slumdog Millionaire and Cold- saw what the The few hundred votes content in the PN ranks, Gonzi play blaring in the background, between the two parties could is essentially a perfect candi- Muscat did his best to rise to easily have moved from one date to be a ‘dead man walk- the occasion. It could not be people are border to another, had the ing’. This is further attenuated any easier for Labour. electorate been aware of the by the general demise and But in his political declara- worried about: whole JPO Mistra saga. incompetence that surrounds tions, Muscat is rocking the But JPO is a hurt man. He has his campaign team, captained principles, which are sacro- desperate experienced first hand what it now by Simon Busuttil, who as sanct for a modern social dem- means to be sidelined by Gonzi we have heard from the bewil- ocrat. Watching the Labour Africans in and his lieutenants. Perhaps dered Alan Deidun, is a perfect supporters gathering Ta’ Qali many onlookers will recall that replacement for Lawrence you could see that the party course. There is no such thing boats are at JPO ‘was’ one of Gonzi’s closest Gonzi. has found the vitality that you as free health: if anyone wants supporters and someone who Surely something that has would have found in the PN. to have a feel of free health, the top of stood diligently behind the made JPO far more uncom- But in doing so, it is getting then one should only see the former Speaker of the House fortable. Simon Busuttil has a carried away and on the verge number of medical services their concerns. in his Fenech Adami-backed political career which emulates of losing its soul – some would which are unavailable to the campaign to become leader of the rise and fall of Valen- argue that they never had a general public. But it’s a the PN. tino, complete with peacock soul. The PN may have made So Muscat should not get car- JPO may possibly regret hav- feathers, velvet cushions and false promises on many fronts, ried away. There is little doubt ing taken such a stance. He flashy bulbs. No dishwashing, but the PL should not tackle the in my mind that if he ever gets false concern seems to be under the impres- no back-room jobs, no potato issues from a strictly populist to Castille he will be faced with sion that the Gonzi clan are peeling. Busuttil’s climb in point of view. other realities which are linked motivated not to be trusted. He has been politics has been one amaz- And Muscat has looked at to the limited finances of this ostracised and left out in the ing unstoppable catapult into the surveys and seen what the country. As a social democrat by the need cold. space. Busuttil has never had it people are worried about: des- he should worry over the future In the meantime, Gonzi – in so good. perate Africans in boats are at of the underclass and the to find a typical tradition – has left des- A bright kid by all means, he the top of the concerns of most underprivileged who will never tiny take its own course – and is a fine example what a Na- people. But it is a false concern, get to the private health many scapegoat chosen to ignore JPO. But he tionalist should look like and motivated by the need to find a Maltese presently utilise to cannot ignore JPO. He could sound like. But really and truly scapegoat. In doing so, we are bypass the many dysfunctional ignore JPO if he had a two or he is decades away from the fomenting more xenophobia public medical services pres- three-seat majority. With a pains and aches of the Nation- than this country deserves. ently on offer. single seat majority, JPO has alist electorate. The burly guys Then there is the issue of free more influence than one could from Zebbug and Naxxar, the health. Once again, the debate Follow Saviour Balzan’s blog imagine. militants from the seventies of free health is a difficult dis- on www.maltatoday.com.mt

For more news and info log onto www.maltatoday.com.mt As from today, Saviour Balzan is blogging on the European election news Monday 01 June 2009 | maltatoday election special 3 Deidun sees the light... From Deidun’s quip on ‘illuminated billboards’ to Casa’s scaremongering among immigrants ‘dictating’ policy at the Birzebbuga council, JULIA FARRUGIA showcases the most memorable moments from ﬁ ve PN candidates’ speeches at Fgura yesterday

David Casa Workers Union that was I have no doubt that if PN candidates to the parties against EU accession. we all think hard on this billboards that according to The incumbent MEP focused question the answer is him “light up even at night”. on illegal immigration, accus- “Work is what gives man- clear – entrust this tool Deidun also confirmed La- ing the Labour Party’s MEPs kind dignity. With work we only to those who know bour Party attacks, by claim- of never pulling the same rope can give great input in de- how to use it: the PN ing that Simon Busuttil and on this issue. Casa insisted mocracy. It is with work that candidates. his team are helping in the that the PL wants to give legal we can strengthen our fami- PN in the electoral campaign immigrants the right to vote lies…” Rudolph Cini by briefing the candidates on and thus creatie a scenario “I would like to mention all issues. Repeating the same wherein immigrants ‘dictate’. something that until today The former Malta stunt as last Friday on Xara- was not mentioned in this Union of Midwifes bank, Alan Deidun closed his “The Labour Party wants to electoral campaign. A few and Nurses president speech by feverishly waving give legal immigrants the right years ago, before the referen- harped on the Maltese Bishops the EU flag. to vote. Do you know what dum, a large union that rep- Simon Busuttil appeal to the electoral earlier this means for the residents of resents thousands of workers last week and hammered on “I would like to ask a question Birzebbugia in their local coun- approved a motion just with a Incumbent MEP Simon Bu- the word ‘values’. According to each and every one of you. cils elections? That the im- simple show of hands, stating suttil wrapped up the three to Cini only the PN’s mani- Do you know what the differ- migrants get a quota. Do you that it was not in the workers’ dominant issues in this elec- festo is making reference to ence between the PN and the know what this means? If the interest to join the EU. toral campaign: illegal im- this term. PL’s billboards is? Come on, tell PL elects three councilors and “This motion was never with- migration, a free healthcare me. I spent a lot of time think- the PN elects another three, the drawn by the GWU – it is still system and whether the elec- “I leafed throughout the man- ing about this. Let me point out seventh candidate will be torate should choose the ifestos. In the electoral pro- the first difference. On the PL a legal immigrant. He will PN or the PL. gramme of the PL I did not find billboards there is no reference dictate what happens in any single word that talks about to the word ‘Europe’. But there Birzebbugia. “If there was a Govern- values. But when I read the PN’s is a much more important dif- “This is the politics of PL: ment that introduced a fee manifesto I found that the val- ference: PN’s billboards light at here in Malta they scare the on the healthcare system, ues are one of the pillars. We night. Do you know what this Maltese and in the Europe- it was a Labour Govern- believe in values, we believe in means? That the PN candidates an Union they work against ment between 1996 and the Maltese, we believe in fami- throw light and they will bring the interest of the coucountry. 1998. If there was a can- lies. So it is a must that we add light wherever there is dark- “We“We believebelieve thatthat wew can didate who said that the values as a foundation for this ness... solve the immigration prob- healthcare system cannot society.” “On Xarabank we had the lem. I call on the LabourL remain free, it was a PL “Malta took €1.5 billion in the ‘cream of the cream’ (kellna l- PartPartyy to declare on ththe eve candidate. Sometimes I budget covering till 2013. I em- perla): Joseph Cuschieri insult- of an election that ththey will suspect that the PL wants phasize on the word billion as ed Simon Busuttil for being po- be ccloselose toto us.us. At leastleast on immi- in place. Does the GWU still this to be not a lie, but a truth... it seems that the Labour Camp litically immature….Cuschieri, gration we pull the sasame rope. I believe we were wrong to join so that we introduce tariffs on has a problem not just with but- who has only just cut his teeth am proud to be part of the PN as the EU? Does the GWU still be- the health services, so that his tons. The have a problem also in politics… And I would like we are stretching out our hand lieve that workers did not bene- lie becomes the truth. But I will with the alphabet. One and a to applaud all my fellow candi- to the PL. Now it is ththeir turn to fit from Malta’s accession in the tell the PL ‘we will not do it.’ half billion. Not one and a half dates, but what you might not give us their hand to workw in the EU? You can never be a union “From October till now, the million…” know is that Simon placed all his interest of our countrcountry.” battling in the interest of the PL MEPs not only pushed the “Next Saturday the Maltese time at our disposal. He briefed worker when at the same time wrong buttons in May, but be- people will pass its judgment… all us candidates with informa- Roberta Metsola you are against joining the EU. tween October and May they At the beginning I did not know tion on all issues. I would like to Tedesco Triccas My appeal to the GWU is: once never gave us a helping hand each candidate but I can assure thank Simon and his team.” and for all, come forward and on the burden-sharing issue. you that we have become one “It is true that there is a steep Sitting pretty just ththree seats admit that you were wrong…” There was not a single amend- family, one team… My mind is road ahead of us, but we are up from Lawrence GoGonzi, Rob- “We will act like this: 30 years ment proposed on their part so at rest. Whoever gets elected succeeding in climbing it. I just erertata MetsolaMetsola TedescoTedesc Triccas ago, when Eddie Fenech Adami that the burden sharing become will lead us in a successful di- came from Siggiewi where we managed to impartimpar a mes- was elected PN lead, what did obligatory. We did it.” rection.” have our people working there sage to the party grassrootsg he say in his first speech? ‘Our “On 6 June we have to remem- to make sure that all votes that by harking back to the first heart will be with the workers. ber this – EU membership is a Alan Deidun were not picked up will be picked speech of former PPN leader And our heart will remain with tool, that we have to use it for up. I was told that in the begin- Eddie Fenech Adami on work- the workers. The worker will the benefit of all. Whom would By far the most colourful of ning there were 2,000 undeliv- ers’ rights – 30 yearsyear ago. She stay in the centre of our activity you trust with the membership all the candidates, a frenzied ered votes. Today the number alalsoso attackedattacked thethe General in Malta and also abroad...” tool? Alan Deidun compared the went down to only 150.” 4 maltatoday election special | Monday 01 June 2009 news From earthquake to Muscat promised an earthquake of change, and for starters he has changed a European election into a local one. KARL STAGNO-NAVARRA on the Labour Party’s new direction

OPPOSITIONOPO POSITION crowd that thronged the GreGreek aanandd Labour Theatre in Ta’ Qali – wavingwavi leaderlleader DRDR EU flags for the first time – Joseph Mus- Muscat insisted that a succesuccess- cat yesterday ful Labour vote will guaranteeguarant shunned elec- what he called a “coalition forfo a toral polls and brand new dawn.” made a heart- DuringDuring his 40-minute sspeech,peec felt appeal to all MuscatMuscat wwarnedarned thatthat thethe elec-ele party activists to torate must be aware that yyet do their utmost and again, the PN was shamefullyshamefu bringbbring out the Labour activatingactivating its “web of deceit” as vote in next Saturday’s people who approached minminis- European parliament elec- tries were receiving follow-upfollow- tions. phone calls from the PPN.N. “Let nobodynobody foforgetrget that in on “It seems that the PN hash March 8 last year, Labour lost an endemic problem with its with just a handful of votes, and email server,server, as more mistakenmistak that is why every vote counts,” emails were falling into tthe Joseph Muscat said, insisting wrong hands or mistakenmistakenly that the polls that are show- delivered to others, and this is ing a significant lead for the PL how their web of deceit is beingbei next Saturday, “is yet another uncovered,” he declared.declared. ploy by the nationalist party. Muscat went on to say thatth They are doing all they can to next Saturday’s vote is not eex- drive the result their way” clusively a European vote, butb he said. most of all, “a vote that has to AddressingAdA dressing do withwith a lotlot withwith thethe ccurrenturre a large state of affairs in the country.”country Families facing the plight of copingcoping with an ever-increasingever-increasi cost of living, and pension-pensio ersere s facing exorbitant medicinemedici prices,prrici es, were “unacceptable” aand thereforetherefore – according to Mus-Mu cat – “the electorate must sesend a clcleareaar message that this situsitua- tiontion ccannotanannot go on any longerlonger.” Hee insistedinssiisted that medicines in 3 news Monday 01 June 2009 | maltatoday election special 5 brand new dawn

7 Malta were unacceptably more electricity bills, while facing a selves as victims of abuse. name: Joseph Muscat. PL was poised to be the social expensive than in any other EU hypocritical admission by Min- On healthcare, Joseph Mus- Exploiting the US President democrat party that is expect- member state and this is why, ister Austin Gatt who said that cat said that if the Prime Min- Barack Obama’s electoral ed to achieve the best result the PL will work hard within he regretted the new tariffs ister wanted to be true to his campaign twister recounting next Saturday. the European institutions to- should have been introduced pre-election promise that this ‘Joe the Plumber’s plight’ Toni The Dutch politician strongly gether with the European So- in January rather than being would remain free of charge, Abela quoted constituents by criticised the Gonzi adminis- cialist Group towards the set- backdated to October. he should have made this clear name and ID card numbers, tration for having increased ting up uf a European agency Joseph Muscat added that em- when he commissioned a re- who faced situations where utility tariffs when many EU that will safeguard the con- ployment is also an important port on the subject. government showed no respect member states were reducing sumers interests against price issue that must be addressed in He insisted that it was shame- towards them and left them to them.

Lows Saturday’sSt d ’ vote, t explain- li fulflf for Malta MlttM to be b the the onlyly ing that workers were countrycountry among the 10 new facing an unaccept- EU membermemmber states to be • Muscat’s delivery was clear and articulate, but his able situation where chargingchargingg VAT on vac-vaac- gesticulations leave much to be desired. The ‘hand on employers were asking cines, anda added thatthaat heart’ salute was so fake it was almost comical. them to register the PL will investigatee themselvesthemselves as commentscommennts made byy • The PL leader ought to invest in a better selection of self-employed the healthheaalth parliamen- shirts. His dress consultants must advise him to get rid Highs or face the tary ssecretaryeccretary that thisthis of his striped shirts, and opt for clear whites or blues, sack, while measuremeasure was gigivenven ththee that can also hide the sweat under his armpits. • Well done for Joseph Muscat’s surprise appearance denying green lilightgght by the EU. with his wife Michelle through the enthusiastic crowd ththem-em- “Prime“Prime MinisterMinister Gon-Gon- • Simlarly, deputy leaders Toni Abela and Anglu Far- gathered at Ta’ Qali. It was an effective move which set selves zi deceideceivedvved you and yourr rugia should consult each other on what to wear when a tone of jubilation and celebration. the families,”familiess,” Muscat saidd they both appear in public. They emerged wearing very right to applauseapplaause adding thatthaat similar white shirsts with black stripes, looking for all to a there wereweere people who didd • Waving EU fl ags during a PL activity was a fi rst, and sisin-n- not wantwannt to vote bbecauseecaause the world like Tweedledum and Tweedledee... quite a surprise for many gathered in Ta’ Qali. The fl ags gle they hadhadd lost hope. were distributed by a party activist shortly before the cent While urging all too votvotee meeting, and were all identical. in next Saturday,Saturday, JosJosepheph MMuscMuscatat bo- appealedappealedd to all LabourLabouritesrites tot • The decision to invite senior members of the Euro- nus- fling theirthheir doors “widee open”openn” pean Socialist Party to speak at the meeting gave the es. to all genuinely disgruntleddisgrruntleed “I was surprised impression that the PL is fi rmly anchored in Europe: a PN supporterssuppporters and LabouritesLabbouritees to see the situation clever way to dispel the PN’s current propaganda cam- Many who hadhad strayed from ththehe ppartyartyt in Malta when I paign of Labour as the “No to Europe” party ototherher during thet last few years.yearss. their have just read the workers, “We wantw a true vote comingcominc ng fate in Belgian papapersapers that he said, from people’speeople’s hearts, electingeelectinng healthhealth-- explained ththathat utility were also deservingdeservinng representativesrepresentatives tot care and tariffs in BelBelgiumgiium were facingfacing illegalillegal defend the Maltese, andand notnoot taxes, while reduced because tthehe cost of immigration as a cover upp for Gonzi” he said.ssaid. MiMinistriesnistries aandnd energy is down,” he said.s threat, as employers ShortlyShortly before Joseph MuscatMuscM at PN insiders wewerere On illegal immigimmigration,ration,t Wi- werew seeking migrants to made hhisis speech, the crocrowdowd wawasas allowedallowed to squan- ersma pledged full support work with w lower wages and un- addressedaddresseed by PL deputyy leadeleaderer der money and buying form the European Socialists,S abuse. acceptable condition. Toni AAbelabbela who said thathatat MaMal-al- luxurious cars. addiaddingng that the susupportpporto would Saturday’s vote should also However, he appeared more ta’s problemsbl hhad d a namnameme andd a TheThe crowdcrow d was alsoal lso addresseda ddressed d beb“f “factual” l”d and not “as“ Gonzi be a strong message to govern-govern- careful in his choice of words face – Lawrence Gonzi – whilewhiile by Jan Marinus Wiersma, Vice is surrendering and letting Ber- ment from families and busi-busi- than on previous occasions, de- in contrast the solutionn to thethhe President of the European So-So- lusconi, from the same party, nesses who have received hefty scribing the immigrants them- problem also had a facee and a cialst Group who said that the solve the problem for himself.” 6 maltatoday election special | Monday 01 June 2009 news AN fires warning shot against migrant integration RAY ATTARD PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAY

DAVID DARMANIN own shops. In no time, you will tervened: “You’re all missing a find that they occupied entire crucial point here. People en- IN a strongly-worded address districts of a city, and unless tering Malta illegally are given to the media, Azzjoni Naz- you’re one of them, you’d feel the right to be employed – and zjonali (AN) leader Josie Mus- inadequate entering because it this means that our country is cat yesterday expressed fear at would feel like you’re in a differ- promoting illegality.” the prospect of third-country ent country.” Reminded that once third national integration in Maltese In response to questions by country nationals apply for hu- villages, arguing that multicul- MaltaToday, Muscat said he manitarian status, their position turalism poses a threat to the disagreed with efforts made by in Malta becomes legal, Spiteri local traditions, culture and the the General Workers’ Union to Gingell retorted: “Yes but they labour market. integrate third country nation- People would have still entered the Plainly put, “Illegal immigrants are tak- als in the Maltese workforce. country illegally, which means how would ing the jobs of the Maltese,” he In order to curb illegal employ- “entering Malta that if Malta needs to employ “ said. “If we allow their families ment of immigrants and allow people from abroad, they are to come here too, the number of a level-playing field to Maltese illegally are effectively jumping the queue, you feel if the immigrants in Malta will multi- and foreign workers alike, the and this is a gross injustice.” ply five or six-fold,” he said. GWU is actively pushing for Spiteri Gingell then launched Muscat warned that we should measures aimed at promoting given the right a somewhat vague warning. GWU brought heed the examples from other multicultural diversity. “With the way things are going, parts of Europe, where mul- This would lead to the integra- to be employed we are seeing a vacuum created 500 journalists ticulturalism, in his view, has tion of third country nationals in society. We all know that, as caused social division and un- into the Maltese labour market, – and this has happened in the past, when to Malta? rest. with the insistence of offering a vacuum is created, it is filled “We are now seeing the ef- them same working conditions with something else.” fects of immigrant settlement as the Maltese. means that Upon hearing Spiteri Gingell’s – Malcolm in other European countries, “No, I don’t agree with the remark, a party spokesperson like the UK,” he said, “Chris- GWU,” Muscat said. “If we are our country jumped in to clarify that what Seychell tians cannot make the sign of short of employees in certain was being said was meant to be the cross in public, because it sectors, let us issue an interna- is promoting of “a preventive nature, because is considered offensive to other tional call for applications and we would not want this to hap- religions. Neither can they place bring people to Malta for em- pen.” baby Jesus in the manger during ployment reasons. When our illegality.” On the integration issue, AN Christmas, so they put a teddy shortage problem is resolved, MEP candidate Malcolm Sey- bear instead.” we must then make sure to – John Spiteri chell added: “If the GWU aims Supporting his own statement give priority to the Maltese and to keep the strength of the Mal- that “immigrants do not adapt tell foreigners to leave so that Gingell tese workforce by promoting in European countries”, Muscat they can be replaced. What the balance, it is then contradict- said: “These people start look- GWU is suggesting would flood ing itself by wanting to flood it. ing for a ghettoed life – and es- the labour market...” Plainly put, how would you feel tablish their own schools, their At that point, MEP candidate if the GWU brought 500 jour- own places for prayers and their for AN John Spiteri Gingell in- nalists to Malta?” sports Monday 01 June 2009 | maltatoday election special 15 A day of farewells Yesterday, especially in the Italian league, many players and coaches either played the last game of there career or played knowing they have a deal with other clubs in hand

I didn’t think I would stay in this with them a year early. eyes and embrace you, telling you agreement. I will think about my KEVIN GRECH team for so long. I will never forget The coach has been hounding we will see each other again and future from Monday morning,” the affection that I have received by constant press speculation that this isn’t a goodbye. I said a he announced. since the first day I arrived here, linking him with the Chelsea hot year ago when I came back: this With Atalanta coach Gigi Del the affection of the president, of seat. But, before Chelsea fans get is my home. And I think it will Neri seemingly the favourite to my team-mates. Inter helped me carried away, the Italian has re- stay that way even after I will replace him on the Doria bench, start a winning cycle with some vealed that he has not found an- quit football. it remains to be seen where extraordinary men.” other club yet. “There is something between Mazzarri will be plying his trade “Its simply that I had an agree- me and this city, these people, next season, as he joins the cur- ment with the club, and we de- this shirt, that goes beyond the rent merry-go-round of resign- cided to anticipate the times and profession and the work. Thank ing tacticians in Serie A. agree to end my contract, and you president, thank you to the thus my time with Milan finishes Preziosi family. Without them I a year before 2010,” Ancelotti said would not be the player or the after the game. man I think I am. Thanks to “It finishes with happiness as we coach [Gian Piero] Gasperini and have reached our objective and I the whole staff, who have helped would like to thank the club and me improve and with whom I all the players as well as the presi- have a great understanding. And dent and all the staff and fans. thanks to my team- mates... PAOLO MALDINI played his “I think my time has ended in “Thanks to all the fans, young final professional game of an the right way and I think it’s the and old, who have welcomed me unrivalled 25-year career, and best for both parties. like a friend, like one of you. I it was a happy ending as Milan “These eight years have been a want to tell you that this is part beat Fiorentina 2-0 at the Stadio beautiful adventure for me.” of why I’ve always tried to give Franchi to secure third place. All HERNAN CRESPO went t o t h i s “I cannot officialise my future my best, on the pitch and in life. the talk in the build-up to this game knowing he is on his way to because there is nothing official,” “Now we leave each other, game was about Paolo Maldini, Genoa, spoke of his emotion af- added the coach. I have not made hopefully with a smile, with an who was playing the final match ter saluting the Inter fans at the any agreement with any club, and affection that became love. At of his legendary one-club career. Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.”What thus there is nothing. least, that’s the way I feel. I hope PAVEL NEDVED confirms he However, there was still a lot to happened today was incredible,” “London? There are no certain- it’s the same for you. [...] In the will leave Juventus. play for, as Fiorentina could snatch he told Inter Channel. “It was ties.” life of a professional, there are The midfielder has announced the third automatic Champions emotional to see the banners “Would I take a player with me? moments in which reason pre- that he will be leaving Turin this League position by beating the written from the bottom of the There is one [Maldini], but I don’t vails. summer. Rossoneri by two clear goals. This fans’ hearts. “It has been a strange think I will be able to convince “I’m not saying goodbye. An Pavel Nedved has played his last sending off was much better than season for me but anything can him.” concluded the coach. embrace to you all.” game for Juventus. last weekends were Maldini was happen in football. It’s only the The Czech international joined given a bad sending off from the strength of love that helps you the Turin side back in 2001 and Milan Ultra’s in front of his home overcome everything. “The good has been one of the star perform- crowd. and the bad matches aside, I am ers in the midfield for the bian- pleased to have transmitted my coneri. passion for this sport and these However, at the age of 36 he has colours. I was very emotional to- decided to call time on his career day. There’s blood in my veins and with Juve, announcing that he seeing so much affection from the will play his final game against fans is extraordinary.” Lazio tomorrow. In a statement published by the official Juventus website, Nedved thanked all those at the club for their support, and said he will start thinking about his future on Monday. “After eight seasons with Juven- DIEGO MILITO, ahead of his WALTER MAZZARRI waves tus it is time to thank all the fans, last match for Genoa before join- goodbye to Sampdoria. In a day my team-mates and the club, for ing Inter, striker Diego Milito full of goodbyes, the Samp coach all the support that I have received. decided to write an open letter announced his decision to walk In Turin I have won four titles and to his fans. away from the Doria bench. the Ballon d’Or,” he said. Argentinean striker Diego Mil- Following an exciting 2-2 draw “From Monday I will think LUIS FIGO “It was an incredi- ito will play his last match with with Palermo yesterday, the about my future. I would like ble day, it was all perfect and I will Genoa before joining Inter. The Sampdoria coach announced his to thank in particular my wife remember it for all my life, and it’s 29-year-old decided to write a decision to leave the leave the Ivana and my sons, who have nice when a player ends his career goodbye letter to the fans, in club and look for pastures new. been very close to me and have in this way. It was also beautiful which he revealed his hopes of There had been rumours about accompanied me throughout my to receive the captain’s armband CARLO ANCELOTTI Con- returning to the club one day. Mazzarri wanting to leave the career as I have scored so many from Javier. “I don’t know what I firms he will leave Milan this Here is some of what he wrote Genova outfit for the past few goals. I will continue to have lots will do from tomorrow. I will cer- summer, but there is no Chelsea on the club’s official website. months and this was finally con- of affection for Juventus and I tainly go on holiday with my fam- agreement. Milan coach Carlo “This letter was written to firmed when he spoke to Rai in am grateful to the Agnelli family ily, but I will be always be togeth- Ancelotti has finally confirmed make you understand, if it’s pos- this afternoon’s post-match infor giving me the chance to play er with Inter because they have that he will be leaving the club sible, how much I care about terview. in this side. I want to say that the given me a lot in these four years this summer after he mutually you. “Both myself and the club have decision has not been made for and it will be impossible to forget. agreed to terminate his contract “I would like to look you in the decided to separate by mutual economic reasons.”

Today’s Weather WARNINGS: Nil PARTLY GENERAL SITUATION: A ridge of high pressure extends from the North sea to the Ionian sea as a low pressure area over Tunisa will tighten the pressure gradient over the central Mediterranean. CLOUDY WEATHER: Possibility of rain in the morning becoming partly cloudy. 27 ºC / 20 ºC VISIBILITY: Moderate. WIND: Rather strong Southeast (force 5) becoming rather strong Northwest (force 5). UV INDEX: 10 SEA: Moderate becoming locally moderate to rough. SWELL: Low Southeast. SEA TEMPERATURE: 21°c editorial Monday 01 June 2009 | maltatoday election special 13

A matter of accountability

ELECTRONIC communica- the Office of the Prime Minis- cannot be trusted to send an surpassed... and by silencing secretary Paul Borg Olivier? tion is evidently not the Na- ter was simply an extension of email without somehow get- candidates on this issue, the Regarding the expenses them- tionalist Party’s strong point. the Stamperia in Pietà. ting it wrong... why should PN campaign organisers have selves: on what grounds does Never mind the promise of Now, a second email – this we trust him more than John only succeeded in raising ad- the PN’s unofficial campaign Malta as a centre of IT ex- time inadvertently forward- Attard Montalto to “push the ditional suspicions regarding manager, Stefano Mallia, jus- cellence, the investment in ed by Nationalist candidate right buttons”, when it comes the precise extent of its can- tify issuing a gagging order on mega-projects like Smart City, Vince Farrugia – has once to taking a crucial vote in the didates’ pre-election spending candidates? And why all the and the long queues for spe- again embarrassed the party European Parliament? spree. secrecy in the first place? cial offers on Microsoft prod- by revealing a shocking (and But there is a good deal more But the most intriguing rev- On all fronts – the silencing ucts. When the microchips quite frankly unacceptable) to this issue than button- elation by far is that the gag- of candidates, as well as the are down, the fact is that PN gagging order on candidates pushing. For this latest leak ging order itself came from apparent internal divisions exponents – including those regarding expenses on their also reveals the remarkable Stefano Mallia, currently an within the PN camp – the epi- at the very top – clearly need a individual campaigns. extent of paranoia, whereby aide de camp in MEP Simon sode further illustrates that crash course in basic compu- In an answer to questions by candidates were prevented Busuttil’s team. This finally when it comes to matters of ter literacy: starting with the another newspaper, Farrugia from disclosing what should dispels any doubt that may transparency and account- basics, like... how to send an forgot to remove the instruc- really be public domain infor- have existed about the issue: ability, the Nationalist Party email. tions handed to him (and all mation. the Nationalist campaign for appears to have become a The first indication came the other candidates) by PN The PN’s instruction in this the European election is in- prisoner of its own paranoia. when PN general secretary activist Stefano Mallia. In an instance is entirely unwar- deed authored and co-ordi- If Lawrence Gonzi wishes to Paul Borg Olivier acciden- interesting journalistic coin- ranted. Granted, some of its nated by Busuttil. reverse this trend, he would tally forwarded a confidential cidence, identical questions candidates may have exceeded Meanwhile, if any further do well to introduce a long email to his counterpart in the were also sent by our sister the legal campaign expendi- confirmation were still re- overdue policy of openness PL – Jason Micallef – under paper Illum. The resulting an- ture limit – and congratula- quired, this was generously and transparency at the Dar the impression he was send- swers were entirely compara- tions are due to Edward Dem- provided by PN candidate Centrali Nazzjonalista. ing the message to Nationalist ble... and thanks to Farrugia’s icoli for his honesty in this Alan Deidun, who yesterday MP, Jason Azzopardi. blunder, we now know that an- regard – but at the same time, declared at a meeting in Fgu- The email revealed details swers to both newspapers had all parties are in agreement ra that “Simon and his team” of a “secret” meeting between been censored by the party. that this archaic law, which had placed their time and ex- MALTATODAY MIDWEEK, PN and OPM officials at the A number of issues imme- limits campaign funding to a pertise at the candidates’ dis- MEDIATODAY LTD, party headquarters in Pietà. diately spring to mind. On mere €1,600 per candidate, is posal, and even briefed them VJAL IR-RIHAN, SAN GWANN SGN 9016 Despite the initial brouhaha one level, this consistent lack woefully inadequate in today’s about EU issues. MANAGING DIRECTOR: ROGER de GIORGIO surrounding this indiscretion, of technological savoir-faire circumstances. This in turn raises a number MANAGING EDITOR: SAVIOUR BALZAN nothing ever came of it and among PN exponents makes From this perspective there of uncomfortable questions EDITOR: RAPHAEL VASSALLO for all we know, OPM officials a complete mockery of the was no need for secrecy at for the PN. If Simon Busutil Tel: (356) 21 382741-3, 21 382745-6 still regularly meet at the Na- Nationalists’ billboard cam- all: no one in his right mind “and his team” are running Fax: (356) 21 385075 tionalist Party headquarters, paign on “pushing the right would even bat an eyelid to the election campaign... where www.maltatoday.com.mt [email protected] for all the world as though as buttons”. If Vince Farrugia discover the limit had been exactly does this leave general