House unanimously thanks President de Marco

The House of Representatives yesterday unanimously approved a motion of thanks to President Guido de Marco at the end of his term. The opposition did not speak during the debate, but voted in favour.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, who was the only speaker, said this motion was not a formality but an expression of sincere appreciation by both sides of the House.

Prof de Marco had served as President in a particular moment in Malta's history, which saw heated debate on whether Malta should join the EU, culminating in a referendum and a general election, making this period truly unique.

Prof de Marco had carried out his delicate duties in the most correct manner and with absolute honesty, earning the respect of all the people.

He had done his best to ensure that the democratic process was followed and respected and thus strengthened.

The House was also thanking President de Marco for the way he had projected the country abroad. He had been an excellent ambassador, promoting Malta's identity and culture. He had shown that Malta was a country that was proud of its identity.

The President had always shown absolute loyalty to all sides of the political spectrum and always looked for common ground.

Importantly, he had always been close to the people in all kinds of occasions and situations, drawing the people to the presidency and the presidency to the people.

Prof de Marco's presidency, also evident in that of his predecessors, had given space to the members of civil society and recognised their importance for the country's development. The value of dialogue had been fully recognised.

Prof de Marco was a President who had given particular attention to those sectors of society that felt emarginated. One could see the strong link of the presidency with the social sector, which role was not limited to the Community Chest Fund. His activities served to strengthen the value of solidarity in society.

President de Marco had kept himself updated with all developments within the government and had himself visited the various projects underway.

Like his predecessors, Prof de Marco had given increased stature to the Presidency. Although he came from the political camp, he had shown he could shed partisan politics, proving that a former politician could, indeed, put aside his political convictions and be impartial in his work. He had vindicated, Dr Gonzi said, the remarks he himself had made when he had proposed Prof de Marco for the presidency exactly five years ago.

Dr Gonzi also thanked Prof de Marco's family, particularly his wife Violet, who had worked hard to emphasise the value of solidarity and equally deserved the country's gratitude.