The euro changeover in sight

Following the recent announcement of the parameters of the Euro changeover guidelines, it is now important for everyone to start 'thinking' in terms of the euro. The dual pricing period, voluntary from next January 1 and mandatory from next July 1 will usher in the reality of the euro changeover on January 1, 2008.

The older members of our society will remember the changeover from our old system of pounds, shillings and pence to the decimal currency we currently use. The dual pricing period will definitely help to familiarise the public to a smoother transition.

The National Council of Women is fully supportive of the dual pricing policy coming into effect next year and hopes that the voluntary dual pricing period is availed of widely.

The longer people have to get used to the concept of thinking of prices in terms of euros and not Maltese liri, the better we will be prepared for 2008.

Dual pricing will ensure that the rate of €1 to Lm0.4293 emphasises that, notwithstanding your choice of paying in either currency, the price is the same. In this way it is envisaged that gradually the euro option is preferred and become so familiar as to be favoured by the majority of people before the actual changeover date.

It is a fact that women shop more than men for groceries, clothes and other everyday requirements, so an extensive educational campaign directed to dual pricing in the retail and services sector is now expected to be set in motion.

Of course, it will be ensured that all establishments are using the official rate of exchange and any queries in this respect can be reported to a hotline set up for the purpose. The full text of the dual pricing guidelines can be viewed at www.euro.gov.mt and NCW welcomes any views or comments.