Golden Heart award

The Debrincat family from Victoria has been presented with this year's Premju Familja Qalb tad-Deheb award. They were presented with the award by President Eddie Fenech Adami during a ceremony organised by the Cana Movement in Gozo at Palazzo Palina, Ta' Cenc Hotel, Sannat, earlier this month, with the participation of the Chorus Urbanus.

The ceremony was introduced by Fr George Borg, director of the Gozo Cana Movement, followed by an address by Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono. Bishop Mario Grech also made an address before Dr Paul G. Pisani, chairman of the judging panel, read out the report.

Dr Pisani said that all nominated families deserve to be given credit, however it was unanimously decided that the prize be awarded to the Debrincat family. The family was nominated several times by the Victoria council, individuals and neighbours.

Martinu Debrincat used to be a mechanic. On April 21, 1987, he was involved in an accident at work that resulted in serious injuries, badly affecting his arms. His wife Lonza supported him during his long recovery in hospital but three years later she fell ill and became wheelchair- bound.

Martinu has looked after her ever since and also sees to household duties. He also cared for his mother who used to live in the family home until it became hard for him to cope.

Dr Pisani added that Martinu and Lonza transmit positive values to whoever knows them and to Gozitan society. They look positively ahead and the family has remained united in spite of the difficulties it faces. The movement therefore feels that this family serves as a good model in society.

Minister Debono, Bishop Grech, Victoria mayor Robert Tabone, and Mgr Joseph Farrugia, archpriest of St George's parish, Victoria, presented mementoes to the winning families. Joseph Micallef, treasurer of the Gozo Cana Movement, among others, presented other prizes. President Fenech Adami closed the ceremony.