Lack of transparency

The introduction of party funding legislation may deter a number of donors who might not be keen on their transactions being made public, according to representatives of the business sector. (Party Funding Law "May Scare Off Donors", September 13).

This is precisely the hide and seek (pun? what pun?) mentality in nearly all business circles in Malta. Hide the donation made by the right hand, then seek compensation with the left ... my, my. And whoever said it has no qualms uttering such a gaffe.

Transparency has not yet been introduced in the Maltese dictionary, let alone abided by. So is the Maltese way of life, unfortunately. I say do not be shy, cowardly and devious, otherwise politicians think it would be normal for them to dip into your pockets at their whim. "Corruption has been institutionalised" was the buzz-phrase in the 1980s, remember? Twenty odd years of Nationalist administrations and, not only has it not been eradicated, but now it seems to be an accepted practice, all around the island.

I would go one further. Make it a criminal offence not to adhere to the right course, procedure and openness. After all, dishonesty, deception, pretence and trickery are abhorrent -illegal too, ha?

Scratch my back, now guys.

Editor's note: A letter by Mr Said that appeared on September 13 had a misprint in a sentence in the penultimate paragraph. It should have read: "Why are speed machine owners and users allowed to create mayhem on our beaches?" The error is regretted.