The new Cabinet

Forming a new Cabinet which includes new blood is anything but an enviable task a Prime Minister has to face, particularly when the Cabinet is leaner than the previous one and certain eligible MPs have to be left out.

Not forming part of the Cabinet or not being elected does not mean being excluded from the political arena, where one can still contribute to the common good in an inclusive society at various levels. As Kate Gonzi rightly said in an interview prior to the general election, politics is not about personal gain but the common good.

In this context, while acknowledging the valuable role played by former ministers, parliamentary secretaries and MPs, I congratulate the members of the new Cabinet on their appointment. This capable and energetic team has what it takes to do justice to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi's motto: Do not judge us by our words but by our deeds, thus maximising accountability and public confidence in government.

I would also like to congratulate Dr Gonzi on his victory against a number of odds and on including tourism, environment, sustainable development and local government in his portfolio. Synergy among stakeholders especially in these areas will not only improve Malta's tourism product but equally the quality of life as a result of a better social and physical environment.

The people have high expectations. The newly-elected Prime Minister seems to be determined not to let them down.