PfP protest as Malta marks Freedom Day

J.Scerri

Apr 2nd 2008, 18:35

Of course we'll wash our EU flags Dear Mr. Spiteri, like we do every 5 yrs. And we do so cause we use them to celebrate our REAL victories, EVERYTIME !!! And we don't need glasses either, It's better if you try to give them to Jason Micallef, maybe next time he see the REAL result of an election before he talks !!!

Christopher Grech

Apr 2nd 2008, 13:50

I wonder if on one hand, the PfP would be humanitarian, and later going to war. Remember that when the Iraqis were "sent to their freedom", the country is now in ruins. This is all in the name of freedom (or from Saddam). Ask real Iraqis if they are now living better than with Saddam. I dare you! Make a good sample though. The danger is that when on one time we seem to help with "humanitarian" objectives, these can be easily then be transformed into real war. It now depends on what readers think of war and under which name it bears! No weapons of mass destruction was found in Iraq, and this was the premise that the US and UK went to war.

F Spiteri

Apr 2nd 2008, 11:55

To PN frantics like Christina Borg ... I pity you dears!!!!

Why, Christina, shall we expect MORE of such arrogance from GonziPN, and, by the way, were we expected to give a round of applause for this arrogance, may I ask??

As you said ... the proof of the pudding is in the eating. We are eating the pudding so called GonziPN ... the results would show in 5 years' time.

In the meantime, you could find something more useful to do & go and dry-clean your blue flags with yellow stars, and store them on your top shelves. You could also fix your glasses with clear lenses rather than blue ones ... you will see better I'm sure!!

Christina Borg

Apr 2nd 2008, 02:19

The proof of the pudding is in the eating. The last time PM Gonzi consulted MLP was about the appointment of the important post of Auditor General and Deputy Auditor General. The informal consultation took place in the second quarter of 2007. The formal consultation took place in June 2007 when PM Gonzi wrote to the MLP Leader of the Opposition. The MLP has not yet responded to this letter. Nobody knows whether the MLP did not accept PM Gonzi’s recommendation of the two senior public officers suggested. Nor does anybody know whether the MLP had any better suggestions. Let us define the above as ‘consultation’ the MLP way.

I read and reread what is being commented upon the PfP and I still fail to hear one single serious reason why the reactivation of PfP membership is negative for Malta.
On that other hand the gains to Malta are considerable at both the political and military level.
At the political level, Malta can consolidate her membership in the EU even further as it will enable Malta to participate more fully in European Security and Defence Policy matters where the EU and NATO collaborate. Malta will also sit alongside other European nations within another international security organisation where it can give a direct contribution towards the building of a more secure Euro-Mediterranean area.
At the military level, Malta can join a practical programme of work, in concrete cooperation with other friendly nations, to enhance the military effectiveness (i.e. the operational capability) as well as the ability of the Armed Forces of Malta to work together (i.e. their interoperability) with other forces in areas such as humanitarian operations, search and rescue, preparedness for civil disasters and other emergencies. The AFM will be involved in a practical program of work which can include participation in multi-national exercises and other training opportunities. It is recalled that during Malta’s initial membership in PfP between 1995 and 1996, the AFM had successfully participated in a number of activities organised in the spirit of PfP including a major army exercise, called ‘Exercise Co-Operative Determination’ in Bulgaria.

As to my joys emanating from the results of the general elections of 1998, 2003, and 2008 and the EU Referendum of 2003, these are not complete, knowing that there are some Maltese citizens that are evidently still very glum about them.

J.Scerri

Apr 1st 2008, 19:29

Reading some of the posts of the MLP supporters, they are only confirming that their ENVY for the PN, the last 2 leaders & this party's winning track-record is falling in a real PATHETIC one.
Someone here remind us about the celebration after the Referendum victory as it was something to be ashamed about, I would like to know what they'll pay to have a real REBBIEGHA GDIDA in their party and maybe for once they'll have the chance to go out & celebrate for a victory (A REAL ONE) that will continue even after the SUNDAY MORNING, the following day of the election. We're getting use to it now, see the red flags only on these FAMOUS SUNDAY MORNINGS everytime !!
And about the movement Graffiti, everyone knows to which party they are nearer so no comment !!!

effie carbonaro

Apr 1st 2008, 16:57

vincent camilleri the 52% not from the maltese electorate but from the votes cast because if you compare the 143094 votes in favour to the ,as you said ,297881 registered voters the percentage cames to 47.7 %. and thats a 4.3% from the 52% you quoted .but thats typical for the nats to play with figures to get there point.

effie carbonaro

Apr 1st 2008, 16:32

if by same unforseen circumstances a maltese soldier dies in a foriegn country on whose concience will it fall?for sure not on the maltese parliament

K Xuereb

Apr 1st 2008, 15:59

The suddenness of the PfP membership re-activation is indeed curious.

As for consultation with MLP on the matter, this could have been done but would have only been a huge waste of time.

Neutrality has been and still is one of MLP's sacred cows and the way it was entrenched in the Constitution - in exchange for the changes to the electoral law to ensure 1987 was not another 1981 - was not very far from outright extortion.

This concept is as outdated as the rest of the MLP. Other neutral European countries adapted and interpreted their vocation to neutrality to the realities of the 21st century.


@ Vincent Camilleri. Your outlook on having enough training and learning opportunities speaks volumes about your outlook on self-improvement. Typical Socialist "ghandi biex niddobba" attitude.


Your bleating about minority government has really run its course.

The people who did not vote because they didn't want the Nationalist government did not want Labour in government just as vehemently. Otherwise they would have voted Labour.
They rejected ALL parties in equal measure.

As for those who did vote, sorry Mr Camilleri but more people are of the opinion that Alfred Sant and MLP don't measure up than others who thought Sant and MLP were the best thing since sliced bread.

Renato J. Costigan

Apr 1st 2008, 15:51

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

In this photo there is written --- "Malta komplci fil-gwerer'.

Where is Malta 'komplici'? . Because we have always helped other nations such as the Tsunami or where there was an earthquake.

Malta will remain helpful in the PfP now more, through our well educated and highly skilled soldiers. Beforehand I thank all those who are going to volunteer to help other countries. We will remain after you. You are going to be ambassadors of our country.

SHAME ON YOU WHO HAVE WRITTEN THOSE WORDS

louis grech

Apr 1st 2008, 15:10

Re-joining Nato would be considered as ancient politics and even dangerous. Malta discarded this option in the 70's and from there on prospered. MLPN kept silent in front of the Russain Navy show of Force near Malta...why?

F Spiteri

Apr 1st 2008, 14:15

Dear Vincent Camilleri, While appreciating the hard work you have entered into to prove someone like Christina Borg wrong, may I suggest to you to leave PN frantics dreaming of the past. Let them enjoy memories of carcades filled with blue flags & yellow stars all over...... wow!!! What a scene of the Rebbiegha Gdida!!! Can't you see that PN frantics are still living in this Rebbiegha Gdida and could not find themselves out of it? Can't you see that the spell is still on? Did you see election results? Did you read comments on the weeping JPO? Poor frantics!! Maybe they need to visit Wizard of Oz someday to get them out of the spell. Let them live on Cloud 9 once they are enjoying it!

And then, in your heart of hearts, just feel proud like I do that the real benefits that came out of the EU referendum she is referring to, reached our island ONLY thanks to MEP Joseph Muscat - an MLP representative in EU, dear Christina. So before you start "clucking" Christina, BE INFORMED on what you are about to say or you would be opening a can of worms to your own dear party!

Vincent Camilleri

Apr 1st 2008, 13:18

As a firm believer in the Italian saying “mathematics is not an opinion” and without going into the argument about who won or lost the EU referendum I would like to bring the following to the attention of Ms Christina Borg who wrote “Over 52% of the Maltese Electorate voting in favour of EU Accession”
The objective of the Referenda Act (Cap.237) is for registered voters to decide either whether they approve a proposal or proposals set out in a resolution passed by the House of Representatives or whether they agree that a provision of law should be abrogated.
On the 8th of March, 2003, the electorate was asked to decide by means of a referendum on the proposal that Malta becomes a member of the EU on its enlargement due on 1st May, 2004
The Question put was: “Do you agree that Malta becomes a member of the European Union in the enlargement that will take place on 1 May 2004?

The registered voters had the option to vote in favour, vote against, abstain or invalidate their vote

The following figures emerge from the 2003 Referendum:

Registered Voters 297,881

Votes in Favour 143,094

Votes Against 123,628
Invalid Votes 3,928
Abstentions:
Registered Voters 297,881
Less Votes Cast 270,650 27,231 154,787

Seen in the light of these figures, the claim that “over 52% of the Maltese electorate voted in favour of EU accession” is not correct

M. Camilleri

Apr 1st 2008, 09:37

Neutrality? Ancient politics.

Christina Borg

Apr 1st 2008, 08:54

My definition of arrogance: Over 52% of the Maltese Electorate voting in favour of EU Accession and the Malta Labour Party claiming to have won the referendum. My definition of augmented arrogance is to have no regrets on such an undemocratic stand.

Those who want to take Malta back to 1996, can they please illuminate us on what consultation MLP undertook while in opposition in their pre-1996 Government before adopting an anti-PfP stand.

But let us discuss substance. Is there any danger of Malta being dragged into an armed conflict because of PfP?
No. There is no such danger. PfP does not commit Malta in any way whatsoever to being dragged in or to provide support to other states participating in armed conflict. On the other hand, membership in PfP forges new security relations that will effectively contribute towards achieving greater peace and stability in areas such as the Euro-Mediterranean. Partnership for Peace also provides a framework through which participating states can deal with the new security challenges facing the international states’ system to include terrorism, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, as well as failed or failing states.
Now, how is the above not in line with the PN Electoral Programme for 2008-2013?

Louis Grech

Apr 1st 2008, 04:25

Well done Graffitti next time I will join you! I look forward for a truly 'partnership for peace'. USA/PN/MLP hands of Neutrality!

Malcolm Seychell

Apr 1st 2008, 00:27

MLP have no leader at the moment. MLP only interest at the moment is put a Sant's puppet as a leader, so that the same people will remain within the party.

Like Gonzi or not he won the election. Obvioulsy he can consult with people, but if the current MLP could not even do a decent Manifesto after 20 years in opposition its all time lost to consult with MLP.

Vincent Camilleri

Apr 1st 2008, 00:19

Mark Tanti wrote: "Why consult a party which akways says NO to everything in all fields".
Dear Mr Tanti democracy goes far beyond your limited perceptions. Labour represents 49% of the elctorate, more or less the same representation enjoyed by afluke by the Nationalist government. Dr Gonzi said that we should judge him by what he does. In this case he messed up big time

Vincent Camilleri

Apr 1st 2008, 00:13

To Miss Christina Borg
We are not discussing neutrality here. We are discussing the arrogance of a minority government. Gedditt????
As regards training our soldiers, we did not need PFP. Our sldiers have been training with the Italian armed forces for many years thanks to the agreement signed with Italy by a Labour government back in 1982

CATherine Desira

Mar 31st 2008, 23:05

1. It is utterly dishonest to assert that the PfP has got to do with participation in wars. Don't these people own a computer? Can't they even make a 'google search' to find out more about the PfP before they go out there and make a buffoonery of themselves? How idiotic! Apart from the fact that each member country choose its priority or priorities where it wants to participate and it is on voluntary basis - the PfP is mainly for peace-keeping and humanitarian operations.
2. About consultation with the opposition. With whom should the Govt. consult with Michael, Varist, Joe, Anglu or maybe with DNA-Charlie. Get real! First the MLP should put their house in order - then the Govt may consult it - maybe. Because, if the MLP adopt the same attitude as when it was headed by Sant - then the Govt. should go ahead with its electoral program as there's no time to lose.

Christina Borg

Mar 31st 2008, 21:57

What promise has PM Gonzi broken by defrosting what Hon Alfred Sant had put in the freezer more than ten years ago and reactivating Malta’s membership in Partnership for Peace?

Let’s get facts clear. Membership in PfP does not commit Malta to any collective defence obligations in support of NATO or any other military alliance. Europe’s neutral countries including Austria, Finland, Ireland, Sweden and Switzerland are all members of PfP. Therefore, membership in PfP does not breach Malta’s neutrality and independence.

Renato J. Costigan

Mar 31st 2008, 19:39

( 1 ) Mr. Christopher Cutajar:-
PRO... 'Zminijietna' Left Youth (and whatsoever).

Those who this morning protested at Birgu are all LABOURITES and don't try to hide these people before any movement/s.

( 2 ) Before accusing the GonziMALTA of joining the PfP ( which is of a great value to our volunteer soldiers), try to settle your own differences within the Labour Party. This has been a deviation to alienate the public.

Many soldiers fully support this decision by the government and are looking forward to join as calls are announced. This decision is of great importance to these soldiers to advance in their livelihood.

I wish them luck in their decisions.

N.B. Arrows for SALE with cheap price. (Not a paid advert).

Vincent Camilleri

Mar 31st 2008, 19:02

Dear Dr Borg Cardon
Spare a monet and read the following:"
The announcement by the government of its decision to rejoin Partnership for Peace (PfP) raises a number of questions. That Malta might wish to form a part of the PfP programme is not the issue. The issue lies in the manner of its announcement to a country only recently emerging from a bruising election campaign in which the government came out victorious by a whisker.
Given that the benefits of rejoining PfP formed no part of the election campaign or, indeed, of the 353 promises made by the government in its electoral manifesto, and given, moreover, that in 1995, PfP had split the country down the middle, it would not be an exaggeration to say that this decision came as a bolt from the blue.
The advantages of Malta rejoining PfP stand on their own merits. What is striking here, however, is how the Prime Minister, who made it the central tenet of his electoral campaign that his would be "a government of all the people", transparent and accountable for all its actions, can, within a few days of being returned to office, make a unilateral decision without in any way consulting the opposition on a subject that divides large sections of our population, irrespective of whether that is justifiable or not"
This is not the opinion of the left. This is an extract from editorial of The Times - 27 March.
Here is an arrogant government who did not have the decency to discuss such an important matter with the people's elected representatives in Parliament. So much for hollow words such as "government of all the maltese"
Coupled with the JPO Mistragate affair, the SMS to Nationalist elected members, this arrogant behaviour is indeed a very bad start for a minority government

mark tanti

Mar 31st 2008, 18:52

But these labourist are incredible people. Just three weeks after their third consecutive defeat , lost eight general elections since independece, 27 years since they lost the majority and yet they do NEVER learn. They remain the NO TO ANYTHING PARTY. Why consult a party which akways says NO to everything in all fields. Why should we let the MLP ruin such an oportunity for our army. This is what we need in all fields, knowledge sharing with other countries. To day our army is an army made of real soldiers and officers and not an army made of jobless people like how we used to have during the previous Labour govts.We should be proud of our army to participate in the PfP.

Christopher Briffa

Mar 31st 2008, 18:46

Dear Mr Chris Cutajar,

I took your advice and visited your movement`s website. You say that none of your members are members of Graffiti, but on your website you are displaying a link to their movement`s website and also another link to the youth branch of that great democratic organisation, the G.W.U. I also noticed that you are obtaining your ideological prowess from such reputed organisations like the Marxists Sociology and other Marxist websites. Truly impressive, what can I say. Wake up guys, communism is dead and buried unless you`ve realsied off course. From what I can see, you are nothing else but a group of disgruntled old school labourites. By any chance you`re not the same group of young men that were recently sending letters to the newspapers praising Alfred Sant?? I have a feeling that you are or maybe it`s just my fertile imagination.

C Dalli

Mar 31st 2008, 18:45

Later this week at the NATO summit meeting in Bucharest , it is likely that Malta will be readmitted back into NATO's PfP.

I think it is time to have a dispassionate national debate about Malta's peaceful vocation as a young nation state with a fortress colonial past.

Malta has just picked up where it left in 1998. But we are now in 2008, not in 1998.
We live in a world changed profoundly by 9/11.
9/11 was in 2001.


More fundamentally, what is needed is a substantial and systematic calm bipartisan rethink & redefinition
of Malta's 'neutrality'.

The country's lawmakers will have to decide whether to keep, or change, or do away with Maltese neutrality.
Which constitutional definition of neutrality anywhere is so perfect as to be final, withstanding the test of time?

Now that Malta is a member of the European Union, the country has to decide whether Maltese neutrality and non-alignment as defined in 1987 continue to express where the country wants to go in today's world - post-1989,
post 9/11.

PHILIP BORG

Mar 31st 2008, 18:45

Dear Charles Buttigieg, i bet our foreign correspondent from Canada was just composing his lines of wisdom simultaneously with your betting he will show up soon! Look at the sequence further below here and you'll note that there are only few minutes between your comment and the fresh lines from the gospel according to Martinelli.

Talking about others of that same "ideas & ideals", would it make any difference if there are abc's or xyz's here and elsewhere? After all, some people pretend to set the agenda and also have the last word as if they sit high above... and if you don't submit yor mind to that, mamma mia... hell will get loose with the macho art of the law courts.. hey, hey, why didn't they ever call them "Courts of Justice"???

While at it, can anyone ever explain why 'law' is not 'justice' and vice-versa? Many poor humans still wonder....

Mike Magri

Mar 31st 2008, 18:17

Dear Mr. Cassar.... You Know What..?? Do You Want To Clear Your Mind About This P.F.P. Thing..??

Just Ask Dr. Fenech Adami And Dr. Gonzi, Why Both Of Them Kept Our Original Application In The FEEZE Since Labour Put It In There In 1996...??

Also, Why Did It Took Dr. Gonzi JUST A Few Days After Winning The Elections To ABRUBTLY Put Back Into Action This Application..??

WAS IT A CASE OFF SOME KIND OF POLITICAL PRESURE BY THE U.S. of A...??

I guess time will tell... right..??

C. E Taliana

Mar 31st 2008, 18:06

May I ask a question? Was the re-joining of Malta in PFP part of any electoral program? If yes excuse my oversight. If not there is only one good expression... HERE WE GO AGAIN.

J. Mifsud

Mar 31st 2008, 18:04

Is the Government concious that 51% of the electorate did not want it to lead our Islands?

The least we expect is less arrogance please. I may come to agree for Malta to join PfP, but not without being consulted, at the most by a sitting in Parliament.

F Spiteri

Mar 31st 2008, 17:57

Recalling some of the slogans prior election of the dreadful fear and uncertainty that would haunt Malta if, God forbid, Malta would be governed by MLP......

I feel so honoured that under PN I could breathe in serenity that is filling the air around us.......

GonziPN's government hasn't got any difficulty with PN elected MPs, for instance, thus ruling with peace of mind! I am sure JPO is waiting for police investigation to end to be able to shout out loud that it is a coincidence that unfortunately happened to him that a plot of protected land he owns could have turned out into such a money-making blessing if it were not for MLP to halt the process of hush-hush permits.

GonziPN's government hasn't got any difficulty also with lack of consultation of issues such as PfP with the opposition ... why, should it consult, may I ask? Please bear with GonziPn, maybe they forgot how things should be administered? Why? Are they seeming arrogant? Maybe it was only this time, come on, give them the benefit of the doubt pleaaaaaseeee!!

PN: Transperancy, Accountability and an Informed Public.
(It's a pity nobody could hear me laughing out loud!!!!!!!!!)

j.cutajar

Mar 31st 2008, 17:46

It is arrogance from the early beginning that to inform the Opposition Party by a simple telephone call. At least wait for the parliament to open and to have a constructive discussion in the highest institution of the country. What's wrong to have a sitting in parliament and the subject matter being discussed? We are Europeans and must act democratically like other states. Government must respect civil society and other opposing forces after all this will strengthen democracy. GonziPn must act not talking and in the moment of truth use arrogance. The Maltese society deserves better.

A. J. Saliba

Mar 31st 2008, 17:14

Dear Mr. Cassar

1) First of all this is Moviment Graffiti and not MLP.

2) Second of all, and as far as I know, the MLP is questioning the government's rash decision and lack of consultation with it on such an important issue. It also questioned whether this was in line with the constitution which I think are important questions.

Whether this decision is beneficial for Malta or not time will tell. Perhaps the PN must enlighten us more about the subject and inform us more about it. They did a splendid job of informing the public when introducing the benefits of the EU and the Euro. Why not so with this issue?

Independent newspapers have also questioned the governments lack of consultation and the unilateral decision taken by the PN government in their respective editorials lest you forget.

Charles J Buttigieg

Mar 31st 2008, 17:12

Here we go,I told you that our man from Canada will soon be here.
He has a mission for peace. And IM Beck is here too. I like their esprit de corps.

Charles Camilleri

Mar 31st 2008, 17:07

THE NUMBER OF MALTESE SOLDIERS who will volunteer to join the PfP will give the answer to those who are starting opposing everything Govt does. In time they will make their usual u turn and will understand the benefits of this decision. In the meantine we have five more years or moaning and whining.

Alfred Cassar

Mar 31st 2008, 16:19

Here we go again. MLP is saying NO once more. Apparantely they are so comfortable in opposition that they want to remain there for ever.
But most probably this will be another U-Turn for Labour. In a few years time they will say that participation in PfP is beneficial to Malta and they will not pull us out if in Government. Wait and see.

B.Scicluna

Mar 31st 2008, 16:04

Dr Sant mentioned the withdrawal in the MLP manifest and the Maltese citizens voted for it, so at least don't twist the facts

Brandon Camilleri

Mar 31st 2008, 15:59

The comments of the PN supporters on this issue reminds me of the time when Labour used to implement its policies without any consultation. And I remember very well how they have reacted when when communist countries donated military ammunitions to Malta. And now with their new leader they are doing the using the same arrogance of a party that is back to power.

I still wonder how this was not mentioned in the electoral manifest or why the labour opposition was not requested to discuss the issue and come the the best solution in the interest of the country. At least when Alfred Sant got us out of PfP he had an electoral mandate and not just imposed it on us.

Christopher Cutajar

Mar 31st 2008, 15:39

Dear Mr. Chris Briffa,

I would like to point out that Zminijietna is not a protesting movement. Zminijietna has its Leftist ideology, and is in favour of peace.

I would have expected you to have a look at the Zminijietna Left Youth website, and check our priciples manifesto. There is a whole paragraph dedicated to Peace, Defence and Sovreignty. Then you would have been in a position to comment on our deeds without prejudice.

Unfortunately, organisations like ours are oftenly faced by misinformed criticism like yours.

Mind you, none of my friends are frustrated; to the contrary we are well read guys who build up their opinions from well established sources.

Regards,

Christopher Cutajar
PRO / International Secretary
Zminijietna Left Youth (ZLY)
www.zminijietna.org/zzx

P.S None of the members that form part of Zminijietna are members of Moviment Graffitti.

Andrew Borg-Cardona

Mar 31st 2008, 15:26

The protest was about participation in a military alliance, such as it is. From what I could see, it had nothing to do with the failure to consult the MLP. But of course, the important thing for our so-called Left intelligentsia (not Graffiti and Zminijietna, who protested on their own terms as they are fully entitled to do) is to make the MLP the issue, not the policy.

J. Borg

Mar 31st 2008, 15:15

OK now it's getting clearer....
GonziPN is embracing and following Dr. Sant's approach
Change, my foot!

Ron Busuttil

Mar 31st 2008, 14:46

Malta seems to be divided down the middle on this issue according to party lines as with all other issues.
I agree that the Government should at least sell the idea to the public before going ahead with its decisions.
A parliamentary discussion on the matter is probably in order so as to let the people's voice be heard.
I think it is time the Government starts listening to that voice and trys to work with the MLP on issues of national importance. The MLP also needs to be less divisive and do the same. Malta is too small a country to be so divided.
Clearly our constitution needs updating and redefining. Let there be open and mature discussion.

E. Cutajar

Mar 31st 2008, 14:46

Chris Briffa said:

"As for these protesting movements like Graffiti and Zminijietna (probably the same people), nobody should take much notice of what they say and do, as these are a bunch of frustrated youths that will protest against anything because that`s what gives them a buzz and make them look cool in their weird circles."

Pure Maltese Democracy of the 21st Century. You would be greatly welcomed in China and Zimbabwe mate.

Adrian Cardona said:

"what's the big deal?"

The big deal(s) in my opinion is

(1) Why did government, with the influence of RCC, take this decision without any consultation whatsoever (especially now that it does not enjoy an absolute majority but a relative one)?? Perhaps we would have had none of these discussions if government discussed responsibly with the opposition and submitted its intentions and its reasons clearly to the people. Perhaps we wouldn't be so divided on this issue!

(2) Did you consider the involvement, not of the Maltese armed forces, but if this partnership will serve as a link for foreign military personnel and establishments on our islands - something which is prohibited by the Constitution?

I will not be pleased nor satisfied unless the government fully outlines its reasons for joining the PfP without ample consultation (that a NATO summit is to be held soon is not enough), its agreement with the PfP, and that it creates a legislative act regarding our relationship and involvement with the PfP that is obviously made public and to ensure that this act is in line with the Constitution.

Transperancy, Accountability and an Informed Public. That is what we expect (amongst other things) from a good and responsible government.

Joe Martinelli

Mar 31st 2008, 14:43

The more the fuss about PfP, the more sheer ignorance these people demonstrate.
The more they complain about the government not consulting the Opposition, the more we remember the past when democracy was deemed to belong to others but not to fellow Maltese.
It shows that those who landed on the wrong side of the House still cannot swallow the bitter pill.
Get over it and let's get going!

Charles J Buttigieg

Mar 31st 2008, 14:01

Partnership for peace is Nato not EU. Sant had the people's mandate to get us out as it was an electoral assurance and people voted for it. We will soon get a correspondent from Canada to defend this. If it is a PN action it's democratic,please do not argue.

Mark Pisani

Mar 31st 2008, 13:55

Mr Cutajar,
The statement "half of the population either did not vote or did not voting for you" reeks of brainwashing from the referendum days, the truth is that, PN got the majority of the votes, its about time that, 1 month on, you manage to swallow this pill.

Mr. Genovese, I agree with you 100% It is a shame, the PM did not even consult the opposition (who is in shambles and not in a position to be consulted at the moment) before changing the used toilet paper roll at Castille! WHAT ARROGANCE, A UNILATERAL DECISION!!

I hope that the MLP supporters will just accept that PN won the elections and that is that. Please don't give the rest of us a headache for 5 years complaining about everything. Finally, please get your facts right before putting pen to paper, NO MALTESE SOLDIER WILL BE FORCED TO PARTICIPATE IN ANYTHING - so, please, put a sock in it!

Christopher Briffa

Mar 31st 2008, 13:38

What is all the fuss about joining PFP? This decision was discussed in Parliament at length when we originally joined during the Fenech Adami government, then when in 1996 Alfred Sant became PM he decided without consulting with anyone to withdraw. What is the big deal? According to this new agreement, our Armed Forces are not going to be involved in Military Operations anyway. Personally I think that this participation will be a learning experience for the AFM personnel that are lucky enough to be chosen to participate. As for these protesting movements like Graffiti and Zminijietna (probably the same people), nobody should take much notice of what they say and do, as these are a bunch of frustrated youths that will protest against anything because that`s what gives them a buzz and make them look cool in their weird circles.

Adrian Cardona

Mar 31st 2008, 13:26

Did Sant consult with the Pn when he withdrew Malta from the PfP? of course he didn't. As for Malta being an accomplice to war, how many times must it be said that Maltese soldiers will not take part in any military action? They will participate in humanitarian missions, and only on a voluntary basis, so what's the big deal?

E. Cutajar

Mar 31st 2008, 13:26

Why are you so surprised?

Silence
Arrogance
Unilateral decisions
Disillusionment
Unaccountable governance
Twisting of facts

These are what we shall have to put up with now that the present government has realized that its majority is nothing short of fragile; now that it is confronted with the reality that its majority is perhaps to slim to forward its full agenda. You can only take a look at the poll on this online journal to realize how divided the country is on such a matter.

The benefits of PfP?

Training for our soldiers in humanitarian crises, etc? Couldn't the government organize (by consulting with the opposition and the AFM) trips for our armed forces in foreign barracks/training grounds without joining a NATO military alliance?

Participation in EU/Nato Security/Defence policy. Is this a joke or what? I have high hopes for Malta, I want to see it excel as best it can but why do we need to involve ourselves in defence policies?

I am positive that we only joined this alliance with undue pressure from the USA and perhaps the UK. Maybe this gives them a reason to dock more warships and intelligence centers here in Malta (at a nice price) to further pursue their obsession for global hegemony.

P Galea

Mar 31st 2008, 13:21

Stop talking nonsense . Are we in EU or not ? Do we want to participate fully or not ? It is about time we grow up ! For the good of Malta even Labour have to change if they do not want to stay were they are for good .

Mario Genovese

Mar 31st 2008, 12:25

Iggudikawni fuq li naghmel - Judge me on what I accomplish...PFP did you consult any body from the other half of Malt Mr Prime Minister? How come you remain so silent? NO more chatting now that you won by a bunch of votes?

j.cutajar

Mar 31st 2008, 11:57

Where is consultation between Government and opposition, or the Prime Minister. Remember that more that half of the population either did not vote or not voting for you. Shame on you. Please put words in practice.