Quotes of the week

"With hindsight, considering what happened later in the general election, membership won."
Joseph Muscat, Labour leadership hopeful, recognising the result of the 2003 EU referendum, after the reticence of former party leader Alfred Sant.

"If you have any questions you can put them to the Prime Minister via e-mail."
The Prime Minister's press secretary informing protesting journalists that Lawrence Gonzi was not available for questions during his first tour to Mepa.

"We still have no (idea) on when we should expect the ECJ decision."
Government sources expressing concern that the European Court of Justice has not set a date for its decision on spring hunting.

"The federation is being patient, but I have no control over other people's patience."
Lino Farrugia, general secretary of the hunters' federation (FKNK) calling on authorities to pile pressure on the ECJ for a quick decision on the future of spring hunting.

"Patience is running out. We're going to turn this country to dust. Bring with you iron, wood, stones, knives, petrol and matches."
An anonymous chain text message being circulated among hunters.

"We would have been better off had we been pigs. You're treating us worse than the pigs."
Magħtab residents protesting against Mepa's decision to issue an outline permit for a pig farm just 20 metres away from their homes.