Assessing the likely impact of divorce

It is very unfortunate that Labour leader Joseph Muscat is saying that he will propose a Private Members' Bill to Parliament.

Dr Muscat is, on this occasion, not even showing the maturity Alfred Sant had in 1996. Dr Sant had set up a commission to study the position of the family and to offer him advice, also about divorce. Dr Muscat, on the other hand, is saying that there is no need for a study about whether divorce should be legalised or not.

For him there is no question about it. The only thing he is ready to discuss is the type of divorce law we should have. This is unacceptable.

The legalisation or otherwise of divorce is a very serious manner. It will affect not only this but all future generations as it will be proposing a different model of marriage. The whole question should be studied in depth within the parameters of very clear guidelines that proposals should be made on the best way to strengthen the family and to help marriages in difficulty. Let us have a very clear picture of the family and marriage situation in our country. Prevention is always better than cure. As much as possible we should take steps that help prevent the breakdown of as many marriages as possible. Let us study the probable effects that a divorce legislation would have on our social fabric. What has and is happening overseas should guide us. Let us then have an open and frank discussion.

It is only then that we, as a country, can reach a conclusion.