Nadur carnival

George M Sant

Mar 25th 2009, 22:03

@C Busuttil
Fortunately I do not have any relatives or friends who are handicapped. Should you wish to dress up as myself at the next carnival I will probably have a good laugh and might even be flattered! I will be delighted to buy you a beer after the parade.

George M Sant

Mar 25th 2009, 22:01

@C Busuttil

I agree with you that tolerance and sensitivity of others' feelings are desirable. So are maturity, the ability to take criticism and plurality of opinion. What happened at Nadur was in bad taste. It could hardly be called criminal however. The incident is important because it touches on a number of deeper ills in Maltese society:

1. The law invoked is archaic. When it was last invoked?
2. That same law is repressive and violates the right of freedom of speech and expression.
3. A law that places an organisation, civil or ecclesiastical, above criticism is dangerous, usually associated with fascism. It has no place in the 21st Century when accountability, essential to democracy, is paramount.
4. The interference by the Church authorities inciting the police to act, is inexcusable. The inappropriateness of their action is highlighted by the use of their full authority to shield from prosecution those responsible for a much more serious crime a while earlier. What happened at Nadur bruised egos. What happened at Lourdes destroyed lives.
5. The willingness of the police to be influenced by the church in both instances is concerning.

C.Busuttil

Mar 25th 2009, 13:10

@George M. Sant
Dr. Saliba is right, I have more grudges against the church than all of you in this blog, but I will not hide behind toothpicks like most of you. I took a stand against the church in a time when most would not have even dared.
What happened in Nadur is wrong you don't have the right to ridicule anyone. Next carnival I will dress up as some relative of yours or friend that might have some handicap and I will excuse myself that its carnival therefore everything goes.

George M Sant

Mar 21st 2009, 23:41

@Francis Saliba
A "growing animosity towards Catholicism"? Catholicism is the fastest shrinking religion? Can't have it. We have got to do something about that. The best way is to enforce the law. Bring back the Inquisition. That should sort out that "lobby of assorted hedonists,atheists, agnostics, homosexuals and lapsed Catholics".

But then maybe there is another way. Perhaps the Catholic Church and its followers should have a good look at themselves and ask why this is happening and take some responsibility for it. Maybe it should start listening to criticism and with an open mind. Above all it should ensure it is not throwing stones while in a glass house and not discourage the application of the law when it publicly declares it has breached the law.

STEVEN cAMILLERI

Mar 21st 2009, 11:11

@ Joe Fenech

Love it or not , we are a Roman Catholic country . Do you really expect that we stop village feasts and church bells that havew been celebrated for years because of people like you ? This is Our Culture , our Traditions , our Life , if you don't like it you may find many many options that are available to you and people who hate Maltese traditions!

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 8th 2009, 22:57

@CharlesSammut

Our Criminal Law protects all religions from vilification but as regards punishment this is more severe in the case of the official religion of the Republic. You condemn that as discrimination but I myself see nothing wrong with that. What is very obvious is that the Nadur carnival case is being used as a pretext to voice a much wider animosity towards Catholicism in general always by the same lobby of assorted hedonists,atheists, agnostics, homosexuals and lapsed Catholics.

E. Ghirxi

Mar 8th 2009, 22:21

''Forgive our tresspasses, as we forgive those who tresspass against us''

Joe Fenech

Mar 8th 2009, 21:56

Yesterday I was watching a documentary on the hysteria The Satanic Verses created amongst staunch Muslims round the world. The Church is on the same boat as these fanatics! Bad taste is not a crime: if it was, most Maltese will be in jail!

What about putting the Church members to jail for breaking our peace in summer with festas, and for harassing us with their bells? We're atheists but we still have to put up with this.

Charles Sammut

Mar 8th 2009, 21:11

@ Dr Francis Saliba
Not only were my statements (allegations according to you) not unfounded, but you confirmed them yourself by quoting the penal code.

Whilst the maximum term of imprisonment in the case of the Roman Catholic Religion is 6 months, in the case of other religions it is 'only' 3 months. Is that not discrimination? Does this not imply that other religions are less worthy of respect than the RCR? Just because it is claimed that the RCR is the national religion does not mean that it is superior to other religions.

By the same token, a crime committed against a Maltese national should carry a heavier penalty than a similar crime committed against a foreigner. In fact the opposite is the case!

The law is indeed an ass.

r grech

Mar 8th 2009, 19:57

I agree with the Bishops about the behaviour of certain individuals and costumes worn during this year's carnival in Nadur.
Church is not to make fun of.

a darmanin

Mar 8th 2009, 19:37

@John Azzopardi
Well said Mr. Azzopardi, action was taken only because the bishops have spoken. If not everything would be as normal. Imma l-knisja ghada trid tindahal wisq.

Jennifer Soames

Mar 8th 2009, 19:28

Reading the archbishop's statement about the rights of minorities has brought tears to my eyes and I really have to say this comment and hope that i am not misunderstood: the Church cannot sit in a sanctimonious seat and point fingers at "bad people dressing up for carnival because the church has not exactly been without sin, especially in Gozo. It is not fair to expect the people to respect the church when the church itself has abused the rights of children.... and please, i am saying this with sadness not with arrogance. I am not justifying bad behaviour, just saying that bad behaviour is evident on both sides.

J Martinelli

Mar 8th 2009, 18:14

@ John Azzopardi

Your point reinforces my earlier remarks - why did the police not take immediate action?
Could it be that they themselves (of whatever rank) are not aware of the provisions contained in the Criminal Code? Had they witnessed some petty theft say of a few euro, would they have deemed the amount too little to worry about? Would they not have at the very least identified the thief and given him/her a warning? Is the law subject to the Police interpretation? I am under the impression that the interpretations and judgments are still in the hands of the judiciary.

Besides the Bishops' statements, should one not come from the Commissioner of Police himself?

@ Manwel Saliba

At 69, Bishop Morelli is perhaps entering his second childhood! (darbtejn insiru tfal).

The Church has not publicly commented on his behaviour which apparently did not offend anyone, but neither do I expect him to be named Cardinal or Pope any time soon!

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 8th 2009, 18:14

@John Azzopardi

Tell that to the Commissioner of Police. Have you changed your mind aready that the abuse of the law was blown out of all proportion?

MG Buttigieg

Mar 8th 2009, 17:06

@Paul Janicki
yes you hit the nail on the head. We have many many problems and what happened during the Nadur Carnival was in fact the opening of the Pandora box for all to view. Alcohol was running like rain water. Decency was thrown to the winds (the ladies and the gentlemen all urinating in view of all). One wonders why??!! Many were vomiting their guts out. And many other indecent acts (not reported in the media) were perpetrated.
Yes the lid has been blown off the boiling pot. And if one pays careful attention to the first speech made by Bishop Grech one must be honest enough and admit that his foremost concern was about the DEGRADATION OF THE HUMAN PERSON.
Most bloggers have chosen to focus on the acts against religious sentiment IGNORING EITHER INTENTIONALLY OR ELSE BLATANTLY THE ABOVE HAPPENINGS.
We are addressing only the syptoms and not the decease.

John Azzopardi

Mar 8th 2009, 16:59

@ Dr. Saliba.If the law was broken, then the police should have arrested those people involved or at least stopped them them from parading in the main square and through the main street right there and then not after the fact and after the bishops have spoken. Then this situation would not have turned into a circus as it is right now.

C Vella

Mar 8th 2009, 16:24

It does not seem proportionate to ruin someone's disciplinary record for mocking the church.. Plus it definitely speaks volumes on the church's ability to act as they preach.. As far as my comprehension of Catholicism goes, people should forgive those who do them harm.. and not have them taken to court to ensure their protection of image...

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 8th 2009, 16:16

@JohnAzzopardi

If the police action for the excesses of this year's Nadur carnival has the desired effect that future carnivals will be conducted with civilised merriment without stooping to insulting and blaphemous behaviour then the appeal of the bishops and of all those who supported them would have served its purpose. It is a great pity that an innate sense of common decency had not been sufficient and the enforcement of the law became necessary.

Raymond Sammut

Mar 8th 2009, 15:44

As Roman Catholics, we could be losing sight of the true meaning of Carnival, a feast which, ironically, we owe to the Roman Catholic Church. In fact, Carnival is celebrated only in Roman Catholic countries, with Brazil being the world capital of Carnival.

Carnival -- festival of (animal) meats (carne) -- is meant to allow the community to consume foods consisting of meats and other dairy produce prior to the commencement of the forty days of Lent. The aim is purely economic. It avoids food wastage while preparing Catholics for a period of fasting. This fasting is tribute to Jesus' fortitude, who is reported to have spent 40 days in the desert, physically confronting Satan under extreme conditions. It was here where the battle line was drawn between Good and Evil.

Malta has laws designed to protect Catholics and the Catholic Church from abuse during Carnival. These laws ensure that the festival is conducted with the required decorum, and without diminishing the respect due to the Church. If impropriety has occurred at Nadur, then people have been weakened rather than strengthened by Carnival, and it was the Church's duty to respond, else Carnival would have lost its purpose.

John Azzopardi

Mar 8th 2009, 13:33

this whole Nadur Carnival issue is being blown out of proportion. Carnival is suppose to be fun and exciting and that it is. What we are now seeing is a vendetta prima faccia. I am sure Nadur carnival will never be the same and all kind of restrictions will be placed on Nadur Carnival. Things have changed a great deal in Malta and Gozo and to arrest those young men is not good either. I say maybe a reprimand was more in order, but to arrest them in this day and age for dressing up as something is ridiculous. This is more a case of education than anything else. I wonder what the EU courts will say regarding this freedom of speech issue.

a darmanin

Mar 8th 2009, 12:56

Kemm sirna dojoq qed nghid dan l-ahhar. Lanqas il-Yemen (wiehed mill-izjed....jekk mhux l-izjed pajjiz sotto zviluppat fid-dinja f'kollox) m'ghadhom jaghmluhom dawn l-affarijiet.

X'taqbad taghmel meta tara' dawn il-ligijiet? Tidhaq? Tibki?

Alan Vella

Mar 8th 2009, 11:52

X'misthija ta' pajjiz.

Tal-biza kif dawn l-affarijiet ghadhom jigru f'2009.

U rriduha ta' Ewropej! ha.

o.galea

Mar 8th 2009, 11:50

There was nothiing really bad at the Nadur carnival. I was there and can say. The spontaneous element, the macabre feeling and the rowdy sentiment of the mob was evident. To introduce an organising mechanism for the event would ruin its concept. It should be let to flourish, guided and earmarked as one of the island's major events of the year.

What i personally condemn is some individuals' insensitivity towards the religious culture of the participating public whether Christian, Muslim or Buddhist, certain erotic gestures when they were aware of children's presence and the bad organisation by the authorities when it came to parking, public hygene and order.

Hopefully the Nadur event shall in future evolve into a non regimental parade of spontaneous festivity of colours, costumes, live music and feel good factor without exposing the public and the local residents to unwanted insolence and disorganisation.

Carlo Brincau

Mar 8th 2009, 11:03

basta dhalna fl-EU u ghadna nigu kmandati min ligi tan 1933, zmien meta missierjietna kienu ghadhom jemnu li knisja hija suprema, li knisja hija divina... zmien fejn hafna missierijietna taw kolox lil knisja u knisja kif ghamlet fl-ahhar 2000 sena saret miljunarja min fuqom, bili anki fethet bank ... more than that!!

din hija farsa totali.. il gvern misu jisthi ta dan ...

Manwel Saliba

Mar 8th 2009, 09:09

Bishop Joins Sexy Carnival

A catholic bishop has caused controversy in Brazil by parading with a samba school at the Sao Paulo carnival.

Bishop Dom Mauro Morelli, 69, from Duque de Caxias paraded with the Aguia de Ouro Samba School.

It is the first time a senior church figure has ever appeared in the carnival parade.

He told Agora newspaper: "I really liked to parade. It was wonderful. I have been a bishop for 40 years and have always been among the people."

The Aguia de Ouro Samba School's parade featured angels and devils and was themed The Bread of Each Day.

Like its counterpart at Rio de Janeiro, the Sao Paulo Carnival features semi-naked women and mock orgies.

The church has not commented on the bishop's appearance but the Archbishop of Rio de Janeiro has condemned "the sad show that carnival has become".

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_1275863.html

( NOTE:Our Catholic Church did not condemn the bishop and did not accuse him in court. )

ceri whitley

Mar 8th 2009, 08:19

And the Australian Mardi Gras carnival has just taken place....

www.http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/45545000/jpg/_45545025_costumes_ge466.jpg

There is something else about this happy scene.

Simon Tabone

Mar 8th 2009, 07:27

L-isqof ghamel tant pressure biex dawn n nies jittiehdu passi kontrihom, u meta xi membri tal-kleru ghamlu reati akbar, il-knisja ghamlet pressure biex tghatti kollox.
Nista nkun naf kemm il-xahar ta habz sospizi kienu inghataw dawk li abbuzaw minn tfal f'istituti?

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 8th 2009, 06:43

@BrianCamilleri

I could, but I won't for reasons already stated.

@Charles Sammut

Regarding the protection to other religions in the our Criminal Code please read the articles following Art 163 before making unfounded allegations.

Joe Borg

Mar 8th 2009, 01:09

@ J Farrugia
Minix f'posizzjoni li naghllem lill hadd ghax nies tal lum jafu x'hin hazin u it tajjeb. Jien kikondanna bil qawwi li gara, imma issa il vittma ser ikollu condotta hazina ghal qomru fuq haga li giet imkabra ghax kien Maltin...u halliena....

Joe Borg

Mar 8th 2009, 01:00

@ J Farrugia
M'ghandix taqsam il play ta Sister Act ? Din ezempju wiehed qed insemmi. Hargu permessi qalihom ? jekk le kisru il ligi ukoll!! U toqodx tighid bil maltin ghax ghandkom bzonna !!! imnalla jitillaw ha taqallu xi ewro !!!

S. Calleja

Mar 7th 2009, 12:37

@ Edward Bartolo

What qualifies for a "religjon ohra tollerata mil-ligi"?

Brian. J. Camilleri

Mar 7th 2009, 12:17

@Maurice Saliba
‘So ridicule for many is by all standards ok. What if somebody cracks ''offensive'' jokes about somebody's dead mother?’

Jesus and the Holocaust-which is creditable?

Recently the Pope said it clearly ‘Holocaust denial’ and or discussing the Holocaust is a crime’.
What the Pope says about God’s denial by atheists? The pope goes mum. So, according that Pope, I can get away to whatever connected with Jesus and this is ‘fine’, but discussing the Holocaust is a taboo!
As you can see: We have our priorities upside-down and this is happening from top to bottom.


@ Dr Francis Saliba
Ya ya in another message board you did answer by asking me to read our history. Actually, history is my preferred read, and I could not spot the difference between the crusaders and the Jihadists. If you could elaborate I much appreciate :-)

Thank you
Brian

edward bartolo

Mar 7th 2009, 10:14

This is a quote from the Criminal Code.

"FUQ ID-DELITTI KONTRA S-SENTIMENT RELIGJON

Tkasbir tar- Religjon Kattolika Apostolika Romana.

Mizjud: XXVIII. 1933.2.
163. Kull min bi kliem, b’gesti, b’kitba, stampata jew le, bi stampi jew b’xi mezz ie]or vizibbli, ikasbar pubblikament ir-Religjon Kattolika Apostolika Rumana, illi hija r-religjon ta’ Malta, inkella joffendi r-Religjon Kattolika Apostolika Rumana billi jkasbar lil dawk li huma ta’ din ir-religjon jew lill-ministri taghha, jew kull haga li tkun oggett ta’ devozzjoni tar-religjon
Kattolika Rumana jew li tkun ikkonsagrata jew iddestinata biss ghad-devozzjoni ta’ din ir-religjon, jehel, meta jinsab hati, il-piena ta’ pri[unerija minn xahar sa sitt xhur.

Mizjud: XXVIII. 1933.2.
164. Kull min jaghmel xi wiehed mill-atti msemmijin fl-ahhar artikolu qabel dan kontra religjon ohra tollerata mil-ligi, jehel, meta jinsab hati, il-piena ta’ prigunerija minn xahar sa tliet xhur."

Charles Sammut

Mar 7th 2009, 09:51

@ Dr Francis Saliba

"Kull min bi kliem, b’gesti, b’kitba stampata jew le, bi stampi jew bxi mezz iehor vizibbli, ikasbar ir-Religjon Kattolika Appostolika Rumana, illi hija ir-religjon ta’Malta, inkella joffendi r-Religjon Kattolika Appostolika Rumana billi jkasbar lil dawk li huma ta’din ir-religjon jew lill-ministri taghha, jew kull haga li tkunta’devozzjoni tar-Religjon Kattolika Appostolika Rumana, jew li tkun ikkonsagrata jew iddestinata biss ghad-devozzjoni ta’din ir-religjon, jehel, meta jinsab hati, il-piena ta’ prigunerija minn xahar sa sitt xhur. "

SO in effect the Constitution of the Republic of Malta discriminates against other religions by not offering them similar "protection". This is not limited solely to this matter.

Take the question of divorce and polygamy. How does for example a Maltese couple of the Muslim faith, go about obtaining a divorce? Or practising polygamy, something which is allowed in Islam but prohibited to Catholics?

Isn't it time that Maltese muslims protest strongly against this blatant discrimination? What's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 7th 2009, 09:48

@Brian Camilleri

I did answer your question about present day fundamentalism. I have a ready answer to your question about the Knight Crusaders but I do not accept it as pertinent and relevant to this blog about this year's Nadur carnival.

John A. Zammit

Mar 7th 2009, 09:37

As I have elsewhere commented those concerned must be some blue eyed boys as they are being charged with a contravention when in actual fact they violated article 163 of the Criminal Code which is a crime. For correctness sake I am quoting this article " Whosoever by words, gestures, written matter, whether printed or not, or pictures or by some other visible means, publicly vilifies the Roman Catholic Apostolic Religion which is the religion of Malta, or gives offence to the Roman Catholic Apostolic Religion by vilifing those who profess such religion or its ministers, or anything which forms the object of, or is consecrated to, or is necessarily destined for Roman Catholic worship, shall on conviction, be liable to imprisonment for a term from one to six months. Further comment is superfluous.

J Farrugia

Mar 7th 2009, 09:29

@ Joe Borg, X'ghandha x'taqsam il-play Sister Act, li fl-opinjoni tieghi ma fiha xejn hazin, mal-oxxenitajiet li wettqu dawk li hadu sehem fil-karnival tan-Nadur. Ma kellhomx il-hila joqghodu f'Malta u jaghmluha din; kellhom ghalfejn imorru ghawdex fejn minghalihom li ma jarafhom hadd? Il-verita hija li kienu l-Maltin stess li waslu isimhom u fejn joqghodu lill-awtoritajiet. Ghax l-oxxenita qatt mghanda tirrenja. Jekk inti tahseb li hemm bzonn permezz biex naghmel sister act allura l-valuri tieghek marru l-bahar u mintix f'posizzjoni li tghallem lil hadd fuq kwsistjoni tahraq bhal din. Hammigtu l-Karnival tan-nadur u mhux ta' b'xejn li l-Ghawdxin irrabbjati hafna ghalikom. Ghax ippruvajtu tkissrulhom attivita' li kienet tigbed warajha hafna nies anke Maltin. Jishtukom ghad iridu.

J Farrugia

Mar 7th 2009, 09:24

qed nara kemm hawn velenu ahdar kontra l-Knisja f'Malta. Tajjeb li nippersegwitaw lill-Knisja favur ghasfur, tajjeb li nghajjru lill-qassisi ghax huma kontra l-abbort, u kontra d-divorzju, tajjeb li naghjruhom fit-tajjeb u fil-hazin imma li noffendu lill-Alla u lir-religjon ta' dal-pajjiz dik OK. ghax ghandna salt ipokriti li ghax jahsbu li jwerzqu l-iktar ser jirbhu l-argumenti. O kemm nixtieq li Malta kienet musulmana halli naraw l-arja ta' dawn l-anti klerikali meta jdendlulhom rashom fuq lasta ta' xkupa u jpogguhom fil-pjazza ghar-ridikolagni tal-poplu. L-inqas jifthuh halqhom . \Imma basta bl-iskuza tal-liberta tal-espressjoni naghmlu u nghidu l-ikbar oxxenitajiet li wiehed jista jimmagina. Il-Liberta tal-aespressjoni tieqaf hekk kif inti tghafas il-kallu tieghi. Ghax ma nghidux li f'pajjizna ghandna nies li l-inqas jixirqilhom nghidulhom nies. imma huma frott ta' trobbija hazina. U llum qed naqtghu dan il-frott hazin. Biex wiehed jiehu pjacir mghandhux ghalfejn jinsulta lil Alla u lir-religjon kattolika. Dan mghandhu jkun qatt. Irridu naghmlu mir-religjon taghna paljett biex nimshu fiha biss. Biex ninqdew minnha biss.

L..Galea

Mar 7th 2009, 09:19

I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever.
Thomas Jefferson

Maurice Saliba

Mar 7th 2009, 09:09

So ridicule for many is by all standards ok. What if somebody cracks ''offensive'' jokes about somebody's dead mother? I will not view it as extreme if that mother's son takes legal action against the offender and the jokes will absolutely not fall under the category of freedom of expression. Freedom of expression is only protected by law when it does not instill hatred or tries to denigrate the dignity of the human person including his beliefs. If lawful freedom of expression means you can communicate what you want then there is nothing wrong about pedophile pornography, denigrating comments against homosexuals and people of other cultural backgrounds (racism).

G. Schembri

Mar 7th 2009, 08:33

When will the police to take criminal action against the employer who made his empolyees undress to check if they were menstruating. Surely this is a more serious crime than dressing up as Christ in carnival, or do they only prosecute when the bishops order them to do so?

Mike Farrugia

Mar 7th 2009, 08:29

I would also take action against the police officers who were on duty that day for not taking immediate action. They should have never allowed the law to be broken.

Joe Borg

Mar 7th 2009, 04:00

So under section 338(o) of the Criminal code whiich bars people from dressing up as priests and/or doning church vestments or naval/military uniforms without a permit will face charges.
Can the competent authority quote how many permits were supplied to schools organizing plays/concerts where dressing of priests/nuns,naval/military uniforms were issued??? Sister Act is one example...

William P Flynn

Mar 7th 2009, 00:33

The real carnival/comedy/tragedy is how the bishop was so scandalized by this carnival prank and how the usual suspects came out calling for prosecution and punishment.

Where were these righteous when nuns were found to have abused helpless orphan children in Gozo over many decades? When is that court case coming up?

This very same bishop, as every other bishop all over the world, must also abide by Pope Ratzinger's dictum of Crimen Sollicitationis which spirits away paedophile priests to the Vatican - out of the reach of law enforcers in other countries . (don't take my word for it - Google it and see).

On another issue a Parliamentary Committee on IVF has heard from a priest who "declared that it should be "an honour" (for him) to be accused of not going along with all modern reproductive technologies"!
This priest was in fact arguing against Maltese citizens receiving cutting-edge technologies with those entrusted, and whose duty it is, to procure them - parliamentary representatives.

Malta is fooling itself believing it is a secular state.

Highlighting these episodes is good because citizens, and hopefully their elected representatives, might continue to steer Malta resolutely away from catholic fundamentalism.

KM Vella

Mar 6th 2009, 23:33

@Johnny Smith

There is no point in arguing with someone like you.

George Caruana

Mar 6th 2009, 23:27

@ J Martinelli.
You missed the whole point. And I surely did not need a lesson.
What is deplorable is that this event ended up in court, and it is self-defeating.

Brian. J. Camilleri

Mar 6th 2009, 22:36

@ Dr Francis Saliba
Once again, I didn’t get your answer about the difference between a Jihadists and crusaders? My point is that any type of extremisms is bad. Thank u anyway.
Brian

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 6th 2009, 21:36

Kodici Kriminali – Art 163

Kull min bi kliem, b’gesti, b’kitba stampata jew le, bi stampi jew bxi mezz iehor vizibbli, ikasbar ir-Religjon Kattolika Appostolika Rumana, illi hija ir-religjon ta’Malta, inkella joffendi r-Religjon Kattolika Appostolika Rumana billi jkasbar lil dawk li huma ta’din ir-religjon jew lill-ministri taghha, jew kull haga li tkunta’devozzjoni tar-Religjon Kattolika Appostolika Rumana, jew li tkun ikkonsagrata jew iddestinata biss ghad-devozzjoni ta’din ir-religjon, jehel, meta jinsab hati, il-piena ta’ prigunerija minn xahar sa sitt xhur.

Paul Janicki

Mar 6th 2009, 20:22

The debate over this issue has further convinced me that for the past 2 years I have been studying in Disneyworld. Wake up people. There is a huge drug problem amongst underaged children and adults in Malta, obesity rates are enromous (no pun intended) amongst other real issues, and what people decide to dwell on is the fact a few people dressed up as Jesus/a priest. What about the guys that dressed up as women? Were women also denigrated at the Gozo carnival? I think clowns may have been denigrated as well. In my opinion, the only thing that was denigrated was Maltas image as respectable member of the EU and as a democratic country. Freedom of expression? Nah. Was anyone harmed because of these costumes? Were they an attempt at making a mockery of the Catholic religion? Maybe these partygoers were celebrating the wonderful works the Catholic priests have been doing in Malta? Was hatred/resentment/mockery necessarily the motive? This seems to me a feeble attempt at protecting the Maltese identity as good Catholics but, in fact, the other more serious issues undermine this identity in a much more powerful and threatening way; the ones being neglected.
Sleep well.

J Martinelli

Mar 6th 2009, 19:47

@ George Caruana

You are mixing apples and oranges, not to use a more crass Maltese expression.

The Constitution does not spell out Laws.

Laws, both Civil and Criminal are enacted within the provisions of the Constitution under different sections, some of which come under the Freedom of expression. The law however, can limit such a freedom, otherwise how can one proceed against someone who libels or slanders him?

There are laws which prohibit distasteful behaviour which can offend people. Let there be no doubt that the vast majority was offended although as usual, they choose to remain silent.

The police inaction is deplorable because as the old adage goes,' il-ftira shuna tajba' and the more time elapses, the less importance is given to this unfortunate case as evidenced by some unbelievable comments below.

It also raises the question whether the police would have taken any action at all had the Bishops not spoken out. Even more puzzling is the fact that the unwarranted behaviour occurred in the police presence! Maybe they thought it was too much work to bother.

Charles Sammut

Mar 6th 2009, 18:54

Sentences of one month jail suspended for 18 months have been handed down in Gozo.

Wow, that certainly has enhanced the standing of the Catholic Church and its bishops!

Johnny Smith

Mar 6th 2009, 18:40

KM VELLA: You stated that "The Church does not condemn only homosexual acts but it also condemns sexual acts of heterosexuals outside of marriage." The you further stated "If that isn't a case of blatant opportunism and arrogant hypocrisy, then I don't know what is."
How is it that you take the opportunity to attach the Church when the subject is on the Nadur Carnival: YES, they are right, because that was what Jesus told us.

1Cr 6:9 Don't you know that those who do wrong will have no share in the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, who are idol worshipers, adulterers, male prostitutes, homosexuals. Then in 1Tim 1:10 it says: "These laws are for people who are sexually immoral, for homosexuals and slave traders, for liars and oath breakers, and for those who do anything else that contradicts the right teaching

So what is wrong don't try to use it when the subject is different, talk on the morality that took place in Nadur Gozo during the Carnival?

RGauci

Mar 6th 2009, 18:34

The bishop should check out some episodes from South Park then, i am sure he will find the ones with our lady and the pope amusing. If these are not censored why should these carnival costumes?

Johnny Smith

Mar 6th 2009, 17:54

@William P. Flynn: Your statement said "showing Maltese their stupid laws and religious undercurrents that still lurk in Malta. The bishops have far too much influence in Maltese secular life."..............But I'm afraid if you don't know the exact facts, don't talk, just read as you are in Australia and we know that some people who do not believe in God-attach religion.

For this reason (unbelieving in God) you started to accuse them (Christians/catholics) in left right and centre without knowing. But according to official Police Reports and that of a spokesman coming from the Ministry of Justice & Home Affairs said that photographs published in the media and supplied to the authorities do demonstrated that their behaviour was "not simply a case of people dressing up as Christ or that of saints" but more, so it's a matter of "a question of public indecency and offending religious sentiment."

Hope you got the message loud and clear and we as Christian do support Maltese Catholics in this, because we (and I am Maltese too) believe and respect God our Father who is in Heaven who one-day will Judge all those who do disrespectful acts !!

d stellini

Mar 6th 2009, 17:49

How ridiculous. I dont recall the Church reporting some members of the clergy to the police for far more serious offences - such as paedophilia. They just hushed it up and moved the offenders to another parish in another country. ~ But it finds a carnival parade highly offensive !

alister farrugia

Mar 6th 2009, 17:45

rediculous .. it s sad to think that we still live in the dark ages , prosecution for those who don t agree with us ..
rediculous , keep them doped with religion and let them think that they re free ..
it s the perfect example of how catholics killed jesus , jesus forgave those who killed him nevermind if someone dressed like him , which by the way everyone that followed jesus dressed pretty much the same ..
those persons who accuse or got insulted , what are they thinking they bought a better place in heaven or something ?? oh they offended our morals .. what morals ?? is in t this irony one reason i don t go to festa s is because i can t stand the irony in all of it catholics are suppose to celebrate their festa to their saint and not getting drunk on their favourite alcohol , swearing perhaps in the name of their saint and the occasional fight ironic is it ! i beleive that this whole story is going to backfire and a lot of people will change their minds on what they where forcedtolearn
so glad im free

Joe Zammit

Mar 6th 2009, 17:44

TO ALL COMMENTATORS: Please remember that the Nadur carnival case is now SUB IUDICE, i.e., it is in the hands of the courts. A comment passed in this column can henceforth amount to a crime as well for some reason or another.

Joe Zammit

Mar 6th 2009, 17:40

Our Criminal Law accepts no ignorance of the law. All people are expected to know the law. Ignorance is no excuse. The law has to be observed ALWAYS: in plays, at carnivals, in private and public places. Crimes should never be ignored because they are there in the public interest. Ignoring crimes means ignoring the well-being of citizens and inhabitants.

adrian aquilina

Mar 6th 2009, 17:21

it goes to show we have no freedom of speach,freedom of expression and as we know no democracy.its almost as stupid as banning a play for blasphemy.would be funny if it was not so scary.we should have the right to say and express an opinion about anything inc church and mps without reprisal.a permit to wear certain costumes?unbelievable.i believe in taking a stand and in protesting,always non violently,when you feel strongly about something.but then in malta its also a problem to go to school with coloured hair etc..no wonder we are a country with very few individuals..if only we were a real european country and not a right wing religious state.

C.Formosa

Mar 6th 2009, 16:43

Enter the Mutaween.
Incredible.Only in Malta.

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 6th 2009, 16:33

Relying only on what has been reported in the press and my scanty knowledge of the law I am mystified why the accused in connection with the Nadur Carnival obscenities are being charged under Article 338 (o) of the Criminal Code according to which they are very likely to be set free because no wearing of “uniforms” or “vestments” is involved. Is this intentional?

Could some legal luminary or the police inform the concerned general public why they are not also being charged under Art 163 (vilification of the Roman Catholic Apostolic Church) which would seem to be the more appropriate charge?

Johnny Smith

Mar 6th 2009, 14:57

William P. Flynn (Australia): You stated that in Australia "If every person dressed as god, cardinal Pell, priest, bishop or nun were to be arrested the prisons would be overflowing." But the good Question remain, do they do this in Australia? If they do it, send us a Photograph of the many persons dressed in these dresses? So don't forget, this is your challenge!!!

As regarding good Friday procession no one wears indecent dresses of Christ with his {geni....tals} exposed? How can you say that such act are not offensive, in dress, and the type of dress they wore during carnival time? Did you know what section 338 (o) of the Criminal Code says?? This bars people from dressing up as priests and/or donning Church vestments or naval/military uniforms without a permit.

Regarding village feast procession drunken persons, or swearing, YES, they are being arrested and charged before the court if this ever happened, cause you have exaggerated too much. Parish Priest have many times deplored such similar acts, but againthese are minor acts, and eventually the Archbishop would stop the saint's feast. Such similar minor act are only done by some irresponsible persons.

marco meli

Mar 6th 2009, 14:48

"but no ne has the right to ridicule the belief of others".........how ironic....... up to some years ago, people where not allowed to confess or receive any type of blessing or marry normally as nowadays if one was a fan of mintoff...........Dear bishops... please

Evarist Saliba

Mar 6th 2009, 14:47

Is it a coincidence that the outright defiance of the law during the Nadur carnival, when the person of Jesus Christ and his apostles were turned into objects of fun, coincided with the question of the censoring of a play which most foreign drama critics found offensive and lacking any redeming artistic merit?

I expected the comments that have appeared in this blog, coming from the usual sources known for their innate criticism of the Catholic Church , defending the perpetrators. I am also expecting someone to claim that the perpetrators were performing a work of art protected by the right of freedom of expression, which includes the right to ridicule and offend.

How anyone can wallow in such unprovoked offensive expressions of so called amusement is beyond me.

May I make it clear that I found equally unaccaptable the offensive cartoons depicting Mohammed. I cannot equate human dignity and progress with freedom to offend gratuitously fellow human beings.

And I fully support those who have pointed out that forgiveness presupposes genuine sorrow and readiness to make amends.

azzopardi francis xavier

Mar 6th 2009, 14:47

Some of the comments here are unbeleivable. So it's breaking the law if somebody does damage to private or public property but not if somebody does damage to the church or a statue. It's breaking the law if someone pees in public but not if this someone pees on the church's property. As for the church authorities doing their best to further lessen their congregation, It's better off without them. To think that by ridiculing the church with these comments you're being progressive, you're not.

J Martinelli

Mar 6th 2009, 14:40

The law was broken at the time of the event.

Why did the police, who were present then, not attempt to book the offenders but waited until the Bishops issued their statement?

Were they hoping that the Church authorities would keep their mouth shut, thus avoiding having to enforce the law?

David Wain

Mar 6th 2009, 14:23

This is pathetic.... where does one stop?? The Gozo Bishop is outdoing the Malta one... and that is saying something!!!

DENNIS AGIUS

Mar 6th 2009, 14:18

Jekk kellha ragun sewwa ghamlet il Kurja li ghamlet min kollox biex tiehu passi kontra minn kiser ilLigi fil Karnival tan Nadur. pero meta ser titkellem u tenfasizza fuq persuni li jsawtu lill partners taghhom (irgiel u nisa) meta ser tiehu azzjoni fuq dan u mhux terga tibat lill persuna id dar billi tghidlu AHFIRLU erga mur id dar ha terga tissawwat!!!!! meta ser tenfasizza biex jittiehdu passi fuq dawk il persuni li sawtu it tfal fid djar taghha stess. X'Misthija!

mario borg

Mar 6th 2009, 14:17

Carnival is the only time of year where the norms of our society are stood on their head. This satiric street theatre is quite healthy to the psyche as it puts everyone, rich and poor, on an equal footing. The fact that Nadur Carnival was uncensored accounts for its popularity as opposed to the Valletta carnival which has become an empty pageant of colour just for children.
Are the clergy worried because there are more people attending carnival then the holy feasts? Is freedom of expression a thing of the past?

Jeremy J Camilleri

Mar 6th 2009, 14:15

To be honest, I think there are more than one way of enjoying carnival without hurting ones beliefs.

It is a fact that some people are sensitive as to what they may percieve as insulting to their faith, and as such, certain antics should be avoided. However, If taking them to court is the solution is another matter!

Now whilst the authorities are taking folks to court, how about taking all the priests and nuns accused of crimes against children to the same court?

Also, what happened to the priest who allegedely tried to pervert the course of justice in a rape case...incidently, also in Gozo...?

Michael Bonanno

Mar 6th 2009, 13:50

@ K R Abela. Well said and fully agree with you. We cannot tolerate offensive and abusive gestures like these. Being a Roman Catholic means helping those who are in need, AND NOT BEING SUBJECT FOR ENTERTAINMENT.

A. Vassallo

Mar 6th 2009, 13:49

I I do not know why all this fuss because our Bishops spoke out. And they rightly did a good thing. For many years now, carnival floats depicting persons from the political scene were not allowed because the Onorevolis did not enjoy being taken for a ride during Carnival. It was also not done because the person would be labelled as being Blue or Red or Green as the case may be.

So to take the micky out of our Onorevolis is not done but taking the micky out of Our Lord Jesus Christ or any other figure from any other religion is OK and acceptable. Good thing that these people were taken to court.




.










.

Carmel Taliana

Mar 6th 2009, 13:44

What happened to the FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION as laid down in the constitution and on which the population of Malta goes to the poll for every 5 years. This is only putting more work on the Police whose first and foremost duty is to investigate CRIMINAL OFFENCES and not petty Carnivalistic merryment and enjoyment which happens once a year constricting the freedom of individuals. I lived in the Federal Republic Of Germany, and their custom on Carnival Monday to which it is referred as ROSEN MONTAG that if a married person is caught committing an adulterous offence against one neighbours wife be it secretly, no action is taken unless it is proven that it happened on that particular day. Please check about this custom.

PM Camilleri

Mar 6th 2009, 13:14

Why do we wonder that these youths sought to ridicule Our Lord Jesus Christ during the Nadur Carnival? Ever wondered why we as a nation continue to blaspheme against God, the Holy Eucharist, Our Lady and the saints? Blaspheming has become part of our language and a national scourge. Shame on us. These youths probably blaspheme as well and so they saw nothing wrong in moving up one shameful level by ridiculing our Catholic faith. And this during the Pauline year. These are worrying times indeed for this tiny isle of ours. Are we truly losing our soul?

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 6th 2009, 13:09

@BrianJCamilleri

If you insulted the prophet Muhammed and if, in consequence, you had a fatwa pronounced agaist you you would soon appreciate the difference between fundamentalist Muslims and those you choose to insult by calling them "fundamentalist" Christians.

Simon J. Aquilina

Mar 6th 2009, 12:58

@Chris Finch
Who is going to prosecute these individuals? the church or our independent courts? Like any third party the church can pin-point to the authorities any actions which are deemed to be breaking the law. This is what happened. The authorities - since the law as it is - had no other option. The problem is not that the authorities acted, but that the authorities did not act sooner. This is so since one of the Maltese law was broken and the authorities decided to stay put and do nothing. So how can I know which laws am I to follow and which not - I just select some I don't like and decide not to follow them?

William P Flynn

Mar 6th 2009, 12:55

In the catholic mentality every silver lining must have a very dark cloud.
It was carnival in Nadur. What's the fuss if someone wanted to dress up as anything?

Sydney will have its Mardi Gras tomorrow. If every person dressed as god, cardinal Pell, priest, bishop or nun were to be arrested the prisons would be overflowing.

If every person wearing a mitre in the Rio Carnival had to be arrested, the police would have to bring in reinforcements.

It was OK to see people dressed as Jesus, his apostles and Roman soldiers in front of the pope in Sydney while Australia cringed.

A few years ago I was in Malta on good Friday - that was most certainly a carnival. Every festa is a carnival with processions of men in drag carrying a statue with drunken people in tow; usually blaspheming or insulting the patron saint of the next village. Do police charge them?

The Philippines catholic holy week is a carnival with blood and gore.

The real silver lining is this is showing Maltese the stupid laws and religious undercurrents that still lurk in Malta. The bishops have far too much influence in Maltese secular life.

L Vella

Mar 6th 2009, 12:33

@ K R Abela

So what you are saying is that we are nothing better than Iran, Saudi or the sorts when they started to object to cartoons of mohammed? When that happened we were at the forefront crying 'foul' and claiming that the muslims were undermining freedom of speech. And now we are doing the exact opposite!

Please read this http://www.ofm.org.mt/?p=221. And you are saying that what they did was good and that 'its only fair Christians and Catholics locally show some disapproval'? Are you seriously trying to justify what islam did?

KM Vella

Mar 6th 2009, 12:32

Mgr Cremona says that:

"It is good for society to defend the rights of minorities who have different views from the majority of the public. But no one should have the right to ridicule the belief of others in this way"

Yet on a previous occasion he is also quoted as saying the following:

"The Church does not condemn only homosexual acts but it also condemns sexual acts of heterosexuals outside of marriage."


If that isn't a case of blatant opportunism and arrogant hypocrisy, then I don't know what is.

Joe Cassar

Mar 6th 2009, 12:32

Mr K R Abela, need I point out that two wrongs don't make a right?

The Muslim world was wrong to make such a ridiculous fuss about a few cartoons. We are now being just as ridiculous as them in making a fuss about carnival revelries.

God save us from those who claim to speak in his name.

J. Borg

Mar 6th 2009, 12:25

And so it came to pass, that during the reign of Gonzo, the Inquisition was reintroduced....

Robert Callus

Mar 6th 2009, 12:24

I agree people don't wear military costumes, for reasons of security. But why couldn't they wear as priests or religious figures? People who are public figures are subject to jokes, or ridicule if you want to call it like that. People dress as politicians, musicians, pro gay rights activists, pro-hunting lobbyists women etc sometimes even with an element of ridicule. All have accepted this as part of being on a high profile. It's when it comes to religions (in our case Catholic) that people start getting offended.

@Ann Camilleri
I definitely agree those dressing up as Nazis and Jews is distasteful. However I don't think it should be illegal. However, correct me if I'm wrong, these weren't arrainged in court, probably since they didn't offend 'Catholic' morality

a. sciberras

Mar 6th 2009, 12:22

back to medieval times....

K R Abela

Mar 6th 2009, 12:15

Lemme remember a second...was it the Muslims who had been offended cos of a cartoon of their beloved was interpreted as offensive??... and led to 10th century mentality of uncivil behaviour from that sect of the world, with violence in front of embassies etc?? that was surely deplorable reaction, but dare anyone think negative about the prophet!! but fore some, about Jesus this seems okay without expecting any repercussions!! i think its only fair Christians and Catholics locally show some disapproval!! and that the culprits get to pay a fine!! next carnival, they'll spend the money in better ways u bet!!

Brian. J. Camilleri

Mar 6th 2009, 11:58

@ L Vell
Actually I could not spot the difference between fundamentalists Christians and in this case fundamentalists Muslims. Neither, could I see the difference between Jihadists and Crusaders.

Ann Camilleri

Mar 6th 2009, 11:51

Ok, I agree with the Church to some extent because making fun of a religion, whatever religion it is, can be offensive to some. But what about the following case:
Two persons dressed as Nazi officers running after 3 others dressed as Jews. Is that supposed to be funny? Millions of persons died because of the Nazis. I actually found it a bit distasteful and sick. This was in Nadur by the way.
Thank you

Oscar Cassar

Mar 6th 2009, 11:48

Please note that the subject here is not to discuss the actions by any fundamentalist Islamic countries, the Taliban regime etc and to compare their actions and legal system to ours. Our values, ethics and any acts considered as misbehaviour isn’t even suppose to the subject in question. The subject is just the Nadur carnival and if the actions by nine youths dressed up as Christ or the saints was illegal in Malta.

Off course I was not present and therefore I cannot judge directly these acts, but section 338 of our Criminal Code (according to my knowledge) was originally introduced to eliminate cases of fraud but persons dressed up as priests, bishops etc or that of persons dressed up as officers and giving unlawful orders for some reasons, that may include plans for robbery acts.

Maria Borg

Mar 6th 2009, 11:47

To Joe Cordina,
Nor does anyone ever tried to redicule some politician the way Christ and our Religion were rediculed at the Nadur Carnival. To entertain one needs not stoop so low.

Andrew Vella

Mar 6th 2009, 11:17

Freedom of choosing what costume to wear for Carnival does not justify lack of respect for others, be it the Church OR the police and military personnel - just like the law states.

Nathalie Vella

Mar 6th 2009, 11:06

Let us not forget that the Nadur carnival won Carnival of the year in 2004 (a worldwide award) for being so unique. It is known as the Macabre carnival for a reason. Just let it be - those who don't like it go to Valletta and enjoy your carnival there, I hope there won't be another Lascaris who rains on our parade!

L Vella

Mar 6th 2009, 11:06

@ Joe Cordina

Don't we all condemn Fundamentalist islamic countries such as Iran, Saudi Arabia and others? The US also decided to attack Afghanistan because it was ruled by a Taliban regime! I dont think the Taliban allowed people to dress like Muhammed in Carnival - come to think of it I think they banned all public social activities!

So why do we want to end up like them? Although Malta has a majority of christians (apparently - even though their majority do not even attend church) we are also part of the 'WESTERN WORLD' which should rise above petty fundamentalist arguments and steer clear of danger when freedom is in danger!

O Gauci

Mar 6th 2009, 11:04

Honestly, in most cases I don't agree with the church's way of acting, preaching etc..but yes i do believe in God, and making fun of God is surely offensive to what the majority of the Maltese believe in. So in this one, I agree with the Church and the police force, and i hope that proper action is taken.

I would send these people to go and make fun of the Muslim religion in a muslim country and see whether they will do it. I m sure that they will be scared to death (if they would still be alive).

John Portelli

Mar 6th 2009, 11:03

A governemnt that does'nt trust it's own people are not a free people,With regret I must say freedom of THOUGHT and EXPRESSION that don't fit with the current establishments both CHURCH and STATE are ILLEGAL in Malta.But yet they both protect Malta's invaders.We have to conform to the new world order of political correctness .

Dr Francis Saliba

Mar 6th 2009, 11:00

Why all this claptrap about Christian forgiving?

There has not been any intimation that those who outraged all religious sentiments have any regrets or begged forgiveness from any body. Those who support their vulgarity, their obscenity and their blasphemous treatment of the figure of the Risen Christ are only clamouring for greater freedom to carry on doing the same and more.

Oscar Cassar

Mar 6th 2009, 10:54

Not that I am in favor of such an aptitude, but according to the reports on Nadur Carnival, these persons were not dressed up as priests, Church vestments or any uniforms (section 338 of the Criminal Code). According to my knowledge these were only dressed up as most others do during pageants in our perishes. We must distinguish the difference between what are (according to us) unethical, considered as a misbehaviour, and illegal acts. At least the Police authorities must distinguish such a difference as it is only suppose to take action on any actions considered as illegal.

I ask, what is the use of such a religious fanatical act? Is someone trying to defend an image of a traditional institution or at least trying to accomplish ‘orders’ from ‘friends’, when most probably they know that there will be no form of punishment by the legal system… Do the readers remember the case of those ‘pole dancers’, charged as XXX strippers? If yes do the readers remember the result of the case by the court? To me this is another parallel case with similar motives.

L Vella

Mar 6th 2009, 10:51

@ James De Giorgio

I was not offended by their behaviour.

And apart from that the bishops did want action to be taken as quoted here "The bishops said that if no action was taken, the authorities would be endorsing and approving such illegal behaviour, adding that they were sure this was not the case. Furthermore, they said, this should not be allowed to happen again." Most probably the police were scared that they would face some sort of excommunication if they did nothing and gave in under this mounting pressure!

Joe Cordina

Mar 6th 2009, 10:48

I think that no one has the right to ridicule anyone or any belief under the guise of freedom of expression. Whatever the law may state or not state such behavious is condemnabble. I challenge all those who tried to redicule the Roman catholic religion to do the same with other religions say Muslim? Come on challenge me please!!

George Caruana

Mar 6th 2009, 10:48

@Simon J. Aquilina
Excuse my ignorance, but which part of the Constitution was breached?

Chris Finch

Mar 6th 2009, 10:43

@ Simon Aquillina:
The bishops said that if no action was taken, the authorities would be endorsing and approving such illegal behaviour, - whats that if its not wanting them to prosecute? The Bishops should have turned the other cheek at this outdated law which has no place in the 21st century.

James De Giorgio

Mar 6th 2009, 10:42

To those who accused the church of wanting to prosecute those culpable, I have to call for a good through reading of the article.

The Church condemned the actions, but did not call for prosecutions.

Moreover, dressing up as Jesus Christ in Carnival making a mockery out of what the population believes in, is deplorable.

Joseph Micallef

Mar 6th 2009, 10:42

The part of section 338 (of) of the Criminal Code that deals with priests / church vestments should be amended. It gives the impression that Malta is a fundamentalist catholic state - which I hope it isn't!

Joseph Casha

Mar 6th 2009, 10:34

So much for turning the other cheek and forgiveness. i guess times-a-changin in the religious world. It was Carnival for crying out loud! i guess child molestation is forgiven by the pope, but wearing grotesque clothes for carnival is not. oh well...

Aldo Gatt

Mar 6th 2009, 10:31

It would be interesting to follow this case. It refers to "public indecency and offending religious sentiment" whilst donning church vestments. I know a few Maltese and others who do that on a regular basis when they interpret the words of Jesus Christ. Those that come to my mind live in luxury while they preach poverty, they judge other people's love for each other while love is so conspicuously absent from theirs. Their irresponsible interpretation of the philosophy of life they claim to represent has been the cause of suffering and death of the innocent throughout the ages. They have muzzled the quest for knowledge to spread lies. They constantly offend my sentiments and yet they are the loudest of empty vessels.

A Mallia

Mar 6th 2009, 10:27

What a waste of time and resources.... even Prince Harry was pardoned (and not taken to court) for dressing up as a Nazi soldier during a Carnival Party - although he was subject to public criticism from which no doubt he learnt his lesson.

But of course Malta being holier than the Vatican itself, has to escalate things in order to make some people happy. And then we love to boast that we are a developed country with a level of excellence in everything... very amusing indeed...

Simon J. Aquilina

Mar 6th 2009, 10:27

@Chris Finch
The church does not want to prosecute anyone. You and others must accept the fact that here in Malta we have laws that clearly state that what happened during the Nadur carnival (and not just what the bishops reported) is in breach of the constitution! If so far you did not understand that then I suggest you read the above article again! We cannot as a CIVILIZED SOCIETY decide ad-hoc which laws we are going to follow and which not! Fact is that the authorities should have acted on the spot rather then wait for the Bishops to condemn what happened at Nadur. If any other law was broken, would you like the authorities to do nothing, or to act and bring the perpetrators to justice?

George Caruana

Mar 6th 2009, 10:19

These are the kind of stories that trouble me. Ridicule is one fundamental concept of our Freedoms. It does not incite hatred or violence, and neither steps over freedoms of others. And this is the best way for the church to continue loosing its congregation.

Stephen Spiteri

Mar 6th 2009, 10:13

Why is it that action had to be taken only when the bishops spoke out ? I'm sure there were police officers present during Carnival (2 weeks ago). Were they aware that the law was being broken ? Had the bishops not spoken out, would these misdemeanours have gone unnoticed ? The timing between the bishops' statement and police action is quite uncanny and raises eyebrows.

Chris Finch

Mar 6th 2009, 10:11

This would be hilarious were it not so scary. So the church wants to prosecute those who make fun of it. Why not set up a detention centre to 're-educate' these people who dared to make a satirical statement during carnival?