Party leaders end their campaigns

The party leaders wrapped up their two-month election campaigns for the EP elections this evening with appeals to people to pick up their voting documents and vote on Saturday.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi underlined the benefits Malta was reaping from EU membership, brought about by the Nationalist Party. He pointed to the financial crisis in Latvia because that country had not adopted the euro, something which Malta did last year. He also pointed out that the EU had just allocated 19 billion euro for job creation, and how Frontex had agreed to involve itself in the repatriation of migrants from Malta, benefits which would not have been enjoyed had Malta stayed out of the EU.

Opposition leader Joseph Muscat urged his supporters to send a strong message to the government that policy changes were needed.

He also urged his listeners to continue working hard because there would be a better tomorrow.

Some candidates were novel in their final approaches to supporters. Labour MEP John Attard Montalto was seen handing out souvenirs which included kitchen utensils in bags along with his literature. He also handed out key chains.

Nationalist MP Frank Portelli, speaking in Msida, produced a postage stamp and wagered 100 euros for anyone who could fill its back with new ideas for the country by Dr Muscat.