A house for the President in Gozo

On his busy day when L-Istrina was held and when he was proved right in the gamble to remove gifts as an incentive for generosity, the President found time to visit Gozo. This was much appreciated. During his speech he emphasised that he was the President of all Maltese and Gozitans. He could not have raised a more important point with the Gozitans than this as many times they feel as if they are only given a second thought by our leaders.

Often, in the past, the Presidents had to visit Gozo, usually for some cultural activity or to inaugurate some project. In most cases they fly in and out as quickly as possible. Sometimes they have to go to a hotel or at friends for an overnight. It is high time that the President of Malta also has a residential house in Gozo.

Many will immediately state that this is an extravagant cost. I do not think so and, in any case, there is a way to make this idea sustainable as I will propose.

In the first place, on a matter of principle, the President should have a home in the second island. It is the best way for him to show that he treats the Gozitans as equals and they have a right to be treated as such. It will also greatly help him to stay longer in Gozo and develop a stronger dialogue with the Gozitans who deserve to get more attention.

Secondly, what I am proposing is a modest apartment, without the full frills of a Presidential Palace; a home that can be comfortable for a short stay. The President should not have to stay in a hotel when he visits Gozo.

So how can such a house be sustainable? Simple, by doubling as a museum when it is not being used.

Gozo needs to have a small Pinacoteca. The house can double up as a Museum of Art in Gozo, including not only pictures but also typical Maltese furniture. Of course, it would have, if necessary, two rooms that are cordoned off but it could still be interesting. After all, the President would only be using the premises for a few days in the year when it can certainly be closed off to the public.

In my opinion, but I could be wrong, there are two houses that can be easily transferred to serve this function. One is in the Cittadella itself and one is in Victoria. The Cittadella one is obviously Casa Bondi. The law courts will in the near future be moving out of there anyway and the building should most certainly be a museum. The other building is the premises occupied by the former Secretary for Gozo.

I have muted this proposal before but I now hope that the new President, who is going to great lengths to be as close to the people as possible, will take up this proposal of mine.