The pro-divorce movement Stand Up has urged the government to publish details about the cheap flights it promised to subsidise for Maltese living abroad to come and vote in the May 28 divorce referendum.

The new movement said it was “shameful” that the government had not yet provided any information, especially since those living abroad have to make the necessary work and study arrangements.

Subsidised flights were provided for the 2003 and 2008 general elections, the 2003 referendum on EU accession and the 2009 European Parliament election.

Stand UP said it hoped details would be made public immediately to ensure a fair electoral process.

Last week, The Sunday Times announced that cheap flights would be made available for Maltese abroad who are eligible to vote in the divorce referendum.

A spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office had confirmed the scheme would be applied to this month’s vote though it was not clear which destinations would benefit. To date no more information has been released.

It is understood Air Malta will be offering return air tickets at €35 inclusive of taxes and other charges. The flights will be valid for eligible voters, including those married to foreigners, studying, working or undergoing medical treatment abroad and their dependants.

The government will make up the rest of the charges so that the brunt is not borne by Air Malta. Bringing over 3,057 people to vote at the 2008 general election had cost taxpayers over €1 million.

Stand Up launched an online campaign to encourage youth participation in the referendum: http://standupmalta.wordpress.com