Updated: Franco Debono says he will abstain in vote on no confidence motion

Joe Fenech

Nov 4th 2011, 09:12

Franco, quit for PN and form you own party with other people like you.

Robert Camilleri

Nov 4th 2011, 08:55

jien ghamilt sew u smajt minn austinu taghna u x xoghol ma bqajtx immur bil karozza ptivata tieghi imma b l arriva!!! skanta u inxef wara 4 xhur immur b l arriva spiccajt bla job ghax spiccajt imkecci peress li dejjem tard:)

Jeffrey Borg

Nov 3rd 2011, 19:28

Some undeniable facts which I established about this TALKocrat , and lawyer specialising in Criminal Law.

Joseph and Franco were classmates and arch rivals at Saint Aloysius !

The fact that Austin Gatt as Secretary General of the PN did not approve of Debono’s candidature

Fifth district facts:

The ‘scandal’ of the payment to Ninu Zammit for a strip of land just before the 2008 election.

The phoning to this paper's reporter after the election where he wanted to be mentioned as the one who not only kicked out Helen D’amato but most importantly Dr Loius Galea.

The fact that in 2003 , the PN front runner Dr Hermann Schiavone in that election, was eliminated with a slanderous and anonymous letter sent to the opposition leader and Dr Eddie Fenech Adami. There was not enough time for the police investigations to be concluded for him to be cleared, remember the confusion about the Mistra case before the last election?

The fact that Manuel Delia who was highly involved in the Transport Reform and a right hand man of Austin Gatt would be contesting on the fifth district as a new PN candidate.

The fact that as reported elsewhere Franco Debono objected about the presence of other prospective candidates (read competition) in a PN party club ‘bibita’ for members.


Conclusion: if Austin Gatt resigns or is made to resign , who will be the one to come up with a solution for this ‘teething’ or start up problem? Franco and his classmate Joseph want only to judge from their armchairs while Austin who is backed by Dr Gonzi and the rest of the cabinet are listening to our complaints and finding solutions.

Thanks but no thanks for MP’s like Franco.

A Caruana

Nov 3rd 2011, 18:49

All Mp's expected to vote against? Is this only Political? what about us commuters who have had the worst summer of chaos on the buses in living history? WE EXPECT OUR MP'S THAT WE VOTED FOR TO ACT IN OUR IINTERESTS - AUSTIN GATT MUST GO IF DR GONZI WANTS TO RETAIN CREDIBILITY!

mary mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 18:18

I am so disappointed in our PM, whom i admired.What a shame that he is completly mishandling the situation.

K. Vella

Nov 3rd 2011, 17:55

@ Franco Debono

Stop hiding behind trhe bush.....tell us your true motives and agenda.....

I do not beleive that this whole issue is about the Public Transport reform.....

You fool the some but not all....

mary mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 17:15

@ R Gauci
You totally missed my point

George Mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 16:28

Political parties should ensure that they really vet prospective candidates before allowing them to stand for election on their ticket. The era of the Prima Donna ended eons ago, or has it?

Alexander Pace Gouder.

Nov 3rd 2011, 16:19

MZPN MOTION states - "recognised that positive changes had been made. "Can MZPN tell us were the positive changes Are? This morning people wating on bus stops was incredable. Mrabat Street,Sliema/St.Julians is a good example. -OFF COURSE DR.GONZI supported this motion. What do you expect that he will not support a MOTION effected in his own Political Party?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HA HA HA. - What a "FARSA". A real good laugh.

Dunstan Crockford

Nov 3rd 2011, 16:18

Really babyish Dr Debono.....you could have spoken against Arriva then voted with the party...but then this is not the first time is it?You went home when an important vote was taken....

Jason Zammit

Nov 3rd 2011, 16:08

Gergru Gregru ........Kellom Bzonn il pajijizi ta l Ewropa ghandom il problema ta Larriva ......... dawk mimlijin dejn , inkwiet , protesti , tkisir u hruq ta hwienet u pjazzez , glied , sparar min sultadi tal Gvern fuq ic civili .....u ahna qet ingibu id dinja fit tarf ax l ARRIVA waslet tard .......what a bunch of loosers :)........issa bili jitla il PL ???? ser jamel xi miraklu ????? .....enjoyyyyyyyyyyyyy

Francis Portelli

Nov 3rd 2011, 15:51

Does TM have a solution to citizens trying to drive to work from the Paola area in the direction of Valletta in the morning ?
Today we were in the traffic for over 2 hours, I left home at 7am and reached Gzira at 9.30am in a private car, not ARRIVA.

R. Gauci

Nov 3rd 2011, 15:49

Austin Gatt farfar ir-responsabilita' dak il-hin li offra r-rizenja, Gonzi ghazel li jerfaghha hu mela mil-lum hallu lil Gatt bi kwietu u dawwru l-kanuni fuq il-PM, b'idejh li gab.

Charles Sammut

Nov 3rd 2011, 15:40

Gonzi and company have to gogo..away!
Why is Mario DeMarco so quiet ??? Speak up and get rid of your " expired use by date" boss...he is destroying the island and the credibility of the PN. He, together with austin and tonio have managed to turn a lot of blue eyed voters away from the part!

...and the beat goes on...and the beat goes on......

mary mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 15:13

nixtieq insaqsi lil Dr Gonzi xjahseb li tahseb l EU fuq din is sitwazzjoni.qeda tigi mxekkla d demokrazijja f Malta?

A Dimech

Nov 3rd 2011, 15:05

In my opinion there are three issues within PN:-

First:- PN is made up of two wide aliances - Liberals and Conservatives. These two alliances were brought together with the aim of fighting Labour. When times are hard, the splinters between these two camps start emerging.

Second:- PN desperately need to pass some time in opposition to renew itself. It is tired and rudderless. No new ideas anymore.

Third:- Gonzi is not showing good leadership anymore. He totally lost the debate on Divorce. He totally mis judged plenty of other things. He is no longer in tune with people adn his own party. He is showing signs of fatigue.

These are the three issues within PN. Dr Franco Debono is just a reflection of this. If PN stays in power longer it will harm the country. And also if Gonzi stays as leader of PN longer, he will harm PN.

We need two strong parties - our democracy depends on it. Time PN takes some time off to renew itself. Get John Dalli / SImon Busutill / Mario DeMarco to move the party forward and re-new its ideas. Gonzi cannot do this because it is not in his DNA to change - he is too conservative.

FRANS H SAID

Nov 3rd 2011, 15:00

Can someone explain weho is this Philip Hili? Is he trying to put Humpty Dumpty back on the wall?

mary mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 14:59

why is the PM backing Gatt,even though he has a history of failures and money squandering?Is there something we dont know?

Noel Abela

Nov 3rd 2011, 14:53

Din il-biza kollha li titilfu il Gvern ghalfejn, madoffi kif inthom imwahhlin mas-siggu tal-poter. U tigu tmaqdru lil Alfred Sant ghax kien ragel u meta ra li ma setax jigverna sejjah elezjoni. Hekk ghandu jaghmel Gonzi, fuq kollox bil gid kollu li ghamel ma ghandux ikollu problema biex jirbaha. Mhux hekk Nazjonalisti immwerwra.

Ronald Cauchi

Nov 3rd 2011, 14:52

It seems that every Minister in this government at one time or another has tendered his resignation for it to be refused.What a load of old codswollop!

anthony farrugia

Nov 3rd 2011, 14:39

Kemm zbaljaw il-kostitwenti tad-distrett meta ivvotaw lill Dr Franco Debono. Biex ma tellghux lill Dr Louis Galea li kapaci bil-wisq aktar minn Franco ghall pulitika u dejjem kien ziemel ghal partit nazzjonalista.

Mr Stephen Borg

Nov 3rd 2011, 14:36

Why has Lawrence Gonzi again and again and again has to focus his discussions on the how good the Nationalist party is and how bad the Labour party is. After all it was the Nationalist party with it's amateurish handling of national agendas that instigated the Labour party to present such a motion in parliament. Austin Gatt has failed miserably and in the other twenty-six European states such failures lead to resignation. Like it or not Austin Gatt has to go.

Thomas Mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 14:32

Mr Debono, people like you who stand up against what's wrong, are people who make history. It takes a real man to go against such a mafia like PN Let the few Nationalist obsessed people criticise you and keep in the whole Maltese population and the good you can do for your country. Bring down this miserable government.

Philip Hili

Nov 3rd 2011, 14:29

@ Dr Franco Debono.

"Jobless fall as more young people find work" Times of Malta on Line.

Why don't you spare your political energy on subjects like this, where the whole nation reaps befit and not engage your ability on personal issues to get political mileage on subjects when you know that this attitude renders you politically immature?

Ms.D. Galea

Nov 3rd 2011, 13:55

Dear Dr Debono,

how exactly will the general public using transport system be helped in practcial terms,by your resolve to do your worse tomorrow?

Philip Hili

Nov 3rd 2011, 13:55

Ara kemm hawn esperti li jifhmu hafna fil-politika qeghdin jikkummentaw fin-negattive fuq Dr. Austin Gatt. Mid-dehra, l- ebda wiehed minn dawn ma jiftakar lil mibki Dr. Carmelo Caruana - "Tal-qronfla". Kemm kienu jikkritikawh ghax dak li kien jemmen fih kien jattwah akkost ta' kollox? Sa sahansitra kienu qalghawielu "il-Buldozer"!!! Imma bil-hila ta' dan il-Ministru flimkien ma shabu saru certui affarijiet li llum intnesew.

raymond scicluna

Nov 3rd 2011, 13:48

I am really eagerly awaiting for Dr Debono to keep stamping his feet to this personal grudge to Dr Austin Gatt and tomorrow he will abstain in voting against the opposition motion. Shooting into his own boots will mean a temporary glory but an end to his political career. Everybody knows that he s not doing this because he s feeling the biggest pain of his life watching the commuters sufferance or their daily frustration. He s doing this to gain political advantage. He reminds me of Anna Parietti where after winning Miss Italia, he opted not to contest the following Ms World or Ms Universe and the reason behind it was because if she went there, nobody would have remembered her. In fact its thanks to that, that she gained both the limelight and her successful career. Dr Debono might follow her faith!!

Joe Camilleri

Nov 3rd 2011, 13:31

We all agree that the public transport reform is a mess. We all agree that minister Gatt is responsible. We all agree that the government is desperate to resolve the problem.
Will the resignation of the minister solve anything?
Will Debono's embarrasing his own government solve anything?

mary mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 13:25

I am so disappointed in our PM, whom i admired.What a shame that he is completly mishandling the situation.

m. borg

Nov 3rd 2011, 13:11

Gonzi admits failure big time, asking the opposition to form part of a committee over seeing the public transport reform,
One may ask why not involve the opposition two years ago when the reform started to take shape instead of leaving the matter in the hands of a minister's lackey and private companies who were paid €400,000 for useless advice?

Alex Tanti

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:57

Considering all the economical storms around us,...

time for all local politicians to act proactively and steer ship Malta safely.....

David Griscti

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:53

I repeat.....if the government falls now it will send all the wrong signals to the markets and our international partners. The message they will get is that despite the fact that Malta is currently placed high on the list of EU states in terms of budgetary deficits and debt to GDP ratios, the Government was not able to survive what is essentially internal squabbles. That will be interpreted as a sign of weakness and instability, and that will create a domino affect in the markets, potentially affecting our rating etc. The repercussions on us all will be higher debt servicing interest rates, more debt, an erosion of confidence in Malta, less FDI and, ultimately, loss of jobs. Whoever is in a position to potentially cause this had better think long and hard prior to triggering a mess. I doubt anyone will consider an MP or a Minister as bastions of democracy or stars if as a result of their actions or inaction, he or members of his family will lose their job. It's as simple as that.....cause the mess and assume responsibility.

a. xuereb

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:35

EGO,S.............. berlosconi has an ego problem...not franco or j.p.o....if only all pn members of parlament were like them the p.n , like austin said would spend another 20yrs in goverment.....but not to be.....austim messed it up this time.....anyway he,s not contesting next time around so i dont think he gives a ......... .

Lina CARUANA

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:34

Did someone ever have the courage to effect a bus service change? You can see why now. It is a pity that personality issues are far more important to some MP's than substance. Populism is sensational but cannot deliver. Unfortunately people are taken in very easily, because of prejudice raised by envy towards particular people without realizing its source.

JOSEPHINE BORG

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:29

SCRAP FD, JPO & CO

Josephine Debono

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:28

Inheggeg lill-PM li jaccetta ir-risenja ta' Gatt hekk il-pajjiz jibqa mixi kif kien mixi...

appel sincier... fil-pajjizi kollha hekk isir ma nafx ghaliex Malta ma ghandix tidhol din il-kultura... niftakru dan l-ohra wiehed ingliz u iehhor skocciz...

Ninsab ottomista

Rachel Borg

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:28

Meta tahseb li biex tela franco debono baqa l-art xi hadd ta statura bhal Louis Galea .... tal-biki....

matthew tanti

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:12

the egos of franco debono and JPO are unbelievable.

Joseph N. Attard

Nov 3rd 2011, 12:01

Dr. Franco Debono should think hard and well about the far reaching effects of his intransigence. His place in history will be assured, but is he really happy at the reason why? No doubt, better minds than mine have tried to convey this message to him, so I am not holding my breath that he will listen

Mr A. Mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:56

Franco Debono is right and should stick to his principles. The electorate who put him in power are demanding this and he should execute. It's not a matter of being unloyal to his party but putting citizens rights and interest first and foremost.

It's high time public figures are held responsible for their actions. Even when they fail, otherwise we'll become a society where everything is tollerated.

Unfortunately I had very high hopes where Austin Gatt was involved, only lately we're discovering that all went flop. Shipyards, Freeport, Airmalta, Power station extension, Gas distribution liberalisation, Samart city and now Public Transport. I mean it's all taxpayers money up in smoke! Utterly unacceptable.

Mark Cassar

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:55

And now in a further twist to this endless saga he (Dr Debono) will write to the EU Commission asking it to monitor Gonzi's handling of public finances. Shall we cry? Hilarious were it not tragic!

Josephine Debono

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:54

Mr. Pace,
Thanks talli irrspondejtni. Kieku tajtni risposta ghal dak li staqsejt forsi kont tikkonvincini mod ierhor. Jiena naqbel li Gatt ghandu jirrizenja ghax dik hi dimokrazzija vera... Hekk isir f'pajjizi ohra... pero il-partit ma tistax tghid li ma ghamilx gid. Bejn iz-zewg partit nghazel PN ghax ma Muscat ma nafux fejn ahna.

JOE ZAHRA

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:44

Where is the inprovement as far as Rabat people , are concerned, people with hospital app. still have to wait in the rain for long periods at the Roman Villa terminus, Saqqajja has not been turned to a drop zone , dropping at the Roman Villa means a 15 to 20 min walk to our houses, ONE CHANGE THE NO 52GOES TO DINGLi.

G Mangion

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:41

@ Franco Debono:

Do you think that You are going to snatch some Votes from tal Lejper ? how wrong you are !! You are letting yourself to be Used by the Darkest mlp party,

G. Mangion.

Daniela Camilleri

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:36

What a pity that it will be a PN MP who will now hand Muscat the government on a silver plate

Josephine Debono

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:34

Naghmila cara Jiena Nazzjonalista u nerga nivvota nazzjonalista. Nixtieq pero niccara xi affarijiet li nies qieghda tistaqsi
1. Ghaliex is-sindku ta' Santa Venera giet accetta r-rizenja taghha fuq xi haga li ma kienet gravi?
2. ghaliex giet accettata ir-rizenja ta' Dalli u ta' Gatt ma gietx?
3 Ghaliex il-PM ma harigx jghid mal-ewwel li rcieva ir-rizenja ta' Gatt u ma accettahiex?

Niextieq xi hadd ta' kompetenza jghatina risposta onesta u sinciera.

Joseph Cauchi Senior

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:32

When Malta is totally surrounded by financial and economic woes and political uprisings south of our borders, and when Malta’s economic performance of:

1) Inflation rate is at 2.7% (one of the lowest in the EU)
2) Unemployment rate is at 6% (one of the lowest in the EU)
3) Growth rate in 2011 is over 2% (one of the highest in the EU)
4) Projected growth rate in 2012 is at 2.8% (one of the highest in the EU)
5) Euros savings in Maltese banks raised from 5 Billion to 10 Billion in the last three years (one of the highest in the EU)
6) EU funds received surpass the 1 Million Euro mark per week (one of the highest received per capita in the EU) and
7) Budget deficit is well below the 3% mark (one of the best performing economies in the EU)


Then comes a Government back-bencher and creates a storm in a tea-cup and makes a mountain out of a mole-hill, all because some of the brand new buses of our transport system are arriving LATE!

Mamma Mia!

All because the buses are arriving LATE, yes repeat and repeat LATE, LATE … and throw everything into the wind all the above positive economic performances!

Unbelievable!

Can one in a clear state of mind take this back-bencher seriously?

Where are the priorities, repeat PRIORITIES?

JC.

Rachel Borg

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:32

And for the first time Joseph Muscat will win over Franco Debono.

A Dimech

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:32

We want Dalli as leader of PN!!

Mark Cassar

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:30

And whilst other countries would give an arm and a leg to be in Malta's position (Greece!) here we are wasting precious time and practically on the verge of handing this country to Muscat, Alex Sceberras Trigona and Karmenu Vella.

David John

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:21

Now it's the time for the Gozitan Minister Giovanna Debono to give a lesson to Austin Gatt. She should abstain as well after all Mr. Gatt has done to her. When people were transferred and almost lost there work she simply said that she couldn't do anything since Austin Gatt was too powerful. So now Ms. Debono, teach Dr Gatt a good lesson.

FRANS H SAID

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:15

GONZI U TA' MADWAREK,
Inthom li suppost ghandkom kuxjenza, x'kuxjenza kienet biex forsi takwistaw il-voti tal-qadssisin, patrijiet, sorijiet u l-farizej?

Il-kuxjenza hija meta ma thallix lil poplu jbaghti.

SORRY my dear sir, I am greatly disappointed. You prefer to save face of an arrogant person, you prefer to follow "orders" from those that pull the strings. In all hell, what importance was Piano to Malta, are you still believing that the tourist will inundate Malta to see a hole in the wall and a topless theatre?

Valletta used to have th "GUT" but Strait Street is now finished, instead we are going to have a different kind of whore, prostitute - a theatre bare to the bones for all to see, a theatre that is now no better than a whore in a window in Amsterdam. We are also going to an exposed hole, always like a prostitute that exposes all. Are you proud with this nonsense?

You and your ilk were supposed to be educated cultural lot, have your ever been in Vienna to the theatre that was rebuilt, or Vanice, the theatre that rose from the ashes, or Palermo the theatre that was given new life, or Berli, the list endless, but you keep on defending Agostino for making you spend 400 million of the people's money


SHAME, SHAME, SHAME

Stephen Scerri

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:13

"Dr Debono asked why such a parliamentary committee had not been set up when the reform was being drawn up."

Where was DrDebono when the transport reform was being set up???

Couldn't Dr Debono suggest this to Dr. Gatt being a back bencher with Dr. Gatt ??

David Farrugia

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:10

I never saw the PM in such a desperate state. We all know that his Government is in shambles, outdated, expired and without any energy. GonziPN, make a favour to all the Maltese, go to the Opposition, stay there, renew yourselves and in 10 or 15 years time return to the Government.

Karl DeGiovanni

Nov 3rd 2011, 11:00

Our country has become a joke! Not because of its leadership but because of the people living in it. Reading the majority of the comments below one would think we were isolated from the rest of Europe and whilst all of Europe is focusing on solving the enormous financial problems, we the Maltese people, the ones that have so much time on their hands that they find the time to complain and grumble about every single change that is implemented, are worried about a public transport reform that was never given the real chance to settle in.

Yes there were misgivings, yes there are issues, yes it could have been planned better.....but changing a system after 40 years is no mean feat. Should we rock the foundations of our country, change the government, fire the minister because of this? Should we embrace the latest fashion of young MPs who want to stand out and make a name for themselves and have their 15 minutes of fame? Should we vote for the armchair critics on the other side, usually known as the Opposition? Are they going to save us from this 'hell' we seem to be living in? Don't make me laugh!

It would be better if we take a good look at what's happening in Europe and thank our lucky stars that being one of the smallest states we have managed to succeed where other larger countries have failed. In the meantime lets let the Government get on with its job!

Simon Scerri

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:59

If Dr Austin Gatt reisgns, it will solve the Arriva problem?????? With all the problems in the past under a government labour and the opposings in the present times by the labour,,,,,,Labour should be vanished from parliament, with the same argument. I think there is no more team work but each one sees personal reasons. No team work??? so one should leave!!!

George Azzopardi

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:45

quote ..

Dr Debono asked why such a parliamentary committee had not been set up when the reform was being drawn up.
He also pointed out that it was worrying that in a Parliament in 2011, a debate which was of interest to practically all the population could not be followed by the electorate on visual media.

unquote ..

Of course to PN this is not of public interest!!

j brincat

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:45

@Joseph Cauchi Senior

"OK Franco, just go ahead!

No one is going to pity you for signing your own death warrant!"

Are these your democratic credentials?. Which party do you support?????


(jb)

D. Xerri

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:33

Now everyone can see although a lot dont admit it - how much Dr A.Sant was right in calling for an early election back in 98 ! Dr Sant placed forward the interest of Malta before the interest of the labour Party ! Seems PN are so glued to power that the Party`s interest is becoming first and foremost then comes Malta ! Everyone can see that with just a few hundred votes and just 1 extra member of parliament GonziPN is just struggling to hold on to power - the only sad thing about it is that Malta and the Maltese are loosing precious time and loosing precious decisions that have to be taken and time is being wasted on the PN`s party upcoming events instead. So many failures with no-one to be accountable for - its becoming the order of the day under GonziPN ! Arrogance is at its best after all these years in power!

victor bonello

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:30

some times I wonder if the JPO and Franco Debono issues are true or a set up by the PN media to keep people excited like what happens in the football legue

M Borg

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:30

It seems that Franco Debono is out to challenge Dr Gonzi. He knows that he is putting the NP in a very bad position.

He knows , because it was spelt out by Dr.Gonzi ,that Cabinet will take collective responsiblity .
He knows, because it was splet out by Dr Gonzi, that if the vote of no confidence was won by Labour Government would have to resign.That would be the outcome of Cabinet assuming collective responsibility.

Is this what Franco Debono wants ? Does he want to throw Malta into chaos just because he does not agree or like the way Austin Gatt acts ?

M Tonna

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:21

The biggest problem is that everyone expected the service to be perfect from the very first day, inspight of the intended sabotage by the former bus drivers which did not deter the new operator. Pity that we lost some exemplary drivers in the process.

Some people still cherish the old bone-shakers, foul language, bad manners and rowdy behaviour. I can remember many instances when the bus didn't show up or kept going without stopping, drivers stopping the buses in the middle of the road chatting away and nobody dared to speak up then!

There is always room for improvement and when it is realised and admitted then things can only get better, thick headedness does nobody any good.

We will miss such a dedicated hard working minister for sure!

d. attard

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:17

Arriva was probably the forst big move towards regaining popularity leading to the upcoming elections...yet Dr Gatt made a relative mess of it all...this is surely a turn not expected...what should be a big positive became a significant negative...It is more than obvious now that Dr Gonzi should go the the electorate to give malta a steady government that has the energy to govern not fire fight within its ranks.

Mr Joe Micallef

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:08

If I was Gonzi I would call everybody's bluff and go for an election despite these being times that call for anything but an election, the repercussion of which, could be extremely serious! It is evident that many are oblivious to the real problems.

David Griscti

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:07

It is indeed sad to see that at such a dangerous time for Malta, with Greece on the verge of default, with the EU in political, economic and financial turmoil, with so much of our lifestyle at risk, with so many jobs at risk......we are even contemplating an early election, a change of leadership within the Government party or any other potentially dangerous course of action. The shock waves to our economic and financial system could be enormous and far beyond what we imagine. But if we really think that what is important now is to make a point.....if we really think that what is important now is to humiliate a minister....if we really think that what is important now is to throw a government out at this point in time.....then please go ahead and do it. But everyone will have to assume his own responsibilities, and those responsibilities will not only be towards the party in government and its electorate....it will be to all those out there that could potentially bear the brunt of fostering instability at this point in time.

G Sciberras

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:06

I kindly ask any MP from any political arena to check and compare the current service level agreement plus the relative penalities of Arriva with those of other transport companies in CIVILISED countries.

Current ARRIVA is worst than 3 world country services. Franco is with the people and the people is with him.

David Griscti

Nov 3rd 2011, 10:03

It is indeed sad to see that at such a dangerous time for Malta, with Greece on the verge of default, with the EU in political, economic and financial turmoil, with so much of our lifestyle at risk, with so many jobs at risk......we are even contemplating an early election, a change of leadership within the Government party or any other potentially dangerous course of action. The shock waves to our economic and financial system could be enormous and far beyond what we imagine. But if we really think that what is important now is to make a point.....if we really think that what is important now is to humiliate a minister....if we really think that what is important now is to throw a government out at this point in time.....then please go ahead and do it. But everyone will have to assume his own responsibilities, and those responsibilities will not only be towards the party in government and its electorate....it will be to all those out there that could potentially bear the brunt of fostering instability at this point in time.

G Sciberras

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:59

min xarbu jieklu l bakkaljaw

Joseph Cauchi Senior

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:56

OK Franco, just go ahead!

No one is going to pity you for signing your own death warrant!

JC.

Tonio Micallef

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:55

L-ghajta biex Austin Gatt jerfa r-responsabbilta politika tad-dizastru li gabu bir-riforma tat-trasport pubbliku mhijiex tal-Partit Laburista, imma tal-poplu Malti kollu. Il-Partit Laburista huwa l-lehen tal-poplu u qed iwassal fil-Parlament l-ugiegh tal-poplu. Messkom tisthu tippruvaw tiftahru b'"riforma" li hlief tbatija ma gabitx. Messkom tisthu li berbaqtu l-miljuni biex issa ser tmorru lura ghas-sistema li kellna qabel. U mela trid minghalik titfa xi htija fuq il-Partit Laburista!!!! Isthu jekk tafu kif! Ghaffigtuha intom u araw intom kif se tohorgu minnha. It-tajjeb li sibtu deputat fostkom li qed jieqfilkom. Franco, ghandek l-ammirazzjoni tal-poplu ghal dak li qed taghmel. Tizloqx fl-ahhar u zomm sod u l-poplu ma jinsikx!

A Dimech

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:43

I wish Franco was part of PL.

He is surely a leader in the making. able to stand his ground in the interest of people, against arrogance.

I hope Dr Gatt, is loosing "some sleep" now!

well done Franco!

FRANS H SAID

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:42

Oh please Mr Prime Minister who do you take us for, a lot of morons. What are you being told? Why don't you seek the true truth not the falsities that you are being fed?

Not all direct routes are being reinstalled. Routes 49 & 58 from Qawra via Bigibba and SPB have not been reintroduced. Even worse, the routes passing through SPB will always be full.. Who are you satisfying, an ex minister who was not elected, en ex mayor who only cares about his business? Wake up to reality.

If you defend Agostino, et least give ALL the previous routes back and to hell with Piano, City Hole etc.

Or is this some form of vondicyiove action against those that dare crioticise? Or is it some form of favouritism as SPB is ruled by just 2 persons with a few yes men (women)

Listen to your brother, if you do not trust your brother whom are you going to trust?

Francesca Abela

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:29

'PM expects all Nationalist MPs to vote against' - WHAT?? Thought we weere a free and democratic country!! Are our MP's puppets on a string? Soon we will see who is man enough to stand up and be counted.

A Dimech

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:28

PN has another option - a change at the helm.

It is obvious that Gonzi cannot keep the ship afloat - and friction is growing by the second within his party. Sometimes JPO, other times Franco Debono, other times Mugliett, other times JPF...... even his own brother, for god's sake is criticising him!! His own brother!

Perhaps, a small suggestion to PN - bring Dalli back from Europe. I believe he is worth 10 times this Gonzi...
or alternatively call an election

Joe Fenech

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:24

If PN had more Franco Debonos they would be securing their place in government again for the next 5 years!

FRANCO DEBONO = DEMOCRACY

Charles J. Buttigieg

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:23

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said that unless an amendment to Labour’s motion was presented, he expected all Nationalist MPs to vote against. This clearly means that all yes votes and voluntary abstentions tantamount to a vote of no confidence in his leadership in parliament.The Speakers casting vote is only a technical measure to save the weak administration. In hard terms the situation is moving to a hung parliament.

John Caruana

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:23

Dr Franco Debono ragel fuq l-irgiel ghax ghalih l-ewwel il-poplu imbaghad il-partit. Hekk ikunu in-nies onorevoli li ahna tajnihom il-fiducja taghna. Franco Debono jekk nibzghu ghalih ghad ikun leader tajjeb.

Peppi Borg

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:22

Dr. Debono,in the name of all those in good faith I wish you courage and perseverance. Needless to say prepare for the worst because they will try to character assasinate you because history repeats itself.

charlie cauchi

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:19

trid tkun ma tafx x tisthi dr. gonzi biex titkellem hekk. immissek tisthi missek kont int li gelghtu jirezenza mela tghid li mozzjoni bahh. milli jidher ser tkun mozzjoni li twasal ghal tmiem tieghek bhala prim ministru. xjimpurtak mil popolin ara jekk ikun xi haddiem jew citadin komuni kieku tghid min zbalja irrid jerfgha ir responsabilta tieghu. hallina kwiet tridx

A Dimech

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:15

If Dr Debono abstains - Dr Gatt should do the most honourable thing and resign.

It is not ethical or morally right to just survive on teh Speaker's vote. Dr Gatt should know this. He should resign.

It is enough; We had a fiasco in ARRIVA, SMART city was suppose to emply 2,600 people and this did not happen because of a pumping station, WHite Rocks project never started, privitisation of Drydocks is in shambles....

that is Austin's track record.... hafna paroli u risulata zero!

Mr ALBERT LEONE GANADO

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:06

An interesting scenario and potentially politcal watershed is evolving.
Franco Debono has now painted himself completely in a corner and conventional wisdom indicates hehas no option but to abstain if he is to maintain any modicum of respect and credibility
Lawrence Gonzi has no option as leader but to apply a three line whip and suspend FD if he does not abide by it for otherwise he will be seen as a weak and wimpish leader .
The PL are enjoying a moment of poetic justice in seeing the PN in the same predicament as when Dom Mintoff broke ranks and gave the PN the predatory opportunity to wrest government from Alfred Sant. Wouldn,t it be ironic seeing the affair develop in a similar but with a switch of roles in favour of the PL.
However in politics one never knows and everything is possible up to the last moment . Perhaps FD will have a "panged conscience" and change of heart or that Austin Gatt will make a very public act of contrition or even that FD gets a new added sinecure from the PM .

Edward Mallia

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:04

We seem to be imitating our neighbours to the north., with Lawrence in the same muddy waters as Silvio,
and re-acting in much the same way: inviting the Opposition to act 'responsibly' over failures which are the direct responsibility of his government. Both governments seem to be falling apart, with Franco Debono going most of the way of the latest six defections from the PDL. The trouble is that there is unlikely to be the equivalent of the Hon. Member from that remote constituency of Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto -- called Scilipoti -- in the ranks of the PL. But it is worrying that our politicians do seem to be fiddling while Valletta and we the people are burning.

Ray Spiteri

Nov 3rd 2011, 09:02

@Francis Saliba
Are you using public tansport yourself?
If not, just keep your propoganda to yourself. My family has to use public transport and all going through anightmare. You feel no pain. Your objective is to pump GONZIPN. Ex PN

mary mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:52

@ Francis Saliba MD
parliament should have TV so that everyone can follow and judge.
But then I forgot..One could watch bondi+

Marija Falzon

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:50

I have never seen EFA on his knees crying for the opposition's mercy in the way Dr. Gonzi is doing in this video. Never in his hole career, which was not always in easy one. What a laughing stock.

Carmel Debono

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:47

Dr. Gonzi and parliament should not vote to save Dr. Gatt’s ass, but should shoulder responsibility by voting in favour of the electorate!

Fenech MD

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:40

Xorta ma nnizziliex li Dr Debono se jitratixxi lil Partit.

Nahseb li jerga' jibdielu u jaghmel bhal tal-Power Station u jivvota favur fl-ahhar minuta.

Iz-zmien itina parir. Franco ma jasalx.

Charles J. Buttigieg

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:35

It now appears that Franco Debono will eventually ‘Walk the Talk’ after seeing the importance of bringing his beliefs to life. I was wrong to doubt the steadfastness of this young Gentleman.

Mr Ernest Vella

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:27

Franco Debono....missu jibda billi jirrezenja hu, ghax jekk il-Gvern irid jerfa' r-responsabilta mela Debono bhala parti mill-Gvern ghandu jaghti l-ezempju...imma sinjal li ma jaqbilux!!!

Francis Saliba M.D.

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:25

" ... it was worrying that in a Parliament in 2011, a debate which was of interest to practically all the population could not be followed by the electorate on visual media". (Dr Franco Debono)

Ring up the curtain! More theatrical publicity and more threats of "Morto Sansone e tutti i Filistei"!

A classic example of reckless extreme brinkmanship that will neither favourably influence the voters of his own party nor will it acquire for him any new friends among the opposition!

The show must go on!

Stefan Sacco

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:13

1 hr 25 minutes to travel from Fgura to Blata l Bajda.....and Thank God it is school free........can't imagine tomorrow !!

pat muscat

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:09

Malta is suffering from lack of leadership. This dilly dallying from one GonziPN crises to an other is causing unimaginable harm to the economy. If its not Jeffrey Pullicino Orland it is Mugliet, if not Mugliet its Franco Debono; and frustrations grows! Is this divided and dysfunctional Government suited to address the big problems facing this little island? Certainly not; Dr Gonzi should call it a day.

V. CALLEJA

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:07

Austin qal li zzmien tal buzullotti spicca, jien nahseb li se jerga jibda, jekk Franco, paroli SI fatti NO. Ghalhekk qatt ma jkunu emmnuti tal pn.

Anthony Pace

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:02

Good for you Dr Debono. Stand by your values. The minister should have tendered his resignation in July once it becama apparent what a fiasco the new bus service was. If only a couple of othe PNMPs vote against or if the speakers votes against then the PM will seriously have to reconsider his situation and the need for smaller eco friendly buses that take us from A to B safely, in the shortest possible time and in the shortest route possible.

Carmel Cilia

Nov 3rd 2011, 08:01

Mela Gatt ma laqghax ir-rizenja ta Delia u Gonzi ma laqax ir-rizenja ta Gatt. Din tfakkarni f'rezenja ohra dik talFenech Adami li ma gietx accettata min Ex president. Dawn l-affarijiet ma jsirux f'partit demokratiku.

Giovann Demartino

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:57

Rajt, nannu, kif jaf iroddu s-salib!!!!!!!!!Rajt, nanna, kif jaf jaghti kiss lill-Bambin!!!!!!!!!!Rajt zija kif jaf x'jismu!!!!!!!!!!!!.Qalftuih 'il barra ha jigri x'jigri!

FRANS H SAID

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:56

DR DEBONO, keep it up and do not let the cowards stop you at the last minute. The party brought this on themselves as they are obeying stupid orders from behind the scenes. The PN is supposed to be a Cultural party, but they are acting far worse than the barbarians.

Oh Rome, what the Barbarians did not destroy, it was destroyed by Barberini.

Educated persons must learn from history and be ware of false prophets.

Marija Falzon

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:52

Seems like from the Nationalist Bench, the only MP who is still with the people is Franco Debono. The rest are completely cut off. During EFA's time, things would have been handled completely differently.

FRANS H SAID

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:51

If Gonzi and his party wants the people to have at least an iota of respect towards him he should insist at all costs to cancell all this mess up an restore ALL the previous routes IN FULL, without going round in circles and dubious termini. In Qawra/Bugibba there was always a terminus which operated well and there were direct services to all Malta. Now they have stopped ex-routes 49 and 58 and still have no intention of restoring them.

In SPB it seems that the locality is governed by 2 persons, who everybods knows who they are. Evemn the Prime Minister's own brother spoke of the hardship, but who the hell is his brother when there are gods almighty who have far greater power?

Good show Franco, At least there is one person who stands to be counted, one person without strings attached.

Gonzi and his ilk can still earn back some respect by kneeling down and accept that he was misled by Agostino. If he is truly a good leader with strong hands, he should revet to ALL the routes and systems prion to May. What the people were complaining about were the quality of buses and arrogant drivers. Now instead of arrogant drivers we have arrogant Cabinet under the full control of Agostino.

This is supposed to be democracy.

He spoke against popularism, did he mean he is in favour of imposition? Did Malta need a monstrosity and a hole in wall costing 400 million just to satisfy an ego?

Wake up Mr Prime Minister, show your mettle and to hell with all those that have been misleading you.

j brincat

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:37

"Dr Gonzi had also proposed this evening, the setting up of a joint parliamentary committee to oversee the public transport reform and ensure that the system is perfected if the Labour Party accepted to postpone its motion of no confidence in Dr Gatt"

Isn't this a bit late in the day Dr Gonz and why now?. The supposed 'buzullotti' free transport system has now been with us since last July and todate there has been at least 6 amendments to the original plans.

Dr Gonzi blow the whistle so that early elections are held. We would thank the PN for leading this country for nearly the last 25 years.

But 'minn ma jbidiliex iqammel' says an apt Maltese proverb. Malta is dire need of a fresh breath of air.


(jb)

Jonathan Scerri

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:35

If Gonzi is expecting a block vote, why do MPs have individual votes in the first place? What democracy is this?
Just as Mintoff had the right to topple the Labour government in 1998, so does Franco Debono have the right to abstain on this vote.
After all we are only speaking of losing a 'particular' Minister with a particular 'democratic' approach. Franco Debono is toppling no government here. Let him exercise his right.

Henry Mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:31

So for our PM democracy is: forget principles, human welfare, society as a whole; just toe the party line at all costs. Will he ever learn that even in his party there are men of principles whom he has conveniently been neglecting throughout this legislature? Whom he simply relegated to the backbenches expecting them to be constantly at his beck and call by remote control?
This is going to be a moment of truth not only for Franco Debono but also for quite a few others if they seriously expect the people to have faith in them and in what they have been saying all along. But then I guess that politics is a very dirty game indeed.

Mark Vassallo

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:25

Does Dr Debono realise that such situations and comments only bring instability on the island.
Voting against the goverment brings memories of what had happened in 1998, and all that brought instability.
This behaviour is not acceptable because it not only does bring fear in the party involved but it is affecting the whole island.

Vince Piscopo

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:23

Road to final countdown approaching. Warbulna ha mmexxu please!

K. Vella

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:20

I quote.....Dr Debono asked why such a parliamentary committee had not been set up when the reform was being drawn up. - It was recognised that more focus was required and it was decided and a committee was established. The arrogance would be if Franco's appeal was not heard or actioned.

I quote....He also pointed out that it was worrying that in a Parliament in 2011, a debate which was of interest to practically all the population could not be followed by the electorate on visual media. - Franco is now stamping his feet to justify his deed, by creating more speculative arguments. If I am not mistaken, this proposal will be available once the new parliament is ready.

I can conclude that Franco's concern is not the public transport reform but has other motives and agenda.

HENRY FENECH AZZOPARDI

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:19

I feel that Dr. Franco Debono had enough public exposure through the issue involving Dr. Austin Gatt. It may seem that he will also be in the limelight before and after the forthcoming elections. The electorate will judge whether his contribution to the PN was within the Party procedures or whether he went beyond his limits as a Party Parlamentarian.
The Nationalists have to go deep into what has been going during the last few years with candidates presenting themselves for election in Parliament. This also involves candidates, who chose to go independent after being cautioned by the Party, in the local councils.
The Party cannot be held in office holding to a one seat majority with candidates treathening every time they feel agrieved by certain issues. If the going is not to their liking, they can always resign and make way for others who are prepared to honour their obligations to the Party.
I am convinced that Dr. Gonzi is fully aware of the mishandling of the public transport, and as he quite rightly said this responsibility involves all the cabinett and not just Dr. Gatt. Is Dr Debono after the resignation of the whole cabinett?
Dr. Gatt is renowned for his outspoken statements, which make one feel comfortable that you know where you stand with him. He never promises something that cannot be delivered. In this particular case he admits responsibility and he is making sure that the final outcome will be to the satisfaction of the public. He never shy away from responsibility and his past is ample proof of his capablilities.

Charles Micallef

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:06

How about a free vote Dr Gonzi, and then we will see if you still you are still governing our Islands with the backing of your MP's?

Lino Debono

Nov 3rd 2011, 07:00

Definitely not what JFK meant by "ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country" just by critisizing

G. Portelli

Nov 3rd 2011, 06:53

Austin should be hailed for what he did Franco! You just pretended to become a minister because you're an incredible talent for this country (hahahahahahahaha). To show to everyone that you have Austin's guts you're sticking to your guns (when in reality you have none). Continue on this road - to nowhere.

Margaret De Battista

Nov 3rd 2011, 06:16

Oh my God!!!!!!!!! Did he understand himself talking?

Victor Vella

Nov 3rd 2011, 05:32

That Dr Debono wants the debate on Visual media is no surprise, he likes the limelight well enough to want to come into our homes and do an act,That Dr Debono is fishing for a ministerial position is a well known fact and he i also afraid for his seat in parlament.Who knows how all of a sudden he is becoming so popular in the courts of law.He has become a big head ,Franco you are too young It hurts when you fall and believe me fall you are going to, but then again even the look on your face shows you are as arrogant as they come.
That the Prime minister is offering to the opposition a say through a committee, sorry mate I wouldn't touch the issue with a six foot rod now, Last August you should have fired all those invo;ved in the implemantation of the new system and opened an investigation for any corruption involved, couldn't the boys at TM have know that the main routes were too long , the system is fine but Arriva went too far with the main routes,Changing from one bus to another is acceptable even if uncomfortable but changing 3 times and then going on a Malta tour is way out. This isn't London we are talking about .Arriva bit off too much and wouldn't sit it out now it choked and is choking Malta .
As for the opposition, you are laughing your way to parlament , with the debacle Joseph's chance of seeing the goverment topple looks better, but boy you would be well advised to look before you leap as you wuld be responsable for 400 K people at a time when the whole world is sick and financially unwell.And don't come out crying that the country's finances are in shambles and you can't govern well because of this, the pot hole (or is it a well) is there and you know about it, so don't go crying to mama because you fell down.

Mr Joseph Carmel Chetcuti

Nov 3rd 2011, 05:25

Arrivaderci - the new name the PN proposes to give to the new bus service!

Noel Mifsud

Nov 3rd 2011, 05:15

Mhux ta b xejn hadtu 500 zieda fil gimgha ghax pajjiz gibtuh kummiedja, mela is Sur Gatt ma kienx kapaci wahdu jamel ir riforma, x jambih il kumitat. Issa iridu hu mhux kollox tajjeb jamel,. b hekk ha 500 euro. OM paxxi lilek innifsek u izjed u zijed lil Malta sejjah elezzjoni. Joint committee fejn irid ara tal Power Station ma ghamilx joint committe. Iddahhaqnix izjed please

charles tabone

Nov 3rd 2011, 05:08

Labour shouldn't swallow the bait. This is typical of PM when he's with his back to the wall. Don't we remember that PL had representatives on the commission studying Air Malta's plight. What outcomes? The usual methodology. "ut Labour on the sidelines and do Labour be part of decision making. Dr Gonzi, What's good for the goose is good for the gander". That is the picture of Gonzi's new politics as promised after the 2008 General Elections.

Ben Agius

Nov 3rd 2011, 03:38

Talk about a manipulative self centred individual who turns around and wraps everything in the neatly tied "good for Malta label". He is only doing all this as he feels his back is against a wall. He is also trying to denigrate Labour-good try.But in all this he misses the point. Action should have been taken weeks if not months ago to ensure that this reform actually worked reasonably well from the start. He should have used the words he's using today with Austin Gatt THEN not NOW.There is nothing negative about critcizing an outcome where lots of public funds have been expended because of incompetence. That's what accountability is. And that's what the LP and Debono are saying. The facts are facts. Who is going to take responsability and rectify not only what obviously needs improvement but the damage done SO FAR. Under the Westminster system, one recource available is the resignation of who is ultimately responsible. If Gonzi thinks the whole Government is, then the Government should resign. Most think it's Austin Gatt who not only, for months, tried to blame everyone else but himself,but also ridiculed everyone that called for him to show accountability. Then he said he was not responsible/accountable. Now Gonzi says it's the whole Govt that is accountable. Surely most Maltese with some nous will see Gonzi's efforts here for what they are. Not good enough and good luck to Franco Debono for at least exposing the Maltese voters to this option so hopefully in future, many others start thinking that there are bigger questions than what's good for my party, especially when public funds have been expended.

Charles Micallef

Nov 3rd 2011, 02:18

They just want to keep the voters in ignorance and hence the reason why they only keep TV out of parliament!

Mr Joseph Carmel Chetcuti

Nov 3rd 2011, 00:48

Gonzi is adopting a crash through or crash approach. Will Debono be courageous enough to stand his ground and stand up to the bullying of the PN? That is the question.

Mr Joseph Carmel Chetcuti

Nov 3rd 2011, 00:44

The mere suggestion of a joint parliamentary committee is absurd in the extreme. Governments govern. Ministers must accept responsibility for the good and the bad within their portfolio. Why involve the Opposition? So that anothe stuff up would be blamed on Labour MPs. Now you see the kind of government, a government of clowns, that led to Mintoff's victory. Of course, our friends from the PN are only too keen to rewrite the history of the Mintoff administrations but do not dare to venture anywhere near those of the PN. Are not some of Malta's historians also supporters of the PN, after all?

Lawrence Fenech

Nov 3rd 2011, 00:43

Trust Gonzi to do the right thing in the wrong way as long as he gets his way.

James Camilleri

Nov 3rd 2011, 00:33

Shouldn’t the parliamentary committee have been set up before? So first we make a mess of things and then we expect that the right way forward is for our critics to have patience and to help us out. I think that whoever had this revolutionary itch did not want to share the applause and praise with anyone else. Now that the future is on the line it is desired that everyone toe the party line. If this was done straight away in the initial stages of the revolution which was already being perceived as a failure it would have been understandable but now? It was not even done when the opposition’s motion was made public. In fact the answer was that no sleep was going to be missed over it. However when a member of the government publicly stated that he could no longer tolerate that whoever was responsible would continue to shy away from his responsibilities, the tune started changing. Only after this did we see a change in government’s attitude. And now the government is expecting others to change their tune and is also saying that the opposition as acting irresponsibly if it does not take the government’s option. I hope that among the government’s side that are more politicians who consider themselves first and foremost gentlemen and elected to our house of representatives to represent the interests of those who elected them to safeguard their interests. Such political gentlemen would be doing not only the country a service but also their own party who has lost much credence with the people. Faith in the PN will only be restored by their action.

C Galea

Nov 3rd 2011, 00:21

Well done dr debono no more no less .Show that you mean what you said

David Farrugia

Nov 3rd 2011, 00:16

Maltese spring on the way?

Mario Grima

Nov 2nd 2011, 23:36

'Dr Gonzi had also proposed this evening, the setting up of a joint parliamentary committee to oversee the public transport reform and ensure that the system is perfected if the Labour Party accepted to postpone its motion of no confidence in Dr Gatt'

Dr. Gonzi is truly off his rockers. Does he really expect that after the mess orchestrated by him and his bunch of croonies, that the opposition participates in this committee. What cheek!!!!

Victor Laiviera

Nov 2nd 2011, 23:32

Incredible but true - after so many years of arrogance and riding roughshod over all opposition, Gonzi, finding himself with his back to the wall, expects Labour to come to his rescue and protect him from one of his own back-benchers!

jesmond zammit

Nov 2nd 2011, 23:28

Dr Gonzi had said he wanted Labour's motion to be amended to become a positive one that was typical of the Nationalist Party, rather than a negative one that was typical of Labour. ..almenu nispiccaw il gurnata bi tbissima qabel norqdu. nispera li qed nindunaw li kull mhu qed jaghmel isalva gildu , jinzel gatt jinzel gonzi , ma fadallux triq ohra , iddefendieh sa l ahhar ,u ghalieh m ghamel xejn hazin. kieku ma saritx il mozzjoni , konna nibqaw bl atitudni ta gatt li hu jorqod kien u jorqod jibqa.

Peter Azzopardi

Nov 2nd 2011, 23:26

Kieku kellu jmur Hollywood kien ikun artist prim. IL veru tqabbizli id dmuh meta nisimghek.
Il mistoqsija jekk ghux bid dahk jew bil bieki? inhallija f'idejkom!!!!
Huwa kaz differenti Mr Gonzi milli qed tahseb int , iktar milli jirranga it trasport publiki, hemm iktar affarijiet min hekk.
1) Mr Austin Gatt inehhi l arroganza li ghandu mal poplu.
2) Jekk hemm bzonn jibqa imqajjem u jisma il proplemi tan nies, ghax ghalhekk qieghed hemm u mhux biex jiehu il 500 Euro fil gimgha zieda ghal xejn.
u 3)Jirtghallem jirrispetta lil kull individwu u jisma il wegghad tan nies, grazzi.
Good Luck ghal gimgha j' alla tkun l ahhar darba li narawk fil parlament.

Carmel Said

Nov 2nd 2011, 23:22

Does he really think that the whole country is going to be stuck watching this debate on TV!!??

Charles Micallef

Nov 2nd 2011, 23:17

Since the Nationalist have been in power for such a long time and to the extent that they have become far too arrogant and mouldy that one can almost smell them rotten and this can be confirmed their own MP's, they will obviously claim that everything they do is positive and what everybody else say will be negative !!!!

Victor Laiviera

Nov 2nd 2011, 23:17

No free vote on this one, I see.

Reno Calleja

Nov 2nd 2011, 23:13

Mhux hekk tghid. L-ewwel ghamiltu l-froga u issa tridu lill-Oppozizzjoni terfa l-piz.

Onor. Prim Ministru. Min xarbu l-bakkaljaw, issa jieklu hu.

X'imhatra li jekk l-Oppozizzjoni ma taccettax johrog jghajjar lil Joseph Muscat li dan iparla biss izda meta jigi offrut biex jerfa, jahrab.
Naghmle ghonqi taht mannara li din se tkun l-istrategija

Lill--Oppozizzjjoni qatt ma kkonsultahom qabel fuq ir-riforma. Anzi l-Ministru Austin Gatt dejjem ta l-impressjoni li tal-Oppozizzjoni huma njoranti, ma jifhmux u ma haqqhoxm ghajr li jiqqghu fl-Oppizzjoni.
L-arroganza ta dan il-bniedem ggieghel lil Marie Antoinette tisthi.

Andrew Calleja

Nov 2nd 2011, 22:54

What a bunch of belly-aching babies you whole lot are.

It is true the service took some time to ramp up, and it's true that there are still kinks to straighten out but please do stop all this whining. Dr Gatt had the guts to do something very few MPs would have dared doing... If all ministers were like him we'd be decades ahead of where we are now.

joseph mifsud

Nov 2nd 2011, 22:49

sur prim ministru sippost inti tghid li ntkom partit miftuh u jisma lil kullhadd.mma jien ma nahsibx li ntkom partit miftuh ghax bi klimek stess qed tghid li sur franco debono biex jivvotta kontra il mozzjoni tal partit laburista.fejn hi id demokrazija sur gonzi.

J Busuttil

Nov 2nd 2011, 22:45

Disappointed PL you are not praying enough.

Joe Fenech

Nov 2nd 2011, 22:39

Democracy the Gonzi way!

Jeffrey Borg

Nov 2nd 2011, 22:35

Xi prim ministru b’pacenzja kbira ghandna!!!
Tela’ Brussell darbtejn f’temp ta’ tlett ijiem minhabba l-krizi finanzjarja tal-Ewro minhabba l-Grecja , nizel Malta u sab lil Franco jsabbat saqajh u jahlilu hinu ,u issa Papandreou irid jaghmel referendum fuq id-dejn tal-Grecja!
It-tifel irid lid-daddy jsawwat lil-huh waqt li d-daddy jhabbel rasu biex ikompli jghajjex lil-familja !

Mario allison

Nov 2nd 2011, 22:17

The usual blackmail and subtle treaths...god have metcy on us ...

Mr Hans Borg

Nov 2nd 2011, 22:07

Unbelievable!! After the mess GonziPN did with the transport reform they want to involve the PL by setting up a joint Parliamentary. Ahna, ahna jew m'ahniex?

lilly vella

Nov 2nd 2011, 22:02

kull ma taghmlu damage control , u ghalhekk biss. xebbajtu pajjiz , bil kummiedji.