Debono presents private motion
Nationalist MP Franco Debono this morning presented a private members motion on party financing in Parliament.
He told timesofmalta.com the motion is accompanied with a bill which is based on German and UK legislation.
Dr Debono said that since more than 15 years have passed since the Galdes report was drawn up and nothing concrete was done except for sporadic articles in newspapers, he felt the time had come for him to present this bill especially since this was a reform which he had been campaigning for for the past four years.
This law, he said, was fundamental for democracy especially to expose certain underground networks or cliques if any. Such networks undermined democracy.
Dr Debono said he has supervised the drafting of the bill by the Drafting Unit. It was approved by the Prime Minister in the past weeks and it satisfied and went beyond Greco requirements.
Dr Debono said he been working on this draft even before the draft by President Emeritus Ugo Mifsud Bonnici failed the Greco test.
The bill still needed a lot of fine-tuning which should follow public feedback and debate in the House but it was providing the main structure for the law.
The bill, he said, addressed the anomalous situation regarding candidates' expenditure which has been criticised for years on end.
Dr Debono’s bill stipulates that political parties must register all donations exceeding €300 made from any one source in a calendar year.
When aggregate donations add up to more than €7,000, the names of the donors must be made public by being given to the Electoral Commissioner. Donations of more than €50,000 in one year would not be permissible.
It makes no distinction between donations from party and non-party members whereas the draft seen by Greco makes party members exempt.
The bill encompasses various other aspects including that political parties must be formally registered after satisfying a number of criteria, including the submission of proper accounts.
It speaks about party discipline and says no member can be expelled from a party without a process of ascertainment of facts and opportunity of defence within an independent tribunal.
Dr Debono's bill sets more realistic thresholds for candidate spending, an issue that sparked controversy during the last MEP elections when the expenditure of certain candidates was publicly questioned.
Dr Debono said that another issue concerning transparency and accountability, which he had addressed in another private member’s motion on justice he filed about two months ago was on telephone tapping and interception.
He states that telephone interception by the security service not concerning state security should not depend on the political authorisation of the Home Affairs Minister, as the situation is today, but should be passed on to an independent investigative or judicial authority for greater transparency and separation of powers.
Telephone tapping and interception today depend on a warrant issued by the Home Affairs Minister who decides what interceptions to make, on whom and for how long.
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Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 22nd 2012, 21:08
@ Alfred Falzon.(22 Jan at 18:18)
You are unable to understand what I write in black and white, still less are you able to make sensible deductions about how I “seem” to drive into a cul-de sac”, about what I think about persons and “musty skeletons” mentioned by you not by me, and about any conclusions I may draw regarding “real heir presumptives to such a mess” and who exist only in your imagination, not mine.
Nowhere did I claim “everybody is wrong except (me), Beppe Fenech Adami and other unidentified persons – so please refrain from putting words into my mouth and stop tilting at windmills as if you were some modern reincarnation of Don Quixote.
I did not call your comment presumptuous because you call a spade a spade. The presumption lies in your appointing yourself a spokesman for all floating voters – a liberty that you take once more in your latest comment by cheekily deciding what my comment “purports to convey” to all “floaters or Party aficionados”. You speak for yourself, and for yourself, alone.
Alfred Falzon
Jan 23rd 2012, 10:37
@ Francis Saliba MD
Being categoric in your statements does not necessarily imply that you are right in what you conclude!
No wonder few commentators have so far rushed to share your opinion and admire your pompousness and pomposity!
Alfred A. Falzon
Alfred Falzon
Jan 22nd 2012, 18:18
@ Francis Saliba MD
You seem to have driven your counter-comments into a cul-de-sac!
Yes, everybody is wrong except you and Beppe Fenech Adami et al!
You mention nothing about Nationalist MPs Dr Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando and Mr Edwin Vassallo who have to date not only refrained from base insults and a display of so-called musty "skeletons" but made a most commendable bid to bring back Franco into the PN fold for proposing transparency and meaningful reforms that need to be urgently taken on board by the present Administration!
It may be alas too late now because people of your ilk may have already burnt the last bridge!
As for the term "presumptuous" you used in my regard for calling a spade a spade, you would better peruse your own comments on the unfolding crisis to conclude who is the real heir-presumptive to such a mess that has turned the PN into a battlefield of "friendly-fire"!
For that is what your comments purport to convey to your readers, be they floaters or Party aficionados!
Alfred A. Falzon
Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 22nd 2012, 11:40
@ Emanuel Curmi (22 Jan at 10:17)
I do not agree with you that “ … that OUR legal system is prone to legal loopholes and is pushing for a much needed reform …. “ significantly more so than the laws of other countries. The need to update laws is universal and very ancient as recognised by the Latin proverb “Facta lex, inventa fraus”. Parliaments are continually passing laws, amending them and abrogating them as necessary. This is a universally accepted fact and we in Malta are no exception.
The local Dr Franco Debono controversy is that, without any superior qualification, he sets himself up as the sole arbiter to decide that the laws sponsored by him should receive priority treatment according to ultimatums and time frames dictated by him and regardless of the views of all the other members of parliament including the cabinet and the prime minister.
I cannot agree with you that the very real international financial crisis and its bearing on our own economy – workers’ jobs and their families’ bread and butter in common parlance – is only a “ready excuse” or that our government is not tackling its budgetary deficit much more successfully than many of our immediate neighbours. I attach more credence to the opinion of EU experts rather than to your biased opinion – smirks and all!
R. Gauci
Jan 22nd 2012, 10:59
The PL will have no probelm with this bill because none of the PL MPs have ever had the financing which the PN always secured through its Power of Incumbency and secret meetings with contractors and developers. Obviously the PN will go haywire over this !
Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 22nd 2012, 10:51
@ John Xerri. (22 Jan at 05:59)
“ … what are the rest doing by actually not doing anything?” (Johnny Xerri)
Evidently, “the rest” are doing quite a lot because the responsible European Union experts themselves officially recognize that the Maltese government is among the best who are successfully tackling an economy crisis affecting the whole of Europe.
@Joe Fenech (22 Jan at 06:47)
“ … but (parliament) doesn’t (pass, amend abrogate laws)” if one were to believe Joe Fenech!
Unless you live in cuckoo land you would be aware that the Maltese parliament is all the time introducing new laws, amending old laws or abrogating them – not necessarily according to the diktat of one solitary backbencher but according to the votes cast by all the serving parliamentarians.
Carmel J. Caruana
Jan 22nd 2012, 10:18
Congratulations Dr Debono. You're fantastic - keep up the good work. Obviously some people would like part financing to remain hidden from public scrutiny.
Dr Debono has definitely the competences required for the type of political leadership we need in this country.
Mr Ernest Vella
Jan 22nd 2012, 09:57
kif ser iressaqha jekk ha jwaqqa l-Gvern...Misteru...sakemm mhux ser jaghmel xi kolp ta stat...u jghaddi l-ligi bla voti :)
I Bugeja
Jan 22nd 2012, 11:49
min qallek li jwaqqa il gvern jekk din tghaddi? he would have got what he wanted after all!!!!!!
Chantal Cassar
Jan 22nd 2012, 09:38
The One Man show!!
Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 22nd 2012, 09:37
@ Joseph Agius (22 Jan at 01:17)
It is not a question of “humbug” and its echoes. It is a question of a responsible Malta government assigning the correct priority to face promptly the very real emergency situation of Malta being hit hard by a world-wide economic crisis that could devastate our internal and external commercial situation with the grave risk of massive unemployment and attendant hardships.
Now is not the time to distract government from that real problem so as to provide legal loopholes whereby Dr Debono’s drug trafficking criminal clients could escape imprisonment and to set them free among the population, not because they were not guilty, but because of a mere legal technicality.
Now is not the time to distract government from this urgent task by diverting its energies to legislate about political party financing – a chronic universal problem that has not been solved anywhere. Protecting the workers’ jobs and their families bread and butter is a much more important and a more immediate, pressing need.
Few serious people would share your dismissive views about the very real “international world wide economic crisis”, the so far unsatisfactory measures adopted by governments abroad and the comparatively more successful, and less painful measures, adopted by the Maltese government.
Emanuel Curmi
Jan 22nd 2012, 10:17
@Francis Saliba M.D. If it was just a question of a responsible Malta government, then this Franco Debono saga would never have happened. After all these matters have been on the table for a long long time and our nation have went through, not one but several world wide recessions so it is definately not a case of haste and bad timing.
Dr Debono is concerned ( and rightly so ) that our legal system is prone to legal loopholes and is pushing for a much needed reform in order NOT to let convicted criminals walk away on a technicality. On the other hand if you are ever accused of a capital crime (rightly or falsely), you will be forever grateful for your right to have a lawyer present rather than risk being abused by over enthusiastic policeman.
It is also a proven fact that every international crises has far reaching consequences which effect Malta in a major or minor way but I seriously doubt that our government's role has ever played a significant factor. If anything these have always been used as a ready excuse in our governments inability to contain our budget deficit and with this pretext has steadily raised taxes, utility rates ( and their own honoraria ) instead of curbing inefficiencies and unnecessary costs.
When I read your last paragraph, I really cannot help but smirk at how many times this has been used. Don't you think it's time to use something more original. Try fortune cookies......
Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 22nd 2012, 09:07
@ Alfred Falzon. (22 Jan at 00:15)
Do not ask me to put questions to PN diehards on your behalf – I do not have to do your bidding.
You are presumptuously appointing yourself as spokesman for floating voters. I do not recognize you as such. I credit them with more intelligence than you assign to them.
I am not “after Dr Debono’s head”. He has already done an excellent job at beheading himself politically.
mark borg
Jan 22nd 2012, 08:22
Franco Debono....the only and real PAR IDEJN SODI of the imploded GONZIPN !
Carmelo Aquilina
Jan 22nd 2012, 02:59
irrespective of anything else these are long overdue proposals and should get everyone's support ...
.....but of course we Maltese are specialists in obfuscating issues and confusing perosnality with policy (and the political parties want to carry on pretending they represent the people at the sme time as taking large cash donations from people who have vested interests)
Anthony Pace Gouder
Jan 22nd 2012, 02:30
Putting Political affilliation prejudice aside , for fairness sake, I would like to point out that having read most of the comments , I have realized that there is absolutely no mention for the fact that the ONLY person who spoke out, CONSTANTLY, on the critical need of Statal PARTY FINANCING , was none other but Opposition and PL Leader Dr. Joseph Muscat !
Emanuel Curmi
Jan 22nd 2012, 09:31
@Anthony Pace Gouder. You are absolutely right but Joseph Muscat ALWAYS stopped short from pushing for a general reform of our electoral system as proposed from Dr Franco Debono. The reason the PL wants to push through the reform of Party Financing ( and only that ) is because the PN has an obvious advantage in this respect and Dr. Muscat is solely interested in having a more level field for future elections. That makes him - and the PL - as much an opportunist as the PN. Once we, all, start putting political affilliation prejudice apart, will soon realise that our political parties are both camels with a huge hump.
C Muscat
Jan 22nd 2012, 00:03
X tahwid frank hawwadni ha nifmek!!!!
Vincent Cassar
Jan 21st 2012, 21:39
Perhaps FD will vote against the no-confidence motion and, in his head, bring the PM to saying that "FD saved the day for us". Then h will hold Gonzi at ransom. U minn skalda jigi splengun!
Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 21st 2012, 23:22
Franco Debono could never be cedited with saving the day for his Nationalist Party when it was he, Dr Franco Debono himself, who had needlessly imperilled the NP government.
Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 21st 2012, 21:36
Dr Franco Debono.
Please stop this tomfoolery! Stop pretending that you have discovered the wheel!
There is always the need to introduce new laws, to amend existing laws and to abrogate outdated laws. That is what a normally functioning parliament is intended to do. It is ridiculous for any first time back bencher to act as if he were the only parliamentarian aware of that purpose, that were it not for him nothing would have been accomplished or that he is the best, if not the sole, arbiter to set priorities and ultimatums; either that or else you will threaten, ad nauseam, to obstruct or to bring down the government of which you form an essential part.
Ostentatiously rocking the government boat, provocatively and unnecessarily, at a time of an international world wide economic crisis, is no reasonable way to assist any government to function. I appeal to you, please, control your all too obvious overweening personal ambitions, try to work as a useful member of a good team in a government that is dealing exceptionally well with problems imposed on Malta from abroad.
For your own good, for your own prestige, do not put yourself at the mercy of political rivals, do not allow them to use you because they will certainly drop you like a hot brick as soon as they do not need your destructive antics.
Alfred Falzon
Jan 22nd 2012, 00:15
@ Francis Saliba MD
Why don't you appeal to PN diehards to stop insulting Dr Franco Debono for standing up to be counted?!
Is that the type of democracy the PN used to boast of when in Opposition?!
Floating voters are disgusted by such character assassination, very much akin to what occurs in totalitarian states where dissidents are either sent to mental hospitals, exiled or bullied around until they disappear from the local scene!!
Metaphorically speaking, Malta is not Alexander Solzhenitsyn's "Gulag Archipelago" and the great majority of the Maltese electorate is not ready to tolerate any nonsense with regard to free expression and choice of governance!
Dr Franco Debono needs no lessons from you or from those who just pay lip service to democratic principles!
He has the people backing him, for the great majority of the Maltese who have fundamental human rights at heart are today foursquare behind him! They are not interested in wielding power but they are neither ready to give up their rights and turn into bleating sheep herded into pens by the crack of the whip!
So the least said by those who are after Dr Debono's head, the better, for they are causing irreparable harm to their Party and to the Prime Minister himself who, many believe, can handle the unfolding situation much, much more better than some think!
Alfred A. Falzon
Joseph Agius
Jan 22nd 2012, 01:17
What a lot of echoes of the humbug sort this comment is.
Refusing to admit the FACT that what FD is doing is what government should have done off its own bat because it was its DUTY to do, and refused to do notwithstanding endless repetitions for a number of years, is only worthy of blind apologists, people who think they can hoodwink others at all times..
And please stop repeating the sickeneing refrain "a time of an international world wide economic crisis"; even dogs have come to understand it's pure hypocrisy. As if this govt would have acted otherwise at any other time.
Phil Zammit
Jan 22nd 2012, 05:02
Wise counsel - in gentle and realistic terms!!
Dr FD please heed for your and the country's good.
Johnny Xerri
Jan 22nd 2012, 05:59
he may not have invented the wheel...and may be doing the obvious as you claim...however, seems that he is the only one doing it...so if FD is doing nothing special by doing the obvious...what are the rest doing by actually not doing anything?
Joe Fenech
Jan 22nd 2012, 06:47
"There is always the need to introduce new laws, to amend existing laws and to abrogate outdated laws. That is what a normally functioning parliament is intended to do."
....but it doesn't! Malta is at par with Africa. Go and live round Europe and you'll see why!
Vincent Cassar
Jan 21st 2012, 21:28
After the House Business Committee had decided for a date and procedure to discuss the no-confidence motion, it seemed that things had calmed down a bit and some certainty came back in. Then off goes FD and presents this PMB....and off we go again with speculation. Incredible....best thing to do: forget all about it...unless one has a direct interest in who gets elected of course.
Simon Carbonaro
Jan 21st 2012, 20:41
Prosit Dr. Debono for the private member's motion, this is the way things should be done regarding the political parties money. We have a right to know from where the money is coming from because there are a lot of questions that need answers.
John Azzopoardi
Jan 21st 2012, 20:37
Opportunist................wow, what he is tryijg to accomplish.
J Craig
Jan 21st 2012, 19:57
Dear Franco you have become the clown of the town. Just go to Rome and leave everyone in peace. At first I used to support you and believe you, but the reasons behind what you are doing are so obvious and you are acting like a little child indeed. I will never forget your face if Labour gets elected thanks to you, cause Malta will be ruined.
Francis Attard
Jan 21st 2012, 19:45
Partit Imfarrak grazzi ghal Dr Gonzi.
E. Vassallo
Jan 21st 2012, 19:20
issa pprezentajta il-private's motion bill Franco? Aqsam il-kamra u amlilna pjacir.
GEORGE CUTAJAR
Jan 21st 2012, 19:07
No doubt Debono's bill must have some valid points but why did he choose to present it this morning? He wants to bring the government down so he already knows that nothing is going to materialise..
As always Debono has something up his sleeve, some motive or other and in this case he proved even further. He filed it this morning to deflect attention from the statements made this morning by Beppe Fenech Adami on Radio Malta. He knows that this bill will never see the light of day and when it does he will not be the one pushing it through parliament - that is if he carries out his threat to bring down the government.
So why present it this morning? Once he had this bill ready why did he not file it months ago if he truly has the country's interest at heart?
raymond scicluna
Jan 21st 2012, 21:58
I think Dr Debono s behaviour should be studied by experts for future generations cause its really incredible how he can manage to deceit people: saying something and does the opposite, always claiming he is right and the best whereas belittling and demeaning others. He sided the PN and all his enemies are within the party whereas never a word or an argument against a PL member or policy. I sincerely wish that the PN should this time do a thorough due diligence on prospective candidates no matter how popular can be with the man on the street cause gaining a few votes and then get such result is a suicide. I recount that Sandro Schembri Adami and Professor Zammit were both denied from being PN candidates. For the first one PN proved itself right but for Profs Zammit unfortunately not. Due diligence should go back not just by police conduct, bank records, criminal records but i guess even school behaviour cause Franco s story is a lesson for life!!
Mr Joseph Apap
Jan 21st 2012, 17:59
Dr. Franco Debono,
If you want this bill to go through, with which most people should agree
You have to vote first to keep the present government in office
Good Luck
Mr Joseph Carmel Chetcuti
Jan 21st 2012, 22:28
You are wrong. He may support the opposition and, in heory at least, Muscat may become PM without an election as he would then have the majority in parliament. Read Malta's constitution.
K. Vella
Jan 21st 2012, 17:49
A plan that went haywire....
Lost in his own mess, trying to patch up but due to his ego centricity amd personal ambitions and pride the mess will eventually get bigger.
Franco build bridges.....
Sandro Pace
Jan 21st 2012, 17:25
Franco Debono should be asked about his views on the issue of political TV/Radio stations. He slipped something on Inkontri about it, and apparently they are also giving in his backside. Why? Control freaking?
They are not the epitome of broadcasting quality, but in their mediocrity they are a democratic safety valve, especially in our permanent polarised society. The Party in opposition will never trust the public station. It has its own thing to redress any percieved imbalance.
That is democracy.
Edward zahra
Jan 21st 2012, 17:11
Just one question maybe some of you knows more about this, if an mp present a motion just like Dr Debono did and we all know about next thu, and if next thu the PM decides to go for an election, what will happen with the motion?? will it be discussed in the next parlament or it will be discarded and forgotten.. i hope that whatever will happen next thu these issues will be discussed seriously.
GEORGE CUTAJAR
Jan 21st 2012, 19:10
The motion will die with Parliament's dissolution. Obviously it could be taken up by some other MP in the next legislature but whatever happens if an election is called Debono will not see the transformation of his bill into law. Ouch
Daniela Camilleri
Jan 21st 2012, 17:09
Time up Franco. You've lost your chance. Good riddance.
robert pace
Jan 21st 2012, 18:28
i think its more time up gonzi coz you ruined us all up. look at Air malta? Drydocks? Sea malta ?Were have all they gone? Leave us alone Gonzi and go to sleep!!!
Alfred Falzon
Jan 21st 2012, 16:57
Keep it up, Franco!
The Maltese yearning for a clean Government are foursquare with you!
Those who seek the people's support should first come clean before the electorate by putting the Nation's and people's interests before Party allegiance and other vested interests!
The fact that you are not glued to your Parliamentary seat speaks volumes!
Alfred A. Falzon
Joe Grech
Jan 21st 2012, 16:34
Thank you Dr. Franco Debono for pushing for these vitally important reforms. For too long the Maltese have been taken for a corruption ride thanks to the unavailability of the reforms which you push for.
You have shown to us Maltese that you have the brains and the courage to push for what is right. Do not let the evil mud-slinging that's presently being directed at you put you off from your professed path. We Maltese appreciate the stand you are taking because we understand that you are doing this not for personal glory but for the well-being of our country.
J Busuttil
Jan 21st 2012, 17:01
@ Joe Grech
" We Maltese appreciate the stand you are taking....."
I never gave you the authority to speak on my behalf.
Joe Grech
Jan 21st 2012, 17:34
@ J. Busuttil - Sorry I included you. You are too politically blinkered even to be considered as a true Maltese. My apologies again!
Wilfred Camilleri
Jan 21st 2012, 18:09
You also shouldn't have included me, not necessarily because I disagree or agree with what you said, but no one gave you the authority to speak for all Maltese!
Noel Mifsud
Jan 22nd 2012, 06:05
Joe i agree with whast he is doing. Malta should be proud for this young lawyer. And hope that if PL take the election and lead this way the same thing will happen. As for you Mr Busuttil and MR Camilleri he is doing for the best of out country, and Mr Galea the bill was presented before the vote because if the vote fails could be discussed next parliament and if the vote pass could be duscussed in this 15 months left. Be grateful to such a person. Thx Franco
Joseph Stephen Galea
Jan 21st 2012, 16:26
If the Hon France Debono will be supporting a no confidence vote next Thursday ... its definitely too late for presentation of this bill. Parliament would be dissolved before there is time for this bill to be discussed.
... Or does this imply a change of heart?
Joe Grech
Jan 21st 2012, 16:37
@ Joseph Stephen Galea - Can't you see that Dr. Debono is trying to push for reforms that are very badly needed. It will ultimately benefit you and me if these reforms go through so why do you have to keep chastising this M.P.? Don't be unfair and ungrateful towards him please!
Jo Camm
Jan 21st 2012, 17:02
Mr Joe Grech it is exactly as Mr Galea said, if Dr Debono favours the no confidence motion, the bill he has presented will be ignored, as these are not brought up for the next legislatures.
J. Debono
Jan 21st 2012, 17:21
@ Joe Grech
There is no time for reforms!!!!!!!
He is going to pull the government down.
Or is he?
A. Xuereb
Jan 21st 2012, 17:24
it does not make sense to present this bill now if he intends to vote against the motion.unless he intends to abstain and push for this bill to go through.That way he can go down in history as the MP who pushed the party financing law, and will be re-elected from two districts in the next election.
mark borg
Jan 21st 2012, 17:35
Or does this imply a change of heart?
You just wish :)
He is like the rest of people with good intention for our country and want TO GET RID OF GONZIPN CLIKKA +REGIME
Joseph Ellul
Jan 21st 2012, 16:09
Franco very well done. People with a head on their shoulder very well know that now the GonziPN are all desperate an they are trying to cling to any thing they can put their paws on. I am sure now that Beppe is being guided by his father to try and sway the voters to the PN. Why his father never put trust in his own son when he was in power and gave him some position????
Well done for your heroism Franco.Malta need more politicians like you. You have my support.
David J Cassar
Jan 21st 2012, 18:01
Dear Mr. Ellul, the answer to your query, with regards to Beppe vis-à-vis being appointed by his own father, emeritus Dr. Fenech Adami, is plain and simple....Dr.Fenech Adami does not believe and never practiced nepotism. Few and far in between are individuals in power with his values!
Robert Callus
Jan 21st 2012, 16:07
Those financing big sums to political parties are investing money. And the taxpayer is the one who dishes out their profits.
This is both an economic and a democratic issue. I may not agree with Franco Debono's tactics, but the issues he is mentioning - all of them - are crucial for this country.
A Spiteri
Jan 21st 2012, 15:50
Franco, Shut Up u halli lil-pajjiz jahdem, kieku hawn xi dizordni fl-ekonomija nghidlek ghandek ragun. Tilabx mal-ghejxien taghna ghax se tibqa mfakkar fl-istorja ta Malta talli kissirtina l-ekonomija. Dan kollu ghax ma ilhaqtx daqs Joseph tal-Klassi tieghek. Se tiflah tarah tiela Kastilja jekk jerbah. Umbaghad ikun too late ghax int qatt mhu se tasal fejn tixtieq daqqsu.
Robert Callus
Jan 21st 2012, 16:03
Kissru l-ekonomija l-istess "hbieb tal-hbieb" li qed jikkritika Franco Debono, mela hu? Ghala tahseb jaghtu eluf kbar lil partiti? Minghalik li ma jippretendu xejn lura?
Joe Grech
Jan 21st 2012, 16:40
@ A. Spiteri - So you will have Dr. Debono to ''shut up''! Can't you see that he's one of the M.P.s who are really putting the interests of Malta before all else? Kif jista' l-pajjiz ''jahdem'' jekk l-ghanqbut tal-korruzzjoni ma jitnehhewx darb' ghal dejjem? Irraguna man!
Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 21st 2012, 17:23
@ Robert Callus.
Jekk l-Unjoni Ewropeja qieghda tfahhar is-success tal-gvern Malti li jtaffi l-effetti hziena tas-sitwazzjoni ekonomika dinjija fost l-ahjar membri tal-U.E. int, min int biex tghid li l-gvern Malti kisser l-ekonomija Maltija?
R Vassallo
Jan 21st 2012, 15:17
Dr. Debono's bill, and any other proposed legislation such as the recent amendments to the Education Act, will still be on the Agenda of a new parliament, irrespective even whether Dr. Debono himself will remain as an MP.
Ronald Bowman
Jan 21st 2012, 15:42
Mr. Vassallo I believe you are mistaken. Dr. Debono's motion has not even been discussed by the Parliamentary Affairs Committe, let alone included in the Parliament's agenda. After a general election, a new Govenmnent, irrespectiove of who wins, will present Parlilament with a new programme of legislation as indicated in the Presidential Speech at the Opening of Parliament. A speech based on the electoral manifesto of the Party in Government. Furthermore a motion cannot be discussed if the proposer is not present in the House. May I remind you that, on the opposition's insistence, although he was indisposed, Dr. Eddie Fenech Adami had to attend Parliament against his doctor's orders, so that his motion could be discussed.
Joe Grech
Jan 21st 2012, 16:44
@ Ronald Bowman - What is the point you are trying to make? Are you personally happy with the state of corruption we are in presently? Dr. Debono is pushing for reforms which are sorely needed. I take it Mr. Bowman that you yourself appreciate that much...or are you perhaps (hopefully not) putting the political P.N. agenda before national interests?
Ronald Bowman
Jan 21st 2012, 17:07
@ Joe Grech
If you can read and understand plain English, I simply clarified normal parlliamentary procedure and I did not enter into the merits of otherwise of Dr. Debono's motion. Apparently, you are so blinded by your political agenda that you miss the wood for the trees.
Joe Grech
Jan 21st 2012, 17:55
A Ronal Bowman - Point taken. But really, don't you think that now that these issues have come out in the open - thanks to Dr. Debono - no political party will choose to forget all about them in its electoral manifesto. It is quite clear that the Maltese are insisting that these issues are tackled, so hopefully they will be - by the P.N or the P.L. of course. Hopefully the latter. Cause the former chose to close an eye to what was going on.......
Wilfred Camilleri
Jan 21st 2012, 18:10
Joe Grech, corruption happens in all governments. If you believe that no corruption will happen if the PL gets elected, you are really a dreamer!
Paul Giordimaina
Jan 22nd 2012, 05:00
Mr grech what corruption you are talking about or you are a parrot singing your leader song.
S. Zammit
Jan 21st 2012, 15:12
That is the way things should be done Dr. Debono. Democratically.
GEORGE CUTAJAR
Jan 21st 2012, 14:59
History has been made today.
All comments on this blog seem to be in full agreement. Why did Debono present the bill today when he will be voting against the Government next Thursday triggering a general election. As far as I am aware once Parliament is dissolved - could happen on Thursday should Debono vote in fvaour of the motion - no bills will be discussed.
Perhaps Debono wants to make public his private member's bill for posterity's sake.
The bottom line in all this is the Maltese dictum - Hawwadni ha nifhem.
Joe Grech
Jan 21st 2012, 16:50
@ George Cutajar - please understand that since these crucially important issues have been highlighted by Dr. Franco Debono in the open, no political party will have the cheek to ignore them. That at least is what political parties with any sense and uprightness left will be expected to do.
Richard Caruana
Jan 21st 2012, 14:53
troppo tardi dottore
Ronald Bowman
Jan 21st 2012, 14:52
This is the correct way of putting pressure to ensure that Parliament discusses legislation which an MP strongly believes is neccessary for the common good. A private member's motion/bill would put the ball in the Parliament's court. These motions should be presented and discussed at an urgent meeting of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee. This would would make the debate on the "Vote of No Confidence" motion superfluous as Dr. Debono must vote against the motion if he is to ensure that his motion is discussed during this legislature. This would subsequently also restore stability and enable the Govenment and Parliament to conconcentrate their efforts to face the difficulties presented by the recession facing our European neighbours. In view of the present Global Economic Crisis, Malta cannot afford to spend two of thee months with a "Caretaker Government" which would not be in a position to take necessary action to solve problems which may arise this year. Let's hope and pray that common sense prevails.
Mario Vella
Jan 21st 2012, 15:51
Wishful thinking Ronnie! The die has been cast! Ask JPO et al.......tantx tissikkaw ghax se tifgawh!
Joe Grech
Jan 21st 2012, 16:58
''Common sense''....what common sense are you alluding to Mr. Ronald Bowman?
Had common sense really been an attribute of the present administration, the issues highlighted by Dr. Debono would have been tackled a long, long time ago.
That they weren't speaks volumes. Apparently some policy makers were comfortable with the corrupt and undemocratic situation.
Mark Cams
Jan 21st 2012, 14:39
the Bill is a good one but how will monitoring be carried out to ensure that all political parties are complying with the law? Will the party opposition party \(whoever it is) opeb its books to the government so that its books can be checked?
Jo Camm
Jan 21st 2012, 15:10
"Will the party opposition party \(whoever it is) opeb its books to the government so that its books can be checked? "
That's a loaded question Mr Cams.
Alfred Falzon
Jan 21st 2012, 14:37
Mind-boggling indeed.
Mario J Spiteri
Jan 21st 2012, 14:35
That's good to Dr. Debono asset!
On the other side attacks against him or force him to resign!
If he is willing to work leave him work.
GEORGE CUTAJAR
Jan 21st 2012, 14:28
Is this his final good bye?
mark borg
Jan 21st 2012, 18:02
it definately will be GONZIPN's
Lawrence Camilleri
Jan 21st 2012, 14:16
Now? You spent four years only campaigning. Why did you not wait another four weeks until after the elections your doing?
Charles J. Buttigieg
Jan 21st 2012, 14:11
hawwadni ha nifhem.
Mark Attard
Jan 21st 2012, 14:03
Well done Dr FD, but this means that you are going to vote yes in confidence vote on Thursday? Other wise your motion will end in the Limbo, since there will be no more parliament to discuss this matter. Don't forget that after Thursday you will be part of history, with no say at all! It is not the motion that surprises me, but your timing in putting it forward!!!
P Borg
Jan 21st 2012, 14:03
…. And guess whose sabotaging this private member bill?....
Yep you’re right the same Franco Debono…..
Alan Dingli
Jan 21st 2012, 13:57
Dear Dr Debono,
Please do come clear on your intentions! Why present a Private Members motion if you know it will never be discussed?
Why all this teasing on whats going to happen? Do come clean Dr Debono for the Malta's sake!!
Richard Caruana
Jan 21st 2012, 14:58
To show everyone that he's first in class!
Tony Agius
Jan 21st 2012, 13:53
Haha haha haha, get lost now Franco , I think you missed the Bus , first you push forward the downfall of the whole government and after you come with this , that , and all the bull shit that you have been coming with , to try to convince only some ( not alot ) that you are the best , the one and only , and........ who cares , now the next step is , you go down with the downfall that you pushed forward , and , leave the rest for the new comers , definitilly not you.
ruth klotzer
Jan 21st 2012, 17:19
bli qieghed tajd inti stess tirrejalizza li dak li qed jaghmel debono, qed jaghmel ghall pajjizu u mux ghalih personali tant xeba bdil korruzzjoni kollha li jaqa u jqum xse jigri minnu.
M Borg
Jan 21st 2012, 13:37
This is becoming too much !
Can you please stop and let Dr Gonzi go on with his work . He has kept Malta in calm waters, why not help him instead of inventing somthing new every day ??
Francis Saliba M.D.
Jan 21st 2012, 13:36
Does Dr Franco Debono intend his private member's bill on party financing to be debated before or after the motion of no confidence in the NP government of which he forms part as a backbencher, but in which government he has no confidence?
Quos deus perdere vult dementat prius (Translated: Those whom the gods want to destroy first they drive mad) - making allowance for the possibility that there "seems to be a method in that madness!
Leonard Cole
Jan 21st 2012, 13:34
Dr. Debono took the initiative to present motion for party financing. Though i am not sure if we are living in a parallel world or the real thing. This motion will not be even discussed since the anticipation next week will be the no confidence vote which would lead for parliament to be dissolved and election being called by Mid March.
Joseph Cauchi Senior
Jan 21st 2012, 13:34
What is the use of presenting a Private Member’s Bill when FD knows that next Thursday could be the last day of Parliament?
Or does he know something that we, mere mortals do not know?
JC.
anton cassar
Jan 21st 2012, 15:31
Ghax forsi ha jaghmel U-TURN PAPALI !!!!!!
C Galea
Jan 21st 2012, 13:22
Pn will be loosing a valuable asset .Franco you are a true peoples poliician
J. Debono
Jan 21st 2012, 17:25
The PL are more than welcome, to take Dr. Franco Debono in their midst.
Then Malta will not lose such a 'valuable' asset.
Mr Ernest Vella
Jan 21st 2012, 13:21
Jekk ha jwaqqa l-Gvern nhar il-Hamis f'nofsinhar...din il-members private bill ghalxejn ha jaghmilha...sakemm mhux indikazzjoni li ha jastjeni jew jivvotta mal-gvern.
Joseph Sammut
Jan 21st 2012, 17:34
Jekk jghamel u-turn ha jaqa ghac-cajt, biex ma jghidx kelma ohra. Jiena ghalija qieghed jilghab b'Malta, irrespettivament ghandux ragun jew le. Il-komportanent ta dan ir-ragel mhux sewwa xejn. Tiskanta dawn il-politici x-arroganza ghandhom, blue jew homor. Nahseb ghal wiccna l-popolin jitqatlu ghas-siggu!!!!
vella m
Jan 21st 2012, 13:19
We need a 100 Franco debono,well done man.
Keith Chircop
Jan 21st 2012, 13:18
As always, he makes a good point. He's got to work a lot on his delivery though. I always get the feeling he's a smart man when I read what he says. Then I watch a video of him talking and... urgh.
Philip Grima
Jan 21st 2012, 13:16
Debono, you are a dead man walking. I don't think the government or the opposition will be wasting too much time debating your motion with an election round the corner. By the time Muscat is installed as Prime Minister you will be out of sight, and don't expect any favours from the man , as he knows better then most that you cannot be trusted.
Ramon Casha
Jan 21st 2012, 13:16
I don't have high hopes. Some things the parties DO agree upon most emphatically, and that includes not wanting you to know who holds shares in each candidate.
Charles Debono
Jan 21st 2012, 13:14
Shame on you Franco
Simon Spiteri
Jan 21st 2012, 13:14
Please can anyone explain to me how can a private member's bill be followed through and discussed in parliament if a general election is called and the MP who presented the bill is not elected ? I am not an expert in constitutional law but I can excert some logic.
Ivan Fenech
Jan 21st 2012, 13:10
So, Dr Debono claims he he has been "working on this draft even before the draft by President Emeritus Ugo Mifsud Bonnici failed the Greco test". Funny how he makes no reference at all to the fact that party finances was the theme of his university thesis and that Ugo Mifsud Bonnici as his examiner had not found it up to scratch. Why is timesofmalta.com repeating what this megalomaniac says parrot-like? Why, before posting this report, did timesofmalta.com not ask Dr Debono how on earth does he expect to see this private bill through if he is expected to bring the government down this coming Thursday? Are we all living in cuckoo land or something? This sounds so surreal.
Charles Debono
Jan 21st 2012, 13:05
Shame on you Franco
Victor Rodenas
Jan 21st 2012, 13:05
The ball is rolling and is gathering momentum. One small hole brings the dam down.
Luciano Pace Parascandalo
Jan 21st 2012, 13:03
what's the point if he intends to bring the government down next week?
Rachel Borg
Jan 21st 2012, 13:03
Dan jaf x'irid?! Jekk nhar il-Hamis iwaqqa l-Gvern il-mozzjoni li ressaq tispicca...x'se jaghmel allura? Cara, he wanst to keep the country guessing. He's holding this country at ransom and this has now become a very dangerous game. PN, please call his bluff and call an election; then come what may - l-aqwa li nehilsu minnhu mill-Parlament
Rita Smith
Jan 21st 2012, 21:21
jien nahseb li se johrog ma L-Alternativa Demokratika!
Rita smith
Mr Duncan Scerri
Jan 21st 2012, 13:01
Looks like a fine starting point.
D. A . Agius
Jan 21st 2012, 12:56
Hmm. is this the Government's lifeline?
Will the scenario be:
- Franco abstains in parliament confidence vote, government carries on with Speaker casting vote;
- Governments obtains time to "prepare" for election
- Franco gets party financing law signed on, something being left for remembering his name in Maltese Politics. In the meantime, he abstains from Government votes, saving "face" and at the same time letting PN do its stuff
- Election goes on before next budget so that Government is not obliged to present new hard measures before an election, nor dismal results.
"Mahduma Bizzilla" as they say in Maltese...
Victor Vella
Jan 21st 2012, 18:10
You are right. It can be the most reasonable scenario. They are going to tie the vote of no confidence to the bill and Debono will keep the government afloat to more months while finding the backing of JPO. The no confidence vote will pass through the speaker`s vote to safe the day. Then Gonzi will find a way how to remove the skalda zghira li ghandu f`subghajh iz-zghir u bil-pulit jkun ghadda lil Franco Debono minn ghajn il-labra.Hmmm, I think Debono is not that stupid gullible bait driven man.
Victor Vella
Jan 21st 2012, 12:55
This motion is another motion to show the transparency from where the two big parties bring their monies. This bill was always in the parlance of the Maltese politics , but the PN always wanted that such bill will be swept under the carpet. This is the most democratic bill in a civilized nation. It can even answer the question Why the PN remained for 25 years? and they are saying that they will win again. Obviously, if the PN have a money machine backing them by those few elites businessmen that always take the capital sums investments of Malta from the PN regime, such a party will regain power by illicit means. This is the type of political democracy that Franco wants and the transparency that both the PN and LP always preach to have.
Victor Calleja
Jan 21st 2012, 12:53
Ok this shows that he is going to abstain next Thursday and then hold the government at ransom like Dom wanted to do to Alfred Sant government.
If this happens the only way for Gonzi is to call general elections.
Alfred Falzon
Jan 21st 2012, 12:53
Noe, that is a better way of doing things.
twanny borg
Jan 21st 2012, 12:52
importanti li ma nhalsux mit-taxxi taghna ghal partiti bizzejjed qed inhallsu. dan ma qalx li se jwaqqa l-gvern jew?
Paul Micallef
Jan 21st 2012, 12:51
Anotiher nail in Gonzis back side,or as he himself calls it skalda???
Jay Oatmon
Jan 21st 2012, 12:48
I agree with DeBono, there is a complete lack of progress on many important issues - Malta is quite famous fro doing as little as possible when obviously action is needed - such as the courts delays. Why will no one tackle this appalling situation of delays and suspended sentences.
J. Debono
Jan 21st 2012, 12:47
Jekk ha jwaqqa gvern, kif presenta Private Motion!!!????
Dan jaf x'inhu jaghmel jew??
N. Montanaro
Jan 21st 2012, 12:43
Maybe this was the better way to get people's sympathy in the first place Dr. Debono. Now people will never look at you as the brave man you are, but as the rebel you've put yourself into since this whole saga. Maybe you should have been more careful on how things work out... But never the less, maybe this was the only way you thought you can do it. You still have time to contribute to the country I assume, assuming you vote in favour of the government come Thursday... If not, you will be down the drain what-so-ever...
Charles Massa
Jan 21st 2012, 12:41
Il PL huwa l unika partit f Malta li jippublika l audited accounts. Tal PN ma jaqbillhomx b din il ligi inkella jinkixfu l kuntratturi li jimpalaw il flus lil PN u wara l istess kuntratturi jiehdu tenders tal gvern
Manuel Camilleri
Jan 21st 2012, 12:38
First he declared in public that he will not back the government and will vote against it in the vote of no confidence, and now he comes up with this. What exactly do you want Dr. Debono? You are such a confused individual. A private member's motion when the country is faced with uncertainty created by the member himself! Give us all a break please!
VINCENT WILLIAMS
Jan 21st 2012, 12:38
A good motion on party fanancing by Franco Debono MP.
Why did the PN administrations done nothing about the 'Galdes Report' for years and years?
Jonathan Camilleri
Jan 21st 2012, 12:37
Sometimes, unfortunately, a bit of conflict brings about change, otherwise those in power tend to assume a convenient position, and, relax.
Of course, everyone likes to go on holiday, even myself. Hence, for this reason, I would not exclude Dr. Debono's critical arguments from parliamentary debate.
John Schembri
Jan 21st 2012, 12:35
In other words :Parliament would be punished to review Franco’s revised and corrected doctorial thesis turned into a private member’s bill.
I’m sure Joseph Muscat would like it.
Joseph Portelli
Jan 21st 2012, 12:30
"The bill still needed a lot of fine-tuning which should follow public feedback and debate in the House"!!!! Mela wara l-elezzjoni li gejja f'Marzu se jerga jkun hemm Franco Debono fil-Parlament??
G. Palmier
Jan 21st 2012, 12:27
Issa waqqa 'l gvern u tghidx kemm tigi diskussa malajr il-mozzjoni tieghek stess!! Iddeciedi xi trid my friend
C. Sammut
Jan 21st 2012, 12:26
Definitely not a move by someone who wants to bring the House down..
Please choose the reason of your report below: