Muscat demands responsibility for MFSA's decision on Bank of Valletta
Opposition leader Joseph Muscat this evening demanded a statement by the prime minister over the decision taken by the MFSA against Bank of Valletta over the La Valetta Property Fund. (www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20120604/local/mfsa-fines-bov-203-150-after-third-fund-investigation.422716">see http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20120604/local/mfsa-fines-bov-203-150-after-third-fund-investigation.422716 )
Speaking in parliament during the confidence debate, Dr Muscat said the government could not ignore the issue once it appointed the chairman of the bank. He personally had confidence in the bank, Dr Muscat said, but somebody had to assume responsibility for what had taken place.
In a speech lasting some 90 minutes, Dr Muscat said that were it up to the prime minister, the opposition would not have a right to criticise the government in parliament.
This government, he said, had set a new record in that, in the space of six months, it had to face three confidence or no-confidence debates. If this did not raise questions by investors, what did?
Unfortunately, the end result of this confidence debate was that Malta would be back to square one. Nothing would change, in the same way as nothing had changed after the leadership contest where he was the sole candidate.
The prime minister was hostage of the seat of power. He had said he wanted a clear confidence vote without conditions, yet he had just heard a government MP (Franco Debono) who, in effect, had laid conditions for his help to the government.
In his speech at the opening of the debate, Dr Muscat said, the prime minister had forgotten about admitting mistakes and going to people's kitchens to meet the electorate. Instead, one heard arrogance from government speakers who acted like everything was perfect.
Nothing had changed because the problem lay in the prime minister's style of leadership.
The government was imploding and the prime minister was in denial. He was not realising that he was the problem, and he would only win the vote in the House if he met the conditions set for him.
The prime minister had said he wanted a clear vote. This was a new confidence benchmark which, Dr Muscat said, applied to the rest of the legislature and which the Opposition would hold Dr Gonzi accountable for.
Dr Muscat said the Opposition was being consistent, as it was about the power station. Just today, even before the power station extension had been commissioned, the finance minister had said the power station would be converted to gas - as Labour had long been saying. More significantly, the minister had now said that Malta could look forward to lower tariffs, and he said that would be the result of the interconnector. At long last, the government was admitting that tariffs could go down.
Dr Muscat said it was strange how, on just one decision, about the bus service, the prime minister had linked the vote of no confidence in minister Austin Gatt to collective ministerial responsibility, whereas he did not do the same last week when the running of the whole Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs was under the lens. Once the PM treated his ministers so differently, one could only wonder how he treated the people.
The Opposition leader defended the Opposition's decision to move a motion of no confidence in the Minister of Home Affairs. What was strange, he said, was how the government expected the opposition not to have moved that motion because of the minister's personal good qualities. But the minister's personal qualities were never the issue, Dr Muscat said. Many workers, with good personal qualities, had been disciplined because they arrived late for work because of traffic. Did the prime minister want a parliamentary system based on personal relationships where there was tacit agreement that kept people from doing their constitutional duties?
A Labour government would want no favours from the PN when in opposition. Constitutional norms and accountability had to be observed.
MINISTERIAL APPOINTMENTS
Dr Muscat said it was unsustainable for the prime minister to assume ministerial responsibility for home affairs and local government and he was sure that his decision to do so was temporary.
When he was responsible for finance, the prime minister had a parliamentary secretary working full time in that sector. The same happened when he was responsible for tourism, Mepa and local government. One therefore could now hardly believe that in addition to his duties and without assistance, Dr Gonzi would be directly responsible for home affairs and local government.
Issues such as immigration, the prisons and the police demanded constant focus, something which the prime minister could not give.
He believed, Dr Muscat said, that it was only political expediency which led Dr Gonzi to say he was taking responsibility for those portfolios. He was a hostage to his system and did not want another problem within his ranks.
WHAT CHANGE IN HOME AFFAIRS?
How would the prime minister's management be different with regard to illegal immigration? A Nationalist MP had now declared that burden sharing should be mandatory. The government needed to take a stronger stand in the EU and not always dance to the set tune.
Would the prime minister, at last, take action on a law granting trade union rights to the police?
When would the Freedom of Information Act come into force? What would become of the Whistle-blower Act? The current legislative text was a disservice which would offer no real protection for those who revealed information after having themselves been involved.
Would the prime minister declare what he had done in the past few days about the case revealed last week on the death of prisoner Steve Spiteri, who was about to reveal information to the police? The Spiteri family had confirmed that no one in authority had told them what was happening.
Dr Muscat referred to the European Commission's comments last week on the national reform programme and noted that three risks had been identified for Malta - that government budget projections were over-optimistic, that the government was suffering cost over-runs, and the problems of Enemalta and Air Malta.
Referring to Dr Gonzi's comments on capital projects, Dr Muscat said such projects were useful to the country as long as they constituted productive investment. What value-added activity would the new parliament building yield to the country more than it already had?
Enemalta and Air Malta had been under the PN government's management for the past 25 years, and they were in a mess. The EU had even said that atriffs were undermining investment.
Dr Muscat said he also expected the prime minister to say what he would do after the serious judgement handed down by the MFSA against Bank of Valletta, whose chairman was appointed by the government. He personally had confidence in the bank, Dr Muscat said, but this was another case where responsibility had to be assumed.
The EU, Dr Muscat noted, was also demanding a higher retirement age. Would the government continue to be silent on this matter? After all, in the Council last year, the government agreed with recommendations which included a higher retirement age. This meant that the pension reform had failed. The opposition remained of the view that Malta should aim for economic growth, not having workers work for longer.
Concluding, Dr Muscat reiterated the PL's commitment for a fair society based on social justice and denied the claims made by the prime minister yesterday that residential services for people with disability were already being offered in various localities. He said the government was disconnected from reality and the country, despite this confidence motion, was back to square one with the prime minister having wasted the country's time.
PRIME MINISTER'S REPLY
Replying, Dr Gonzi said it was Dr Muscat who had wasted the country's time by saying nothing about job creation, education and health.
The government, he said, would continue to remind the PL of the worst years of this country's recent history because those were the years when it was in government, and whose ministers were still on the Labour front bench (interruptions). Reacting to claims that the government was arrogant, Dr Gonzi said the apex of arrogance was how Labour governed for a full five years against the will of the people of when Labour said it won the EU referendum.
As for being hostage to the seat of power, Dr Gonzi said Dr Muscat was hostage to his dream of becoming Malta's youngest prime minister. What Malta needed was a government which ran the country in the interests of the country.
Dr Gonzi reiterated that the government was seeking a vote which was clear and unconditional and he could confirm that that would be the case (applause).
The prime minister insisted that in defending Dr Mifsud Bonnici he had insisted that the motion of no confidence against him was not justified. This confidence motion, therefore, would confirm the lack of confidence in the opposition.
Despite the opposition's criticism, Malta had the fourth best youth employment situation in the EU, Dr Gonzi said. Malta was first with regard to the employment of graduates.
Dr Gonzi reiterated that the homes for people with disability found in towns and villages was a concept which this government launched in 2002 and supplemented it with LSAs for inclusive education. The ultimate aim was for persons wth disability to have an allowance which would enable them to have a personal assistant to help them in their life.
On pensions, Dr Gonzi said the government's position was clear in the law enacted five years ago which aimed at adequate and sustainable pensions. The EU wanted to link pensions to life expectancy. This was something which would continue to be analysed, but the position on the basis of the proposed formula showed that Malta would need no change to the current retirement age.
Concluding, Dr Gonzi said the government's priority was to give families what they truly needed - jobs, education, and a free health service.
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M Sciberras
Jun 5th 2012, 10:38
The PL Leader is clearly used to witch hunts, and can't be without one. No doubt he would now like to see the minister of finance resign. TheBOV issue is a matter for the MFSA and other relevant regulatory bodies ALONE. The fact that the government appoints the Chairman has no relevance whatsoever. The strength of the crucial financial sector depends on strong independent regulatory oversight - this does NOT mean political interference. Let the MFSA do its job. His complete lack of awareness of this and of the wider fact that ciivil society is governed not just by politicians is yet another reason why Muscat makes me nervous.
Angelo Vassallo
Jun 5th 2012, 10:22
@ Joseph Borg
Dik biss hija r-reazzjoni ghall-kummenti tieghi. U daaaazguuuuur li nghix Malta. Nahseb inti ma tghix f'din il-gzira f'nofs il-Mediterran ghax probabbli qieghed fil-qamar!!!!!!!!!
Hares lejn Malta fl-1987 u erga` hares lejha fl-2012 u ghandek tibqa ccassat ghal ghomrok bid-differenza ta' Malta hierga min taht 16-il sena ta' Socjalizmu/Komunizmu/Dittatorjat lejburita, min Malta wara 8 snin membri ta' lUnjoni Ewropea - minn pajjiz tat-TIELET DINJA ghal pajjiz MODERN - wiehed mill-aqwa li hemm fl-Unjoni Ewropea.
@ Wenzu vella
Wenzu Vella, of course there is no such thing as a free lunch.
Iva dak kollu li semmejt jien qieghdin inhallsu ghalihom il-Maltin u l-Ghawdxin mit-taxxi taghna, mhux dejjem hekk kien, imma mhux biss, qeghdin inhallsuhom ukoll mill-€100 MILJUN ( u mhux miljun u nofs Lm flus kontanti) li gew mill-Unjoni Ewropea. Nahseb naf x'jien nghid. Taf min kien ried kollox b'xejn min kien qal lil-Knisja Maltija "JEW B'XEJN JEW XEJN" Dan kien KMB prim ministru socjalista lejburista mintoffjan li ried jghalaq l-iskejjel tal-Knisja. Taf x'qieghed nghid Wenzu Vella?
G Mangion
Jun 5th 2012, 10:14
Ir - Rebha Tal Prim Ministru Dr Lawrence Gonzi bil Vot ta FIDUCJA LI REBAH B' Maggorranza assolut ta
35 p.n u 34 mlp, Tfisser li jm tilef kull Attentat tal misthija biex forsi jwaqqa l' gvern, ghall hekk dan huwa
Vot ta sfiducja ghall j.m.
G. Mangion.
Joseph Aquilina
Jun 5th 2012, 09:44
"Muscat demands responsibility for MFSA's decision on Bank of Valletta"
I - and I guess all the people of Malta - demand responsibility for whoever put Joseph Muscat as leader of the PL!! For once we had a chance to have a respectable opposition by putting someone of the calibrate of George Abela as leader of the opposition. Instead the Maltese had to satisfy themselves with the usual the heir to the throne of Dr.Sant ... getting the same political style as well ...
A Cuschieri
Jun 5th 2012, 10:35
One more thing to add is that Joseph Muscat was given a Parliamentary seat by the PL delegates ... NOT BY THE PUBLIC!
Dahal fil-parlament minghajr l-approvazzjoni tal-poplu u qed jaghmel minn kollox biex jimmina l-hidma tal-Gvern li gie elett korrettament bl-appogg tal-maggoranza tal-poplu li tah mandat biex jiggverna ghal-5 snin. Lil Muscat x'mandat tah il-poplu Malti?
Mr Andrew Camilleri
Jun 5th 2012, 18:34
Mr Aquilina, when you become a member of the Labour Party, then you can make all the demands you want against Dr Muscat. I believe we live in a democracy and that means allowing people to have a different opinion from yours. And don't forget it was Dr Gonzi's idea to remove Dr Abela from any chance of ever becoming labour leader- a machiavellian move if ever there was one.
Bernard Pollacco
Jun 5th 2012, 09:27
bov is not a government owed company right ?
John Bonnici
Jun 5th 2012, 09:24
Dear Dr Muscat, The joke has lasted too long now. Its not funny any more.
Joseph Borg
Jun 5th 2012, 07:38
Dr.Muscat, you'll better start researching how you will be lowering our cost of living! Are you going to create a recommended retail pricing system for essential goods? Lowering fuel, electricity and gas is not enough as businesses still inflate their prices no matter what. You're wasting a lot of time on non-confidence debates. Haven't you realised yet that this is all a trick from the government? He is still there and will be there till the end. He loves his pay cheque and friends! Look outside the box and start working for the election the proper way.
George Azzopardi
Jun 5th 2012, 08:40
At least JM has not given up (like Dr.Gonzi) in try to decrease cost of living ... but no, now even GonziPN is saying that Utility bills can decrease or maybe Mr.Borg has deaf ears ate times! Another UTurn and following what JM is saying, that Utility bills are sky high and will be decreased (lowering cost of living)!
Zugraga qed idur Gonzi ..
m farrugia
Jun 5th 2012, 07:34
next pl motion: no confidence vote in tonio fenech re bank of valletta chairman, but no franco debono has not mentioned tonio fenech yet.
Joe Tabone
Jun 5th 2012, 07:33
What does Dear Joseph expect that PM does after MFSA decision?
Is he not aware that BOV is an independent financial institution with a Board elected by the shareholders?
We are not living the times when PL would impose its decisions, to the extent that loans were granted to Labour thugs without security resulting in massive bad debts.
Noel Damato
Jun 5th 2012, 05:43
GonziPN huwa fi stat ta paniku u lest jaghmel min kollox sa biex jibqgha mas siggu tal- poter. Ma intomx tindunaw li l-klikka ta Gonzi qieghdin iweghdu kollox ghax kollox qieghed issir min gurnata ghal l-ohra. Basta nibqghu mexjijn u jitwal iz-zmien.
Dr Gonzi u l-klikka tieghu li-hakmu Malta....IL-BZAR FL-GHAJNEJN MA INTOM SE TASLU IMKIEN. Viva il 500euro fil gimgha
John Attard
Jun 5th 2012, 00:02
If this is the sort of accountability the leader of the opposition is talking about then I'm not giving him my support.Does he know how many bona feed financial advisors work for BOV . does he know that people only moan when they loose money and then they come up with all the excuses the world over! Come on wake up to reality. When the public invests in funds, hedge funds stocks etc and make money they never moan, they moan when they slip once, like this instance, So you expect the Chairman to resign, resign my foot! Ara Vera tejatrin! Sorry ta my vote won't go anywhere!
Mr Andrew Camilleri
Jun 5th 2012, 18:38
I can see clearly that you have not read the MFSA report before commenting. Read the conclusions, at least, and then see why someone should be held responsible for the loss of many people's savings. The Chairman should carry the responsibility for the mess made by his employees - or are we going to say now the usual excuse, that the Chairman cannot know what his employees are doing? Trying to convince people to invest was made in a systematic way that can only show that the approach was planned and not some whim of the employees.
Andre Grech
Jun 4th 2012, 23:18
Dream on guys. You'll have to wait another year for an election. An election you might lose again. The labour propaganda machine always worked against its party. And after 25 years in opposition labour might break the world record of spending 30 years in opposition. Instead of begging the PM to step down it's better that you offer something concrete. Remember it was the people who over and over again chose the PN Government democratically. So give us a break and let us enjoy the government we elected and we will eventually endorse again cos the PN has no competition. Even though I believed for the past 3 years or so that Muscat is a good alternative.
Jonathan Caruana
Jun 4th 2012, 23:13
Where is the clear and unconditional vote? Have the 34 votes of the Opposition been taken into consideration? As for me, a clear vote of confidence is 69 to 0. And what about the unconditional vote? What conditions did Franco accept to vote in favour of the government? Is everything fine now? Is the PM happy with this vote of confidence?This is the same as the one man party leadership race? This is not over yet.This pantomime will continue in the coming days.
Alfred Cassar
Jun 4th 2012, 22:35
Rega beda jistad Joseph
Peppi Borg
Jun 4th 2012, 21:52
Gonzi is left hostage to the seat of power and Franco. After 4 years gonzin made a u turn and agreed with the opposition that utility bills can be decreased. What is it if not convenience?
Anthony A. Mifsud
Jun 5th 2012, 02:58
Gonzipn, made history, not a u turn! But a roundabout. Ghax he is going in circles
Ninu
Chris Mifsud
Jun 4th 2012, 21:45
"The prime minister had said he wanted a clear vote. This was a new confidence benchmark which, Dr Muscat said, applied to the rest of the legislature and which the Opposition would hold Dr Gonzi accountable for."
Who are the MLP to dictate ? The Opposition can can hold Dr. Gonzi accountable for whatever they like but it does not matter because they have absolutely no authority at all.
There is no uncertainty in the country other than what is created by the MLP for trying to grab any silly opportunity they can to destabilize the government and have an election called. An election which they probably won't win anyway.
Labour are still the same and despite the fact that PN have been in power for a very long time and despite the fact that they have made many mistakes i would still NEVER vote Labour because anything is better than them.
P Caruana
Jun 4th 2012, 21:38
Well, here we go again.
How long till another problem and Gonzi PN back on the fine line ?
An election today before tomorrow.
Anthony Castillo
Jun 4th 2012, 23:22
You MLP suportes have to wait a little bit more although you've been waiting for so LONG just about a quarter of a century and it could be even more because as we always say the Maltese People are SMART enough to choose what's good for them and what's bad for them and that's why we've been all these years in POWER, so watch out what's coming next.
Angelo Vassallo
Jun 4th 2012, 21:23
@ Mauro debattista
It cannot be true that you come from a pure blue nationalist family, otherwise you would have shown more solidarity with those less fortunate than us Maltese and Gozitans (illegal immigrants).
What do you have to say about illegal immigration? Do you agree with what "dear leader" joseph muscat did when he supported the Italian government and went against the Maltese government's positive attitude towards illegal immigrants in the Lampedusa case? Illegal immigration is not one of the main problems our country and the society are facing.
The real problems facing the country are how to keep on CREATING JOBS for our workers by keep on attracting FOREIGN and MALTESE INVESTMENTS as we are doing now, how to keep on investing in our students by giving them FREE EDUCATION and STIPENDS as we are doing now, how to keep on investing in our health by giving all the Maltese citizens FREE HEALTH as we are doing now, how to keep investing in our DISABLED PERSONS to help them find their place in society as we are doing now.
And on, and on, and on. Never ending benefits for the Maltese and Gozitans people only obtainable under Nationalist Administration/Government.
Joseph Borg
Jun 5th 2012, 07:38
Int zgur li tghix Malta?
Wenzu Vella
Jun 5th 2012, 08:19
Angelo Vassallo, there is no such thing as a free lunch. Dak kollu li semmejt int qieghdin thallsu ghalijhom inthom il Maltin li thallsu it-taxxi=il veru li ma tafx xinti tghid jekk temment li dak kollu li semmejt huma BXEJN..
Hossam Helwani
Jun 5th 2012, 10:32
@ wenzu vella
finally I hear from the lejber sides that the word " bxejn" does not exist , since it comes from the taxes!!!! About time to admit it !!
you beloved jew bxejn jew xejn karmenu mifsud bonnici used to try to dish it down our throats.
your beloved dom mintoff who ruined Malta by making us all believe we are to live on charity from the rich.
Nowadays we are living the life of a first world country where all those who wish to have an education can do so, those who wish to develop a career can do so freely.
Then speak !
Hossam Helwani
Jun 5th 2012, 10:34
@ angelo vassallo
there comes a time when we used to say " biskuttelli f halq il hmir. these people don't see, they are led by their noses. What ever the lejber party dishes out from their propaganda hole they believe.
They say so many ridiculous statements that if ever there would be a nomination for absurdity they would take all the oscars for generations
Andre Grech
Jun 4th 2012, 21:22
Dr. Muscat you're becoming ridiculous now. I sincerely thought of voting PL for the first time as I believed in you. But over the past 6 months you showed you're only capable of riding the band wagon of others. Alfred Sant was much better than you funnily enough. You're just like a kid who is ready to do anything to win the main part in the school concert. Adios Joseph. May you spend another 6 years in opposition at least.
A J Rose
Jun 5th 2012, 00:17
Him and Debono are two of a kind . Two frustrated little boys who can't get what they want.... what a great embarrassment to this respected and wonderful Island.
How they have the courage to face their colleagues and the public is beyond me.
Joseph Borg
Jun 5th 2012, 07:37
kwazi qed nemmnek!
Joseph Brincat
Jun 4th 2012, 21:09
Speaking at a rally in Pembroke, Dr Gonzi reiterated his demand for a “clear” and “unconditional” vote in the confidence motion tonight to allow the government to continue working for the country.
Dr Debono today
Mistakes had been made in the running of the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs and he did not regret the way he had voted, Dr Debono said. He would do the same again because he was sure he had voted for the value of truth.
SO Dr Debono had made a condition that if some one makes mistakes he will do it again !!!!
Joseph E Briffa
Jun 4th 2012, 21:37
And who doesn't make mistakes Joseph Brincat? Anybody saying that would be committing the first mistake.
Joseph Brincat
Jun 4th 2012, 21:58
Joseph E briffa
IT depends what kind of mistakes are
my friend, so that is your BIG mistake !!!!
Cristian Darmanin
Jun 4th 2012, 21:02
Kemm hu komdu tkun fl-Oppozizzjoni.....gallarija tara l-affarijiet jigru u xogholok hu li tikkritika, tordna lil xihadd jiehu r-responsabbilta' f idejh u minn hemm u minn hawn tara jirnexxielekx tiehu xi vantagg minn xi sitwazzjoni kritika li tkun ghaddejja biex forsi mis-siggu tal-gallarija ssib ruhek bla ma taf fit-tron tal-Gvern.
A Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 21:10
kieku tkun komdu nassigurak illi hadd ma jiprova jirbaha hu l elezzjoni.
A Dimech
Jun 4th 2012, 21:14
booh?!!
I think the opposition has been making suggestions - and will be making more when it presents the electoral program;
Mr Joe Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 20:59
Muscat if ever there was a game! GAMEOVER
Mr Joe Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 20:58
40 minutes of damned lies and rubbish by Muscat no interruption - Gonzi just started and interruptions galore
Political Criminals!
A Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 21:08
yep everything that labour says is a lie.. just like the lower electricity tariffs and gas power station etc. OH WAIT!
Mr Joe Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 21:24
Yes even there. It was always said that once the interconnector is available we could get cheaper electricity - for people who have not surrendered their thinking abilities, that is common sense, as we could buy nuclear energy which is far cheaper than conventional fossil fuel! The interconnector is still a couple of years away
It was also always said that the new power station can be operated on gas - Operating it by gas is not just a money problem but a space problem. If the PN (or the PL) is thinking that gas will remain cheaper, than I disagree with both - over the last few months the price of gas has increased "exponentially" and experts are not sure that price discrepancies will remain.
A Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 21:36
If it was was so common sense why wouldnt the PN mention/implement it earlier. Not only that, why would 99% of PN followers say that 'qed johlom u ma jafx xinu jghid'?
so you would rather go for a technology which is dirty, that will increase our emissions and therefore increase our fines in such regards? one has to invest for the future not just for the current situation.
Mr Joe Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 22:22
If I recall correctly the Auditor's report concluded that the power station as commissioned was the most feasible and one which would produce electricity at lower cost. Myself I prefer paying the premium of a gas powered plant - how many are! Having said that I would want to know where the gas storage facilities are going to be built, the footprint and the safety!
Mr Joe Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 22:37
As for the interconnector, this has only become possible, because of EU funds which are slightly more than 1 million!
Jo Borg
Jun 4th 2012, 20:52
Very true, Dr Muscat. A shameful example of this exploitation of children is the propaganda book published by Chris Said (paid for by taxpayer money) which features children on practically every page!
Mr Joe Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 20:41
The epitome of a liar (EU), that is Muscat, tries to take to task others on accountability!
Vince Deguara
Jun 4th 2012, 20:47
Well said... no one can say it any better...
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 20:59
That is the role of the politician in Opposition, Mr. Micallef
pat muscat
Jun 4th 2012, 21:09
Joey Micallef: If you can't answer a man's arguments, not all is lost; you can still resort to name calling!
Mr Joe Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 21:17
Pat facts are facts as much as Muscat is known (at least on a main argument) to be a liar. For the record a "political liar"
Drocan Lubstuit
Jun 5th 2012, 07:02
@ Joe Micallef,
Remember Mr Micallef, that the epitome of the political liar is held by someone who used to stand high in the PN ranks and the Nation itself, as declared by none less than the Law Courts!!
Mr Andrew Camilleri
Jun 5th 2012, 18:45
Mr Micallef, Joe Muscat's speech was full of examples of this governments failures. Instead of replying to these, Dr Gonzi went hysterical because he could not reply and did the usual by bringing out the scare-factor. Unfortunately, this does not work - people do not care that much what happened 30 years ago and want solutions to today's problems and not excusing today's failings by saying the past was worse.
Matthew Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 20:36
Very Well Said Dr. Muscat. This is what the opposition is there for. This is what we need in our parliament, discipline and accountable people.
pat muscat
Jun 4th 2012, 20:29
Dr Muscat is right; in liberal democracies politicians fall on their swords for far less serious mistakes than have already been proved against Austin Gatt and CMB. Ministers should earn respect. They cannot behave like incompetents and expect the Opposition not to do its duty to criticize and (when necessary) censures the government.
Vince Deguara
Jun 4th 2012, 20:48
Is giving the wrong advise about the EU enough for JM to resign?
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 21:04
Well both have valid arguments, I must say. There's the humanistic aspect that Dr. Gonzi regards and I admire him for him acting or being a gentleman, however, on the other hand, pride can lead a person not to seek truth, but protect his position first and foremost.
Dr. Muscat has been coming for a long while, learning from this Administration's mistakes, and, sometimes pushing on trivial issues to highlight major issues. He is surely a smart politician, and, believes in accountability, which is something voters want obviously.
Paul Giordimaina
Jun 4th 2012, 23:41
How are you this morning Pat? you didnt sleep last night hope you will heel.Next year is not long to wait.
A Cuschieri
Jun 5th 2012, 09:46
@ Pat Muscat
Even the Leader of the opposition should earn respect - but he's not going to do this by just criticising. He cannot criticise the Government's actions if he's not telling us (the public) how he would have done things better. By simply blabbering, HE is creating the instability ... concrete proposals puts people's mind at rest and unfortunately nobody (probably not even Muscat) know what will happen if the PL is entrusted to run the country.
K. Vella
Jun 4th 2012, 20:27
Jekk Gonzi ghandu kilba ghal poter Muscat ghandu kilba ikbar biex jahtaf il-poter....
A. Mifsud
Jun 4th 2012, 20:27
....the pot calling the kettle black! What a cheek!
Who's after the seat for power after all??
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 21:05
It is obvious that politicians want power, Dr. Muscat needs a provocative argument to kick off his speech. It is just his style of arguing...
Drocan Lubstuit
Jun 5th 2012, 07:07
@ A. Mifsud
Experience over the years has shown me that, all parties in race for the greater power, hide behind the excuse of them doing this "sacrifice" for the sake of the Nation and the welfare and being of the Electorate.
Hence .... the pot calling the kettle black!
Albert Caligari Conti
Jun 4th 2012, 20:24
My I remind JM that it was in 1981 that a vote of confidence was taken, Parliament was then held hostage against a clear majority vote taken not by only by the house representative but by the majority of the Maltese population.1981 was the year when for the next 5 years+ to come MLP sorry now a days Pl clinched to the seat of power.We then waited and you might need to just wait a little bit longer now.
Henry Mifsud
Jun 4th 2012, 20:55
and history is repeating itself right now but you are so blinkered that you cannot see it!
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 21:10
Well, it is wrong to assume that history will repeat itself, it is just a doubt people have, which is natural and expected considering that we might be anxious and untrusting of politicians. This happens whether you support one side or the other, I am a liberal, but what I mean is that it is just a bias...
Peter Galea
Jun 4th 2012, 22:19
very well said albert
Mauro debattista
Jun 4th 2012, 20:22
Well done Dr Muscat such a strong opposition leader. I come from a pure blue nationalist family but my first vote will definitely go to Joseph. He is the only leader to speak about illegal immigration, which is one of the main problems our country and the society are facing.
A Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 20:38
you sir, are forgetting il grande Norman Lowell!!
Mauro debattista
Jun 4th 2012, 20:43
Such a funny comment Mr Micallef. I can't stop laughing.
A Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 20:50
very glad to entertain you
Mauro debattista
Jun 4th 2012, 20:58
Someone who is cornered will attack in every way possible but not stick to the subject.
Peter Galea
Jun 4th 2012, 22:29
hah ha, taf li kwasi emmintek Mauro. go tell it to the marines. issa ha nghidlek, jien gej min familja laborista izda zgur mhux ser nivvota lil jm bic-cucati li dejjem hiereg bihom.
Hossam Helwani
Jun 5th 2012, 08:36
@ mauro debattista
I will not forgive myself for trying to show you how gullible we are to believe you that you come from a pure blue nationalist family!!!!!!! If ever you try to understand the very meaning of a pure blue , you would rephrase your comment and tell us that you made a big mistake in your colours. it should read pure red .
Hossam Helwani
Jun 4th 2012, 20:20
@ pat hobson
joe muscat is walking on a tight rope because this is showing us all he is not good. Another zatat to think that he could be trusted to be prime minister in his 30's. No thank you !
Joe Busuttil
Jun 4th 2012, 21:14
Pathetic comment,and you can vote as much as you like for the PN. Nobody can deny you that right,and I would be the first to defend your right ,ridiculous as it is.
Hossam Helwani
Jun 5th 2012, 08:28
@ joe busuttil,
what I find really pathetic is that lejber is showing its true colours again. I think that all these happenings are a blessing in disguise , an eye opener of what is to be expected if lejber is trusted mr busuttil!
Hossam Helwani
Jun 4th 2012, 20:18
It seems that our dear joseph muscat likes to kick a man while he is on the floor. typical of an opportunist. He tried to walk over a seemingly dead body, but The Prime Minister seems to be quite healthy. All this, is making him stronger a politician a statesman than ever before, and I am sure that I will vote PN so strongly I have to be carefull not to tear the vote.
Well Done Prime Minister you are stronger than ever before!
Drocan Lubstuit
Jun 5th 2012, 07:12
The vivid descriptions in your commentary seem to identify the democratic standing of many third world countries (some in particular come to mind, but I am sure that the Editor of the blog would not consent me to delve into further descriptive details).
Are these mentioned on a first-hand-account basis Mr Helwani?
Hossam Helwani
Jun 5th 2012, 08:26
@ drocan lubstuit
I am sure that the editor of this blog would be more than pleased to allow you to lay out more vivid examples of third world democratic standings.
Since I am very familiar with such, it makes me wonder why you decided to apply to me such a comment, because our dear country has had a very rough experience in democracy during the days of horror 1979-1987. It is not my opinion to say so but if you read carefully some historic books written by great Maltese scholars and even foreign, all refer to Malta as sliding deeply into a very dark chapter unless something was done in those days.
It seems that you are enjoying yourself seeing our dear zatat joseph muscat trying to gain popularity by using your third world political styles you so vividly mentioned ( or better fell back to mention!)
I am sure that this lovely newspaper which in many occasions was bullied to be silenced by being burnt to the ground by labour thugs (15.10.79) , is more democratic than ever to allow you to voice your opinions democratically.
It is downright disgusting that labour is trying to picture Malta as a third world country when Malta is showing the fruits of success thanks to the wise policies of this Government.
Drocan Lubstuit
Jun 5th 2012, 10:00
Dear Mr Helwani,
Regret to note that you have got my message wrong. I was not referring to Malta as being a third world country, but was suggesting that your own origins might be such. That is why I refrained from mentioning or referring to particular nations, to avoid having the respected Editor of the blog from censuring my comments.
Remember Mr Helwani that whilst the then MLP were responsible for violent acts, the stashes of firearms and other weaponry discovered by the then Authorities during the same period as quoted by yourself, were found at the PN headquarters and also at establishments or buildings run and owned by PN activists. Remember also that when the MLP was in power, the amount of bombs planted and set off around the island and behind people’s doors could have never been possibly attributed to the MLP of the 80's, as no one would undermine his own work or shoot himself in the leg.
Also please remember that Malta is still owed the truth about to the murders and the culprits to both Karen Grech's and Raymond Caruana's killings and that such was promised by the then leader of the opposition who, as from May 1987 could have strived to close the cases by not later than the following elections. Alas this was not to be as such person has to-date gone sombre on the matters and seems only to be hoping to take all to the grave, thus burying the truth which he has alleged to be aware of.
It takes two to tango dear Mr Helwani and for any action there is an equal and opposition reaction. This has been characterised throughout the 80's whenever any of the parties had provoked the other, including the incidents at Rabat, Zebbug and Zejtun.
Now, I hope, Mr Helwani that from the above you do understand that I have read Maltese history books, articles and also newspapers of the day whilst living the era as well. Where you here during the time by any chance? The '80's were a dark page in Maltese history which happen to ran parallel to the rest of Europe -IRA in UK, Anni di piombo in Italy, Algerians in France, Turks in Germany, ETA in Spain and also turbulences in Greece. These examples are not mentioned to justify the occurrences of either the MLP and the opposition of the time, but to recall the demographic and anthropological patterns throughout Europe at the time. It seems that all these countries have made their mends with history except only for Malta.
Unless we now look forward and accept (and condemn) whatever has happened with the conviction that this will not be possible to ever repeat itself, Malta will not be able to look forward and get itself out of the problems that are afflicting her today. This will bring progress to a halt.
Solutions which would, or could, have avoided the occurrences and atrocities of the 80's are surely not the answer for today's problems, hence let us consider such and build on progress and not crying over spilt milk!
john cassar
Jun 5th 2012, 10:13
well said
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 20:11
"Once the PM treated his ministers so differently, one could only wonder how he treated the people."
Joseph Muscat
I think he got this right...
Joe Tabone
Jun 4th 2012, 20:19
I think not, the scenario was totally different. Dear Joseph should let the people decide and not try to topple a legimately elected Government, with a mandate to March 2013.
Alessandro Galeazzi
Jun 4th 2012, 20:21
This does sound familiar: during the divorce campaign and lately, several PL members were threatened and forced by Dr. Muscat to agree with him and ignore their values. In this case, too, then: one can only wonder how he [Dr. Muscat] will treat the people when he will be in power, provided he is doing it to his members and not yet in government!
D. Xerri
Jun 4th 2012, 20:25
Very Well Said - he got this one Much More than Right !
Mauro debattista
Jun 4th 2012, 20:33
Who did Joseph Muscat threaten ???
Edmond Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 20:09
PL should ignore FD completely and remain focused on drawing up a viable electoral program as an alternative for this administration which has taken power much for granted now and is making a mockery out of democracy.
PL have given the MP enough chances to prove himself and all he was saying. But, due to hidden black forces, said MP could not take the plunge. This despite the fact that at times he seemed resolute and convinced that he wanted and could do it.
This reluctance can be easily understood. There are too many sharks in the blue pond for such a small fish to swim with!
J. Debono
Jun 4th 2012, 20:05
This government, he said, had set a new record in that, in the space of six months, it had to face three confidence or no-confidence debates. If this did not raise questions by investors, what did?
Dear Joseph Muscat - it is you not Gonzi who set this record, as two of them were raised by yourself, and the 3rd one - of today - was raised by Gonzi, to end this nonsensical saga, created by Franco Debono and yourself.
Pat Hobson
Jun 4th 2012, 20:08
@J. Debono. But who's walking the political tightrope?
Richard Zammit
Jun 4th 2012, 20:23
One wonders what excuses one finds to defend this crippled goverment , so now it's the oppositions fault for all the disasters this goverment created
Eddy Privitera
Jun 4th 2012, 20:30
J. Denono, you 're mistaken. After the motion of no confidence in Austin Gatt was defeated by the speaker's casting vote, Dr. Gonzi moved a motion of confidence in the government. Have you forgotten that ???
Mr Edward Caruana Galizia
Jun 4th 2012, 20:03
Dr Muscat seems to be the only one shouting at the top of his voice with no one listening because he is just manipulating a situation. What did he want to change exactly? Is he referring to an early election? The confidence votes have been brought about because of rebellious attention seeking MPs and not because there is any real need for them. The PM has been running the country beautifully and has kept Malta safe from what has been going on in the rest of Europe.
In fact, the PM finds himself in very much the same situation that David Cameron is in at the moment: unable to work on the issues he wants because of a minority of rebels within the ranks of his party who insist on using their leverage to bully him.
And Dr Muscat is just trying to use the situation to become PM. Dr Muscat does not have the interest of the country in mind in the slightest. All he cares about is creating the image that Malta is under a dictatorship even though it is his party that is full of people who did horrible things like sign an arms agreement with N Korea, and it is his supporters who expect the PM to silence journalists. Nice try Muscat. I don't buy it in the slightest.
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 20:13
Well, he is a politician, if you don't like what he says, you cannot say that he is manipulating. Every politician debates and argues according to their party's political values.
Mr Edward Caruana Galizia
Jun 4th 2012, 20:25
According to their parties political values? And what would they be in the PL's case. Muscat isn't championing any idea or value. He is just trying to bring down the government. That is very different from arguing to defend an idea.
And while we're on the topic of values within the PL. What type of values do they have when their idol is Mintoff, and the people surrounding Muscat are of Mintoff's dark past?
Adrian Gouder
Jun 4th 2012, 20:35
What political values? I just cannot see JM's political views because he does not seem to have any. He talks about things that are wrong, but fails to show how Labour policy could do better to address the problems he talks about. But even the problems he talks about are wish-wash. He talks about instability, electricity bills, and a host of borrowed arguments, but nothing about how his governance, policies, and principles can improve the country. Frankly, he's a bit of a mystery.
Paul Giordimaina
Jun 4th 2012, 23:46
you didnt say much today usualy you take most of the page.You must feel devastated.
Thomas Mifsud
Jun 4th 2012, 19:55
Yeah that's exactly what GonziPN want Dr. Muscat and the Maltese public to do. Either praise the government or Shut Up. That's where we stand right now. Sooner or later the election will come, a chance for the public to stand up and be counted. All Dr. Gonzi is fighting for, is more time to make more damage to the country, for more MEPA permissions, for more complementary jobs and promotions and to do all the usual dirty stuff that GonziPn regime used to do to win votes.
Mr Edward Caruana Galizia
Jun 4th 2012, 20:31
No Mr Mifsud, that is not what the PM want everyone to do. I am sure they would love to be met by a real opposition that actually has ideas to defend. Sadly all they get is a bunch of amateur power hungry children who don't care about the country.
A. Schembri
Jun 4th 2012, 19:53
Very good speech!
Kurt Magro
Jun 4th 2012, 19:52
Labour Never Change... Hasra li f dan il Pajjiz partit wiehed jezizti ... u ma ghandniex ghazla !
David Farrugia
Jun 4th 2012, 20:18
tkellem ghalik. my choice is clear.
A Micallef
Jun 4th 2012, 20:44
ezat.. partit wiehed jezisti. proset ax l -ex partit lihor moviment gdid progress u moderat.
Jesmond Abela
Jun 4th 2012, 19:49
JM thinks is living between 1981 to 1987
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 21:11
You know what, I would let him be, some aspects of corruption and government over-spending are being brought to light in this way.
Mario Sammut
Jun 4th 2012, 19:44
PL high hopes lost again.....
Peter Azzopardi
Jun 4th 2012, 19:59
What the PL lost??? The PN is searching for a " salva uomo" ara bhal ma jghid il Malti " dik milli jkollha ttik". sleep well.
D. Xerri
Jun 4th 2012, 20:27
For the 2nd time the Prime Minister thinks he will solve the issue - How Totally Wrong He is !
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 4th 2012, 21:15
@D. Xerri I do believe Dr. Gonzi is capable of resolving problems, with the help of his parliamentary assistants and the regime of people he leads, and, I do believe that is one of the criticisms that lies between the lines of Dr. Muscat. But again, one can be just a leader, and, still meet the objectives.
What worries me is how long can we go on living in political turbulence that divides voters according to the perceived 'benefits'. For example now, the pensioners and middle class are presumably happy to side GonziPN, whilst the poor become poorer. This is, sorry to say, a bunch of bullwagon.
As Dr. Gonzi himself re-iterated yesterday, we need serious people to be accountable for serious macro management on a large scale, not over-paid bureaucrats, with all due respect to some of them.
Please choose the reason of your report below: