EP socialists on Tonio Borg's nomination: 'We do not need a second Rocco Buttiglione'
Dr Tonio Borg.
The head of the Socialists and Democrats Group in the European Parliament said today that Commissioner-designate Tonio Borg would be questioned closely on whether his views are compatible with Europe's fundamental values on civil liberties and non-discrimination.
"There has already been one case where the European Parliament rejected a candidate who could not convince MEPS of his readiness to accept basic European values. We do not need a second Rocco Buttiglione," Hannes Swoboda said in a statement.
He also called on the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and European Commission to disclose all steps taken in the procedure and report that led to Health Commissioner Dalli's resignation last week.
"There are serious doubts about the entire process that led to Mr Dalli's resignation. We demand that the involvement of OLAF and in particular the role and public appearances of its director general, Giovanni Kessler, be clarified immediately.
"Serious questions about a plot against Mr Dalli have been raised. These questions must be answered and there must be full transparency on the specific circumstances that led to his resignation. At the moment it seems like the situation may have been mishandled by the Commission President and by the director general of OLAF.
"In the interests of preventing further doubts about the European Commission's work, it should publish the revision of the Tobacco Products Directive as soon as possible."
COMMISSIONER-DESIGNATE
Speaking about the new candidate for Commissioner nominated by Malta, Tonio Borg, he added:
"Regardless of the circumstances surrounding Mr Dalli's resignation, we will look carefully into the qualifications of his proposed successor. In view of some comments from Mr Borg on the rights of homosexuals we intend to question him closely on whether his views are compatible with Europe's fundamental values on civil liberties and non-discrimination.
"There has already been one case where the European Parliament rejected a candidate who could not convince MEPS of his readiness to accept basic European values. We do not need a second Rocco Buttiglione."
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Alex Ellul
Oct 26th 2012, 18:23
I find it so strange, Eddie Privitera and the local socialists defending today's EU
Eddy Privitera
Oct 27th 2012, 09:25
Alex Ellul: Imissek indunajt li dak li ktibt hu ezatt dak li kont ktibt waqt il-kampanja tar-referendum dwar id-divorzju. Jigifieri, li deputat parlamentari jitla fil-parlament biex ihares l-interessi ta-kostitwenti KOLLHA, u mhux dawk biss li ghandhom l-istess twemmin bhad-deputat ! Huwa f'dan is-sens li ktibt u mhux b'daqshekk sirt naqbel mal-kolonjalizmu gdid tal-Unjoni ewropeja !
Giuseppe Azzopardi
Oct 26th 2012, 08:55
Sur Eddy Privitera;Il-Principji tieghi specjalment religjuzi niftahar bihom dejjem u kullimkien! U Qatt mhu se inhalli lil xi hadd jiddettali kif nirrexta!Ghalhekk illum ma hawnx iktar martri ghax kulhadd jimxi mad-diktat impost fuqu u ninsew illi primarjament L-Unjoni Ewropeja kienet fondata fuq Principji Kristjani.Jekk taqta l-eghruq ta' sigra taf x'jigrilha Sur Privitera - tmut is-sigra!!
Lucienne Dimech
Oct 26th 2012, 06:56
That is why we should have suggested someone else. In Europe there is little or no place for the djuq a la Gonzi Borg and co. Will he speak of his Christian conscience as he did during the divorce debate in Malta ? How pathetic can we get?
Luke Lanzon
Oct 25th 2012, 23:51
I don't know why you catholics are complaining really, if you're going to mix religion and politics together you don't deserve the job well unless you're in a theocracy which the EU isn't.
If Tonio Borg keeps them aside then he completely deserves this job and at the same time no one is going to stop him from attending Sunday mass or saying the rosary, he's free to do whatever he wants.
Mr Ernest Vella
Oct 25th 2012, 21:33
Misshom jiftakru li l-fundaturi ta' l-Unjoni Ewropeja huma Insra Kattolici li wiehed minnhom sahansitra jista jigi ddikjarat qaddis. Partit bla principji huwa PArtit perikoluz. Anzi l-Maltin qablu ma Tonio Borg bhala Kummisarju. Well dan lil PN u lil PL.
Jimmy Ventura
Oct 25th 2012, 20:26
Dhalna fl-EU bla ma nirrejalizzaw il-mentalita' ta' kontinent tolleranti. Sfortunatament u jien wiehed minnhom, hawn Malta kollox bil-pika, jekk festi, kazini, futbol, politka, taghna tajjeb tal-ohrajn kollox hazin. Hatra ta' kummissarju se teffetwa lil Ewropew kollha. Jekk tkun liberali taccetta il modi ta kulhadd. Jekk ma taccettax lil min hu differenti ma tistax tokkupa din il kariga.
Joseph Aquilina
Oct 26th 2012, 01:19
What about THEY accept who is different. What about THEY accept someone with Christian values!! The socialist argument is simply discrimination at anyone who has any faith in anything!!
Anthony Galea
Oct 26th 2012, 08:01
Allura bl-argument ghax ma jigix accettat hu? Jew hu bniedem inferjuri issa? Dan kull ma hu kontra zwieg omosesswali ta, mhuwiex xi anti-demokratiku! Taf x'qed tghid int jew?
Alex Ellul
Oct 25th 2012, 20:02
Refusing to employ someone because of his beliefs is pure discrimination. Imagine an institution that refuses to employ someone because he is, let's say, an atheist....
We should fight this out to the last man, hopefully our local breed of socialists will at least stay neutral in the issue, neutrality being one of their beloved commandments.
Alex Ellul
Oct 25th 2012, 19:51
The EU is now controlled by the anti-Christian, anti-free trade and enterprise socialists, but Socialism and the creation of wealth cannot exist at the same place at the same time anywhere in the world. The EU will collapse if we continue on this road.
Alex Ellul
Oct 25th 2012, 19:48
The Europe of 'Caine', having been taken over by the Socialists, transmogrifed the EEC into the EU, introduced policies that have broken the finacial backbone of the EU and now, to 'solve' the problem, Barroso the ex(?)maoist communist wants more of what had destroyed Europes economies. He wants more hegonomy through megalomanial impositions on the EU member states. Hubris will not work.
JOSEPH MUSCAT
Oct 25th 2012, 19:35
To all nationalist that are criticising the socialist idea, if it was`nt for socialisem Malta will still be under tax XATBA like what G.B.O. wanted, and you should ALL thank DOM MINTOFF for making Malta a republic, But your party was always the party to brown nose the europeans,
Giuseppe Azzopardi
Oct 25th 2012, 19:16
Tonio Borg is really a PALADIN ta'l-irgulija u onesta u nemmen li nofs dawn in-nies li kitbu jien zgur u nemmen fermament illi jixtiequ mqar ikunu d-dell ta Tonio.M'ghandux dritt ikunu Kattoliku ruman?Sewwa is-socjalisti ghandhom dritt jiddettaw u Tonio u Rocco Buttiglione ma jistghux ikunu Kattolici!!Helwin dawn is-socjalisti/Komunisti?
Mr Joe Grima
Oct 25th 2012, 19:32
Prosit, Mr Azzopardi, well said. It seems that the gay movement have MORE rights than Catholics have, because they are defended in the EU, together with their 'rights', but Catholics don't even have the 'right' to become a commissioner if they show what they believe in.
Joe A M Grima
Eddy Privitera
Oct 25th 2012, 20:23
Giuseppe Azzopardi: Dr. Borg ghandu kull dritt ikun Kattoliku ferventi. Izda meta ssir Kummissarju, il-principji Kattolici ferventi tieghek trid thallihom bhala haga personali. U mhux jiddettawlek il-politika li trid twettaq fl-Ewropa, fejn il-principji religjuzi tal-individwu ma jidhlux !
Joseph Aquilina
Oct 26th 2012, 01:21
@Eddy Privitera
In other words a Commisioner cannot be Catholic ... to me this sounds like discrimination by the EU at anyone who has faith in something!!
Eddy Privitera
Oct 26th 2012, 10:50
Joseph Aquilina: You can be a Catholic or profess any other religion. But you are not allowed to let your religion influence your decisions in your work as a commissioner in the EU.
Evarist Saliba
Oct 25th 2012, 19:13
Should anyone be surprised with this EP socialist attitude? Their leader declared himself against this vacancy being filled before the next election in Malta. This brazen bias is still there, and these people have the cheek to speak of European values, tolerance and rights. Prejudice is their yardstick.
joseph gaffarena
Oct 25th 2012, 17:26
We are giving them the best political giant that we have in malta.
Tonio is a true and honest man, and never hide behind the bush.
I, wonder how many european socialists have such a political figurein their party
Joseph Brincat
Oct 25th 2012, 20:23
joseph gaffarena
@ Tonio is a true and honest man, and never hide behind the bush
I wonder did he took the 500 eues ???
Andy Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 17:09
Hahaha! They've outed themselves, these zany EU Socialists and pseudo-democrats.......they are Christophobics.
Giuseppe Azzopardi
Oct 26th 2012, 09:23
We want a Pro Christo Europe!! The Christian faith is what guided us then and what we want for the future! CHRISTOS REGNAT!
Mr Joe Micallef
Oct 25th 2012, 16:50
Classic Socialists/Communist philosophy - As they think they have been given the divine right to decide it's either their way or no way.
Alfred Vassallo
Oct 25th 2012, 17:19
Well it's neither your way or whatever pn philosophy is... simply put it's the EU way. Take it or leave it.
Joseph Aquilina
Oct 25th 2012, 20:20
Alfred Vassallo,
Do not make me laugh!! When did PN stop anyone from gaining a job because of his political or religious believes!! Indeed we are seeing lejber socialist are already preparing to fire government employees (on a different article) with some excuse or another!!
Maria Vassallo
Oct 25th 2012, 16:27
Abbasso s-socjalisti ewropej!
Evviva Rocco Buttiglione!
Ghandna bzonn ghaxra bhalu fil-parlament ewropej!
R. Balzan
Oct 25th 2012, 19:04
X'faqar ta' mentalita'!
Anthony Galea
Oct 25th 2012, 19:20
Il-faqar ta' mentalita, Sur Balzan, hija l-mentalita' ta jew maghna jew kontra taghna!
Mr Joe Grima
Oct 25th 2012, 19:38
Mr Balzan, what do you consider as a 'rich' mentality? Not having the guts to show what you really believe in? Does a 'rich' mentality mean 'bieng carried with the current'? True Catholics are those who are ready to suffer injustice, humiliation, and bullying, BUT NEVER going against their Master's teachings, in spite of everything. The EU prefers those who bow to their dictation.
Eddy Privitera
Oct 25th 2012, 20:26
Maria Vassallo:Mela ghalfejn ridtu tidhlu fl-U jekk ma tridux taccettaw il-principji liberali li hemm fl-Ewropa ?
Mr Mario Mifsud
Oct 25th 2012, 16:25
To Joseph Aquilina
The office of Commissioner of the EU involves enormous responsibilities which in my opinion Tonio Borg has the necessary qualities to fulfil. It is not a question of an -ism , Catholic , Socialist , but that he - as Commissioner must act in accordance with Europe's fundamental values which is the only way that the diverse communities within EU may be governed.
Joseph Aquilina
Oct 25th 2012, 20:24
Tonio Borg has the only thing that he needs to have for that position; HONESTY and INTEGRITY!! Attacking him for the simple reason he is a Christian is unfair and undemocratic!! This is what is happening!! Socialist just cant accept anyone with any sort of Christian values!!
joanne pace
Oct 25th 2012, 16:04
I agree he is too Catholic and conservative, nearly Victorian,
W Cassar
Oct 25th 2012, 16:24
How can a catholic work properly and give rights to gays and minorities when it goes against his religion. He is surely in the wrong job at very least its a hindrance.
The EU is correct it citizens are not only catholic!
Alfred Fenech
Oct 25th 2012, 16:36
Sent him back home packing. just like roccoo buttiglione.
Mario Mifsud
Oct 25th 2012, 17:08
And from since to be a Catholic is not good enough ?
Leslie Darmanin
Oct 25th 2012, 17:25
@ W Cassar
Why wouldn't a Catholic "give rights" to gay and minorities? Human rights do not go against the Catholic relgion. On the contrary.
It seems all this liberal talk from the Malta Labour Party (ironically its supporters are the most conservative force on the island) has really gone to your head.
By the way, human rights are not "given".
They just are.
Joe M Borg
Oct 25th 2012, 18:15
Dear Joanne, should he praise divorce and abortion so that he is 'right' for you?
Mr Joe Grima
Oct 25th 2012, 19:41
Ms Pace, Mr Cassar. It is true that the EU in not only Catholics, BUT GAYS have more rights to practice that Catholics have. And yet they are campaigning for 'equal rights'! They already have MORE rights as it is!
Joseph Zammit
Oct 25th 2012, 20:08
Fully agree with you Joanne.
Mr Mario Mifsud
Oct 25th 2012, 16:04
To M Grima
I raised the issue of separation of church and state , since Tonio Borg is entitled to his religious views but must act as EU commissioner on the basis of EU's fundamental values on civil liberties and non discrimination. Being a Catholic does not preclude a person from being an EU Commissioner ,if that person shows that he respects these values.
Joseph Aquilina
Oct 25th 2012, 15:52
"In view of some comments from Mr Borg on the rights of homosexuals we intend to question him closely"
I love the way socialists think. The EU is in a deep recession and all this beloved socialist can think of is what Tonio Borg thinks about homosexuals!!! The EU under socialist rule would fail faster then communist Russia on its final few days!!!
M Grima
Oct 25th 2012, 15:47
Dr. Gonzi had told the previous US ambassador Mrs. Bordonaro that his cabinet's political acumen is limited and then he sends Tonio Borg to Brussels.
Joseph Aquilina
Oct 25th 2012, 15:47
"could not convince MEPS of his readiness to accept basic European values"
... which implies NO VALUES AT ALL!! Such comments shows how Socialist are the worst form of politicians and they should never be trusted in any government position. Here we have a clear sign how Socialism cannot accept anyone with a different view then theirs, and we all know what their views consist of!!
David Caruana
Oct 25th 2012, 16:02
Errrrm excuse me. Would a conservative Christian democrat like Tonio Borg accept, let's say, divorce?
We all know the answer to that.
So what's wrong if the Socialists express their lack of support of a politician?
Joseph Aquilina
Oct 25th 2012, 20:15
@David Caruana
To not agree on a subject (ex:divorce) is acceptable. To not hire someone simple because he has a different opinion then yours (and in this case simply for having Christian values) is unfair and indeed illegal. So the answer is YES, Socialists are doing wrong (not news) because they are attacking Tonio Borg for his religious values and not on his achievements! DISCRIMINATION!!!
pat muscat
Oct 25th 2012, 15:43
I wish Dr Tonio Borg the best of luck in his new post, however, I think that given his old fashioned 'European' credentials, this GonziPN's deputy leader, has a mountain to climb!
Mr Mario Mifsud
Oct 25th 2012, 15:36
Tonio Borg as Commissioner designate would be questioned on his willingness to respect Europe's fundamental values on civil liberties and non discrimination which Rocco Buttiglione was not willing to respect
Joseph Aquilina
Oct 25th 2012, 15:58
In short Rocco Buttiglione was too Christian, in other words the EU discriminates against those who are Christians!! We have seen this more then once. We have seen the EU attack Christian values in several occasions!! I guess it is time that some Christians start raising their heads and stop the bullies within the EU!!
Mr Mario Mifsud
Oct 25th 2012, 15:34
Tonio Borg is not a second Rocco Buttiglione and I am sure that he would convince the EU parliamentary committees that his views are compatible with Europe's fundamental values on civil liberties and non discrimination. Those who are creating alarm on this and other issues need to appreciate the separation of state and church.
M Grima
Oct 25th 2012, 15:42
When PN apologists are cornered they bring the church into the picture. What does the separation of state and the church have in this issue? All we know is that Tonio Borg was very sarcastic towards homosexuals when he was speaking in parliament about the rent law.
Alfred Gatt
Oct 25th 2012, 15:33
Dr Tonio Borg: Stick to your Christian values which after all are not in contradiction to normal civil values. If abortion, for instance, is to be considered a basic European value, then it is no value at all, as life is sacred, whether you are a believer or not.
Ronald Cauchi
Oct 25th 2012, 15:53
Christian (read Catholic) values are intrinsically anti-democratic and there is no place for them in a liberal society.If Catholics are hapy being pushed around by their Chirch the rest of us in Europe are not.
Leslie Darmanin
Oct 25th 2012, 16:19
@ Ronald Cauchi
Where on earth do you get the idea that Christian values are undemocratic?
You are clearly mixing up the Catholic Church's (by nature) traditionally non-democratic structures with political values.
Europe would not be what it is today if it was not for Christian values.
Your prejudice and intollerence are anything but liberal. Probably just Labour.
J Busuttil
Oct 25th 2012, 15:26
Joseph Muscat if you think you are fooling us that you will support Tonio Borg forget it.
With one hand you support him with the other you are lobbying for him not to be approved.
It was to good to be true.
Victor Caruana
Oct 25th 2012, 15:39
X'ghandu x'jaqsem Joseph Muscat? Joseph Muscat diga' ta s-support tieghu lil Tonio Borg u qal ukoll li ma jahsibiex bhas-socjalisti ewropej. Mela hsibthom bhan-naghag ta' Bendu jew, li jaghmel wiehed jaghmel l-iehor? Muscat qal car u tond li l-ewwel jigi l-gid ta' Malta u xejn aktar.
Joseph E Briffa
Oct 25th 2012, 17:11
Well said J Busuttil. Remember when Schultz came over to Malta to give his support to JM when he was contesting the Labour leadership? One good turn deserves another.
Colin Stanley
Oct 25th 2012, 15:19
well according to what we were told before jioning the EU, the basic values of the EU are Christain values, were we conned into believing this?
Michael Asciak
Oct 25th 2012, 15:19
It seems Mr Swoboda speaks of discrimination and then sets out to a priori lay the grounds for discrimination himself towards people who have expressed an opinion . Socialists/ex Communists do not often have very strong records of human rights themselves and its funny now how they now often want to force their own version of events down people's throats regardless in order to seem holier than thou
mark borg
Oct 25th 2012, 19:11
mhux hekk jaqbillek int dr asciak ...ha ha h ha ha takkwista postu fil parlament ...specjalment bill 500 ewro extra fil gimgha issa
Daniel buhagiar
Oct 25th 2012, 22:22
that is because unfortunately his views and faith impinge on other peoples rights who wish and deserve to have any lifestyle they wish.......Ironically enough God give us this freedom, but persons believe that they can dictate how ppl live based in what he believes.
Angelo Vassallo
Oct 25th 2012, 15:17
After Joseph Muscat announced that he absolutely disagreed that the European Commissioner should be appointed after the upcoming elections as suggested by the head of the socialist in the European Parliament Hannes Swoboda, now this same Swoboda has decided to make things difficult to Tonio Borg. The socialists/lejburisti are all the same and they never change.
W Cassar
Oct 25th 2012, 16:20
Brainwashed to the very end! Go live abroad and get educated!
Get real!
Leslie Darmanin
Oct 25th 2012, 15:08
The Malta Labour Party forms part of this group. It is they who have to answer for the position being taken by their fellow socialists. Do they have any clout at all within the group?
J Muscat says he favours Tonio Borg, but his colleagues are threatening to vote against him over values.
Is Labour playing a double game to undermine Borg's nomination and appease John Dalli?
Colin Azzopardi
Oct 26th 2012, 15:54
It is clear that people who do not support gay rights have no one gay in their family. So if you have no one gay in your family maybe your children will or maybe their children. And then what? Family comes first and everyone has the right to love whoever he wants. No one is saying there's anything wrong with being catholic, but equal rights should be recognized. All this creates nothing but hatred
Carmel (Nenu) Aquilina
Oct 25th 2012, 15:07
Awguri Onor Ministru Tony Borġ.
L-irġulija, l-ideali, il-valuru u l-integrita tiegħek ta raġel ta' veru Malti, huma l-aqwa garanzija tal-kapaċitajiet tiegħek, biex taqdi dmirek bħala kummissarju fl-Unjoni Ewropea.
Dan is-sabieħ u tajjeb kollu fik, Onor Dr Tony Borġ, qed toffrieħ Malta għall ġid u l-progress fil-paċi lill-poplu kollu ewropew.
Prositt u għamel kuraġġ!
Ms D. Borg
Oct 25th 2012, 15:07
So the Socialists in the European Parliament have already been briefed about Dr Tonio Borg. I wonder by whom. Kif nghidu bil-Malti, ga ghamlulu pedina hazina. X'gharukaza.
Victor Caruana
Oct 25th 2012, 15:36
U int hsibt li dawn ma jkunux jafu, jew ma jfittxux fuq dak jew fuq l-iehor? Tahseb li fil-grilling tal-MEPs, ser isaqsuh x'inhu l-ikel favorit tieghu, u x'joqghod jaghmel filghaxija??? Dawn jaghmlu r-ricerka taghhom, m'hemmx ghalfejn jghidilhom xi hadd minn hawn Malta.
X'mentalita' din!!!
Alex Ellul
Oct 25th 2012, 15:02
We Maltese must refrain from selling our soul in exchange for the money coming from the EU.
Alex Ellul
Oct 25th 2012, 14:46
Barroso was the leader of the Portugese Maoist (extreme communist) party during his younger days as a university student. The he 'reformed' himself...
As proof of this here's a video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAHv3UnXvmM
Barroso is the man responsible for the Euro zone financial debacle and he should be forced to resign same as he forced John Dalli to resign.
A.Felex Busuttil
Oct 25th 2012, 16:03
he still is
Paul Borg
Oct 25th 2012, 14:42
If the European Socialists reject Tonio Borg. Malta should do what Mintoff did in Helsinki and stop all work in EU summits. Who the hell do these former communists think they are
Paul Meilak
Oct 25th 2012, 15:40
Its modern communism :)
John Galea
Oct 25th 2012, 14:40
Do we need more Swoboda's in this world? Another dictator from a former communist country? Is this what the European Socialists are all about? Dictating? And Joseph Muscat paved the way by warning the prime minister! The PN should get a lesson from this and prepare dossiers about all possible labour candidates for when their turn comes.
m. borg (slm)
Oct 25th 2012, 15:07
As if gonzipn haven't been compiling such dossiers since God knows when but could never find anything to crucify labour with.
Dream on losers.
R. Balzan
Oct 25th 2012, 15:12
I don't agree Mr Galea. The EU has every right to question Tonio Borg's suitability as EU commissioner according to his compatibility with Europe's fundamental values on civil liberties and non-discrimination. Irrespective of what you, Gonzi, Muscat, Barroso or whoever thinks. My personal fear is that, once again, our government has placed party expediency before meritocracy and suitability.
Jimmy Ventura
Oct 25th 2012, 20:40
John, taf li zlaqt wahda gmiela? Zvoboda hu Awstrijak. L-Awstrija qatt ma kienet pajjiz kommunista. L-EU ma tippermettix li nies intolleranti ikunu f'karigi gholja. Il-liberali jaccettaw lil kulhadd inkluz lil kattolici jghixu kif iridu bla ma jindahlulhom. Nies ta certu religjonijiet ma jippermettux lil min ma jaqbilx maghhom jghix hajtu. Din mhix tollerabbli ghal EU. Hekk ghandu jkun.
Alex Ellul
Oct 25th 2012, 14:39
If I remeber correctly Rocco Buttilgione was rejected for the simple reason that he declared himself to be a Catholic. So, the commission assumed (rightly so) that therefore Mr. Buttilgione must be an anti-abortionist and therefore was rejected. These days, one has to obey Big Brother, otherwise he's out of a job.
Shame on the EU. Please give us our true Europe back.
Luke Lanzon
Oct 25th 2012, 14:56
Oh you mean that Europe that when belief in god was high, and war was the norm?? No thanks
Paul Gauci
Oct 25th 2012, 17:04
The crusades are over. Europe is NOT a Theocracy. Deal with it!
Alex Ellul
Oct 26th 2012, 07:39
@LukeLanzon:
I mean the Europe that was created by the Catholic leaders, after the devastation of WW2. Adenauer,De Gasperi, De Gaul etc... The European Economic Community. This became a rich, very rich community of countries, zero unemployment, food mountains, aand money mountains, Channel Tunnel, Concorde, technology leaders, Aerospace the list is endless. Then it became the EU, a mega failure
John Galea
Oct 25th 2012, 14:38
Ahjar bghatna lil Franco Debono jew lil Joseph Muscat. zgur kienu jaccettaw lil xi hadd minnhom!
Angelo Vassallo
Oct 25th 2012, 14:37
Wara li Joseph Muscat habbar li ma kien jaqbel assolutament xejn li l-Kummissarju Ewropew ghandu jinhatar wara l-elezzjoni li gejja kif kien issuggerixxa l-kap tas-socjalisti fil-Parlament Ewropew Hannes Swoboda, issa dan l-istess Swoboda jrid b'xi mod jigbor giehu u jidher li ser ikun qieghed jghamilha tad-difficli ma Tonio Borg. Is-socjalisti/lejburisti huma kollha ta' l-istess u ma jinbidlux.
Alex Ellul
Oct 25th 2012, 14:37
Socialists have progressed a lot since 1917. Following the October revolution, they were putting Christians and their other enemies in gulags where they were left to rot for the rest of their lives. That stopped with Gorbachov's revolution.
Now the socialists just leave out the Christians from any type of public positions, for having opinions that are not those of the anti-Christian socialists.
Joseph Micallef
Oct 25th 2012, 14:30
What does open mind mean? For example does it mean that our courts follow sharia law where one can marry a girl only one year old or beats his wife if he deems she deserves punishment and that the wife is the property of the husband? So please be careful when defining open mindedness because not accepting these conditions may as well one day preclude a person from becoming a commissioner.
Colin Stanley
Oct 25th 2012, 15:22
agree 100%
Jesmar Cremona
Oct 25th 2012, 14:21
J'Alla Tonio Borg izomm mal-ideat tieghu u ma'dak li jemmnn fih, jekk hemm bzonn ma jaccetax. X'kull wahda ukoll. Mela sewwa dawn qed jghidu li l-kandidat prospettiv ghandu jkun wiehed li jaccetta lil kullhadd u huma fl-istess nifs ma jaccettawx opinjonijiet ta'haddiehor!
Mr Joe Scerri
Oct 25th 2012, 14:14
So Tonio Borg might be rejected because of his moral convictions. And that is in the name of 'basic european values' which presumably are based on basic human rights! So, tell me, who is discriminating on who? M'ahna sewwa xejn! Mt 5:11
Joseph John Camilleri
Oct 25th 2012, 14:44
You are right Mr. Scerri and more so by quoting a verse from the beatitudes in Mt.5 which fits in with what happened to Mr Buttiglione who suffered because of his moral convictions. What comes to mind is that we don't only have a financial crisis in Europe but also a spiritual crisis. When we abandon God in our lives, chaos sets in. The Biblical story of Babylon comes to mind.
m. borg (slm)
Oct 25th 2012, 15:10
Laqwa li ta' l-IVA rebhu, riedtu tiedhlu fil-kazin ewropew issa tridu timxu mar-regolamenti tieghu.
Li tizra tahsad.
Jimmy Ventura
Oct 25th 2012, 20:51
Joe tidher li ghadek mintix preparat biex tkun membru tal EU. Tonio ma jkunx accettat jekk il-konvinzonijiet personali tieghu ikunu ta xkiel f'xogholu. Hu jista jemmen li jrid imma ma jistax jimponi il-konvinzjoni tieghu fuq haddiehor. Zmien Mikiel Gonzi hadd ma jridu ghadda w mar. Il-liberali ihallu lil kulhadd jghix kif jaghzel hu. Dik id-differenza. L-arroganti ma jifmuhiex din!
P. Vincenti
Oct 25th 2012, 14:04
This is the Europe that we are battling.
You are only welcome in Europe if you throw away your conscience, your values and your principles.
The ones who rant on about individual rights impose themselves on anyone who does not agree with them.
They dictate what is the correct morality to have if you want to serve in Europe.
ALFRED BRIFFA
Oct 25th 2012, 14:01
This is the same Swoboda who suggested that we wait for after the general election to nominated our Commissioner!!!!
A. Zammit
Oct 25th 2012, 13:58
Tonio Borg is in for a very bumpy ride.
anthony dimech
Oct 25th 2012, 15:54
he is capable to deal with it or have you got someone else i mind like joe debono grech ?
Mary Ann Borg
Oct 25th 2012, 13:55
Alex Scheberras Trigona for EU Commissioner I'd say. He will make the best choice for Malta, approved by Lejber's Joseph and will endevour to bring back the 'Foreign Interference Act' to Malta and the whole of the EU. What better choice there is?
J Martinelli
Oct 25th 2012, 15:17
And don't forget 'very, very confidential' deals, so confidential that they would be 'For Joseph's Eyes Only' and to hell with Parliament, let alone the general public.
Thank God the EU is NOT N Korea!
Eddy Privitera
Oct 25th 2012, 20:33
Mary Ann Borg: nd who has been losing one electio after another since 2008 ? Lawrence Gonzi !
David Vella
Oct 25th 2012, 13:49
The EU - or as close to the antichrist as it can be - of course they don't need another Buttiglione, for the former was outspoken about his Roman Catholic religious views and belief.
And as is written, He who lives in total darkness hates the one who brings him light.
Kuragg Tonio jew min ikun, uruhom li intom insara u ta gazz ukoll!!!!
m. borg (slm)
Oct 25th 2012, 15:11
"The EU - or as close to the antichrist as it can be...."
A very illuminating statement I bet you were first in line in the EU referendum to vote YES and NO to partnership.
What the bell you think, the EU is a menu a la carte?
Mary Ann Borg
Oct 25th 2012, 15:43
That's precisely what Fredu Sant tried to make us believe That the EU is some buffet where we can choose what we want and refuse everything else. That's why people like you naively voted for the Buffet option. And even went on to celebrate the phantom victory! How rediciulous can that be? And you call Nationalists as 'losers' when you have been losing one election after another the last 25years
j brincat
Oct 25th 2012, 13:49
Who needs a second Buttiglione?
But then GonziPN won't listen!
He was full of haste to nominate Tonio who is known for his ultra conservatism. Take, for example, the divorce issue when he voted AGAINST the bill which had enjoyed the approval of the majority of Malta in the referendum.
(jb)
Oliver Grech
Oct 25th 2012, 13:46
Yet again...i repeat....Swoboda who? Who does he think he is? He is already being biased against Dr. Borg and is also effecting the thoughts of others.
m. borg (slm)
Oct 25th 2012, 15:13
Swoboda is surely not Oliver Grech who happens to be ....................... what or who?
Joseph Spiteri
Oct 25th 2012, 13:43
The EP Socialists, like their political family here in Malta the PL are experts in creating doubts on whatever is not to their liking and advantage.
M Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 13:40
is-socjalisti ewopew jkull ma rridu huwa ewropa moralment laxka, il-boghod minn dak li taghllem ir-religjon kattolika. Huwa sigriet li jafu kulhadd lidawn hafna minnhom huma nies anti klerikali ga l-ahhar u nassumi li diga gew infrmati li Toni Borg u kttoliku t veru. Ghalkem awn Malta is-socjalisi qed jghidu i se jappoggjaw ll Borg, kien hawn minn ghel certi reservi.Lobgha Ewrope b'riha maltja
Luke Lanzon
Oct 25th 2012, 15:13
I'm not a socialist by any means but I still don't want any catholic or religious influence in the EU, its bad enough Malta is like that already.
E. Azzopardi
Oct 25th 2012, 13:36
You cannot be conservative for the EU. They have moved on, not like us. They listen to the PEOPLE !
I hope that the reasons for Mr Dalli's resignation will be followed through and through. It now seems that there are doubts about all this. No, the investigations are not over.
I hope that for Malta's and Mr Dalli's sake he will be proved right. Not everybody agrees, it seems to me.
J Martinelli
Oct 25th 2012, 15:29
If Mr Dalli is proved right, someone else must be wrong. "Not everybody agrees" is because most are judging on the ambiguity of multiple statements about the alleged wrongdoing and will not wait until the whole details are revealed.
No one, I hope, will support an injustice. If Dalli has been unjustly fired, then he should seek compensation, and then some, and publicize his innocence worldwide.
Colin Stanley
Oct 25th 2012, 15:33
can you tell us what people they listen to, maybe the ones that want Abortion,Gay marriage, Divorce, Sharia law, etc. as long as you don't have real Christain values. stick to your beliefs Dr. Borg, one's integrety and values, are better than money and power, for some people.
Christopher Sammut
Oct 25th 2012, 13:26
Now that we are in the EU we must obey their laws and choices as well. So its up to them to choose, we must stay quiete and obey that is all my friends.
Hossam Helwani
Oct 25th 2012, 13:38
christopher sammut
dont be ridiculous, this is an institution where human values are based on human rights. choosing the right person with such values does not mean obey , it means safeguarding what is precious for you and for me. Being cynical does not mean you are right.
M Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 13:49
Christohr f-ewrpa hemm diversi partiti mhux socjalisti biss. dawn huma t-tieni l-akbar imma xorta bhal ma jaghmlu f'pajjizjom anki mill-opposizzjoni jippruvaw jiddettaw l-ewropa ta ghada kif ghanda tkun.
J Martinelli
Oct 25th 2012, 15:32
Mr Sammut, you have been well and truly brainwashed.
Ms.D. Galea
Oct 25th 2012, 13:25
Give a round of applause for the over-all winners, the Tobacco Companies.
Jan Chircop
Oct 25th 2012, 13:24
Fi kliem iehor trid tkun moderat u progressiv
M Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 13:50
modera u progressiv zewg kellmiet li kulhadd jinterpreta kif irid u jaqblu skond xi tkun l-issue.
Joseph Borg
Oct 25th 2012, 14:03
Le ma fihmtx Jan. Trid tkun laghqi u toqod ghal kollox. Dik hi l-EU.
ALBERT FENECH
Oct 25th 2012, 13:22
Tonio Borg has ALREADY relinquished his democratic values. HIS Gonzi-PN proposed a divorce referendum; the people voted in favour; Tonio Borg was one of those who voted AGAINST the wishes of the majority of the electorate. Bye bye democracy.
ALBERT FENECH
Paul Zammit
Oct 25th 2012, 13:17
I am so ashamed to be considered european. The more I read about the EU parliament, the more I get conviced its nada else but a whole lot of BS!
...maybe... just maybe ... Fredu Sant was right in opposing EU membership; not for any of the lame reasons he gave but for something like what we are reading here at d least!
John Zammit
Oct 25th 2012, 13:16
While as a Maltese Fully support Dr.Borg for the post of commissioner I support all efforts the hear the truth why John Dalli was removed. After all we as a Nation are being looked at as a corrupt Nation
matthew tanti
Oct 25th 2012, 13:15
i really don't understand all this fuss about homosexuals rights! it's as if you have to be homosexual to be european!
Joseph Spiteri
Oct 25th 2012, 13:14
This is incredible. Joseph Muscat plays the good guy here in Malta portraying himself and the PL as supportive of Dr. Borg`s nomination and yet he warned that, such an issue brought up by the European Socialists , could be brought up during Dr. Borg`s hearing. Now we officially know that the European Socialists will try to hinder the process of Dr. Borg`s nomination. JM can lobby the socialists
John Demanuele
Oct 25th 2012, 13:13
Sorry Tonio, You cannot be accepted. The vacancy is now only open to people without principle and ready to toe the line.
Joseph Spiteri
Oct 25th 2012, 13:11
This is incredible. Joseph Muscat plays the good guy here in Malta portraying himself and the PL as supportive of Dr. Borg`s nomination and yet he warned that, such an issue brought up by the European Socialists , could be brought up during Dr. Borg`s hearing. Now we officially know that the European Socialists will try to hinder the process of Dr. Tonio Borg`s nomination.
Ramon Casha
Oct 25th 2012, 13:10
Given that the new commissioner is expected to take the same role of Dalli - which includes health - it's quite understandable that they might be wary of certain statements made by Borg that might indicate he'd be anti-gay, anti-women etc. The EU can't accept such a commissioner in sensitive areas.
Francis Saliba M.D.
Oct 25th 2012, 13:08
Swedish Match needs the nomination of a Malta Commissioner who would prove unacceptable to the EU on the grounds that he has moral values unacceptable to it. That way the Dalli Tobacco Directive will remain stalled whilst Barrose continues to lie and claim that its progress has not been "affected" at all.
More power to the tobacco lobby's elbow.
Mary Ann Borg
Oct 25th 2012, 13:07
Ili nghid jien. Missna innominajna lil Alex Scheberras Trigona. Dak li vvota tlett darbiet minn go l-Ingilterra kontra l-EU. U kif ikun hemm jazzarda wkoll jerga' jintroduci l-ligi kontra l-Indhil Barrani. AST jghamilna kollha kburin li Maltin. X'qed nistennew? Fuq kollox AST huwa l-maghzul distinti minn dear Joseph.
mark johnson
Oct 25th 2012, 13:05
That's torn it.
Francis Saliba M.D.
Oct 25th 2012, 13:02
" ... there must be full transparency on the specific circumstances that led to (Dalli's) resignation".
Transparency is precisely what OLAF, Kessler and Barroso do NOT want and cannot afford. As far as they are concerned the incident is irrevocably clossed. Brussles "locuta est" - end of message. They exempt themselves from needing to respect fundamental human right. Might is right!
Mr Mike Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 12:54
And who are these to dictate what Europeans moral values should be?
Do they expect a free for all?
Are they militating in the EU machine to push their own agendas?
Brian Gatt
Oct 25th 2012, 13:28
They expect you to be an open minded European Mr Farrugia !!!
Christopher Sammut
Oct 25th 2012, 13:29
We cant decide for our self my friend when we voted yes we knew what could happen full stop.
M Cachia
Oct 25th 2012, 13:31
It's called the European parliament, you know the body elected by the people of Europe...
VINCENT WILLIAMS
Oct 25th 2012, 13:49
You are 100 per cent correct Mr. Christopher Sammut.
That is, that when the majority of the Maltese voted to join the EU. We joined to obey all its' rules and all its' way of life. Now it is too late. And if Dr.Tonio Borg is not going to accept all the EU moral values. Than he can pack all his belongings and come back to Malta and join again the PN !!
M Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 13:52
Brian dawn jippretendu li mhux tkun OPEN MINDED imma halqek miftuh u tibla dak li jridu ibellawlek huma il-moderati u progressivi.
j brincat
Oct 25th 2012, 13:58
Eqqq x'taghmel
This is EU for you!
(jb)
Mr Mike Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 14:42
Does open minded equals being de-vested of one's believes and culture?
W Cassar
Oct 25th 2012, 12:54
Only people with an open mind need apply ... Sorry Tonio hahaha
C Agius
Oct 25th 2012, 12:50
And rightly so, European values should not endorse discrimination, racism or ultra-conservative views. An MEP shouldn't be one that votes against the people's will shown through a referendum as Dr. Borg did.
Francis Saliba M.D.
Oct 25th 2012, 14:17
If Tonio Borg's nomination is refused the MEPs would be discriminating against others because they had a stricter moral code or because of their religion.
Luke Lanzon
Oct 25th 2012, 14:31
It's not discriminating since by not allowing Tonio Borg they're fighting discrimination.
Colin Stanley
Oct 25th 2012, 15:36
I bet that if Dr. Borg was a Muslim, no one in the EU would dare object.
Victor Vella
Oct 25th 2012, 12:41
Hmmmmmmm I smell a rotten fish here, in Malta we Have JM saying that he supports Borg and in Brussels we have Swoboda saying that they are ready to put spokes in the wheels and putting their neck out for Dalli.The PL need Dalli to keep his name clean at all costs, why?
Lawrence Attard
Oct 25th 2012, 12:49
ever heard of natural justice?
Gordon Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 12:50
'The PL need Dalli to keep his name clean at all costs, why?'
lol biggest joke of the weak!!? PL don't really care what happens and you know that. What with scandals galore now almost one every fortnight do we really need the Dalli soap opera?
Richard Galea
Oct 25th 2012, 13:01
A very good observation Mr. Vella.......You see........Great minds think alike, fools never differ.......And our local politatians belong to the later......It seems that a conspiracy to assasinate the character of John Dalli. was set in motion locally.....As both parties know that Dalli is a hard man to crack.......the enemy of my enemy is my friend... :-)
Victor Vella
Oct 25th 2012, 13:02
Gordon, you know as much as I do that the PL need him, if not why the outburst (as yet un condemned by the PL) from Joe Grima?
C Muscat
Oct 25th 2012, 13:50
It is good for PL to be national and support all that is Malta; ie JD and TB. It would be of great political gain if JM fires at Gonzi that chose Dalli for commissioner.
Anyway either DAlli is innocent or Dalli and Gonzi will go together as cordinated responsability of our deeds.
Joseph Fenech
Oct 25th 2012, 12:40
Is not this Svoboda the same one that wanted us to nominate a commissioner after the election? Seems he's got some interest in our own affairs.
C Agius
Oct 25th 2012, 12:55
The appointment of a Commissioner is not "our own affairs", we are now part of Europe and should be acting like it.
Eddy Privitera
Oct 25th 2012, 13:09
Joseph Fenech: Dr.Muscat, last Sunday, clearly said that he did not agree with what Swoboda said. The PL's position is that a new commissioner be appointed as-soon- as possible. nd that the Pl backs Dr. Borg's nomination once the nomination has been made. This does not mean that Dr. Borg's nomination by Lawrence Gonzi was the best choice in the circumstances.
David Caruana
Oct 25th 2012, 14:14
Seeing the 12 point lead of PL on PN, Svoboda was pushing to have a Commissioner from the PL camp, duh!
What's wrong with that?!
Pierre Vassallo
Oct 25th 2012, 12:37
I see a hidden hand in this!
fred sammut
Oct 25th 2012, 12:57
fit tkeccija ta Dalli jew il Merhba ta Tonio Borg ??
VV Bartolo
Oct 25th 2012, 12:30
mhux hekk imbaghad il-gvern Malti gie jigri jahtar kummissarju iehor (li kumbinazzjoni nzerta l-vici l-kap) u nhar it-Tnejn se jibda l-process ghal vici kap. kemm kumbinazzjonijiet! iva dawn possibli li ma jafux li r-ross min halqna niekluh u li spicca z-zmien tal-imzazen?!?!
Henry S Pace
Oct 25th 2012, 12:26
TO BE ACCEPTED ANYONE MUST NOT HAVE ANY MORAL VALUES.
This is galore.
Tim Vella
Oct 25th 2012, 12:58
Which means that if Tonio succumbs to their 'non-moralistic' ideals, would that make him a hypocrite?
Oh, what an absolute scream!
Luke Lanzon
Oct 25th 2012, 13:05
You know, you don't need moral values to be a good person, human values are almost the same except that human values means that everyone is equal. Moral values means if you're gay, lesbian or not "normal" according to that book, you're frowned upon.
Eddy Privitera
Oct 25th 2012, 13:12
Henry S. Pace: When YOU voted fo EU membership, you should have known that European values were not exactly those we have in Malta ! perhaps ypu were influenced by the Archbishop's comments, that with Malta in the EU " we would be able to export our Catholic values to Europe " !
Eddy Privitera
Oct 25th 2012, 13:14
We will now see whether Dr. Tonio Borg will defend the Catholic values he says he believes in, in the European parliament, just as he did in our own parliament !
M Farrugia
Oct 25th 2012, 13:54
very well said Henry.
Mario Brincat
Oct 25th 2012, 16:29
@Eddy Privitera
"perhaps ypu were influenced by the Archbishop's comments, that with Malta in the EU " we would be able to export our Catholic values to Europe " !
Now we know why you voted NO! you were influenced by your old fashioned hero KMB when he said that with malta in the EU we will all be infected by HIV aids
Eddy Privitera
Oct 25th 2012, 20:38
Mario Brincat: I still believe , as I did then that Malta's best interest is to remain a sovereign and independent country, instead of a colony of EU bureaucrats , as we are today !
paul camilleri
Oct 25th 2012, 12:20
all one can do is laugh at this because it shows that no matter who is put in to replace Comm Dalli they do not want clowns!!!
and that they show a great respect towards Comm Dalli and are beginning to back him 100% well done John keep the pressure on the hornets nest is getting bigger and bigger and more heads will roll as they will be revealed.
George Calleja
Oct 25th 2012, 12:19
Prosit hej! Mela issa s-Socjalisti Ewropej iridu li xi Kummissarju ikollu jbiddel il-konvinzjoni morali jew etika tieghu biex ikun jista jidhol fil-kariga. Tajba wkoll!! Min qed jikkonvincihom li l-konvinzjoni taghhom biss hija tajba. Mhux ta b'xejn li d-dinja inqalbet!
Jo Camm
Oct 25th 2012, 12:57
Tajba din. Irid ikollhom konvinzjoni sojalista (oht dik kommunista). Mela nsejtha meta riedu jaghmlu li Malta Socjalista???
Mr l. theuma
Oct 25th 2012, 13:04
Addio DEMOKRAZIJA. Ultra dittatorjat.
Eddy Privitera
Oct 25th 2012, 13:16
GEorge Calleja: Meta wiehed jigi appuntat Kummissarju, hu ma jkunx qed jirrapprezenta lil Malta u l-Maltin. Izda lill-popli kollha tal-UE !
E Camilleri
Oct 25th 2012, 14:23
- Malta already accepted Europe's fundamental values on civil liberties and non-discrimination enshrined in the constitution of the EU.
- If one does not agree and want to change that, perhaps it would be better to candidate for the EU parliament elections like Norman Lowell did instead of presenting oneself as an EU Commissioner, where you vow to protect these values.
Please choose the reason of your report below: