Lawrence Gonzi is a great statesman

Herman Grech’s interview (The Sunday Times, April 21) – which included the controversial divorce issue – brought out the best in Lawrence Gonzi in terms of his statesmanship, his humanity and his strengths.

In my opinion his steadfastness in his beliefs on divorce reflect his sound principles of a society with stable families and where the risk of this painful process with repurcussions on all concerned, especially children, would be minimised as much as possible. Therefore, his stand on divorce, far from damaging his image, enhanced it. One should also keep in mind that despite this stand he fully respected the referendum result and ensured that the Divorce Bill was approved in Parliament.

The honoraria issue was somehow badly mishandled. Otherwise one can ask Labour: Are ministers decently paid? Or are they trying to offset – one way or another – this deficiency in order not to break another pre-electoral promise?

Dr Gonzi is justifiably proud of leaving behind a strong country that has changed dramatically for the better. He and his wife now have time to enjoy the parks and open spaces they provided for families.

Thank you Mr Grech for this insightful interview. Thank you once again Dr and Mrs Gonzi for everything, including your values. While hoping and praying that the health problem will be overcome it would be an honour to have Dr Gonzi represent us in Europe as an option for the future.

Dr Gonzi’s achievements for this country are still in the process of being more extensively appreciated.