What do you think of the way the political parties conducted the European Parliament election campaign?
Unfortunately a lot of importance was given to Maltese affairs rather than how the election would reflect our representation in the EU. A lot of time was wasted on arguments between parties, rather than focusing on the MEP candidates. Sarah Jane Mallia, 21, B.Com Banking and Insurance, 3rd year.
I am disappointed at the way the two major political parties used the MEP candidates for their own propaganda and completely misguided the people they should be representing. The elections are there to elect local members of the European Parliament, not as a means to confirm or otherwise the general election result. Unfortunately only Alternattiva Demokratika and some independent parties seem to be aware of this. Mark Farrugia, 24, MSc Biomedical Sciences.
The Labour Party launched the idea of ‘positive energy’, focusing on what it has done since being elected to government. The Nationalist Party on the other hand kept highlighting certain issues, keeping to its defensive position. Rachel Powell, 18, Bachelor of Laws, 1st year.
Should local issues influence the way citizens vote during European Parliament elections?
Only those local issues that can be tackled further at a European level, such as illegal immigration, should influence how people vote in the European Parliament elections. Voters should give more importance to candidates’ values and morals, than to the political parties. Sarah Jane Mallia
Yes, but only local issues that are related to or can be influenced by the European Parliament. This Parliament has no power on local disputes like waiting lists in hospitals or scandals from the previous administrations. Mark Farrugia
EU directives and regulations affect local legislation and local issues. So it is important to keep local issues in mind when voting for MEPs. They represent us in the European Parliament, and also reflect the country’s views on issues debated there. Rachel Powell
More smaller parties took part in this election. Should they be given more prominence in the local media?
Small parties are sometimes better at tackling local issues related to the EU. Unfortunately, the local media often does not give them importance. Sarah Jane Mallia
The media should give each candidate equal coverage, irrespective of who is backing him/her. This year social media had a greater impact than previous elections and the internet gives everyone equal chances for good exposure. Mark Farrugia
They should be given more prominence to air opinions that differ from those of the main parties, so the electorate can evaluate their proposals. This should be in line with the rights of freedom of expression and of information. Rachel Powell
Interviews conducted by Insite Malta – the Student Media Organisation.