On the front page of Times of Malta on Saturday, it was stated that “History will also be made today because 16-year-olds are voting for the first time in the local elections”.

Well, I am incensed that I could not vote in the referendum or in any general election.

I have lived in Malta for 23 years and pay income tax here and I, along with a great many expatriates, feel it should be our right, after so number of years and paying our ‘dues’, to have our say, regardless of marital status. Indeed, I have some friends who have been here for up to 40 years who cannot vote.

I find it ridiculous and illogical that our cash-strapped national airline can fly Maltese nationals, who are obviously not living in Malta at the moment, back to vote (supposedly) and for a nice ‘little break’ – all for a bargain price – when those of us living here full-time are forced to stay silent.

Or is there a little worry that our votes might just tip the balance now and again?

Elsewhere it has been known that you can live in a country for six months and apply to go on the Electoral Register.

Once again it seems that expats are being treated unfairly when we are contributing to the country.