The educational deficit in the ethical use of social communication is leading to a break down, rather than building of  society, President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca warned this morning adding that the country would pay dearly for the alarming deterioration in the way people spoke to each other.

"Those who wish the best for the Republic yearn to see an improvement in the behaviour of politicians, both inside and outside parliament, the President  said in an address at the opening of the Gieh Ir-Repubblika award-giving ceremony.

The ceremony, which is the highlight of Republic Day activities, followed a parade held by the AFM in Valletta.

The President also also said that while a means for measuring the economy has been devised, there is as yet no fully effective index to measure the people's wellbeing.

In a wide-ranging speech, she said that she would like to see a new year in the life of the republic which was more ethical, more  equitable, and more just for all.

"In spite of all the progress in the field of equality there is much more to be done for women in Malta to be more present and visible," she said.

"With a stronger presence of women in managerial posts, our country would be able to make decisions that respect interests of our population."

Touching on domestic violence, she said this was a  social disease that needed immediate attention.

"Domestic violence is not simply a personal disorder, but a symptom of a social condition"

Verbal violence, she added, was on the increase in the country.

"The educational deficit in the ethical use of the means of social communication is leading to break down,rather than building of our society."

"Meanwhile, it is our Republic that is going to pay dearly for the alarming deterioration in the way we speak to each other," she said.

Results in education were not reflecting the efforts and  financial investment of both past and present years.

"We still have too many children, young people and adults who do not view education and training as an integral part of life."

Children and youths need to be heard, she said. "I encourage Parliament to put in place the necessary legislation that would give Maltese children the means to become effective citizens."

(See President's speech in full on pdf below)

Tony Zarb was made a member of the Order of Merit.Tony Zarb was made a member of the Order of Merit.

The awards were presented as follows:

Order of Merit -  Carmel Agius, Joseph Sammut, Lord Marland, Kyle Balda, Frank Baldacchino, Benny Borg Bonello, Roger Ellul-Micallef, Hector Galea, Ray Mahoney, Peter Vassallo, Tony Zarb, Pierfrancesco Vago;

Medalja ghal qlubija - Karl Curmi (The 10-year-old rescued a baby who fell into the sea and almost drowned).

Medalja ghal-Qadi tar-Repubblika  - Charles Coleiro, Bjorn Formosa, Vitorin Galea, Michael Grech, Joyce Guillaumier, Charles Mifsud, MOAS, Mario Ccerri, Winning team of the junior eurovision 2015, Alfed A. Zarb, Horst Brandstatter.

See - Hero Karl gets a medal http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20151213/local/hero-karl-gets-a-medal.595657

The Junior Eurovision winning team was among the winners of Gieh ir-Repubbika honours.The Junior Eurovision winning team was among the winners of Gieh ir-Repubbika honours.

Attached files

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