“It takes heroes to defy the one who has the sole prerogative to appoint and promote judges and magistrates"
Ex-ECHR judge Giovanni Bonello on how Malta is the only country in the democratic world where the appointment and promotion of members of the judiciary is still the Prime Minister’s personal prerogative.
“Time to move from words to action.”
PN deputy leader Mario de Marco as he presented a Private Member’s Bill urging the creation of an independent body for judicial appointments.
“They are escaping a situation of abuse only to find themselves in possibly worse abuse, in Europe.”
EU Economic and Social Affairs Committee rapporteur Stefano Mallia lamenting the situation where thousands of migrants were being funnelled into Europe’s black market because the reception system did not cater for those ineligible for asylum.
“Zero rate is not the best idea.”
EU Taxation Commissioner Pierre Moscovici mulling the possibility of removing zero-rate VAT exemptions, which would mean Malta will have to defend its concession not to charge VAT on food and medicines.
“We lack green, open spaces where the community comes together.”
Swieqi deputy mayor Justin Fenech protesting against the proposed tourist village in an ODZ valley between San Ġwann and Swieqi.
“I deserve to be able to breathe clean air don’t I?”
San Ġwann resident Marlene Bell complaining about the endless roadworks on her doorstep that have forced her to take steroids.
“Fireworks are beautiful partly because of the sound.”
Malta Pyrotechnics Association president Josef Camilleri reacting to suggestions to follow the example of the small town of Collechio, Italy, to use silent fireworks.