“It’s all over for me; I have no comments to give, leave me alone.”

Former Labour deputy leader Toni Abela soon after the decision was announced that MEPs had rejected his nomination to sit on the European Court of Auditors.

“If he respects himself… he should withdraw his nomination.”

Slovenian MEP Igor Soltes saying Abela had only one honourable option left after his rejection – respecting the European Parliament’s opinion.

“The University should stand on its own two feet.”

Newly elected rector Alfred Vella when asked about the prospect of competition the University of Malta would face in tertiary education.

“This song reflects my personality... It’s important to have everyone’s support.”

Singer Ira Losco on the new Eurovision song Walk on Water, which will replace the one she won with in January.

“It was like a jungle; the church parvis was transformed into a public convenience.”

St Julian’s parish priest Claude Portelli expressing disgust at how the situation in the village spiralled out of control on St Patrick’s Day as more than 20,000 descended on the Spinola area.

“The advert is distasteful, morally bankrupt and offensive.”

Integra Foundation director Maria Pisani questioning the insensitivity behind the ROCS Group travel advert promoting Lampedusa as “totally free from illegal immigration”.

“These are very exciting times.”

Independent MP Marlene Farrugia speaking about a “new force” that could evolve into a fully-fledged political party in time for the next general election.