The government seems to be favouring the suggestion to relocate the Sette Giugno monument back to St George’s Square, Valletta. In my opinion, such a decision would compromise the aesthetics of this square.

There is a better place for this monument – at the right hand side of the new Parliament building where at present there are two flag poles. It makes little sense for these flag poles to be given such a prominent place at the entrance of our capital city. If the monument is relocated here, one of the flag poles could be retained next to it.

The reasons why this location is the most appropriate for the Sette Giugno monument are as follows:

The area is large enough to accommodate the Sette Giugno monument; it offers ample space for any form of ceremony; the monument would be close to the Parliament building; one has to remember that the granting of self-government and the election of Malta’s first Parliament in 1921 were a direct result of the Sette Giugno riots;

Anyone entering Valletta would immediately see the monument; if it is relocated to St George’s Square, only those walking to the centre of Valletta would be able to see it; the Sette Giugno protest march started at the site of the then City Gate; several protesters were wounded or arrested in front of the Royal Opera House when Palazzo Francia was attacked by the angry mob.

If the monument is relocated next to the Parliament building, tourist guides will have the opportunity to give visitors a brief history about Malta’s Parliament.

I hope the reviewing committee will analyse my suggestions and agree to my proposal.