I am all for conservation and restoration of what is valid but I find the rebuilding of replicas, unless really of extreme importance, rather childish.

The argument of rebuilding a no longer existing Master Gunner’s Quarters at the Upper Barrakka in Valletta because it had previously formed part of the island’s defence system does not hold as then one may also argue for the removal of relatively recent structures and going back to what the Barrakka area originally looked like when the Knights built it and, perhaps, even further still to when the fantasies and reality Ottomans camped there during the Great Siege. Now that would be silly.

We are living in the present and not in comfy nostalgia and, therefore, we have to abide by present exigencies.

The present venue provides a nook of calm relaxation, a living for a real flesh and blood family of citizens and a nice view.

Those who want to live in the past and play games have a right to their opinion and may freely indulge in their passion. They can fantasise and entertain. They can have as much fun as they like but they have no right to infringe on reality and people’s legitimate earning of their daily bread.

I feel confident that the sympathy of the public rests with the Baron family.