Parliament this week paid its respects to former Nationalist MP Victor Galea Pace, who died on March 6, aged 72.

Mr Pace served as Mayor of Victoria before being elected to Parliament from Gozo in the 1996 and 1998 general elections.

Extending his condolences to the family of the former politician, Minister Chris Cardona, on behalf of the government, said Mr Galea Pace was a sort of “father figure” for young, aspiring MPs, always ready to give them fatherly advice.

Mr Galea Pace was well-loved and held in high regard by both sides of the House. He was a genuine and humble man, who truly believed Malta would one day have “one government”.

Although this appeared impossible at the moment, Mr Galea Pace had always truly believed the day would come when both parties would form some sort of “grand coalition”.

Opposition Leader Simon Busuttil expressed his appreciation for Mr Galea Pace’s work, thanking his family, and especially his wife, Vivienne, who remained active in the Sliema local council, for always regarding politics as a service and for supporting her husband to the hilt. Although many regarded politics as dirty, such people showed that it could change people’s lives for the better.

Mr Speaker Anġlu Farrugia recalled Mr Galea Pace as a man of principle, always very strong in his beliefs, but who never attacked anyone personally. His love for his family was strong and he respected each and every one of the MPs, in turn earning him respect from both sides.

This was highlighted by the fact that even the late Prime Minister Dom Mintoff would ask for him in Parliament, something which was no coincidence.

Mr Galea Pace always had a kind word and a gentle smile, Dr Farrugia recalled.