I would like to share my views on various comments made by Minister George Pullicino under the title Vindictive And Destructive (July 16).

Sometimes I wonder how low certain politicians can stoop in order to achieve popularity. Let me refresh Mr Pullicino’s memory. It was he who acted destructively one Friday morning on January 9, 2009 when he ordered and orchestrated the destruction of one of Sliema’s most popular cafés and restaurants, the Magic Kiosk.

Now how’s that for pure vindictiveness, besides destruction? One might claim that the area looks better now that everyone is used to it as it is.

But which similar site wouldn’t?

We were never given the chance to upgrade and refurbish the place to a more open plan with a smaller structure. More importantly, when the minister demolished the Magic Kiosk, he wiped out the working life and plans of some 25 families whose members were employed there. Not to mention the loss of income to other companies and the government.

There go his priorities on work and employment, which he mentioned in the report referred to above.

If Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi’s focus is on reaping benefits, then the minister’s is on reaping “seedless watermelons”. In fact, if one were to change various characters and dates from his item, they would fit perfectly like a puzzle.

Honestly, I never understood the grudge that Mr Pullicino has against our family. Despite this, I prefer to move on in life. I am saying this because, from the way he writes and expresses himself, it shows clearly that a part of him still seems to be living in the 1970s and 1980s. Then again, Mr Pullicino has the political arrogance to come up with a title such as Vindictive And Destructive.

How right Dr Gonzi was when he stated that the qualities of his Cabinet of ministers are limited.

While these “seedless watermelons” may have helped the minister in controlling his blood pressure and circulation, they certainly are hopeless when it comes to memory and recollections.