Public funds secured for “flashy projects” were at times used for purposes other than serving the common good, Gozo Bishop Mario Grech warned.
Celebrating Mass on Saturday at Dar Arka, in Għajnsielem, on the occasion of a visit by the new President, Mgr Grech called for the “measured and careful” use of public money.
Unfortunately, a faulty mentality that it was acceptable to take advantage of public funds meant such money was sometimes squandered.
“Wasting public money means fewer funds available to nourish the culture of life and poverty would increase as a consequence,” he said.
“The irresponsible use of public funds brings with it the moral duty of restitution.”
Contacted by Times of Malta and asked to comment further and whether he had reported the matter to the authorities, Mgr Grech declined to elaborate, saying he would have expanded in his homily had he wanted to do so.
It was premature to say more for the time being,he said.
In his homily, Mgr Grech said it was a positive fact that the Maltese were so generous and were always willing to show solidarity when asked.
“We all know how much our country’s presidency cherishes the Community Chest Fund which, thanks to the generosity of the public, is never empty.
Irresponsible use of public funds brings with it the moral duty of restitution
“However, I feel we should progress to a higher level of generosity: apart from just offering material help to those in need, we should help the person believe more in himself, recognise his abilities and help him hone his skills so that he could stand on his own two feet.
“An assistance-based system can lead to people becoming dependent on it and this does not help the person achieve the dignity he deserves.
“Even if the road to overcome this assistance-based mentality is an uphill one, we should not give up on it.”
The bishop strongly condemned tax evasion as a serious sin. The authorities’ work to correct tax evasion should be supported by people of goodwill, he continued.
It was a pity that, while many were careful to see what they could obtain from the State, there was not much reflection on how people could contribute to public coffers.
“Moreover, there are some who even have the audacity to find a legal pretext to justify exemption from paying taxes.
“It’s a known fact that, if the tax collecting system was respected, the State would have more funds at its disposal to serve its citizens.”