Gerald Fenech interviews Labour MEP candidate Marlene Mizzi on her hopes and aspirations for the forthcoming European Parliament elections

Marlene Mizzi surely needs no introduction as a woman who has made it to the top in the business and social world. I began by asking her why she decided to contest these elections and what she believes she can bring to the European Parliament.

"I was approached to contest the European parliament elections by Labour leader Dr Joseph Muscat and after several frank meetings between us, I decided to go for it. It was not an easy decision to make as politics changes your life completely. I am going in to serve and not to gain, and this is something in which I believe very strongly. I have considerable experience in public life, in the running of companies, on Company Boards, in international negotiations, as well as academic qualifications.... and a fighting spirit. I have also lived and worked abroad. I believe all of these elements are important to an effective representative in the EP. It is with this baggage that I approach these elections, hopefully with success".

Are these elections a good vehicle to promote the cause of women?

"I believe that promoting the advancement of women will gain considerably by a female representation in the European parliament. It is about time that Malta elects its first woman MEP. Labour leader Joseph Muscat made a speech to this effect, defining me as a woman who has been successful and a role model for other women who may have hopes and aspirations to become something in life. I hope I can live up to this complimentary but onerous definition".

How do you believe your campaign has developed over the past few weeks?

"I obviously have a campaign team who follows a set strategy. We identify important issues and I make sure to keep my eyes and ears open, in order to learn about what concerns people. The majority of people have the same concerns- the economic situation, the loss of jobs and the extremely high cost of living, illegal immigration and the environment. I hope that meeting people during my campaign will assist me in identifying problems and finding solutions, so that I will be an effective representative and not one in name only.

This is your first experience in politics. How are you dealing with it?

"As the campaign is obviously in full swing it is taking up 150% of my time and at the moment I am dedicated to it entirely without having time for my family, myself or my business. Sometimes I feel like a cross between a piece of chewing gum and Padre Pio - with people pulling me here and there, and expecting me to be in 3 places at the same time! However I am a person who loves to meet people and honestly have to say that I'm really enjoying this political experience".

If you are elected to the European parliament, what will be the topics which you will focus on?

"I am currently promoting a number of topics in my campaign manifesto in relation to the EU. These are: the Rights of the Citizens , which will address the right to work, the right to a good health service, the right to education as well as the right to information ; Illegal immigration is another topic I will be focusing on , as this is an escalating problem for which a solution has to be found; Equal Opportunities - where gender issues as well as issues of other members of our of society will be addressed ,and the Environment, a topic which is important and makes a difference to our quality of life. I would also like to address animal welfare, as I consider animals as the non- human citizens of our country, who must also be taken care of.

I believe that as members of the EU we have to face up to the challenges of membership, but above all explore and exploit the benefits and opportunities - material, financial and cultural. As an MEP representing my country I will work in the interest of Malta and its citizens, within the structures of the EU, to ensure that all benefits from our membership are forthcoming and enjoyed by everyone.

My slogan COUNT ON ME, is not just empty words. It is a commitment to perform and deliver. And my word is my bond.