Europe Day was celebrated in Valletta today with a debate in the parliament chamber and activities and an exhibition at Palace Square.
The debate featured six girl guides and six MPs who in an hour touched on a range of subjects – leading the Speaker Louis Galea to remark that far more was said by more people in 60 minutes than in an ordinary sitting of the House.
One of the young people called for lower public transport fares for students, saying that those who did not live on direct routes to Junior College or the other educational institutions found using public transport as being too expensive.
Another asked how, with more women then men graduating from the University, women were not assuming more leadership roles.
Others raised points about alack of employment opportunities for people with disabilities, the need to address alcohol and drug abuse, and the need for a breast screening programme.
The MPs agreed with the points raised.
Justyne Caruana (PL) said the legislative mechanism for gender equality was there but was not been effectively implemented.
Resources Minister George Pullicino said all agreed on the need for public transport reform, but there also needed to be willingness to change by the operators.
Parliamentary Secretary for Health Joe Cassar said it was not cool to smoke or take drugs.
Activities outside the Palace included children’s games and the cutting of a cake to mark Europe Day.
Meanwhile, at Floriana, close to 300 children from more than 40 football nurseries took part in a European Parliament Football Festival.
President George Abela, who paid a visit to the football enthusiasts this morning, spoke of Europe Day as a celebration of unity, peace and prosperity in the European Union, drawing a parallel with sports as a vehicle of unity between people.
Julian Vassallo, Head of the European Parliament Valletta Office, spoke of Europe Day as the commemoration of the European unity, a lesson learnt for the tragedy of World War II which in turn motivated Europeans to seek prosperity in cooperation.
The events were organized jointly by the EU Representation and the Malta office of the European Parliament.