The absence of a larger number of foreign participants in the Valletta Grand Prix provided a platform for several Maltese owners and drivers to take out their valued possessions and drive them around Valletta.

It is unbelievable that in this tiny island so many enthusiasts have locked in their garages such a wide array of old and not so old cars still in perfect working condition. It is clear that these owners and drivers have invested in these cars and they take very good care of their vehicles, the majority of which are no longer used for daily transportation purposes.

In some cases, the value of these cars is far from negligible and it reflects our islands' partly hidden heritage in the automotive world. Quite a number of people, like myself, regret that they let go some of their prized possessions during periods of distraction.

While the owners of these cars are likely to take a look at these machines probably every other day, for the majority of people these classic and historic cars are hidden, and they are only viewed on one or a few more occasions a year.

This could change if an adequate building is allocated for the exposition of these cars, if necessary on a rotation basis. We already have a small private museum in the north of the island, so it would be appropriate if another venue in the south of the island could be made available for the Malta Transport Museum. Touring Club Malta has been working on this concept for several years and a minister responsible for museums approved TCM's efforts. Malta could join the International Association of Transport and Communications Museums (IATM).

The Armoury in Vittoriosa seems to be the ideal location for a transport museum. It is understood that in principle the local council has agreed in the past to the use of the Armoury for such purposes. Instead of armaments and ammunition it would be better for this old maritime city to have something different to attract local people and tourists to its streets. This could be developed into an educational and cultural experience.

Two years ago Vittoriosa correctly earned for itself the title of a City of Quality, and it would be fitting for it to host a range of cars of quality under one of its roofs. The authorities concerned may wish to provide the opportunity to the Maltese public and to tourists to visit another historic building in this interesting city by creating another attraction.

According to the answer to parliamentary question 21479 delivered on November 1, 2006, the Armoury was undergoing some restoration. It would be a pity if this venue were allowed to deteriorate once again when a good use of the premises could be found. There is no doubt that a number of people could be found to volunteer to make a Transport Museum a success.