The objective of a referendum is to gauge the agreement or otherwise of a whole nation about certain fundamental issues that affect it. There is nothing more fundamental for the Maltese people than the choice of getting in or staying out of the European Union. Many feel that it was wise and fair to have this important choice exercised by way of a referendum and outside the context of a general election. There was a need not to cloud the main issue as well as to avoid internal conflicts of the electorate who are divided on the issue of EU membership along demarcation lines other than strict partisan ones.

Many nation states in Europe, faced with such pressing geo-political and economic realities, have had to address this important issue. They have done so with unequivocal intent as deserves the interest of their nation. It is Malta`s turn now. Some feel the decision has long been overdue.

At any rate, independent of any political party in government, this issue in Malta has now matured for decision. This right for a referendum belongs to the people and does not attach to any particular party of the day. It follows that once the decision is made, it must be respected and no one party has the right to reserve the will of the people once it has expressed it. The government which happens to be in power immediately following the referendum which gives an affirmative result has the responsibility of continuing with the process leading to accession. No one here would be contesting the outcome if the result is negative!

It must also be remembered that the decision for the citizen is not a straightforward one to make, and therefore all assistance should be provided to make the process the least difficult possible. This means not only providing the relevant facts but also the psychological and moral comfort by all parties concerned that the long-suffered decision will be given the full respect that it rightly deserves by being implemented forthwith.