A bronze bust dedicated to politician and journalist Nestu Laiviera was unveiled yesterday by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and Opposition Leader Joseph Muscat in Vittoriosa on the 25th anniversary of his demise.
Born in Vittoriosa, Mr Laiviera was a member of the executive committee of the Malta Labour Party and of the General Workers' Union. He was editor of the Labour newspapers Is-Sebħ and Il-Ħelsien and in 1964 was appointed acting leader of the MLP.
He served as Speaker in the House of Representatives between 1955 and 1958 and from 1976 to 1978.
The bust was commissioned by the Vittoriosa council.
Close friend Vincent Moran said that, in politics, Mr Laiviera had always conducted himself in an exemplary manner, inspired people and earned respect. "For those who knew him, Nestu will remain an inspiration and an example even today," he said.
Dr Gonzi said that Mr Laiviera had chosen to put himself up for the service of the country, emphasising what good politicians could achieve when they held the common good above all else. Dr Muscat added that, in his quiet way, Mr Laiviera played a crucial role in the development of the national social system, giving particular importance to rights of people with disabilities.