The Oasi Foundation last Sunday celebrated its 26th anniversary with a commemorative and thanksgiving celebration at the Oasi centre in Victoria. Founder and director general, Fr Emanuel Cordina, presented the Oasi award to Caroline Vasey, Pauline Scerri and Katarina Thome, who, throughout the years and on a voluntary basis, supported Oasi.

After delivering an animated account of the historical events that led to the creation and development of the Oasi services, Fr Cordina expressed great disappointment on recent news regarding the proposed legalisation of cannabis for recreational use. It was truly frustrating for all those working in this very delicate social field, he said.

“It hurts to notice how the matter has been handled by the fora on both sides of the political arena, taking advantage of electoral pledges,” Fr Cordina said.

“As a person who is continuously facing the dramatic effects of drugs and alcohol abuse, it is a must to expose the foundation’s pre-occupation on the matter… it also reflects the views of the board, staff, residents and members of the foundation, including the parents of the Oasi clients and other organisations such as Caritas and Sedqa,” Fr Cordina said.

The presentation was attended by the board of directors, Oasi members, workers, volunteers, benefactors and clients and their families.

Gozo Minister Jysten Caruana and former Speaker Anton Tabone were also present.