Government propaganda trumpets high employment, wage increases, monetary surplus, ever-rising spending in day-to-day exigencies and an overall healthy economy attracting high ratings from all quarters.

The government also gives exorbitant salaries to a section of the people, boosting their wealth, helping businesses to seek more opportunities and, consequently, secure further profits and continuing to fatten their pockets.

This government is affiliated to the Socialist Group in the European Parliament and, at home, manifestly adopts a capitalist ideology.

On the other side of the coin, poverty is on the increase, reaching almost a quarter of the population. This prompted the local chapter of the Constantine Order of St George and the Cross of Constantinople (Byzantine) to distribute 26 tons of high-quality rice to families in ‘extreme poverty’.

The President of Malta supported the initiative and provided storage facilities.

It is unbelievable hearing comments like “It’s shocking having people who don’t have enough food to eat” and “Eliminating starvation in Malta in an absolute priority”.

It appears that a large section of our population is in the same situation as those living in poor countries whose only food consists of rice, a product rich in carbohydrates and not recommended for those suffering from type 1 and 2 diabetes.

It is true that, irrespective of how strong the economy is, the poor will always be around. Thus, we must extend our solidarity and try our best to give a helping hand to provide food and soothe their hunger.