Opinjonisti, Net television’s Thursday debate, started off as a controversial programme in which most, if not all the parties involved in a situation, are invited to the studio. Most times the programme is devoted to a single subject with all the opposing parties facing off in the studio and with pre-recorded interviews introduced as the programme progresses. Telephone calls from viewers are considered as an integral part of the programme. The problem there is that telephone calls are so abundant that only a few can be accommodated.

This week Opinjonisti will review a number of controversial issues which still remain unresolved. These will include the problem of leave which caused the General Workers’ Union to disrupt the social pact discussions, the MLP document which proposes the elimination of bonus payments, climate change, the Pope’s ailing condition and the management of the Catholic Church, irregular immigrants – the subject of an important national conference this week, the divisive subject of the waste recycling plant at Sant Antnin, and Malta’s Objective One status within the EU.

Several journalists have been invited to take part as well as MPs from both sides of the House. Opinjonisti, presented and produced by Joe Grima airs today at 8.30pm on Net TV.