With reference to the article Pensioners feel left out of EU bonanza (TMID, 21 May), I feel I must ask a very pertinent question.

Can the Prime Minister enumerate in detail what Malta has paid and is contributing to honour its membership obligations? Yes, we have been inundated with figures about what we are supposed to be getting. That’s good. very good. But what is it costing us?

If we are truly net beneficiaries, the Prime Minister must not feel the least embarrassed to let this cat out of the bag. Many have asked this question before, and unfortunately no answer has been forthcoming yet. Sorry, but if no answer is given, I will still be apprehensive about believing that we are net beneficiaries.

With reference to the e1,158 million, yes, they are there for us to grab. But it depends on the government how much we really succeed in getting. This depends on projects acceptable to the EU. Let us not give the impression that the EU is going to sign a blank cheque for that amount. Very far from it!! And what’s more, once two years have passed after the 2013 term, any money not utilised will be lost for good.

So far, our record leaves much to be desired, and this according to official statistics and budget speeches.

A credible and detailed answer is eagerly expected.

Emanuel Cortis

Santa Lucija