A resolution by Government Whip Godfrey Farrugia on water conservation placed second at the Parliamentary Assembly of the OSCE but unluckily missed out when lots were drawn.

The assembly, whose members come from 57 states, opened its annual event in Tbislisi Georgia yesterday. The theme of the conference is ' 25 years of Parliamentary Co-operation Building Thrust through Dialogue '. 

Among the 19 resolutions that were put forward for its agenda were the crises in and around Ukraine, transnational terrorism, protracted conflicts in Georgia, climate change  fundamental freedom in Crimea, the fight against corruption, the rights if refugees and the lifting sanctions against parliamentarians. According to OSCE's standing regulations only 15 resolutions may be discussed at the plenary and its three committees. These are chosen through an open voting system by the Assembly. Malta's resolution faired second best, registering 33 country votes in favour and none against. Since 17 resolutions were approved and only 15 could be discussed lots were drawn and unfortunately Malta's and Italy's resolutions missed their chance. 

“This is disappointing,” stated a disillusioned Dr Godfrey Farrugia who in the last months spear headed months of hard work and international lobbying in the hope that it will highlight that safe drinking water is tightly linked with climate change, environmental and economic security and political stability. This is a global issue. 

Ultimately a perseverant Dr Farrugia remarked: “Nonetheless getting this far was still a first for Maltese Parliament, so it in itself is an achievement for a first time. I look forward fir the preparation of another resolution for next year.”