Speaker of the House Anglu Farrugia has cancelled a symposium celebrating 100 years from the setting up of the Maltese Parliament, after noting that four former speakers turned down the invitation to attend.

In a letter, Alfred Bonnici, Lawrence Gonzi, Anton Tabone and Louis Galea said they will not be taking part. Their decision to refuse was taken because "in the current circumstances... we do not feel it is opportune that Parliament dedicates its time for a ceremony like this when the country is facing more pressing and urgent matters".

It is presumed that the four former speakers were referring to the recently published report by the public inquiry into the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, which found the State responsible due to the state of impunity that was created.

Farrugia said that this was a unique occasion that was lost as the former Speakers were going to be invited to speak about their experience as Speakers of the House, and also to provide their views on how Parliament can move forward by better addressing the aspects of society today.

"For the message of these former Speakers who are full of experience to reach the public, the arrangements had already been made for the symposium to be broadcast directly on TVM and Parliament's TV station, and also on Parliament's website. Aside from this, the thought was for what was going to be said to be transcribed and issued in a publication for the occasion." 

He said that it is truly unfortunate that, while this activity was going to be held to remember 100 years from the setting up of Parliament when all the forces at the time united with one aim, in this unique occasion that the symposium was going to offer, "the much-needed union was set aside."