Do you believe that since the Labour Party remains apprehensive about EU membership, that the PN has an advantage in these elections due to its consistency on this issue?
It is a great pity that there is no consensus on EU membership as the Labour Party remains uncertain on the EU as was stated last week by Dr Alfred Sant in a mass meeting where he said that the partnership option remained the best solution. I don’t believe this situation is an advantage for the PN but our trump card remains our consistency on the EU issue and our capability of negotiating the best terms for Malta. I have no doubt that our MEPs will continue to work for the best benefits of the country in the European Parliament.
Are you confident of your performance in these elections and do you believe you will receive a positive result?
I do not like to be a prophet. Even when I was asked this question on the EU referendum I was hesitant to predict the outcome even though I felt that the Yes campaign would triumph. On a personal note, I am working hard and have a great feeling from the feedback I am getting. But this means nothing as the vote on 12 June is all important. If the Maltese people want to elect me, I will be honoured to serve but if not, we will see how my political career continues to develop.
Which are the committees in the European Parliament you would like to work in if you are elected?
It is the party which will decide which areas in the European Parliament will be given priority. However, since I have always been very active in social matters, I would obviously have an inclination to serve in that area. Another sector which interests me considerably is the educational one. However, as I said, it is the party which will give indications on this matter after the elections. I also wish that all Maltese MEPs will work as a team although we will be placed in different groups. Let’s just wait and see!
There has been a consistent campaign on the advantages of being grouped in the main European groups such as the Socialists and the Popular Parties.
Do you believe the PN’s minuscule presence in the 280 strong EPP will be of an advantage to Malta?
I have no doubts about that. I view our membership in the European Popular Party as a distinct advantage as this is the largest group in the EP. We already saw this happening when Prof. Josef Bonnici successfully moved an amendment with the backing of the EPP. One must also point out that the EPP is set to increase its majority after these elections so the PN will be part of this largest group that will significantly influence legislation in the next Parliament.
Your final message to the electorate?
The Maltese nation is being called upon to make a choice yet again. This is not a national election but a vote in favour of Europe – the people are being asked to choose which five members can best represent them in the European Parliament. I have no doubt that the Maltese will elect those candidates who can work in the best interests of Malta and that these candidates will be from the Nationalist Party.