Generally speaking, the Maltese public does not associate the qualities of efficiency, understanding, courtesy and commitment with government departments, although to be fair, there are flickering signs that little by little steps are being taken to remedy the situation.

But believe me, as far as the Office of the Ombudsman is concerned, I have nothing but praise for the way in which my case was handled, starting from day one!

The memories of the ordeal I went through on Good Friday of this year have been eclipsed by the resurrection of my faith in human nature. The euphoria of vindication is beside the point here: You see, I was simply amazed at the frequency of letters and phone calls from Dr Ivan Mifsud, keeping me abreast of the latest developments concerning my grievance. This gentleman, in every sense of the word, even went as far as to inform me, at one point, that he was going to be away for a certain period and, should the need arise, I could always leave a message with his secretary!

Indeed, these people are a breath of fresh air filtering through the rancid environment of bureaucracy and sheer indifference to the plight of the oft powerless, ordinary citizen.

Martin Bugeja

BALZAN