I recently had the opportunity of attending an excellent seminar, the high point of which was a speech by the eminent anthropologist Jeremy Boissevain. A charming man who was accompanied by an equally charming wife, both Melitaphiles (that’s a new word I just coined) to the core.

Dr Boissevain spoke to us about post-war developments in Maltese society. His analysis was unique in that it was made by someone not only eminently qualified in his field but also genuinely infatuated with Malta and the Maltese. The fact that he is a foreigner gives him an element of academic detachment, which is invaluable.

Many of his observations struck home. He spoke out about the need for sustainability when it comes to development, the blatant disregard shown by a percentage of the population towards the environment and, in particular, about what he regards as ‘amoral familism’.

This feature of the Maltese make-up, which involves a willingness to sacrifice the common good for the good of one’s family or acquaintances, may explain a number of negative traits of our society.

I must admit to disagreeing with him simply on one point. He asserted that the Maltese find it hard to stand up and be counted when it comes to the crunch. I beg to differ. I have been involved in politics for close to 30 years now.

I started my involvement by organising student demonstrations against the educational policies of the day. I always found all the support necessary from my fellow students, notwithstanding the fact that participating in a demonstration in those days came with a better than average chance of getting a beating.

I have, more recently, been involved in campaigns aimed at stopping a golf course from being developed on arable land between Zebbug and Rabat, thwarting the development of a cement factory near Siggiewi and discouraging the implementation of plans to dispose of most of the waste produced on our islands in two disused quarries situated metres away from Mnajdra and Hagar Qim.

The campaigns would not have been successful were it not for the active support of thousands of Maltese citizens.

I recently noted with pleasure that a group of concerned citizens, led by Ms Astrid Vella of ‘Sliema Baroque House’ fame among others, has set up a pro-environment lobby group called Flimkien Ghal Ambjent Ahjar.

I have experienced Ms Vella’s determination first hand and I am sure her group will continue to prove that Maltese civil society is not only alive but also ready to kick when it is necessary.

Dr Boissevain attributed the lack of popular participation in our society to “a government that does not like to be questioned”.

I can attest to the fact that our Prime Minister, Dr Lawrence Gonzi, is not only receptive to the average man in the street’s concerns but he also encourages feedback from concerned citizens. Qui-Si-Sana residents will, I feel, corroborate me on this fact.

All in all, the seminar was a positive and learning experience and a credit to the organisers and, obviously, their guest of honour.

Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando

is a Nationalist MP