This week’s thoughts go to the constant factor noted: that of the Opposition Leader and his advisors not to talk too much in debates or where unprepared questions could be placed, in a clear attempt to avoid embarrassment.
Why keep a prospective prime minister away from talking freely? This is beyond me. It makes some things very clear. That the Labour Party is not ready for an election victory; its policies, although pronounced as electoral gimmicks, are proving more costly than assumed; it has no definite views on a lot of subjects and this may lead to conflicting answers, thus confusing the possible Labour voter. Nothing new.
The last quarter of the year, starting with the Birzebbuga mass meeting, has not been too rosy for the Labour leadership. One mishap after another, accompanied by declarations against the medical profession and the opening of Mater Dei Hospital have thrown Labour down the pecking order.
Voters who turned to the left to find an alternative – and most voters do look for alternatives – were afraid to vote labour. They had to turn back to the Nationalists because, with all the defects one can conjure, the Nationalists are still the better choice. Not only for peace and tranquility, but for vision and a chartered course, pre-planning with thought, and serious dialogue. No voter can trust people who do not show up to debate future politics.
I did have occasion in parliament to speak out on some points that are food for thought in various fields. It was the fruit of continued house visits, which I found so useful in getting to know what people are thinking.
On housing, the generous schemes provided by the Nationalist government are being abused. There are people who move out of homes provided by the government and rent out their flats to foreigners, while leaving their ID address on that same house.
Another is the rent subsidy, and those who cannot apply for it as the apartment owner will not give out a receipt, but instead almost threatens people with eviction, if a receipt is insisted upon.
Lastly, a suggestion was made that when a rented house becomes vacant due to death or people moving elsewhere, the premises goes back to the owner. The owner’s obligation to cheap rent should stop when the above happens. Many times the children of the owner have to rent out premises themselves, for their own private living, while their own property lies vacant.
On other subjects, I did propose that local councils which have a hamlet within, should have candidates coming from that hamlet by law, thus ensuring proper and direct representation in the council. At most, sub committees should be formed to keep in touch with these hamlets. My suggestion, as forwarded by residents is for full representation of the locality.
Finally, a word about tourism. The good results achieved this year through the impact of low cost carriers, which came at a cost, is consolidated further by closer links with foreign tour operators and the setting up of web cams in particular places which accessible through the MTA website, as is the case with the Chioggia website.
This way viewers have a better look at their future destination. A satellite station that transmits features and films about Malta and Gozo 24 hours a day, seven days a week, should be set up. These should include tour operator numbers for interactive booking.
More diving areas with wreckages should be especially in the St Julian’s area.
More MTA offices should be opened in countries with core markets to promote tourism. Maximum profit from our resources is vital for us to stay afloat, especially when competing with other countries vying for the same piece of the pie.
My experience has been enhanced by house visits. This ongoing exercise, that has gone on for three years already, has provided me with so many suggestions, insight into various problems, and proposals for solutions to others. I am indebted to them. After all, politicians are there to serve the people, and it is by meeting people that we learn more.
Robert Arrigo is a Nationalist MP