I remember, not too long ago, when parents from the USA, Australia and other foreign countries used to bring their families back to Malta to protect them from all the evil ways these countries held.

It is not so today. Sometimes I think I am just as safe in another country, because at least I am very aware of the surroundings.

Crime in Malta is getting out of hand, irregular migration is out of hand, the deficit is out of hand, drugs are out of hand, kids with unknown fathers are out of hand, hospital lists are out of hand, potholes in the roads are out of hand, parking is nowhere to be found and then, what the traffic situation?

What is going on? During the last five years Malta was transformed into a disaster. If you think I am exaggerating, take a look around you. Read the headlines and see what’s going on.

The only thing that hasn’t changed is the bickering between the political parties, finger pointing etc. Crime has spread especially in the southern part of the island. Holdups, muggings, house invasions, drugs? These things used to happen in other countries but seldom in Malta.

I was shocked when I heard the phrase “Malta is not safe anymore”. Oh, yes, some people call this sign of the times. I call it a shame.

How can such a beautiful island let this happen to its citizens? Maybe I should rephrase that: how can Maltese citizens let this happen to their beautiful little island?

Sometimes I think Maltese people are in denial about what’s going on. This island used to be the gem of the Mediterranean, now it’s a stepping-stone for migrants on their way to Europe. It’s become a drug haven for teens and crime is starting to flourish. Please prove me wrong.

Give me back my beautiful Malta.

Joseph Calleja

Manteca, California

USA