Money no problem is a famous saying by a former Nationalist Prime Minister. Soon afterwards, money became a big problem. Recently, from statements uttered by the government, it seems that money is no problem yet again. Of course the Maltese know that money is a problem especially when they seek it in their pockets or when they receive one bill after the other. Moreover the financial situation with regard to the deficit and public lending is not in a good situation either. In fact the European Commission has urged the government to be in line with the set criteria where the deficit is concerned by 2010. As a matter of fact our deficit amounts to 4.7 per cent of the GDP when according to the Maastricht criteria this has to be not more than three per cent.

After the electoral defeat of the sixth June 2009, the nationalist government is announcing one project after the other. In themselves these projects have nothing wrong even because these are more than welcome and very much needed. But nowadays it seems that millions are coming out of our ears now. The question is from where is the Nationalist Government going to finance all these projects? This is even more important in view of the European Council of Finance Ministers where Malta was one of the countries to have to take measures due to its excessive deficit.

Last year Malta had the biggest deficit ever. Now we are in the midst of a recession and it is also acknowledged by the government that for this year we are not going to experience any economic growth. So from where is the government going to find e150 million for the Menqa project in Marsa, the Valletta project which is estimated to cost e80 million, the roads programme which was announced some weeks ago, a new power station and some of the Gozo initiatives which were announced almost a week ago?

Unless the government is not going to print money and in view of the fact that the economy is not growing than it seems that there is only one option – more taxes. If this is not the case – and I hope it is not – then the government is obliged to enlighten us on where all this money to fund these projects is coming from; some of them were mentioned many years ago but did not materialise.

Award for Kindness

Amy Zahra is an eleven year old student who this year won the Pope John XXIII award for kindness by the Peace Lab to commemorate the anniversary of the death of this Pope. The award was given by the President of the Republic HE Dr George Abela. The President, apart from highlighting the importance of the family, said that Amy is an example for us all since she is putting in practice what others learn from books especially on human rights.

Fr Mintoff who is the promoter behind this award, gave a speech which can serve to diagnose today’s society. His well written speech can serve as an eye opener and also a reflection of our society. Year after year I urge Fr Mintoff to publish his speeches in the form of a book since his studied reflections can help others.

Thanks God we have a number of Amy Zahras but unfortunately these do not hit the news headlines but for sure make a difference in society. It is also very important that the Presidency supports this award and it seems that the current President intends to do something more to give his support, and that of the Presidency, to this award for kindness.

Actavis – Action and Strength

Last week I had the opportunity as Shadow Minister for Industry to visit one of the leading international companies in the development as well as manufacturing of first-class generic pharmaceuticals named Actavis. Actavis derives from two latin words – acta meaning action and vis meaning strength. For me it was a very nice experience to learn how this big company works. The local company was first established in 1976, and of course with a different name. During the years it expanded and then in 2001 Actavis Malta joined the Group. Today it employs about five hundred twenty people.

The impression I got is that apart from taking their job seriously, there is great cooperation between the management team and the rest of the employees. They have one target and they work together to achieve it. The employees are not numbers but persons, and this is a key factor to achieve success.

The pharmaceutical industry can be a blessing in our country especially in the current circumstances. However the government needs to do more to develop this industry further since I firmly believe that there is more room for improvement and investment in this sector.

Carmelo Abela

Deputy Speaker and

Labour main spokesperson for industry and foreign investment

email: info@

carmeloabela.org