As my contribution in parliament during the budget debates were not reported in the newspapers, probably due to lack of space, I would like to bring up points which I raised.

Firstly, and before any St Julian’s public consultation meeting, I urged the council to come clear with all the facts on a project that saw its birth some seven months ago. I highlighted residents concerns, which were mine too, and was against the car park bit of the project.

I am not against the use of electric cars or vans for a circular bus system, nor the MEPA application for a socket. However, I did find that the word terminus is out of place, as only a maximum of two minibuses will be allowed to park and recharge batteries.

Any other form of embellishment, if this will be still on, is obviously welcome.

The government has proven once again, that public areas will remain public, and better still, tracts of land have been given back to the public for usage.

My experience in car parks is steadily increasing, particularly after the Qui si Sana car park saga. This was solved in a relatively short, yet, intense time. I am looking forward to the third one, should there be one, with a bagful of experience.

Another point I made in my speech concerned the number of foreign workers in Malta. The official registered figure of foreigners working here stands at 7,000-odd, in all trades. Now my calculation, perception and hands-on experience would at least double that number. Statistics have it that in the past 12 months, nearly 2,000 persons were discovered working illegally. There are still many thousands, therefore, who are not contributing anything to this country. These foreigners come here young, work, and do not give their contribution of National Insurance and Income Tax. They rent out and who knows at how much! Again no trace is left. My preoccupation is that some of these foreigners stayed here, got their families over, and are now getting older. They will eventually need medical attention, and probably a pension, as Malta has become their home. Are we Maltese going to pay for all this? Besides the hospitality, do we have to sponsor them till death?

Mind you, I am no racist, any person of any colour of skin has the right to work, but there are obligations too. Having obligations makes for a level playing field.

I suggested that all foreigners should be registered at their local council so we can get a whole picture of what we have in Malta. Information requested will include trades and skills, where they live, how they live and what their income is.

This can lead to the creation of work for Maltese people. All said and done, a budget is only a guideline of things to come. However, the individual makes his own budget, life and future. Relying on third parties is not on anymore.

Robert Arrigo is a Nationalist MP