While being interviewed on Radju Malta, Dr Austin Gatt made a ridiculous claim. He said that only the rich (benestanti) can afford to divorce. Had he been referring to the present situation in Malta, he would have been dead right. But Dr Gatt was referring to the situation if divorce legislation is introduced in our country.

He tried to justify his claim by giving the following example: “Someone earning €1,000 per month would have to give €500 to his separated (or divorced) wife.” And if he remarries and have children, “how can he afford divorce?” asked a bemused Dr Gatt.

First, when one divorces, one does not necessarily remarry. Second, it is precisely this that is happening today. Only the rich can go abroad, reside there for some time, get a divorce and return to Malta. The Maltese government recognises that divorce, and that “rich” person can remarry in Malta!

When divorce becomes available in our country, not just the “rich” but all those whose marriage would have disintegrated beyond redemption will be able to get a divorce, and remarry if they wish to. And that decision should only be taken by the people concerned, not by Dr Gatt, Lawrence Gonzi, Andre Camilleri and the rest of the anti-divorce brigade!

If Dr Gatt is the “fervent Catholic” he claims he is, he should be the first one to defend and help people who are suffering because of their marriage breakdown. Instead, this “fervent Catholic” is doing everything in his power to deny the thousands of fellow citizens, their right to regulate their personal loving relationships as they wish to.

■ Eddy Privitera

Mosta