Alfred Sant, Head of the Maltese Delegation at the S&D group at the European Parliament, said in a recorded New Year's Message from Strasbourg that during 2016 he will continue to promote the national interests of Malta at the European Parliament when the debate of the future of Europe unfolds.  Dr Sant said that there are those who would like to create a federal Europe. There are others who prefer that Europe gives back main lines of governance to the member states. ‘In this regard I am determined to participate in this debate to promote the national interests of Malta within the EU.’

Dr Sant said that during 2015 the Maltese S&D delegation strove to defend the interests of the Maltese and Gozitans in the face of a string of crises which struck the European Union. ‘Where necessary, to defend Malta’s national interests, the Maltese Labour Delegation went against the S&D's political line.’

The year 2015 witnessed the euro crisis caused by Greece’s financial problems; terrorism, which struck twice in Paris and shook the world; the influx of immigration towards Europe from Africa and the Middle East, first from central Mediterranean and then from Turkey; the ongoing confrontation between the EU and Russia; The uncertainty on UK membership in the EU, which still can leave the EU.’

GREATEST CHALLENGE

Dr Sant said that in the meantime, the economic situation in Europe remained stagnant and fragile. Unlike Europe,  under a Labour Government led by Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, this did not happen in Malta. On the contrary, we witnessed economic growth which is well above that in Europe. But in each of these issues, there are vital interests for Malta.

The greatest challenge is immigration. A longterm and just solution can only be reached on a European basis. One must respect European values in favour of mercy and shelter to the persecuted,  while respecting also the legitimate wishes and aspiration of those communities who do not want to be burdened with excessive financial burdens. I will be giving my utmost during 2016 to reach this objective.’

TERRORISM

Dr Sant said we must create a European solution in face of the threats of terrorism, where the European Parliament shoulders particular responsibilities.  With respect to the neutrality of Malta and to human rights,  I will support every measure that guarantees the security of all citizens in Europe.

Another challenge facing Europe is economic stagnation.  We must be firm and determined  when such measures are discussed in the European Parliament and analyse how these measures can affect us for good or for worse.

Dr Sant said we should also explore new opportunities during 2016. A new digital policy is being discussed in Europe. ‘I will support each and every initiative at the European Parliament in favour of the development of digital economy to create new opportunities for our young people in Malta and Gozo.’

ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL POLICY

The tendency is that all measures are to be observed equally by all EU member states. This policy can discriminate against small countries and small regions who feel disadvantaged when compared to the other larger EU countries. This is happening in the case of Gozo. It is happening in important sectors like manufacture, transport – especially AIRMALTA – agriculture,  fisheries and soon, taxation. Personally I promise to remain vigilant to counter the one size fits all measures.