These are challenging times, times that will undoubtedly bring on huge changes to our society, Nationalist Party leader Adrian Delia said in a recorded message for Easter.
"This situation has affected each and every one of us, our families and our loved ones, the elderly and our young ones. All our lives have been altered in one way or another. But despite all this, despite the challenge that the whole world is faced with, the Maltese people will not be deterred. We will remain determined. Determined to see hope prevail & determined to triumph over this unseen enemy. History has taught us that it has been our unwavering hope and determination that has always given us the strength to overcome the greatest of odds.
"As we represent you, we called for more stringent measures even before COVID reached our shores as we were adamant that preventive measures must be applied immediately. We called on the authorities and stressed on the importance of ensuring that our hospitals were well equipped and ready to face the challenges that we were about to encounter. We called on and appealed to the authorities to close our borders at an early stage, to better contain the spreading of the COVID19 virus. We stressed that immediate aid be given to support our economy with all the possible means. Workers, businesses, entrepreneurs and families alike. We proposed initiatives for all levels of society, the closure of schools, the limitation of direct contact in our communities and the cancellation of all public events and gatherings. We know that this is not easy, but it is the safest option given the circumstances.
"We proposed initiatives that targeted our society individually, pinpointing their needs both economic and social. We were specific and we were concise, because in times like these, this is what our nation needs. We ensured that no one was left out. In this moment of need our nation has to be one. United, with one goal. The wellbeing of all. Now more than ever, our ability to fight, hinges on our capacity to work together, together as a people and a country. Let's work together to save lives, to save businesses, to save jobs so when the time comes and life returns back to normal, we would be first to market and in a real position to rebuild our economy. Together we can emerge from this situation stronger than ever.
"So, to you, I say, keep strong, you our people, our Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists, our law enforcement officers, our business owners, our employees, our self-employed and all those who are carrying their responsibilities with selflessness, care and dedication. You are all heroes!. Stay Home, Keep Safe. Happy Easter to All."