Right from the start of the Brexit process, the most difficult problem appeared to be that of Northern Ireland. While remaining within the UK, Northern Ireland needed to stay in a free trade and free circulation zone with the Irish republic, which itself remained a full member of the EU. It was like trying to draw a square circle.
Right from the start as well, the compromise that was reached seemed wobbly. It’s not working well and the manoeuverings from the British side to bring about a change in the situation has rightly aroused the suspicions of the European side.
Other issues have been stoking concern – such as the registration of continental boats that may fish in British waters – adjustments in financial services regulations – commercial measures agreed to in the Brexit treaty that are being fudged...
The more that the Covid-19 pandemic is forced to retreat (which is what all hope will happen), the more we shall be hearing about persisting problems in the implementation of the Brexit protocols. As of now, they’re like hiccups. Shortly they could develop into a major headache.
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DIALOGUE AND DEBATE
Much emphasis is being placed on the importance for citizens to be given the opportunity to participate in debates about the future of their country, of Europe or of this and that economic and social sector. One cannot but agree that the emphasis is justified.
However if they’re going to be useful, such debates must be conducted in a genuine manner. If the claim is going to be that they’re open too all citizens, so that all people interested can freely have their say, then they should truly do so.
Now a number of the debates that get held are intended for further transmission on media. Some main speakers are chosen beforehand (which is normal) but then, so are other speakers who supposedly stand for “the citizens”. Everything turns out to be preplanned and prearranged. Certainly this is not the right way to proceed if “debates” are really intended to serve as fora where dialogue can occur.
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RACISM
It is futile to pretend that racism is not prevalent among us. It is. Much too often it is taking unacceptable shape and worse, reaching criminal proportions.
We are not the only people who are liable to such a charge. Which does not mean that this huge problem should be ignored. Nor does it mean that all Maltese should be classified as having a racist mentality.
The problem has to be faced with commitment and without any feebleness in how the necessary measures are implemented. In terms of the law and of police action. From the educational perspective and from the point of view of social policy. With due importance being given to the upbringing and behaviour of children and young people, plus action with regard to the behaviour of adults.
Many of the speeches that get delivered about how the Maltese are a compassionate people will sound hollow if crimes and gestures of a racist character are allowed to happen with impunity. Meanwhile, social conditions must be cleaned of the fear, envy and ignorance which motivate the crimes and gestures.
It is not an easy thing to do but it must be done.