One of the most remarkable aspects of the Labour Party is that it manages to renew itself constantly. In doing so, it remains relevant to an ever-changing society. Labour fully regenerated itself in the years leading up to the 2013 general election, and it has continued to do so since then. It still is. The results speak for themselves. This ability to evolve while remaining faithful to its core values has always been one of Labour's greatest strengths. It is a party that understands that society changes, people's expectations change, and politics must continue responding to those realities.
Following the changing of the guard at Mile End, when Ivan Falzon took over from Leonid Mac Kay - the latter having done an excellent job of renewing Labour from government despite three consecutive wins - the current CEO, Ivan Falzon, has hit the ground running. He has immediately shown determination and enthusiasm to continue strengthening the party's organisation and ensuring that it remains close to the people it represents.
Open leadership
Last Sunday, he gave an interview to the Sunday edition of The Malta Independent. He replied frankly to the many pertinent questions put to him. Ivan spoke about a stronger, better-organised Labour Party, with doors wide open to all people of goodwill, the distribution of wealth, social justice - and all the values associated with the Labour Party. He demonstrated that he has what it takes to lead the Labour Party political machinery following Labour's fourth historic win. His vision reflects a modern political movement that is prepared to listen, improve and continue building on the strong foundations laid over recent years.
Labour values
He spoke on our behalf, most of us who are active within the Labour Party and its government, when he said that the Labour Party's foundation has always been, still is, and always will be people who were not necessarily born under a lucky star. This is Labour, pure and simple - a political party firmly rooted in working class values, actively pursuing the wellbeing of the workers, and their families - ensuring that they, and their children, succeed and lead a life with the full dignity that they deserve. These principles continue to inspire Labour's policies, placing people at the centre of every important decision and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Purpose
Ivan is a man with a plan who knows exactly what needs to be done and how to achieve it. The truth is that given the lack of a credible opposition party, Labour steps in to keep the government firmly on its toes. It did so in the last legislature, and it will do so now. A strong political movement should never become complacent after electoral success. Instead, it should continue challenging itself to deliver even better results, and that is precisely the message Ivan has conveyed.
Guiding principle
In his office, Ivan told us, he framed a statement by our late dear friend, Lorenzo Vella, God bless his soul: "The Labour Party has to work so that every day we become a better version of ourselves." The new Labour Party CEO will ensure that we do that. Those words perfectly capture the spirit of continuous improvement that has characterised the Labour movement throughout its history and will undoubtedly continue guiding its future.
Equality denied
Sadly, the first parliamentary decision by the Nationalist Party after the general election was to block the Bill to establish a National Commission for Human Rights and Equality from being voted on by walking out of Parliament. The entire government side of the House present voted in favour of this Bill. PN leader Alex Borg told the press that, in doing so, he was giving 'a voice to the voiceless'. He wasn't. It was another PN blow to equality in Malta. Rather than allowing Parliament to debate and vote on such important legislation, the Opposition chose obstruction over constructive participation.
Blocking reform
We have been there before. When the Labour government sought to make IVF widely available, Alex Borg, then a PN MP, voted against it. Before Alex Borg's time, Lawrence Gonzi, as Prime Minister, had voted in Parliament against the introduction of divorce, even though the people had voted in favour in a referendum. Under Simon Busuttil's leadership, the PN also voted against historic rights granted by Labour to same-sex couples. The PN has consistently opposed minority rights and remains so to this day. Time and again, history has shown that major social reforms have been introduced by Labour while facing resistance from the Nationalist Party.
Duty First
Last week, three police officers were injured, one grievously, in a shoot-out at Ta' Giorni, St Julian's. A person has been arraigned in connection with this shooting. The country was in shock, and there was an outpouring of solidarity with the officers and the Malta Police Force. Occasions like these seem to make everyone realise the challenges that brave men and women of the Police Force face in their course of duty. They risk their lives to keep us safe. But we don't need such occasions to appreciate what they do for us. Their courage, professionalism and commitment deserve recognition every single day, not only during moments of tragedy.
Rhythmic faith
Shout out to Padre Guilherme, the internationally acclaimed Portuguese "DJ Priest," who headlined the Għaxaq Music Festival last week at the Għaxaq Grounds. In my time as Culture Minister I had helped the organisers to make this project happen. A huge crowd was in attendance, and we had a great time. The musician-priest rose to global fame after his viral World Youth Day performance in Lisbon. The Għaxaq event celebrated the 400th anniversary of the Għaxaq Parish and supported the Embrace Diversity Organisation. Well done to the volunteers of the Għaxaq Music Festival within the Għaqda Mużikali Santa Marija Għaxaq A.D. 1873 for a spectacular concert that captivated the audience with its vibrant atmosphere and unforgettable performances. Events such as these continue to showcase Malta's vibrant cultural life while bringing communities together for a worthy cause.
Clear difference
Fuel prices in Italy have shot up again, with petrol and diesel prices in several cities approaching €3 per litre. This is more than double the fixed fuel prices in Malta, where the Labour government subsidies keep petrol at €1.34 per litre and diesel at €1.21 per litre. In Milan, petrol and diesel have reached €2.60 and €2.70 per litre, respectively. No wonder people trust Labour time again. Warts and all, we are sensitive to people's needs and give families and businesses the financial support that they deserve. These measures continue protecting households from international price shocks while supporting businesses and safeguarding Malta's economic competitiveness.
Distinguished diplomat
It was a pleasure to meet with UN Under-Secretary-General Vanessa Frazier, the SG's Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict. We discussed issues of mutual priority, including the importance of safeguarding secure housing for children in conflict-affected countries. Vanessa is a career diplomat of extraordinary success. Recently, she made headlines following a heated exchange with another high-profile diplomat at the UN. She stood her ground, drawing widespread approval. Vanessa is a woman of great gravitas who makes Malta proud. Her professionalism, determination and dedication continue to enhance Malta's reputation on the international stage and serve as an inspiration to future generations of Maltese diplomats.