Peace is founded on justice

There would be less crime in Malta if all children are raised in an environment of respect and love. There would be less school dropouts and the percentage of literacy would rise. It is no good saying later that we pity them and dish out some charity.

I know a man who has always kept on the right side of the law, respected his wife to the end, did much to educate his children, loves his nephews dearly and is intelligent in many ways though no academic. Another person, not even a neighbour, with money to throw about, set up horse stables illegally next to the first man's house. However, when confronted with this crystal clear case of illegality, the Planning Authority is reluctant to remove this illegal development. A friend of mine says this only happens in Malta: that hay sinks in water and lead floats – everything is upside down.

A lovely couple applied for a permit to have a greenhouse and water cistern somewhere in the fields which would have helped conserve the natural land because agricultural land is protected if it is cultivated. However, because of an alien’s objection who wanted to protect his villa from I don't know what, the permit was refused.

A shooting incident after a car chase comes to mind: the Gozo ferry was called back to carry VIPs and people in government accompanied by flashing lights to help change statements given to the authorities. It seems that certain people do bad things with impunity. It seems they know they are protected and can abuse their power and position.

When a teacher is suspected of abusing students, s/he is suspended immediately and his/her cavalry starts even if the teacher is honest. And the mud thrown sticks, let alone the psychological trauma they suffer. But other people continue wallowing in their muck, because it seems that although all animals are equal, some are more equal than others are. There is also a law for the gods and another for men.

I don't want politicians to protect me. I want the law to protect me. So I will vote for those who will strengthen independent authorities, those who make clear planning laws with no loopholes, those who establish a planning authority which protects justice, which means saving the natural environment for future generations and us. Joe Portelli Nadur