Forward looking

“Being a critic is easy. Criticism without a solution is merely an inflation of the critic’s ego.“- Haemin Sumin, Harvard University

Last week Parliament dedicated an entire session to the budget incentives tailor-made for Gozo in 2021. As customary, I gave my contribution to the debate and, as usual, based my speech on facts that no one can deny, no matter all the efforts to the contrary. Gozo has made considerable social and economic advances. They are there for all to see.

Constructive criticism

One cannot deny that Labour’s vision for our island has infiltrated every facet of our society. Unfortunately, constructive criticism does not appear to be high on the Opposition’s agenda. During the recent budget debate, the Opposition once again resorted to outdated rhetoric that negates the obvious. Perhaps burying their head in the sand is the only way they can cope! This is regrettable. It is a far cry from Labour’s consistently positive recommendations from the seats of opposition back in the day!

It is good to criticise, but equally necessary to offer alternatives and useful feedback. Our purpose as Gozitan MPs is to serve our constituents and use our influence to improve their wellbeing irrespective of our political allegiances. It must unite us in our diversity. To a good degree this has motivated us through the many meetings of the Parliamentary Committee for Gozo Affairs which I have the honour to lead.

Gozo transformed

Gozo is too precious for us to lose as it is our raison d’être. Hindering its prospects for political gain is unforgivable. It shows a lack of insight and maturity. Rosa Parks once said, ‘Memories of our lives, of our works and our deeds will continue in others.’ The future of Gozo lies in our hands.

Gozo’s transformation into a net contributor to the country’s economy has been the highlight of this and last year’s budget. Together we have put behind us our bleak past. We have forged ahead in building up our prospects with phenomenal results. Continuity is the thread that binds our past with our present and our future as Gozitans. The steps we are taking as government to arrive at our goal for a viable future can only flourish through a coherent and positive approach. This is the blueprint to our continued prosperity.

Gozo’s progress

Speaking of Gozo’s progress in these trying times may sound ironic, now we are in the middle of a pandemic that has brought the planet to its knees. We have to remember, though, that our past was riddled with uncertainty and strife but we overcame! Our resilience as islanders and Gozitans is legendary.

The only difference between the past and the present is that today, we are part of an autonomous island state. We control our own destiny. Gone are the days of abject poverty and shattered dreams, immigration and making do with the leftovers handed down by the powers to be! What’s even more positive is that Gozo, after decades of neglect by previous colonial and post-colonial nationalist administrations, is being given the attention and resources it deserves to succeed.

Moving forward

Labour’s hard work is in itself a tangible proof of our determination to implement our beliefs for a fair and just society. Hundred years of political commitment define our success to this very day. We have lived up to what Winston Churchill says about achieving success: ‘ Success is not final, failure is not fatal : it is the courage to continue that counts.‘.

I am proud to be part of Labour’s administration. My loyalty towards our fundamental principles has never failed, whatever role I have been entrusted with. Throughout my political career, I have strengthened my belief that the spirit with which our forefathers founded the Malta Labour Party remains at the core of every decision we take for the good of our country. I cannot help but quote the very last sentence of the MLP Election Manifesto of 1962 – ‘ Move we must. Forward rather than backwards. Towards the light away from darkness, with manly strides and head held high and the old battle cry ringing in our ears - Malta First and Foremost.‘

Prosperity and hope

Today Gozo is part of the equation in every way. The optimism injected by consecutive Labour Governments has given us the confidence and courage to kickstart our economy with resounding success. It has also showcased our innovative and entrepreneurial spirit. In a brief span of time, thanks to this government’s belief in our abilities, we have with enthusiasm transformed the very fabric of our society. We will definitely reach our goals and surpass all expectations.

Indeed Covid-19 was and still is a setback, but the measures presented for Gozo in this budget will tide us over and help us bounce back with greater vigour. Given the necessary tools through specific budgetary measures, we have the innate courage to look forward and reach out to better times, whatever the challenge. Our past defines our way forward.

Gozo - Labour’s priority

I cannot help but quote with pride what Finance Minister Profs Scicluna said in his Budget speech last October ‘ “Mr Speaker, this Government believes wholeheartedly in Gozo, and throughout this year, we have achieved excellent results which we want to build upon. From a mere beneficiary, Gozo has become a contributor to the economy of these islands because of its economic growth, which, proportionally, is even bigger than Malta’s. I expect this to continue increasing throughout the coming year, thanks to the measures included in this Budget.’

The measures for Gozo 2021 are vast and well-documented. I observe with satisfaction that my endeavours as Minister for Gozo and as a Member of Parliament have continued to instill confidence in our capabilities. The road-map for Gozo set up in 2013 has been a success all along. I am confident that it will continue to build on past successes in the years to come. Nothing fazes us - united as one front we will surmount all obstacles. It is of essence that irrespective of our personal beliefs and preferences, we shed our ego and pull one rope. We must take care of each other, now more than ever. Let’s leave our differences behind and focus on what is more important: Gozo’s continued progress towards sustainability and prosperity for future generations.