New Speaker pledges to safeguard minority’s right in parliament

Anglu Farrugia has defended his appointment as Speaker of the House after Opposition Lawrence Gonzi told the House earlier today that the appointment was an appeasement that went against the spirit of the Constitution.

Farrugia was elected Speaker following a motion presented by government and voted against by the Opposition. The motion nominating Censu Galea as deputy speaker was approved nem con.

Turning his attention towards the Opposition, Farrugia said he was looking at his new role with integrity and he will strive to see that the rules of democracy excel.

"I thank the Prime Minister this nomination. Because what is most important is not who you are but what you do with your role," Farrugia said.

Visibly excited, Farrugia said he wanted to be "a living example" of his role and pledged to work hard and with integrity. "My past in the Labour Party showed that I am a hard worker who believes in integrity. However, my new role asks for more than I did. I want to reassure everyone that I will defend the right of every MP in this House. More importantly, the rights of the minority will be safeguarded," Farrugia said.

Turning to both sides of the House, Farrugia asked for forgiveness if in any way in the past he let down anyone. "I will continue building on the good carried out by Speaker Emeritus Michael Frendo and move towards a parliament which is autonomous at all levels," he said.

Farrugia said that parliament was the natural home of democracy where the citizen was sovereign. Because of this, he said, other reforms must take place including having a stronger and efficient parliament.

"This can only be achieved through hard work. Because democracy doesn't start and stop with an election but means having a parliament which is close to the people and which sees increased participation of the citizens."

Farrugia said to achieve this goal, he however needed the help of every single member of parliament.