First Mintoff monument set for December

A handful of Mintoff diehards this morning gathered at the Cospicua Square for the launch of the design of one of three monuments dedicated to their iconic leader.

Chairman of Duminku Mintoff Foundation, Josef Grech explained how the aim of the foundation is to honour the ex-prime minister. In disagreement to some of those present, Grech argued against placing a monument in Cospicua as the Labour party already had such plans. The first monument will be erected in December outside the late premier's former residence while another will be placed in Gozo in 2014.

Johan Scerri and his wife designed the first monument. It depicts Mintoff on top, the Labour Party's symbolic torch, the Maltese flag, a number of sailors and a family. The family's father is shown carving stone representing the working class.

Transport Minister Joe Mizzi arrived in the Square at the end of the presentation. He was greeted by the Foundation's chairman who explained the various aspects on the monument as "things Mintoff held close to his heart".

Minister Mizzi commented that as long as the Duminku Mintoff Foundation consults with the government the placement of it's monuments, the Minister does not envisage any disagreements.