700 sign pro-divorce petition launched by entrepreneur

Nearly 700 people have already signed a pro-divorce petition launched online on website www.divorceinmalta.com, by its founder, entrepreneur Jonathan Shaw.

“On a personal level I believe that the state should eventually legalise divorce. This website is a good tool to disseminate such information and to measure the direct response through an online petition.”

Shaw says the websites highlights the need for the state to introduce divorce legislation in Malta, to allow people who are legally separated to re-marry after the civil dissolution of their marriage.

“It gives both those in favour, and those against, the chance to learn more about divorce so that they can better support their views and opinions. The information on the site was drawn up independently, based on published articles and reports,” Shaw said.

“It is obvious that different people will have different views on the matter, but I don’t see why people should be against the introduction of divorce if it does not affect them personally. The fact that someone is pro-divorce does not mean that they are unhappy in their relationship, or that they will have to get a divorce.”

When asked if a referendum should be held about divorce in Malta, Shaw disagreed: “Holding a referendum is clearly not a democratic way to tackle this issue. The eventual legislation of divorce means that this will not be imposed on anyone and this issue affects a minority.

“A referendum is held when there is a national issue which affects the majority and one is directly or indirectly affected by the outcome. Should we then have a referendum on whether petards should be banned? They are a nuisance, generate noise pollution and whether you like it or not are literally imposed on us!”

Shaw said the divorce debate should be led by MPs: “Neither party should fall into the trap of politicising divorce, but should work together to make a positive change by allowing for much-needed freedom of choice on this issue.

“I hope that this website goes a long way towards informing people on the realities of divorce and encourages those on both sides of the debate to take the time to look through it.”