Labour whip tells Muscat 'everyone is dispensable but you'

Labour whip Godfrey Farrugia did not spelt out the words but he went as far as telling Prime Minister Joseph Muscat that “everyone is dispensable, but you”, in what was interpreted as a veiled appeal to Muscat to act over Panama Papers.

Addressing the Labour’s annual general conference, Farrugia reminded the Labour delegates that the AGM was a time for “sincere reflection”, where the government’s work is evaluated and the values and principles of the parliamentary group are measured.

“There are no doubts that this is the most hard-working government we’ve seen with a strong performance in several sectors … we have strengthened our economy, there was the diversification in education and health. If Muscat taught me one thing, it’s that we can do and we will do,” Farrugia said.

However, Farrugia warned that the people’s perception of politicians was changed and they have reaffirmed that, in politics, it’s easy to get dirty.

“People are noticing that certain people working closest with the government need a shake up. The people are noting the arrogance and the circles – which cost the PN the election – growing among us.”

As the Labour leader listened attentively on, Farrugia argued that doubts bring distrust while the Labour Party will be defined by the choices it takes. “We have to keep evaluating the realities of the moment and understand how people, beyond the partisan lies, perceive us.”

He went on to add that it’s those who do not act are the one who do not carry out any mistakes. “We act, and that is why we need to react at the opportune moment. Let us not be afraid of constructive criticism … especially that which is coming from within.”

Reiterating that it’s the party’s optimism that will help turn challenges into opportunities, he encouraged the PL to once again focus its energy on the values, the principles, the civic sense and the correctness that distinguish the Maltese society.

Thanking Muscat for being the person keeping the party together, Farrugia warned him that “everyone is dispensable, except you”.

“Final decisions rest with you. We know that you decide after you listen, you consult and you evaluate. We stand behind you.”

Farrugia quipped that, as a medical doctor, his ‘diagnosis’ of the country was that it needed the Labour party to govern it.

“This is the government which Malta needs. I am in politics because I love people and I believe in the values of social democrats … I love this Malta for all.”

Cabinet members Carmelo Abela and Chris Fearne came out in strong defence of Mizzi, arguing that the Opposition should look at the scandals that were carried out under the previous administration. They referred to the weak concrete structures at Mater Dei Hospital, with repair works estimated at €150 million.