Council of State not yet composed – President Abela

Speaking about Parliament, as the “highest institution of the land” Abela said that it does not however exist solely to enact laws but also has the function of debating matters of national interest.

“It is vital that decisions taken in relation to the workings of Parliament and its committees be always directed to ensure that these continue to function and do so in the best possible way,” Abela said, adding that it is his wish “to see each parliamentary committee which was set up with useful and precise aims to continue to carry out its tasks.”

He noted that a proposal which he launched last year for the setting up of a Council of State composed of the President, the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and former Presidents “which met the approval of politicians of different opinions” was not established. 

Saying that he remains “available to play my part”, Abela reiterated that the council “may perform a significant role in the discussion of matters which come up from time to time.”

Speaking about the plight of poverty, Abela said that a “selection of Maltese society” seems “unable to emerge from the dire straits of poverty or the risk of falling below the poverty line.”

He pointed out that according to recent figures, 14 per cent of the Maltese population is in risk of poverty.  “It seems that the number of those who are finding it difficult to make ends meet by means of their income is increasing,” he said.

He emphasised the need for commitment to a collective effort in order to find practical ways to devise solutions:  “We need to find out why a section of the population is lagging behind.  We need to discover, for instance, the reasons why a section of our youth is not availing itself of the existing facilities in education, for education is one of the determining factors which can make a difference so that these people may improve their lot.”

He said that the state lacks the means to effectively help a section of the low-income population, more prone to social problems and lacking of education, concentrated around the Grand Harbour area.

Turning to the financial crisis, Abela said that “it is time that we identify what the priorities of Maltese Society should be in accordance with the financial means at our disposal and in conformity with the value of social solidarity which we uphold.”

He expressed satisfaction at restoration works on historical buildings, fortification walls and other locations as well as on works of art and antique books.  “This helps us to live better, to enjoy our heritage and certainly helps the tourism industry in spite of the global economic situation.”

He added however that more remains to be done in what concerns the protection of the environment. “We have a moral obligation to exercise caution and prudence when it comes to putting to economic profit the limited natural resources which belong to us and to future generations.”

He appealed for “more assiduous” protection of natural, ecological and geological heritage. “Protected areas of historical significance and of geological and ecological importance deserve the most rigorous protection so that what we have is not lost for ever with the result that we deprive of it future generations.”

Abela also stressed the importance of the social environment. “It is necessary that the feeling of security that Maltese society enjoys should not be allowed to be threatened by a few unscrupulous elements who care for nothing, not even human life, as long as they attain their illicit purposes.”

He encouraged all those who can help to cooperate with the forces of order. “It would be fitting that our Courts, on their part, would keep a just balance between the rights of the accused and the general interest to protect society.”