News • 02 February 2003

Not just the PN’s campaign - Prime Minister on EU referendum

By Matthew Vella

PIETA’ - Prime Minister Eddie Fenech Adami’s leitmotif at the start of the PN’s Yes campaign is for all people to forget all political differences when such an important national decision is about to be taken.

Addressing a press conference at the PN headquarters in Pieta’, Dr Fenech Adami also said he would like to see all pro-EU organisations come together and express their support for EU membership. Although no formal invitation has been issued by the PN to other groups such as Moviment IVA or Alternattiva Demokratika, the PN leader said that he would be happy to be part of such a show of support for EU membership.

"This is not only the party’s campaign, but one where many have to speak out, and even represent their sector, to emphasise this national and historical decision the Maltese people have to take.

"The following five-week campaign has to be one which is fair and which respects the common, free, secret and equal vote of every individual to take their decision wisely and thoughtfully. I appeal to all sectors and organisations in favour of membership to declare their support and present a stronger voice."

Dr Fenech Adami said the PN will be conveying a message to show the people what being in the EU means and what it also means to be outside the EU.

"We have to exploit such possibilities, especially when seeing how other countries have fared so far, and therefore serving to us as mirrors of the future. We must not throw away such a future. Some countries have had their serious problems, but there is no doubt that there has been progress and a better standard of living for everyone."

Answering questions from journalists present, Dr Fenech Adami said with regards to tourism that it would be left in the hands of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association to regale the public with an honest and objective assessment of EU integration when they would be announcing their formal decision in the coming week.

Dr Fenech Adami insisted there could be no economist who could say that Malta would fare worse within the EU than outside. He mentioned the quality of work that would be heightened through EU membership, saying it would ensure the non-exploitation of workers and better conditions.

"The choice is either in or out. There is a political party that believes they have another solution but now we have a date, and the choice is for the people to decide whether they want Malta to be an EU member or not. Such a unique decision will not repeat itself.

matthew@maltamag.com