‘Deborah Schembri perfectly fits the bill for MEP’, says Joseph Muscat

Labour MP and candidate for the European Parliament elections “perfectly fit the bill” for the role of MEP, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said.

Addressing a joint press conference on the official launch of Schembri’s candidacy, the Labour leader said Schembri had what it takes to be an effective MEP.

“She works hard and takes informed decisions. She doesn’t bow her head to decisions but she researches the proposals. As the divorce campaigner, she was an inspiration to women who thanks to her are now living a new life,” Muscat said.

Describing her as “one of the authors” that brought about a big change in Maltese society, Muscat said Schembri’s national profile has helped her work even more as a member of parliament where her interventions have been “of quality”.

Muscat admitted that he had to ask Schembri twice before she agreed to contest the EP elections.

“I personally asked her because I wanted her, I believe in her.”

On her part, Schembri pledged to serve with loyalty if she is elected as MEP.

“At the end of the day it all boils down to how much an MEP remains close to the people. Citizens feel no connection with Europe and it is the job of an MEP to bring the citizen close to the EU.”

The MEP hopeful said her agenda would not only focus on job creation and irregular migration but also on civil rights and liberties. Schembri pointed out that with Malta’s EU presidency in 2017, the MEPs had to work closely together in the best interest of the country.

As the EP elections get closer and the candidates do all they can to garner more votes, incumbent Joseph Cuschieri today said he would donate half his income to charity if he were to be re-elected.

And for Muscat, every candidate should do as his heart desires. Asked whether the electorate should be voting on the candidate’s abilities and qualities and not on the money they promise, the Labour leader refused to be dragged into the issue.

“Everyone does what he or she wants,” he said with a smile.