Examining some of the realities of the second and ninth districts

On the eve of Silent Day, I wish to clarify my reasons for selecting the second and ninth districts. The second district is my family’s home and where I grew up, while the ninth holds both personal and professional significance. My longstanding connections to these areas enable me to understand their distinct circumstances.

For example, during my teenage years, I befriended someone from San Ġwann and became familiar with much of the Mensija area. I continue to spend Saturday mornings in San Ġwann, where I have established relationships with several residents while running errands. Swieqi is another locality where I have spent considerable time with close friends, fostering an attachment to the area. Għarghur, where Ray’s maternal family originates, holds particular significance for me, evoking memories of Auntie Vitor and Ray’s mother, Żarena. Choosing another district proved challenging, as I felt it would be unfair to run in a district alongside colleagues I had recently supported. So, it was natural to choose the ninth district.

After more than three weeks of campaigning, I have observed that the second and ninth districts require distinct policy approaches. The second district faces urgent social housing challenges, particularly regarding the timely completion of units in Hanover (Bormla). Over the past four years, I have advocated for the prompt delivery of these units. The PL’s manifesto addresses affordable housing within the current economic context, an issue I am deeply committed to and have consistently campaigned for. As someone hailing from the second district, I am acutely aware of the community’s needs. Many residents seek little more than secure shelter and the opportunity to improve their lives. Some face insufficient income to maintain a decent standard of living or are excluded from qualifying for social housing. I recognise that social housing should not be a permanent entitlement. Individuals who experience improved circumstances should be provided with a transition period and, if appropriate, transition to affordable housing options. Addressing these issues is essential in the short- to medium-term.

Conversely, the ninth district requires targeted economic and environmental policies. In Swieqi, for example, residents struggle to open their windows during summer due to bitumen production coming from distant but yet close zones, which negatively affects their air quality, and the quality of life. I have engaged with residents who contacted me through social media and email, and I fully support their concerns. It is imperative that authorities intervene to ensure collective interests are protected over private gains. This is not a topic I am speaking about now. I have been advocating for better environmental management, and social matters for more than four years.

In Swatar, the community awaits a decision on a significant development project originating from the 2006 rationalisation under a PN government. The transformation of ODZ land in this valley raises concerns, particularly regarding the inclusion of a sufficient green buffer space. While private land development is understood, proportionality must guide such decisions to safeguard residents’ quality of life. On the other hand, in Pietà, increased traffic and problematic traffic lights in Msida and other areas exacerbate congestion. It is essential that residents are consulted before implementing pedestrian projects. This is what I believe, and compromises must be the norm not the exception.

Certainly, additional issues remain to be addressed, and time constraints prevented me from covering every locality in detail. I have valued the opportunity to engage with residents and learn about the realities of both districts. I respectfully request your support and assure you of my continued commitment to residents, regardless of the outcome. Observing how both districts evolve in the coming months will be insightful, particularly if the PL is re-elected. While some individuals express disappointment with certain candidates, ministers, or parliamentary secretaries, I encourage you not to abstain from voting. Instead, consider supporting new candidates on the PL’s ticket to effect change. Abstaining may inadvertently enable those who have disappointed you to be re-elected. Therefore, I urge you to participate in the election and make an informed choice. Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge the PL’s contributions to economic growth, social support, and national stability over the past few years.

Finally, I think Dr Robert Abela deserves another chance. His leadership contributed to continued stability. And frankly, Dr Abela has had to govern under exceptionally challenging circumstances, from shifting geopolitical realities and a global pandemic to yet another energy crisis stemming from the Middle East. Surely, we need to choose between stability and the unknown. And people stand to lose what they have achieved in the past years. The PL in government delivered most of its promises and improved people’s lives. Risking everything for an unknown recipe is not the best option. Hence, choose wisely.