VALLETTA (ITALPRESS/MNA) – President Myriam Spiteri Debono used the state opening of Malta’s 15th legislature on Saturday to outline the government’s priorities for the next five years, describing a strong economy and fiscal discipline as the foundation for delivering its programme.
In the address traditionally written by the government, the President said the result of the May 30 general election carried a heavy responsibility in light of international developments. She highlighted measures contained in the Labour Party’s electoral manifesto aimed at improving working conditions, attracting foreign investment and assisting first-time buyers.
The state opening began with the traditional Mass of the Holy Spirit at St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi. In his homily, the bishop called on newly elected legislators to place the protection of human life at the centre of their work, warning that “matters concerning life and death cannot be made dependent upon the popular consensus of a particular moment”.
Quoting remarks delivered by Pope Leo XIV to the Spanish Parliament earlier this month, Galea-Curmi said the defence of human life from conception to natural death was a matter of civilisation rather than partisan preference. He also spoke about integrity in public life, saying a nation was strengthened by leaders guided by principles rather than convenience.
Following the Mass, MPs proceeded to Parliament. Carmelo Abela was unanimously elected Speaker of the House and pledged in his inaugural address to uphold the principles of respect, freedom of expression, justice, truth and dignity. “We should work in the spirit of an institution so that Parliament does not get weakened, but rather becomes stronger than ever,” he said.
Former Opposition leader Bernard Grech was then sworn in as Deputy Speaker, saying he would work with the Speaker to ensure democracy is strengthened.
Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition leader Alex Borg took the oath ahead of the remaining MPs from both sides of the House.
Saturday’s ceremony marked the formal opening of the 15th legislature, 21 days after the May 30 election returned the Labour Party to government for a fourth consecutive term under Prime Minister Robert Abela.
One seat remains to be filled following Carmelo Abela’s resignation from Parliament. A casual election in the third district is due to be held on June 26.
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(ITALPRESS).
