Byron Camilleri (PL)
What is on the agenda for this parliamentary season?
The coming months will see the government continue to pursue its goal to implement a reformist agenda. One of the first laws on the agenda are those related to voluntary organisations, amendments to family business activities and the strengthening of the Malta Financial Services Authority.
What are the most important bills or motions that you believe deserve to be given priority?
The appointment of Malta's first Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards is a very important motion that will be discussed and approved in the coming weeks. This is another step among many that this government has taken to strengthen governance and rule of law. The government has also accepted the proposal of the Opposition to appoint Dr George Hyzler as the first commissioner. This is further proof that despite having the biggest majority in history, the government has no problem in being open to scrutiny.
A vote on this appointment shall be taken together with a budget-related vote on 30 October.
What bills or motions do you believe could stir up controversy?
I do not see any bills presented creating controversy; however, I expect anything from the current irrational Opposition. After all, it was this Opposition that voted against extending IVF to more people and against a law intended to protect the victims of domestic violence.
The previous few parliamentary seasons have been defined by animosity between the two sides in Parliament. Do you envisage another competitive year or will there be greater cross-party cooperation?
The fact that we accepted the Opposition's nomination for the role of Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards is a clear example of how the government works where cooperation and cross-party debate is concerned. On the other hand, I do expect more infighting between Opposition factions.
Will we see the introduction of more family-friendly measures, such as the changes to the Wednesday session?
Parliament will now be convened between 4pm and 7.30pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, whereas Monday sessions will still be held between 6pm and 9.30pm. I look forward to holding all sessions between 4pm and 7.30pm. Morning, afternoon and evening sessions will be held during budget sittings.
There are a number of MPs whose attendance is questioned. Should measures be introduced to ensure greater attendance? Have you spoken to your MPs about the matter?
I must note that parliamentary attendance has improved drastically during this legislature.
Robert Cutajar (PN)
What is on the agenda for this parliamentary season?
So far, the government has informed us of the first 10 bills that will be on the parliamentary agenda. This includes legislation with regard to NGOs, family businesses, the Education Sector, and the financial services sector. Obviously, the budget remains the most important subject. This will be presented on 22 October, with the Leader of the Opposition's reply coming a week later.
It should be noted that while the Government Whip provided me with drafts of the first 10 bills, which will be discussed during the budget schedule, the House Business Committee did not convene once during the summer. In fact, the committee will first meet just hours before the actual Parliament convenes on 1 October.
What are the most important bills or motions that you believe deserve to be given priority?
The budget remains an important event in Parliament every year. Apart from this, the Opposition does not exclude presenting any motions or private member's bills in the coming weeks on a number of subjects. The Opposition will participate actively in every permanent parliamentary committee, where we will give our contributions with respect to the highest institutions of the country, and with respect and duty to the people of Malta and Gozo.
What bills or motions do you believe could stir up controversy?
The bills being presented by the government should not arouse controversy. However, the Opposition does not exclude presenting amendments to see that the bills presented by the government are developed into better legislation than what has been presented.
The previous few parliamentary seasons have been defined by animosity between the two sides in Parliament. Do you envisage another competitive year or will there be greater cross-party cooperation?
One cannot exclude anything especially with regard to the lack of transparency and accountability that has defined the Labour government in the last few years. The Opposition will continue doing its work as it is obliged to do so, by not only criticising where needed but also presenting proposals and solutions in the interest of the common good. When we speak in the interests of the common good, we must have a government who will not be displeased with our work. It is also our duty as the Opposition to be a voice and shine a light on those most vulnerable in our society.
Will we see the introduction of more family-friendly measures, such as the changes to the Wednesday session?
As a matter of fact, as from tomorrow Parliament will start meeting on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 4:30, while Monday will remain a 6pm session. One hopes that the decision taken by the government is for family measures and not for other reasons.
There are a number of MPs whose attendance is questioned. Should measures be introduced to ensure greater attendance? Have you spoken to your MPs about the matter?
Nowhere does it result that the reasons Opposition MPs miss sessions are capricious. As Whip, I can confirm that any absence by Opposition MPs has always been justified and have all been accepted by the Speaker. Every MP knows that there is a €50 penalty if he or she fails to attend a session without a valid reason.
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