Albert Buttigieg
Politics is about empowering people, in particular those vulnerable, to live their daily lives with dignity and reassurance.
At its core, politics is about values.
I entered politics to promote and safeguard the values I consider are the cornerstone of our society, mainly:
The value of life
All other values rest upon this cornerstone value. It is not limited to a narrow interpretation, but embraces the dignity of every single person at every stage of life.
It calls for us to care for what makes life meaningful: our communities, our environment, and our culture, the beauty and well-being of our animals and the richness of human expression in all its diversity and forms.
We must adopt a holistic approach to life and all that it entails. Thus, going beyond the GDP mind-set we must promote and safeguard an economy that cherishes and supports the well-being of all our citizens.
Safeguarding of our environment
Our natural and cultural heritage are under unprecedented pressure. Labour’s environmental track record is abysmal.
Overdevelopment, the systematic demolition of our heritage, and growing sea/air pollution are visible realities.
We must then act decisively with a clear sense of direction.
If entrusted once more, I will lobby and network to promote concrete policies that safeguard our environment. These include:
- The establishment of a one-stop shop to coordinate and regulate the placement and management of tables and chairs in public spaces. Currently, responsibility is fragmented across multiple state entities including the Trade Department, the Malta Tourism Authority, the police, the Lands Authority and the Planning Authority. When residents flag concerns about noise and enforcement, these entities too often end up shifting responsibility onto one another. A single authority would ensure accountability, coordination and enforcement.
- The creation of an aesthetics board to assess and validate development proposals, ensuring that new projects respect their surroundings and our architectural heritage;
- The introduction of solar rights, guaranteeing residents the right to access natural sunlight in their homes;
- The identification and safeguarding of public land and pathways, ensuring they are mapped out, accessible and protected for the enjoyment of all;
- The protection of gardens and valleys, preserving the green lungs of our communities.
The cost of our inaction and lethargy will be far greater than the cost of reform.
A society is judged by how it treats the most vulnerable. We must ensure that no one is left behind, regardless of ones background, beliefs, abilities, colour of skin or gender.
Economic success must be measured not only by growth, but also by fairness, inclusion, and the level of our quality of life.
Corruption and bad governance undermine all of this.
Sadly, labour’s trajectory puts them to shame! To tolerate such degeneration is to become complicit in this injustice.
Over the past 40 years, I have served in different roles: educator, Franciscan Capuchin priest, CEO at the Housing Authority, administrator at Caritas, Mayor of St. Julian’s and lately as MP. In each role, I sought to lead with integrity, zeal and with a deep sense of responsibility.
That commitment remains unchanged.
As a candidate representing the Nationalist Party for the forthcoming elections on the 9th and 10th districts, I am determined to remain an assertive advocate for our environment, and a strong promoter of inclusion and social justice.
Entrusting me with your vote is both an honour and a responsibility – one that I pledge to uphold through dedicated work for the common good.
I will not shy away.
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