OBJETTIV 9: PARTIT LABURISTA ATTWALI
Issir revizjoni ta’ l-Istatut biex permezz tieghu l-istrutturi tal-Partit Laburista jaggornaw ghal din il-generazzjoni u ohrajn futuri.
I'm not reaally clued up on the structures of the Labour Party. As someone looking in from the outside it's all a bit of a mystery. Still, let's have a look.
35. Billi fost il-proposti li jigu miftuha ghad-diskussjoni jkun hemm li l-Assemblej jinhataw dimensjoni statutorja u jkunu miftuha ghal membri.
To be honest, not sure what this means but it seems to reinforce the ongoing theme of opening up discussion and engaging support more effectively into the decision making process.
36. Billi l-Konferenza Generali titwal permezz ta’ laqghat ghad-delegati fejn jigu diskussi u dibattuti policies, kif ukoll jigu mizghuda permezz ta’ kelliema minn sezzjonijiet differenti tas-socjeta’ kif ukoll minn barra l-pajjiz.
Absolutely a good idea. Less of the long speeches with the big heads telling us what's right and more open debate and discussion with groups reporting back to the conference. How to choose and integrate the different ideas is the question.
37. Billi jigi propost li fuq medda ta’ snin, il-Kunsilliera Lokali, li huma eletti direttament mill-poplu, jinghataw rwol akbar fid-decizjonijiet li jittiehdu.
Agree - absolutely!
38. Billi jigi propost li kariga fl-Amministrazzjoni tal-Partit Laburista tkun responsabbli direttament mill-kordinament tal-hidma rigward Kunsilli Lokali.
Ditto!
39. Billi l-Kumitati Lokali jissahhu halli ikomplu jsiru l-punt fokali ta' l-involviment tal-Partit Laburista f' kull komunita'.
This could be an interesting one. I can't be certain because I've never been involved in the frmal structure of a political party in Malta but they do give the impression of being a little too top-heavy in their structure. Getting local committees more involved will help morale and motivation and get people out on the street to canvass and campaign. Any party needs that.
40. Billi r-revizjoni ta’ l-Istatut tal-Partit tinghata prijorita fl-ewwel sena. Dan isir permezz ta’ Kummissjoni li titwaqqaf apposta ghal dan il-ghan u li tiltaqa ma’ l-istrutturi kollha tal-Partit sabiex tigbor ideat, suggerimenti u proposti. Wara, bis-sehem ta’ professjonisti minn bosta oqsma, fosthom mill-qasam legali, jitressqu ghad-diskussjoni proposti biex l-Istatut tal-Partit jittejjeb mil-lat prattiku, politiku u legali.
You judge an organisation on its results so there's only one judgement to make about the Labour Party over the last twenty years. Something hasn't been working very well and that needs to change. The structure of the party has not been able to deliver a winning formula and therefore the time is rype for reveiw and reform. I think it's fair enough that this is something to which attention is given as quickly as possible.
Saturday 31 May 2008
MLP Leadership Contest - Joseph Muscat's Vision (Part Eight)
OBJETTIV NRU. 8: PARTIT LABURISTA AMBJENTALI
Partit li jsahhah il-kredenzjali ambjentali tieghu u jfittex li juza prattici Ewropej fil-qasam ta’ l-energija u ambjent.
32. Billi ssir review ambjentali tal-prattici uzati fic-Centru Nazzjonali Laburista bil-ghan li jitnaqqas il-konsum u jizdied l-uzu ta' energija alternattiva u nadifa, u jigi generat inqas skart.
You've got to lead by example. The fact is that so far all the 'environmental' activities in Malta have been a bit hollow. It's all been nice fluffy stuff. Oooh, let's plant a few trees. How pretty! There's been little or no effort to actually get it in to people's heads that we have to change the way we live. We are actually going to have to make a personal effort - each and every one of us. We are going to have to take personal responsibility for this. So far, our Government simply hasn't had the balls to do this.
Of course, it's a tough one all the more so when elections in Malta are so tightly contested. But taking the lead and actually doing something pro-active to force the party to change its behaviour and to become more carbon friendly I think is absolutely necessary. If we have to get people to change the way they live, we have to set the example. I hope this happens whoever wins next week.
33. Billi dan iservi ta’ progett pilota li fuqu jkunu incentivati biex jimxu c-Centri Laburisti madwar Malta u Ghawdex.
Of course .... and then all Government buildings one hopes.
34. Billi l-Kunsilli Lokali b’maggoranza Laburista u dawk il-Kunsilliera li jinsabu f’minoranza jahdmu aktar biex il-Kunsilli Lokali juzaw prattici ambjentali fil-komunitajiet i jirraprezentaw.
Mhux ovvja siehbi!
Partit li jsahhah il-kredenzjali ambjentali tieghu u jfittex li juza prattici Ewropej fil-qasam ta’ l-energija u ambjent.
32. Billi ssir review ambjentali tal-prattici uzati fic-Centru Nazzjonali Laburista bil-ghan li jitnaqqas il-konsum u jizdied l-uzu ta' energija alternattiva u nadifa, u jigi generat inqas skart.
You've got to lead by example. The fact is that so far all the 'environmental' activities in Malta have been a bit hollow. It's all been nice fluffy stuff. Oooh, let's plant a few trees. How pretty! There's been little or no effort to actually get it in to people's heads that we have to change the way we live. We are actually going to have to make a personal effort - each and every one of us. We are going to have to take personal responsibility for this. So far, our Government simply hasn't had the balls to do this.
Of course, it's a tough one all the more so when elections in Malta are so tightly contested. But taking the lead and actually doing something pro-active to force the party to change its behaviour and to become more carbon friendly I think is absolutely necessary. If we have to get people to change the way they live, we have to set the example. I hope this happens whoever wins next week.
33. Billi dan iservi ta’ progett pilota li fuqu jkunu incentivati biex jimxu c-Centri Laburisti madwar Malta u Ghawdex.
Of course .... and then all Government buildings one hopes.
34. Billi l-Kunsilli Lokali b’maggoranza Laburista u dawk il-Kunsilliera li jinsabu f’minoranza jahdmu aktar biex il-Kunsilli Lokali juzaw prattici ambjentali fil-komunitajiet i jirraprezentaw.
Mhux ovvja siehbi!
MLP Leadership Contest - Joseph Muscat's Vision (Part Seven)
OBJETTIV 7: PARTIT LABURISTA TA’ IDEAT
Partit li, permezz ta’ l-istrutturi godda tieghu jaghti l-possibilta’ lil kull individwu biex tressaq/jressaq ideat u proposti personali.
30. Billi jitwaqqaf il-“Forum ta’ l-Ideat” fejn kull persuna tkun tista taghti l-ideat u suggerimenti taghha ghal proposti Laburisti.
It seems to me that the building of a big progressive tent is something on the forefront of Joseph's mind. I'm sure there will be lots of people wanting to contribute ideas but the big challenge will be to recruit people who are currently outside the tent.
The problem I see is that people in Malta are still mostly stuck blindly to one side or another and the big battle ground are the few thousand in the middle (like me) who are prepared to make decisions on a case by case basis based on which party we believe represents the best option for Malta.
Unfortunately the Labour Party has lost so much credibility with this core (and it has to be said) growing group that the first challenge will be to engage them and re-integrate them into the debate on Labour policy.
If this happens, then Joseph's ideas forum could be a fantastic tool for the centre ground to begin to feel some ownership over progressive policy development and that could make a hell of a difference come election time.
31. Billi jitwaqqfu Gruppi ta’ Hsieb dwar oqsma ewlenin tal-politika lokali, Nazzjonali u internazzjonali biex jghinu fit-tfassil kontinwu tal-politika gdida Laburista f’ dawn l-oqsma.
This is something that's always perplexed me - the lack of think tanks in Malta. I know resources are a bit of an issue. Well, they're a massive issue and there's always more pressing things to spend money on.
But, if we did have some groups that stood slightly apart from the political battlefield and looked more carefully and analytically in to the future we'd perhaps not have the awful looking building site that we call home.
For those of us who consider ourselves moderates and progressives there are lot sof areas in which Malta needs to develop some really tight policy strategy. Climate change resulting in rising temperatures, rising sea levels and increased migration are having an obvious impact.
Our present policy seems to be either ignore it or pass the buck or deal with it as a continuous emergency.
What we should be doing is getting people ready forthe fact that the days of a homogenous Malta, for example are over. How do we adjust to a multi-cultural society? Boq!! Well, let's have a think shall we?
Obviosuly there are loads of other things to worry about and politicians frankly need help with these big global questions which now, perhaps for the first time in our history, we alos have to take responsibility for. That's what being in the EU means!
Partit li, permezz ta’ l-istrutturi godda tieghu jaghti l-possibilta’ lil kull individwu biex tressaq/jressaq ideat u proposti personali.
30. Billi jitwaqqaf il-“Forum ta’ l-Ideat” fejn kull persuna tkun tista taghti l-ideat u suggerimenti taghha ghal proposti Laburisti.
It seems to me that the building of a big progressive tent is something on the forefront of Joseph's mind. I'm sure there will be lots of people wanting to contribute ideas but the big challenge will be to recruit people who are currently outside the tent.
The problem I see is that people in Malta are still mostly stuck blindly to one side or another and the big battle ground are the few thousand in the middle (like me) who are prepared to make decisions on a case by case basis based on which party we believe represents the best option for Malta.
Unfortunately the Labour Party has lost so much credibility with this core (and it has to be said) growing group that the first challenge will be to engage them and re-integrate them into the debate on Labour policy.
If this happens, then Joseph's ideas forum could be a fantastic tool for the centre ground to begin to feel some ownership over progressive policy development and that could make a hell of a difference come election time.
31. Billi jitwaqqfu Gruppi ta’ Hsieb dwar oqsma ewlenin tal-politika lokali, Nazzjonali u internazzjonali biex jghinu fit-tfassil kontinwu tal-politika gdida Laburista f’ dawn l-oqsma.
This is something that's always perplexed me - the lack of think tanks in Malta. I know resources are a bit of an issue. Well, they're a massive issue and there's always more pressing things to spend money on.
But, if we did have some groups that stood slightly apart from the political battlefield and looked more carefully and analytically in to the future we'd perhaps not have the awful looking building site that we call home.
For those of us who consider ourselves moderates and progressives there are lot sof areas in which Malta needs to develop some really tight policy strategy. Climate change resulting in rising temperatures, rising sea levels and increased migration are having an obvious impact.
Our present policy seems to be either ignore it or pass the buck or deal with it as a continuous emergency.
What we should be doing is getting people ready forthe fact that the days of a homogenous Malta, for example are over. How do we adjust to a multi-cultural society? Boq!! Well, let's have a think shall we?
Obviosuly there are loads of other things to worry about and politicians frankly need help with these big global questions which now, perhaps for the first time in our history, we alos have to take responsibility for. That's what being in the EU means!
MLP Leadership Contest - Endorsements
It seems there's been a bit of a ho-ha recently over endorsements, following Martin Schulz's statements about Jospeh when he was in Malta. I'm not sure whether what Martin Schulz says has much bearing on how delegates, or Maltese people in general think.
Obviously every candidate is trying hard to get as many high profile people to support him or her as possible and the other candidiates feel that Mr Schulz is perhaps the most high profile endorser yet. Maybe they still subscribe to the theory that becuase he's foreign he must have some special power to persuade people.
To be honest I think it was a load of hot air. Who the hell is Martin Schulz anyway? Sure, I think having his endorsement does help Joseph to further cement his international credentials but I don't think his input makes such a difference. I also diagree with the arguement that he shouldn't comment on Maltese affairs. He's head of the European Socialists. We're European and we're socialists (however you define that), so it seems to me it's fair enough that he comments.
Oh well, it all seems to have blown over now anyway.
Obviously every candidate is trying hard to get as many high profile people to support him or her as possible and the other candidiates feel that Mr Schulz is perhaps the most high profile endorser yet. Maybe they still subscribe to the theory that becuase he's foreign he must have some special power to persuade people.
To be honest I think it was a load of hot air. Who the hell is Martin Schulz anyway? Sure, I think having his endorsement does help Joseph to further cement his international credentials but I don't think his input makes such a difference. I also diagree with the arguement that he shouldn't comment on Maltese affairs. He's head of the European Socialists. We're European and we're socialists (however you define that), so it seems to me it's fair enough that he comments.
Oh well, it all seems to have blown over now anyway.
Tuesday 20 May 2008
MLP Leadership Contest - Focus Groups
Focus groups are a dangerous thing. People hold contradictory views on things and adhering to the results of these groups can get politicians into real trouble. What makes it worse is that politics covers every aspect of life and so a technique developed to check the appeal of a specific product for a specific purpose that is aimed at a specific market segment is bound to create problems.
With that caveat in mind, it's still interesting to see the results of a focus group that's been published elsewhere online. I don't know who's run the groups so can't vouch for the results but it seems Joseph scores best on the economy and the environment. There are definitely areas where he's behind the others (according to these groups) but it seems to me that these two areas are the most important ones facing Malta in the next few years, so overall I'm pretty pleased with the outcome.
With that caveat in mind, it's still interesting to see the results of a focus group that's been published elsewhere online. I don't know who's run the groups so can't vouch for the results but it seems Joseph scores best on the economy and the environment. There are definitely areas where he's behind the others (according to these groups) but it seems to me that these two areas are the most important ones facing Malta in the next few years, so overall I'm pretty pleased with the outcome.
MLP Leadership Contest - Redressing The Balance (at least a little)
The time pressure I’ve been under recently has also meant that I haven’t been able to comment on what the other candidates are up to. I hope to improve on this in the coming days as from what I see on the internet, and the few things I managed to read during my weekend in Malta, they’ve all been saying (mostly) interesting and positive stuff.
To help redress the balance a little, here are some links to the candidates websites, with the exception of Marie Louise, for who I can't find an official site.
Michael Falzon
George Abela
Evarist Bartolo
To help redress the balance a little, here are some links to the candidates websites, with the exception of Marie Louise, for who I can't find an official site.
Michael Falzon
George Abela
Evarist Bartolo
Joseph Muscat's Vision - The 40 Points (Part 6)
I really have been letting the side down recently leaving this blog unattended for days on end. Since my last post, I've paid a very brief visit to Malta. That didn't help my chances of writing as I spent most of the three days trying to sort out - and pay for - my wedding!
Anyway, back in London and with an evening free so here come some more thoughts on the subject in hand.
OBJETTIV 6: PARTIT LABURISTA TA’ OPPORTUNITAJIET
Partit li jigi identifikat ma’ dik il-politika li toffri opportunitajiet ghal kull min ghandu r-rieda u hegga biex jilhaq orizzonti godda f’hajjitha/hajtu.
There was a slogan once upon a time to describe modern social democracy - "Equality of Opportunity" It's been a while since the phrase was coined but hopefully we can finally have a political vision in Malta that works towards this too.
27. Billi jinghata aktar tahrig permezz ta’ esperti, u anki barra minn pajjizna, ghal persuni involuti fil-Partit Laburista. Dan isir fost l-ohrajn permezz tal-kuntatti li jezistu ma’ partiti progressivi minn madwar id-dinja.
Opening minds and broadening horizons is what socialism has always been about. There is so much to learn out there - and so much for others to learn from us. Sharing ideas can only help to improve the party's ability to develop effective policies.
28. Billi jigu offruti bursaries mill-Partit Laburista, specjalment f' istituzzjonijiet Ewropej, lil zghazagh li jippromettu.
An excellent idea. If Joseph does win, however, I do hope that these bursaries would go to "zghazagh li jippromettu" and not the sons, daughters, cousins, friends etc of the great and the good. For too long we've lived in a culture where merit counts for little or nothing and where money and connections are the most important criteria for success. It's a difficult thing to break and the pressures to reward people for support or because of connections will be a tough test for a leader. Let's see how things pan out.
29. Billi zghazagh jinghataw opportunita’ ta’ zmien ta’ esperjenza fil-Partit Laburista.
Engaging young people, or not so young people, with politics and giving them an understanding of how politics can be a real force for good in society is something we should all work for. For those who have an interest in politics but don't have a family culture that encourages active participation or who aren't certain of the best way for them to contribute, the ability to take up intern positions. It also helps to cement people's feeling of belonging to the party and to widen even further the pool of input of ideas. It will certainly help to keep the offices fresh and people who get to comfortable behind their desks on their toes!
Anyway, back in London and with an evening free so here come some more thoughts on the subject in hand.
OBJETTIV 6: PARTIT LABURISTA TA’ OPPORTUNITAJIET
Partit li jigi identifikat ma’ dik il-politika li toffri opportunitajiet ghal kull min ghandu r-rieda u hegga biex jilhaq orizzonti godda f’hajjitha/hajtu.
There was a slogan once upon a time to describe modern social democracy - "Equality of Opportunity" It's been a while since the phrase was coined but hopefully we can finally have a political vision in Malta that works towards this too.
27. Billi jinghata aktar tahrig permezz ta’ esperti, u anki barra minn pajjizna, ghal persuni involuti fil-Partit Laburista. Dan isir fost l-ohrajn permezz tal-kuntatti li jezistu ma’ partiti progressivi minn madwar id-dinja.
Opening minds and broadening horizons is what socialism has always been about. There is so much to learn out there - and so much for others to learn from us. Sharing ideas can only help to improve the party's ability to develop effective policies.
28. Billi jigu offruti bursaries mill-Partit Laburista, specjalment f' istituzzjonijiet Ewropej, lil zghazagh li jippromettu.
An excellent idea. If Joseph does win, however, I do hope that these bursaries would go to "zghazagh li jippromettu" and not the sons, daughters, cousins, friends etc of the great and the good. For too long we've lived in a culture where merit counts for little or nothing and where money and connections are the most important criteria for success. It's a difficult thing to break and the pressures to reward people for support or because of connections will be a tough test for a leader. Let's see how things pan out.
29. Billi zghazagh jinghataw opportunita’ ta’ zmien ta’ esperjenza fil-Partit Laburista.
Engaging young people, or not so young people, with politics and giving them an understanding of how politics can be a real force for good in society is something we should all work for. For those who have an interest in politics but don't have a family culture that encourages active participation or who aren't certain of the best way for them to contribute, the ability to take up intern positions. It also helps to cement people's feeling of belonging to the party and to widen even further the pool of input of ideas. It will certainly help to keep the offices fresh and people who get to comfortable behind their desks on their toes!
Tuesday 13 May 2008
MLP Leadership Contest - Joseph Muscat's 40 Points Part 5
The fifth objective set out by Joseph in his vision for the Labour Party going forward follows on quite logically from the previous objectives. What emerges is a desire for a party that is more organised. This in turn would make the party better placed to stay in touch with all the sectors of society and develop the right policies for Malta.
OBJETTIV 5: PARTIT LABURISTA F’KUNTATT KONTINWU
Partit li jibni il-politika tieghu permezz ta’ kuntatt kontinwu mas-socjeta’.
21. Billi jitwaqqaf Call Centre fejn jigu milqugha, mghoddija u segwiti l-kuntatti kollha li jsiru mall-Partit Laburista. Dan bhala zvilupp tas-servizz ta’ Assistenza Cittadin.
Customer Care is an important concern for any organisation. Like other objectives set out previously it's all about increasing professionalism. Dealing efficiently with suggestions and complaints helps to make the party more repsonsive. Importantly, it also imporves people's personal experience of the Labour Party and that can have an important long term beneficial effect.
22. Billi jinbeda programm li permezz tieghu kull sezzjoni tas-socjeta Maltija, fosthom dik l-organizazzjonijiet mhux governattivi u l-komunita’ kummercjali, ikollha kuntatt kontinwu mal-Partit Laburista.
The importance of NGOs and other organisations in forming opinion has been stressed elsehwere in this blog, as well as Labour's past failures to really build strong relationships across civil society. This is one of those ambitions that I'd like to see a little more detail on as logistically it's quite a challenge. It's an absolute priority to widen participation and to bring in as many organisations as possible into the progressive tent but it's going to need real discipline and dedication to get all this done with the resources available. I suppose a young team would have the energy and ambition to do this.
23. Billi jitwaqqfu aktar rapprezentanzi tal-Partit Laburista f’komunitajiet Maltin u Ghawdxin barra minn Malta sabiex dawn ikunu mgharrfa ahjar bil-policies u hidma tal-Partit Laburista.
Not sure about this. I don't think that Maltese communities abroad have a great deal of influence although perhaps getting more Labour supporters over to vote at election time might have an effect if things are as close as they were in the last election. But, things shouldn't be that close! I also think that with time, as the bulk of the emigrant community ages it becoming even less relevant. However, if there is time and the resources are available then why not. Every vote counts!
24. Billi, permezz ta’ konsultazzjoni fuq livell nazzjonali u lokali, il-Partit Laburista jara li jkollu rapprezentanza usa tas-socjeta’ fi hdanu.
The building of a bigger progressive tent is not just about listening to people and organisations. It's about real engagement. Whether it's art & culture, sport, charities or whatever the fact is that most people aren't spending their days worrying endlessly about politics in the narrow sense of the word. They're either worrying about things that are immediate to them or their living their lives doing the things they enjoy or feel are important to them. Politicians need to appreciate this to ensure they understand and represent their constituents properly. An outside voice helps you to see the things you're missing and very importantly, gives you objective and constructive cricticism that can be really valuable. People who aren't party die hards will also feel an increasing sense of belonging and feel they really can have an impact on the Party's, and eventually the Government's, policies.
25. Billi t-tmexxija tal-Partit Laburista timpenja ruhha li zzomm laqghat mall-kumitati u ferghat darba kull sitt xhur.
Good human resources, good communications, good customer care, good financial management and now, good internal communiactions. If this was a brochure for an IPO you'd seriously have to consider buying some shares. This is a bit of a no-brainer really. A politcial party depends on its grassroots to mobilise support and get things done. Without an engaged grassroots movement you can't get anywhere. The skill will come in managing the different expectations of different groups. At this point it's easy to stick to broad concepts and ideals but will keeping the grassroots happy make others unhappy. The solution here is to set out very clear principles at the outset. With a strong strategic framework, delivered through effective communications, you buy additional felxibility from people. They begin to understand that occassionaly they may have to compromise for a broader goal that will benefit them too in the end. But the leadership needs to be really commited to its strategic goals and needs to pursue them with total conviction. What that framework is seems to be emerging from these 40 points but I feel it needs to be crystalised into an easy to understand message.
26. Billi jitfassal progett specifiku ghal kuntatt mall-komunitajiet f' Ghawdex.
Gozo always has a slightly different agenda which needs specific attention. I'm not sure why this can't be accommodated within the broader contact project but I suppose political necessity in Malta requires that the Gozitans get a special mention. All power to them! But, I have to say this point is a little too vague to really make any real comment. Sorry Joseph!
OBJETTIV 5: PARTIT LABURISTA F’KUNTATT KONTINWU
Partit li jibni il-politika tieghu permezz ta’ kuntatt kontinwu mas-socjeta’.
21. Billi jitwaqqaf Call Centre fejn jigu milqugha, mghoddija u segwiti l-kuntatti kollha li jsiru mall-Partit Laburista. Dan bhala zvilupp tas-servizz ta’ Assistenza Cittadin.
Customer Care is an important concern for any organisation. Like other objectives set out previously it's all about increasing professionalism. Dealing efficiently with suggestions and complaints helps to make the party more repsonsive. Importantly, it also imporves people's personal experience of the Labour Party and that can have an important long term beneficial effect.
22. Billi jinbeda programm li permezz tieghu kull sezzjoni tas-socjeta Maltija, fosthom dik l-organizazzjonijiet mhux governattivi u l-komunita’ kummercjali, ikollha kuntatt kontinwu mal-Partit Laburista.
The importance of NGOs and other organisations in forming opinion has been stressed elsehwere in this blog, as well as Labour's past failures to really build strong relationships across civil society. This is one of those ambitions that I'd like to see a little more detail on as logistically it's quite a challenge. It's an absolute priority to widen participation and to bring in as many organisations as possible into the progressive tent but it's going to need real discipline and dedication to get all this done with the resources available. I suppose a young team would have the energy and ambition to do this.
23. Billi jitwaqqfu aktar rapprezentanzi tal-Partit Laburista f’komunitajiet Maltin u Ghawdxin barra minn Malta sabiex dawn ikunu mgharrfa ahjar bil-policies u hidma tal-Partit Laburista.
Not sure about this. I don't think that Maltese communities abroad have a great deal of influence although perhaps getting more Labour supporters over to vote at election time might have an effect if things are as close as they were in the last election. But, things shouldn't be that close! I also think that with time, as the bulk of the emigrant community ages it becoming even less relevant. However, if there is time and the resources are available then why not. Every vote counts!
24. Billi, permezz ta’ konsultazzjoni fuq livell nazzjonali u lokali, il-Partit Laburista jara li jkollu rapprezentanza usa tas-socjeta’ fi hdanu.
The building of a bigger progressive tent is not just about listening to people and organisations. It's about real engagement. Whether it's art & culture, sport, charities or whatever the fact is that most people aren't spending their days worrying endlessly about politics in the narrow sense of the word. They're either worrying about things that are immediate to them or their living their lives doing the things they enjoy or feel are important to them. Politicians need to appreciate this to ensure they understand and represent their constituents properly. An outside voice helps you to see the things you're missing and very importantly, gives you objective and constructive cricticism that can be really valuable. People who aren't party die hards will also feel an increasing sense of belonging and feel they really can have an impact on the Party's, and eventually the Government's, policies.
25. Billi t-tmexxija tal-Partit Laburista timpenja ruhha li zzomm laqghat mall-kumitati u ferghat darba kull sitt xhur.
Good human resources, good communications, good customer care, good financial management and now, good internal communiactions. If this was a brochure for an IPO you'd seriously have to consider buying some shares. This is a bit of a no-brainer really. A politcial party depends on its grassroots to mobilise support and get things done. Without an engaged grassroots movement you can't get anywhere. The skill will come in managing the different expectations of different groups. At this point it's easy to stick to broad concepts and ideals but will keeping the grassroots happy make others unhappy. The solution here is to set out very clear principles at the outset. With a strong strategic framework, delivered through effective communications, you buy additional felxibility from people. They begin to understand that occassionaly they may have to compromise for a broader goal that will benefit them too in the end. But the leadership needs to be really commited to its strategic goals and needs to pursue them with total conviction. What that framework is seems to be emerging from these 40 points but I feel it needs to be crystalised into an easy to understand message.
26. Billi jitfassal progett specifiku ghal kuntatt mall-komunitajiet f' Ghawdex.
Gozo always has a slightly different agenda which needs specific attention. I'm not sure why this can't be accommodated within the broader contact project but I suppose political necessity in Malta requires that the Gozitans get a special mention. All power to them! But, I have to say this point is a little too vague to really make any real comment. Sorry Joseph!
Saturday 10 May 2008
MLP Leadership Contest - Joseph Muscat's 40 Points Part Four
My thoughts on the fourth objective ....
OBJETTIV 4: PARTIT LABURISTA ORGANIZZAT
Partit fejn l-istrutturi strategici, amministrattivi u operattivi isiru iktar sinifikanti u li ikunu jirriflettu u jiffunzjonaw skond il-htigijiet tas-socjeta kumplessa li ninsabu fiha llum.
Without understanding what's going on society, politics is a waste of time so I suppose making sure the party's structures are geared up to do this more effectively must be an objective. As with the communications abjective my immediate concern is how are these structures going to be paid for.
14. Billi titwaqqaf il-kariga ta’ Direttur tar-Rizorsi Umani li jara li l-Partit Laburista juza l-abiltaijiet ta' l-impjegati u l-voluntiera bl-ahjar mod possibbli u ssir sejha pubblika ghall-persuni li jridu jaghtu kontribut volontarju lill-Partit.
Using the resources you've already got in a better way is obviously one way to improve performance without adding too many costs. I'm sure there are plenty of people who would be happy to volunteer - and plenty of current employees who could trun their hand to new challenges given the right working environemnt and motivation. I do think that a greater focus on running the party like a professional business which sets out career paths for individuals and strives for better performance is something that would do nothing but good.
15. Billi jitwaqqaf Unit ta’ nies professjonisti fil-qasam finanzjarju biex jikkordinaw dan il-qasam.
I suppose this is looking at the party finances. Raising money is always a problem and managing that money is also a challenge. More reliable revenue streams removes an extra pressure and allows for better planning of actual political work. I'm sure it's impossible for any politcial party to be really finanically stable but having the right expertise in place to help out should make a difference.
16. Billi titwaqqaf, minghajr spejjez zejda, Rapprezentanza Ufficjali tal-Partit Laburista ghall-Unjoni Ewropea fi Brussel.
The EU is our most important international relationship and the party needs to be fully up-to-speed with what's happening in Brussels to make sure policy is in tune with the broader agenda. The party needs to be seen as a Government in waiting and a close understanding of, and participation in, EU activity will undoubtedly help. It will also hopefully give the party access to other European progressive parties and their ideas.
17. Billi jitwaqqaf Unit li jiffoka fuq programmi ta’ l-Unjoni Ewropea.
I suppose the previous points apply here also.
18. Billi jitwaqqaf Unit ghad-Djalogu Socjali li jiehu hsieb ir-relazzjonijiet mas-socjeta’ civili u organizazzjoniiet mhux governattivi.
The Labour Party has frequently let itself down in this area and hasn't developed strong enough relationships with many civil society groups and NGOs. Working hard here would I feel really bring benefits as these membership organisations have a big influence on public opinion, not only through the press coverage they receive but because their members will take heed of what the organisation says. They are also full of dedicated people with lots of sector specific knowledge that could really help the party's policy formulation.
19. Billi jitwaqqaf Policy Unit li jikkordina u jivverifika t-tfassil tal-policies tal-Partit Laburista permezz ta’ involviment ta’ politici u esperti.
All the objectives in this section have been pointing to this. Making better use of current human an dfinancila resources and tapping in to the expertise of Maltese and EU groups should ensure the Party creates more relevant policy that is in tune with the aspirations of modern Malta.
20. Billi ikun hemm Forum tal-Kandidati li jiltaqa regolarment mat-tmexxija tal-Partit Laburista u mall-Kelliema tal-Partit Laburista dwar suggetti specifici.
Great idea. I've often felt that the Labour Party gives the impression that it is an organisation very much run from the centre without too much input from other interested parties. Bringing in candidiates and back benchers more is another building block in making sure the party has access to the broadest range of resources to help it understand the needs of sciety, react accordingly and build a vision that can lead the country forward.
OBJETTIV 4: PARTIT LABURISTA ORGANIZZAT
Partit fejn l-istrutturi strategici, amministrattivi u operattivi isiru iktar sinifikanti u li ikunu jirriflettu u jiffunzjonaw skond il-htigijiet tas-socjeta kumplessa li ninsabu fiha llum.
Without understanding what's going on society, politics is a waste of time so I suppose making sure the party's structures are geared up to do this more effectively must be an objective. As with the communications abjective my immediate concern is how are these structures going to be paid for.
14. Billi titwaqqaf il-kariga ta’ Direttur tar-Rizorsi Umani li jara li l-Partit Laburista juza l-abiltaijiet ta' l-impjegati u l-voluntiera bl-ahjar mod possibbli u ssir sejha pubblika ghall-persuni li jridu jaghtu kontribut volontarju lill-Partit.
Using the resources you've already got in a better way is obviously one way to improve performance without adding too many costs. I'm sure there are plenty of people who would be happy to volunteer - and plenty of current employees who could trun their hand to new challenges given the right working environemnt and motivation. I do think that a greater focus on running the party like a professional business which sets out career paths for individuals and strives for better performance is something that would do nothing but good.
15. Billi jitwaqqaf Unit ta’ nies professjonisti fil-qasam finanzjarju biex jikkordinaw dan il-qasam.
I suppose this is looking at the party finances. Raising money is always a problem and managing that money is also a challenge. More reliable revenue streams removes an extra pressure and allows for better planning of actual political work. I'm sure it's impossible for any politcial party to be really finanically stable but having the right expertise in place to help out should make a difference.
16. Billi titwaqqaf, minghajr spejjez zejda, Rapprezentanza Ufficjali tal-Partit Laburista ghall-Unjoni Ewropea fi Brussel.
The EU is our most important international relationship and the party needs to be fully up-to-speed with what's happening in Brussels to make sure policy is in tune with the broader agenda. The party needs to be seen as a Government in waiting and a close understanding of, and participation in, EU activity will undoubtedly help. It will also hopefully give the party access to other European progressive parties and their ideas.
17. Billi jitwaqqaf Unit li jiffoka fuq programmi ta’ l-Unjoni Ewropea.
I suppose the previous points apply here also.
18. Billi jitwaqqaf Unit ghad-Djalogu Socjali li jiehu hsieb ir-relazzjonijiet mas-socjeta’ civili u organizazzjoniiet mhux governattivi.
The Labour Party has frequently let itself down in this area and hasn't developed strong enough relationships with many civil society groups and NGOs. Working hard here would I feel really bring benefits as these membership organisations have a big influence on public opinion, not only through the press coverage they receive but because their members will take heed of what the organisation says. They are also full of dedicated people with lots of sector specific knowledge that could really help the party's policy formulation.
19. Billi jitwaqqaf Policy Unit li jikkordina u jivverifika t-tfassil tal-policies tal-Partit Laburista permezz ta’ involviment ta’ politici u esperti.
All the objectives in this section have been pointing to this. Making better use of current human an dfinancila resources and tapping in to the expertise of Maltese and EU groups should ensure the Party creates more relevant policy that is in tune with the aspirations of modern Malta.
20. Billi ikun hemm Forum tal-Kandidati li jiltaqa regolarment mat-tmexxija tal-Partit Laburista u mall-Kelliema tal-Partit Laburista dwar suggetti specifici.
Great idea. I've often felt that the Labour Party gives the impression that it is an organisation very much run from the centre without too much input from other interested parties. Bringing in candidiates and back benchers more is another building block in making sure the party has access to the broadest range of resources to help it understand the needs of sciety, react accordingly and build a vision that can lead the country forward.
Monday 5 May 2008
MLP Leadership Contest - Joseph Muscat's 40 Points - Part Three
The next set of points look at Joseph's third main objective, to give the Labour Party a clear message.
OBJETTIV 3: PARTIT LABURISTA B’MESSAGG CAR
Partit li jwessa il-firxa ta’ l-appell tieghu u tal-Moviment tal-Progressivi u Moderati.
7. Billi jkun l-aktar partit politiku Malti bi presenza qawwija online.
So many people now look to the internet for their information that not having an online strategy is a real own goal. It is, however, very important not to get too carried away with the power of the internet. My own research into the use of new media in political communications here in London clearly showed that politicians are very quick to see the internet as a way of engaging with new audiences without really examining the underlying reasons for the disengagement in the first place. The channels are important, but without understanding the people you're trying to reach you're not going to get very far. I'm sure Joseph won't fall into this trap.
8. Billi jitwaqqaf Grupp ta’ Hidma biex janalizza s-sitwazzjoni fil-mezzi tax-xandir tal-Partit Laburista u kif dawn jilhqu ahjar l-ghanijiet taghhom.
I think the party's media has been doing a lot better in recent years in terms of the quality and variety of its programming. As someone who very rarely used to watch or listen to Super One while in Malta, I've now found myself following certain programmes regularly through the streaming service.
Of course, what Joseph is really talking about here is the political programming and the news. I know people love to complain about our current Government, and there is always lots to complain about. But I've always felt that the message has been too dire. For those who are uncertain about who to support or who are thinking about supporting Labour what they don't want to hear is that the end of the world is nigh.
Our day to day experience tells us that's not the case. What we should be doing more of, rather than complaining and saying how awful thigs are, is to show people how we would do things better. Labour should be more clear and more positive about what it believes in, how people will have a better life, that they will have equality of opportunity. As an oposition we should be more proactive in setting the political agenda, not just reacting to it and complaining about it.
I'm totally convinced that this change would really have a dramatic impact on the party's appeal, especially among younger voters who are obviously in a stage in their life when they are looking to the future and want to see positive things on the horizon.
9. Billi jigi kunsidrat it-twaqqif tat-tieni frekwenza tar-radju mmirata biss ghaz-zghazagh.
Not sure about this. Whenever politicians try to "look cool" they tend to make complete tits of themselves. I wouldn't rule it out but I think a better option might be to find ways of using existing media that alrady have an appeal with younger audiences. Of course, you've got to be careful with the old BA rules on how you go about this (I can think of a few ways already) but it would make more sense to get more involved with media that already has credibility.
10. Billi jinbeda progett biex permezz ta’ involviment ta’ akkademici u veterani minn diversi oqsma, tigi migbura l-istorja tal-Partit Laburista bil-ghan li tigi ppublikata u mxandra.
This is not a bad idea at all. I love my political history and would happily read this. I presume that overall not too many people in the wider community would sit down and read it but I think for the party, having a clear seanse of history does help to develop strategies for the modern era. Of course, I can forsee all sorts of controversy about how certain facts are interpreted but it might be a great catalyst for some long overdue soul searching within the party and the country. If positioned corectly it could also be a ctalyst for new interest in what the party stands for, what it has achieved and what it's ambitions for Malta are.
11. Billi jitwaqqaf Grupp ta’ Hidma li jhejji Kodici ta’ Etika ghall-mezzi tax-xandir tal-Partit Laburista.
I'm not sure this is necessary. After all there are codes of ethics in existence already. For me, at the risk of repeating again, the biggest issue is the message not how it is delivered. If we are going to adopt a more open, positive, progressive approach which looks to the future with optimism then I think the way the party media operates would change naturally, without the need for any new codes.
12. Billi titwaqqaf il-kariga ta’ Direttur tal-Kommunikazzjoni li jikkordina l-messagg b’ mod koerenti fuq dawn il-mezzi tax-xandir.
Absolutely necessary. You've got to be careful to make sure the person who takes on this role does not become the story. But luckily people have been there before us so we know how it can go wrong i.e. Alastair Campbell and Tony Blair. But we also know that what attracts new supporters to a party is clear sense of direction, a unified voice and a great feeling of purpose and momentum. The party needs to decide what the core strategy is but you absolutely need someone who is totally focussed and commited to ensuring that what the party decides is its core staretgy becomes the agenda for national debate. This requires discipline and coordination and should not be left to chance.
13. Billi Jitwaqqaf unit ghall-Marketing li jikkordina d-dehra tal-Partit Laburista.
Visual impact is obviously important and in a fast moving society can work better than other forms of communication. But a proper marketing campaign costs a lot of money so I think it's more worthwhile to focus on the PR side of things - and ensure that whoever becomes the 'Director of Communications' has a clear appreciation for the right imagery to accompany any story. For me, espcially in politics, marketing should complement PR, not the other way round. It's cheaper, and it allows you to develop coherent policy messaging more effectively.
Anyway, objective number 4 to follow. If you'd like to read the whole list of objectives you can find it on Joseph's website.
OBJETTIV 3: PARTIT LABURISTA B’MESSAGG CAR
Partit li jwessa il-firxa ta’ l-appell tieghu u tal-Moviment tal-Progressivi u Moderati.
7. Billi jkun l-aktar partit politiku Malti bi presenza qawwija online.
So many people now look to the internet for their information that not having an online strategy is a real own goal. It is, however, very important not to get too carried away with the power of the internet. My own research into the use of new media in political communications here in London clearly showed that politicians are very quick to see the internet as a way of engaging with new audiences without really examining the underlying reasons for the disengagement in the first place. The channels are important, but without understanding the people you're trying to reach you're not going to get very far. I'm sure Joseph won't fall into this trap.
8. Billi jitwaqqaf Grupp ta’ Hidma biex janalizza s-sitwazzjoni fil-mezzi tax-xandir tal-Partit Laburista u kif dawn jilhqu ahjar l-ghanijiet taghhom.
I think the party's media has been doing a lot better in recent years in terms of the quality and variety of its programming. As someone who very rarely used to watch or listen to Super One while in Malta, I've now found myself following certain programmes regularly through the streaming service.
Of course, what Joseph is really talking about here is the political programming and the news. I know people love to complain about our current Government, and there is always lots to complain about. But I've always felt that the message has been too dire. For those who are uncertain about who to support or who are thinking about supporting Labour what they don't want to hear is that the end of the world is nigh.
Our day to day experience tells us that's not the case. What we should be doing more of, rather than complaining and saying how awful thigs are, is to show people how we would do things better. Labour should be more clear and more positive about what it believes in, how people will have a better life, that they will have equality of opportunity. As an oposition we should be more proactive in setting the political agenda, not just reacting to it and complaining about it.
I'm totally convinced that this change would really have a dramatic impact on the party's appeal, especially among younger voters who are obviously in a stage in their life when they are looking to the future and want to see positive things on the horizon.
9. Billi jigi kunsidrat it-twaqqif tat-tieni frekwenza tar-radju mmirata biss ghaz-zghazagh.
Not sure about this. Whenever politicians try to "look cool" they tend to make complete tits of themselves. I wouldn't rule it out but I think a better option might be to find ways of using existing media that alrady have an appeal with younger audiences. Of course, you've got to be careful with the old BA rules on how you go about this (I can think of a few ways already) but it would make more sense to get more involved with media that already has credibility.
10. Billi jinbeda progett biex permezz ta’ involviment ta’ akkademici u veterani minn diversi oqsma, tigi migbura l-istorja tal-Partit Laburista bil-ghan li tigi ppublikata u mxandra.
This is not a bad idea at all. I love my political history and would happily read this. I presume that overall not too many people in the wider community would sit down and read it but I think for the party, having a clear seanse of history does help to develop strategies for the modern era. Of course, I can forsee all sorts of controversy about how certain facts are interpreted but it might be a great catalyst for some long overdue soul searching within the party and the country. If positioned corectly it could also be a ctalyst for new interest in what the party stands for, what it has achieved and what it's ambitions for Malta are.
11. Billi jitwaqqaf Grupp ta’ Hidma li jhejji Kodici ta’ Etika ghall-mezzi tax-xandir tal-Partit Laburista.
I'm not sure this is necessary. After all there are codes of ethics in existence already. For me, at the risk of repeating again, the biggest issue is the message not how it is delivered. If we are going to adopt a more open, positive, progressive approach which looks to the future with optimism then I think the way the party media operates would change naturally, without the need for any new codes.
12. Billi titwaqqaf il-kariga ta’ Direttur tal-Kommunikazzjoni li jikkordina l-messagg b’ mod koerenti fuq dawn il-mezzi tax-xandir.
Absolutely necessary. You've got to be careful to make sure the person who takes on this role does not become the story. But luckily people have been there before us so we know how it can go wrong i.e. Alastair Campbell and Tony Blair. But we also know that what attracts new supporters to a party is clear sense of direction, a unified voice and a great feeling of purpose and momentum. The party needs to decide what the core strategy is but you absolutely need someone who is totally focussed and commited to ensuring that what the party decides is its core staretgy becomes the agenda for national debate. This requires discipline and coordination and should not be left to chance.
13. Billi Jitwaqqaf unit ghall-Marketing li jikkordina d-dehra tal-Partit Laburista.
Visual impact is obviously important and in a fast moving society can work better than other forms of communication. But a proper marketing campaign costs a lot of money so I think it's more worthwhile to focus on the PR side of things - and ensure that whoever becomes the 'Director of Communications' has a clear appreciation for the right imagery to accompany any story. For me, espcially in politics, marketing should complement PR, not the other way round. It's cheaper, and it allows you to develop coherent policy messaging more effectively.
Anyway, objective number 4 to follow. If you'd like to read the whole list of objectives you can find it on Joseph's website.
Sunday 4 May 2008
MLP Leadership Contest - Joseph Muscat's 40 Points - Part Two
Moving in from yesterday, here are my thoughts on the second group of proposals Joseph has put forward. These look at expanding the appeal of the Labour Party
OBJETTIV 2: PARTIT LABURISTA GHAL KULHADD
Partit li ikun Partit Ewropew konvint fi hdan il-familja tas-Socjalisti Ewropej. Partit li jkun kapaci jilqa s-sehem ta’ kulhadd u johloq Moviment li jigbor flimkien lil Progressivi u Moderati fis-socjeta’ taghna.
Sounds good to me!
4. Billi issir stedina pubblika lil dawk kollha li ma baqghux jidentifikaw ruhhom mall-Partit Laburista biex jergghu jissiehbu f’ dan il-moviment. Il-Mexxej jimpenja ruhu personalment f’dan l-ezercizzju.
This is a very personal statement. The invitation needs to be made but the Party also needs to make sure the reasons people have not felt able to support it are addressed. However, the fact that we have an open willingness to engage with a broader group of people who consider themsleves progressive and moderate, is a step in the right direction.
5. Billi isir ri-avvicinament mall-mezzi tax-xandir kollha fil-pajjiz.
This is a priority. Obviously people have their bias but this should not be a problem because these biases are well known. There's nothing you can do about that but how you engage is still very important. I've mentioned elsewhere the need for Labour to dictate the agenda of national debate, something it hasn't done for years. But in addition to this it's also important to get your message out as often as possible through as many channels as possible consistently and with a positive attitude.
6. Billi isir sforz ta’ rikonciljazzjoni Nazzjonali mall-partiti politici l-ohra u partijiet ohra tas-socjeta’ dwar avvenimenti politici li sehhew fil-passat.
This is a really brave move and something I very much doubt will happen. But it's still worth a try. The fact is that both sides have made terrible mistakes in the past - and some in the present - that have done real harm to Maltese society. Of course many of the worst actions go backto the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s and a lot of time has past since then. It seems to me that the only organsiation that has really examined its own conscience, and apologised for its actions is the Church. Before everyone involved dies maybe we should try and set up a commssion along the lines of what happened in South Africa. At least the victims on both sides might find out what really happened. But, I fear too much time has past now to start digging up the skeletons. Personally, though a laudable objective I feel it's just too late now and that we'll just have to bear the scars and work hard to ensure things continue to gradually improve in the way they have been over recent years. Maybe the Labour Party should be brave, take a look at the things it did wrong and unilaterally apologise for them. That might trigger others to do the same but i'd be surprised.
OBJETTIV 2: PARTIT LABURISTA GHAL KULHADD
Partit li ikun Partit Ewropew konvint fi hdan il-familja tas-Socjalisti Ewropej. Partit li jkun kapaci jilqa s-sehem ta’ kulhadd u johloq Moviment li jigbor flimkien lil Progressivi u Moderati fis-socjeta’ taghna.
Sounds good to me!
4. Billi issir stedina pubblika lil dawk kollha li ma baqghux jidentifikaw ruhhom mall-Partit Laburista biex jergghu jissiehbu f’ dan il-moviment. Il-Mexxej jimpenja ruhu personalment f’dan l-ezercizzju.
This is a very personal statement. The invitation needs to be made but the Party also needs to make sure the reasons people have not felt able to support it are addressed. However, the fact that we have an open willingness to engage with a broader group of people who consider themsleves progressive and moderate, is a step in the right direction.
5. Billi isir ri-avvicinament mall-mezzi tax-xandir kollha fil-pajjiz.
This is a priority. Obviously people have their bias but this should not be a problem because these biases are well known. There's nothing you can do about that but how you engage is still very important. I've mentioned elsewhere the need for Labour to dictate the agenda of national debate, something it hasn't done for years. But in addition to this it's also important to get your message out as often as possible through as many channels as possible consistently and with a positive attitude.
6. Billi isir sforz ta’ rikonciljazzjoni Nazzjonali mall-partiti politici l-ohra u partijiet ohra tas-socjeta’ dwar avvenimenti politici li sehhew fil-passat.
This is a really brave move and something I very much doubt will happen. But it's still worth a try. The fact is that both sides have made terrible mistakes in the past - and some in the present - that have done real harm to Maltese society. Of course many of the worst actions go backto the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s and a lot of time has past since then. It seems to me that the only organsiation that has really examined its own conscience, and apologised for its actions is the Church. Before everyone involved dies maybe we should try and set up a commssion along the lines of what happened in South Africa. At least the victims on both sides might find out what really happened. But, I fear too much time has past now to start digging up the skeletons. Personally, though a laudable objective I feel it's just too late now and that we'll just have to bear the scars and work hard to ensure things continue to gradually improve in the way they have been over recent years. Maybe the Labour Party should be brave, take a look at the things it did wrong and unilaterally apologise for them. That might trigger others to do the same but i'd be surprised.
Saturday 3 May 2008
MLP Leadership Contest - Joseph Muscat's 40 Points - Part One
As always it's taken me an age to get round to following up previous posts but now the weekend's here I've found a little time. So, here comes my first thoughts on Joseph's 40 points. To keep things simple I'm going to divide things up in the same way he has.
Here are the first group of points ...
OBJETTIV 1: PARTIT LABURISTA POZITTIV
Partit li jkun pozittiv u proattiv. Iffittex l-Interess Nazzjonali, izzomm kontroll fuq il-Gvern u jhejji Programm ta’ Gvern ghall-elezzjoni li jmiss.
1. Billi jitwaqqaf Grupp ta’ Hsieb permanenti maghmul minn hassieba u mexxejja ta' l-opinjoni li jezamina r-rwol tal-Partit Laburista fis-socjeta’.
I think this is long overdue. As I've mentioned before on this blog I've always considered myself a social democrat but unfortunately for too long the Malta Labour Party has been far too inward looking and has got most of the major strategic decisions wrong. I'm part of a London based think tank and although it sometimes seems like a lot of hot air, having a forum where a wide range of opinions can be discussed definitely helps to create a clear sense of policy direction. I've every confidence that Jospeh would ensure the group is not made up of yes men and women - and that will be nothing but a good thing.
2. Billi l-Grupp Parlamentari u l-Ezekuttiv Nazzjonali ikunu mghejjuna fil-hidma taghhom minn teknici esperti f’ setturi differenti.
Of course this would be ideal. But, people's time is short and valuable so I think I would need to see a bit more about how this would actually happen. Perhaps a good idea would be to have MPs and the National Executive doing work placements in the sectors they represent in order to be able to watch and learn from the 'experts' without taking up too much of their time and to learn first hand the current scenarios these people are facing. It would also be a great way to show and maintain contact with the wider community.
3. Billi d-djalogu mall-Gvern ikun miftuh u jpoggi l-Interess Nazzjonali qabel kollox. Il-principju li jiggwidana ikun li l-Partit Laburista ghandu r-responsabilita' li jirraprezenta nofs il-poplu u ghandu jkun rispettat u konsultat.
Good luck with this! The PfP decision didn't set a very good start, nor did the Speaker 'offer'. Of course in this case the party also has to deal with the general bias of the media in Malta which is always too happy to paint any offer from the PN as perfectly reasonable and any refusal from the MLP as the party being difficult.
Of course, the party hasn't done much to help itself overcome this over the years mainly by adopting a too confrontational approach. Rather than reacting to what the PN does, the MLP in representing 'half' the population should sieze the agenda and be proactive in generating new policy ideas which benefit the whole country.
For me the most critical task facing the new leadership is to be a credible Government in waiting. For too many years the MLP has been debating an agenda which more or less has been set by the PN. This has got to change. We shouldn't be waiting - or asking - for the PN to respect or consult us. We should earn it.
Here are the first group of points ...
OBJETTIV 1: PARTIT LABURISTA POZITTIV
Partit li jkun pozittiv u proattiv. Iffittex l-Interess Nazzjonali, izzomm kontroll fuq il-Gvern u jhejji Programm ta’ Gvern ghall-elezzjoni li jmiss.
1. Billi jitwaqqaf Grupp ta’ Hsieb permanenti maghmul minn hassieba u mexxejja ta' l-opinjoni li jezamina r-rwol tal-Partit Laburista fis-socjeta’.
I think this is long overdue. As I've mentioned before on this blog I've always considered myself a social democrat but unfortunately for too long the Malta Labour Party has been far too inward looking and has got most of the major strategic decisions wrong. I'm part of a London based think tank and although it sometimes seems like a lot of hot air, having a forum where a wide range of opinions can be discussed definitely helps to create a clear sense of policy direction. I've every confidence that Jospeh would ensure the group is not made up of yes men and women - and that will be nothing but a good thing.
2. Billi l-Grupp Parlamentari u l-Ezekuttiv Nazzjonali ikunu mghejjuna fil-hidma taghhom minn teknici esperti f’ setturi differenti.
Of course this would be ideal. But, people's time is short and valuable so I think I would need to see a bit more about how this would actually happen. Perhaps a good idea would be to have MPs and the National Executive doing work placements in the sectors they represent in order to be able to watch and learn from the 'experts' without taking up too much of their time and to learn first hand the current scenarios these people are facing. It would also be a great way to show and maintain contact with the wider community.
3. Billi d-djalogu mall-Gvern ikun miftuh u jpoggi l-Interess Nazzjonali qabel kollox. Il-principju li jiggwidana ikun li l-Partit Laburista ghandu r-responsabilita' li jirraprezenta nofs il-poplu u ghandu jkun rispettat u konsultat.
Good luck with this! The PfP decision didn't set a very good start, nor did the Speaker 'offer'. Of course in this case the party also has to deal with the general bias of the media in Malta which is always too happy to paint any offer from the PN as perfectly reasonable and any refusal from the MLP as the party being difficult.
Of course, the party hasn't done much to help itself overcome this over the years mainly by adopting a too confrontational approach. Rather than reacting to what the PN does, the MLP in representing 'half' the population should sieze the agenda and be proactive in generating new policy ideas which benefit the whole country.
For me the most critical task facing the new leadership is to be a credible Government in waiting. For too many years the MLP has been debating an agenda which more or less has been set by the PN. This has got to change. We shouldn't be waiting - or asking - for the PN to respect or consult us. We should earn it.
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