In defence of Alfred Sant

I refer to the editorial of June 2. Contrary to the stated opinion, it was very relevant for Alfred Sant to remind us that the problem of management efficiency "has remained with us as before" and is the root of our economic problems.

The Times describes the Opposition Leader as being inconsistent by talking about management efficiency and at the same time being against the reduction in public holidays. I cannot recall any management theory which suggests management efficiency goes up or down with the number of public holidays.

The editorial quite rightly pointed out that political interference is also a major contributor to the economic problems facing Malta. As a specific example it reminded us how, 18 years ago, the Malta Drydocks was financially choked prior to a general election. Did we need reminding? The fact of the matter is that the practice of hiring and promoting staff for political expediency (a) existed 18 years ago (b) continued over the past 18 years and (c) both political parties seem to think that they cannot get elected without it. The great shame is that this is a problem that is very quick and easy to solve and yet the Nationalist administration, instead of turning over a new leaf in 1987, continued to exacerbate the problem.

However, the damage caused by the political interference cited in the editorial is small fry compared to the damage caused by some of the appointments made by the Fenech Adami and Gonzi administrations. Buffoons were variously appointed as ministers, chairmen, directors and consultants. They each caused more economic damage than a hundred workers employed for political expediency. Whereas, at a stretch, you can justify employing or retaining people at lower levels as part of our social responsibility, there is no way you can justify the appointment of these buffoons.

A few months ago, Lawrence Gonzi lambasted Dr Sant for putting forward the idea of devaluing the Maltese lira as part of an economic recovery package. Dr Sant was branded as the man who wants to make the lira in our pockets worth 90 cents. Dr Gonzi told us the Maltese lira is a strong currency and he would never consider a devaluation. A few months later, with a referendum scheduled on the EU Constitution by France and the Netherlands, and a strong indication of a no vote, Dr Gonzi pegged the Maltese lira to the euro. As sure as night followed day, the two no votes came through and the euro took a tumble. Thanks to Dr Gonzi, the lira went with it. So much for no to devaluation. So much for consistency.

More no votes for the EU Constitution will weaken the euro further, and the Maltese lira with it. That should in theory help the Maltese economy. But are we ready to take advantage of it? Our minister of finance has now put us in a position where the value of the Maltese lira in our pocket can be devalued by other people. The devaluation has started and as always, we find ourselves up the proverbial creek without a paddle.

Dr Sant was right. Management efficiency is a core problem. Unfortunately the problem starts at the very top where it can do most harm.