“Malta was put through an economic examination and it has passed, making the Euro our new currency. This will help Malta make the next step to integrate into the EU.”
Tonio Fenech, parliamentary secretary of the Ministry of Finance, yesterday officially kicked off the countdown for the Euro at a public meeting at City Gate.
Fenech spoke of preparations under way to spread information on the euro to the whole Maltese population, and ensure the message is delivered. At every point, the emphasis was on enthusiasm for the new currency.
“The euro coin in Malta will still have its own distinctive feature with the Maltese cross imprinted on one side. Although it will be the euro, it will still have Maltese identity.”
Fenech mentioned several measures to ease the transition to the euro and one of the first to be implemented will be a centre in each locality for information and any problems experienced as a result of the changeover.
Another scheme will be the introduction of plastic money as part of scholastic activities to also prepare youngsters for the change. Visits to retirement homes and one to one meetings will also be organised to prepare everyone for the euro.
Fenech alluded to the official website (www.euro.gov.mt) set up to follow the euro changeover and permit easier access to information. Apart from chat facilities, the site also includes the countdown clock counting the days until the day the changeover takes place.
Alan Camilleri, the executive director of the National Euro Changeover Committee, said, “For this to be a successful change, three elements need to be considered. The first is to spread as much information about the euro to the population, using all available means, including leaflets and booklets which will be sent to every home. The second facet is to reach all consumers and make them as knowledgeable as possible on the euro. Finally, the commerce sector has to be well prepared for the change at the earliest time possible.”
According to Camilleri, consumers must realise it will not be easy and the countdown clock emphasises the urgency with which preparations should be made.
Dr Joanna Drake, the Head of the European Commission Representation in Malta, agreed with Camilleri however adding that, “Countdowns also relate to excitement for what is to come and we should look forward to this change with enthusiasm.”
Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Valletta, Tonio De Pasquale, feels the population has to participate for the introduction of the euro to be a success and should be done in as little time possible.
“There will not be any increase in charges during the changeover. This is to accommodate all the necessary changes to be made.”
Valletta mayor Paul Borg Olivier said, “I appeal to the people to prepare for this change with enthusiasm. With the introduction of the euro, Malta will have an opportunity to show tourists better prices and prove that this country is comparatively more beneficial.”