Gibraltar’s representation at the Labour Party Conference continued yesterday evening with the Gibraltar Reception hosted by the Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and featuring a keynote speech by the UK Minister for Europe and the Overseas Territories Stephen Doughty MP.
Having questioned the independence of the recent GBC Board appointments, the Government's response to the Opposition (as is now customary) is to basically say "we are only doing what you did when you were previously in Government so don't complain."
Well, the Opposition, and indeed the electorate that voted the Government into office, has every right to complain. The GSLP fought the general election on a ticket of transparency, accountability and a promise of a New Dawn in local politics. Now that they are in Government, every time they are criticised by the GSD and held accountable, they try to deflect attention by either blaming the previous Administration or suggesting that the GSD did the same.
Environment Minister Dr. John Cortes this afternoon officially inaugurated the renovated Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park after a long 2-year period of on going repairs. During the reception, which was attended by Governor Sir Adrian Johns and Lady Johns, Director of the Gardens, Dr. Keith Bensusan explained that the park had come about following the confiscation of a number of illegal wild animals that were trying to be imported into Gibraltar. He added that at the beginning the work in the park was carried out by mostly volunteers.
In celebration of the GFA’s admittance into UEFA as the 54th member state, the Gibraltar Government will arrange a number of events, including a march from John Mackintosh Square to Casemates, involving GFA registered junior and senior players and officials, as well as the Executive Council. This will be done with all GFA members wearing their team kits. The march will be led by the Gibraltar Sea Scouts Pipe Band.
A stage erected in Casemates Square will allow for the Mayor, GFA President Gareth Latin and the Chief Minister, to address those assembled there. During this period, a number of the GFA’s campaign videos will be shown, with music and pyrotechnic entertainment to be provided until 9pm.