GRTU kickstarts Malta's humanitarian aid effort

The GRTU has kickstarted Malta’s humanitarian aid effort for Libya, and is asking businesses operating out of Malta to donate – possibly with the support of their principals and partners in other EU member states – antibiotics, painkillers, medicines, bandages, IV fluids, analgesics, sutures, splints, and other medical and surgical supplies and consumables that are suitable for use with injuries in a war zone.

They are also accepting canned and long-life food items and preserves, baby food, and money which will be used to buy what is necessary. A depot point is being organised and goods deposited there will be delivered to Libya as soon as possible.

The GRTU said: “We are appealing to Malta’s traditional generosity at this time. Libya is not just another country. It is a country that we Maltese have known and worked in for many years. By and large, our workers and businesses in Libya have contributed to Malta’s current standard of living. Many Maltese have Libyan friends and associates, and there are ties of friendship that go beyond the political rhetoric of the past. Libya is one of our closest neighbours, and it it’s our Christian duty to help them in this hour of need.”

I would have left out the bit about Christian duty, because it’s basic human decency that we’re talking about here, not religion. It’s not because of religion that I’m galvanised with concern.

But never mind. That’s not the point. The point is that the GRTU is to be admired for taking this initiative despite the severe problems so many of its members are dealing with, having had to shut up shop in Libya and deal with the financial fall-out and many employees who are effectively redundant.

They have seen that their problems, however large and overwhelming, are not that significant when placed in the overall context of this massive crisis. People come first.

The GRTU has set up a special email address on libyacrisis@grtu.net for information and queries. The telephone information numbers are 21 232 881 or 7904 9409 (Miss Said) and 9949 9401.