Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi has informed Parliament that the Maltese government has asked to intervene in the hearings at the European Court for Human Rights to show its full support with Italy on its appeal on the removal of crucifixes in public buildings.

Although this ruling does not in any way affect Malta, Dr Gonzi said that that it could lead to enhanced legal effects in the future. He added that the government has already declared that the ruling is completely mistaken.

He insisted that Malta has upheld various Christian and cultural traditions for centuries and should not be obliged to change them just because one particular person objects to them.

Dr Gonzi concluding by saying that he was certain that the vast majority of Maltese did not want crucifixes to be removed from classrooms and other public buildings.