The Malta Red Cross has tonight issued a statement in response to the current suspension of the Gozo branch.

The statement does not however, name the branch, or any indivituals. The Malta Red Cross said that it was established by Act of Parliament, and as such is a Society which rigorously follows local law. Forming part of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the Malta Red Cross also adheres to the principles and policies of the International Red Cross Movement.

The statement said that it is with great regret that the Malta Red Cross Society has been drawn into embarrassment by the unfortunate behaviour of a few members, who have threatened, insulted and vilified the Society publicly across various media platforms.

The Malta Red Cross has endured repeated, serious statutorial breaches by members who believed they were not subject to the regulations of the Society, and that they could conduct and apply the principles of the Red Cross as they pleased. Unfortunately, this irresponsible behaviour has culminated in recent months, with actions in breach of safety norms, of the Principles of the Red Cross Movement, of the Statutes of the Malta Red Cross, and of direct instructions of the Head Office of the Society; and with incidents involving unethical behaviour towards Officials of the same Society. It is also appropriate to mention that the main promoter of these insults, threats and wrongful behaviour has now been removed from Office. The Malta Red Cross said.

The MRC said that the Administration and Governance of Malta Red Cross, because indeed there is only one Red Cross Society for both Malta and Gozo, repeatedly requested meetings with these members in a bid to amicably resolve these various issues. All requests were ignored, and these members continued to act independently, whilst using the Malta Red Cross brand and directing its volunteers.

Thus, the Malta Red Cross said it necessarily had to intervene to eliminate such irregularities.

The Malta Red Cross said it has noted that, once again, the same individuals are attacking the Society with frivolous and unfounded allegations, and furthermore that its Officials are being personally attacked and vilified. The Malta Red Cross condemns this behaviour, whilst fully supporting its Officials who dedicate their effort to the development of the same Society.

The MRC said it is unfortunate that the abusive actions of a few have tainted the reputation of the entire Society. The Society went on to say as a neutral organisation, it does not find it helpful to have such debates in the media.

The Malta Red Cross augured it has every intention of working in both Malta and Gozo, and is currently reviewing its internal procedures, in consultation with and following the advice and guidance of the IFRC, with the aim of ensuring correct, effective and sustainable operations across the Maltese Islands.

They Malta Red Cross concluded by saying it would like to invite all members and volunteers who truly believe in, uphold and practice the principles of the Red Cross, and who are ready to abide by the regulations of the Society to step forward, recognising that it is their dedication that is truly the beating heart of the Malta Red Cross.

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