GOVERNMENT OF MALTA MAGAZINE | FEB 2019 | ISSUE NO 04Published by the communications team, Office of the Prime Minister of MaltaEditor Sarah-Louise Galea / Design Ikona Artworks Ltd / Printing Velprint Ltd

www.primeminister.gov.mt

We are working hard on the framework to introduce gender quotas in Parliament – the judiciary have made history recently, due to the majority of Maltese judges being female.

Pensions were once again increased, as they have every Budget since we took power six years ago next month, making sure those who dedicated their working lives to this country are looked after.

We also saw a National Minimum Wage Agreement implemented, and a Low Wage Commission established, to protect those on basic incomes. We believe in protecting those who need it. Leaving dogs chained was banned. The penalties for domestic and gender-based violence were harshened

The Child Protection Act was tabled in Parliament, and the eleventh residence for the disabled living in the community, designed to protect independence, opened its doors.

Free school transport was extended to pupils at church and independent schools, with 28,000 students now using the scheme. This has reduced the expense and stress for parents, and removed more than 6,000 cars from our roads during rush hour, reducing traffic and workers’ commute time.

24,000 16-20 year olds also gained free public transport, adding to the reduction in vehicles and improvement in air quality.

Air quality will further improve after the dismantling of the Delimara power station’s chimney. As will water quality for industry and agriculture in Gozo, due to the opening of a new ‘polishing plant’.

Environmentally, we planted 12,000 trees throughout last year (with 90 species of tree now protected), introduced new recycling schemes, and signed an agreement for the Beverage Container Refund Scheme. But we want to do more.

And a healthy economy allows us to do more. We gave €40.5 million in investment aid, approving 128 projects with a forecasted investment of €249.3 million, creating 2,251 jobs – this is prosperity with a purpose.

Malta continues to attract new industries and global investment, from medical marijuana production to blockchain and eSports in the digital sector, which means more jobs.

To meet this demand, funding for training has been increased, with more than 1,000 people getting financial assistance from the Get Qualified Scheme since last June, which will ensure our population will have the skills and training needed to fill these new roles.

We continue to be active members of the European Union, reaching our disbursement targets for European funds with €242 million spent by 2018 year-end. We also joined the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, and thanks to our legislative reforms, Malta is ranked as having one of the best whistleblower protection laws in the EU.

People flocked to the capital for the Valletta 18 closing ceremony in December, after a successful European City of Culture year, of more than 400 events, enjoyed by more than 400,000 people.

But our dedication to culture continues with Heritage Malta opening its sites to students for free, and the Culture Pass broadened to include all students under 18 – €10 million was also earmarked for cultural heritage conservation.

We also continued our investment in our population’s security, with the signing of the Malta Police Force agreement. And in our population’s health, with the opening of the first health centre in 20 years in Kirkop, plus the Barts Medical School Campus Anatomy Centre which will improve both medical education and healthcare in Gozo.

We upped our investment in sport, with a state-of-the-art National Shooting Range and Snooker Academy both having opened in the past six months. And with a second additional day of vacation leave given to all workers to compensate for public holidays falling on the weekend, there is more time to spend on hobbies, or with our families this year.

With the announcement that an embassy will open in Japan, Malta’s diplomatic reach will stretch further to where it should be. And with Air Malta reaching breakeven, we will have the means to get there.

As we go from looking back at our achievements to looking forward, one thing out of our control is Brexit. But we have worked hard to have plans in place for whatever happens, even a ‘no deal’.

Our priority is always to protect the Maltese living, working, and studying in the UK, and the British citizens residing here. But due to the special, and historic relationship between our two countries, we aim to be the most UK-friendly member state post-Brexit.

This issue looks at what the rest of 2019 has in store, including the European Parliament and Local Council elections in May – the first elections in which 16-18 year olds can vote.

From protecting our family businesses and countryside, to creating a stable and fair rental market for both renters and landlords. From a new Mental Health Strategy and V18 Legacy projects, to the next stage of our infrastructure upgrade and sports projects.

All just a snippet of what is in the pipeline from the government, to further future-proof our economy, and continue improving all Malta‘s citizens and residents’ lives. So, let’s keep Moving Forward together.

Joseph MuscatPrime Minister of Malta

Even more has been achieved since the last issue of Moving Forward, just over six months ago. Achievements which will continue improving the quality of life for everyone living on our islands, building on our first year of re-election, and made possible by stable governance, low debt, a high surplus, and the lowest unemployment in our history.In Malta, we don’t leave anyone behind, and believe passionately in social justice.

TOGETHER

01

We are working hard on the framework to introduce gender quotas in Parliament – the judiciary have made history recently, due to the majority of Maltese judges being female.

Pensions were once again increased, as they have every Budget since we took power six years ago next month, making sure those who dedicated their working lives to this country are looked after.

We also saw a National Minimum Wage Agreement implemented, and a Low Wage Commission established, to protect those on basic incomes. We believe in protecting those who need it. Leaving dogs chained was banned. The penalties for domestic and gender-based violence were harshened

The Child Protection Act was tabled in Parliament, and the eleventh residence for the disabled living in the community, designed to protect independence, opened its doors.

Free school transport was extended to pupils at church and independent schools, with 28,000 students now using the scheme. This has reduced the expense and stress for parents, and removed more than 6,000 cars from our roads during rush hour, reducing traffic and workers’ commute time.

24,000 16-20 year olds also gained free public transport, adding to the reduction in vehicles and improvement in air quality.

Air quality will further improve after the dismantling of the Delimara power station’s chimney. As will water quality for industry and agriculture in Gozo, due to the opening of a new ‘polishing plant’.

Environmentally, we planted 12,000 trees throughout last year (with 90 species of tree now protected), introduced new recycling schemes, and signed an agreement for the Beverage Container Refund Scheme. But we want to do more.

And a healthy economy allows us to do more. We gave €40.5 million in investment aid, approving 128 projects with a forecasted investment of €249.3 million, creating 2,251 jobs – this is prosperity with a purpose.

Malta continues to attract new industries and global investment, from medical marijuana production to blockchain and eSports in the digital sector, which means more jobs.

To meet this demand, funding for training has been increased, with more than 1,000 people getting financial assistance from the Get Qualified Scheme since last June, which will ensure our population will have the skills and training needed to fill these new roles.

We continue to be active members of the European Union, reaching our disbursement targets for European funds with €242 million spent by 2018 year-end. We also joined the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, and thanks to our legislative reforms, Malta is ranked as having one of the best whistleblower protection laws in the EU.

People flocked to the capital for the Valletta 18 closing ceremony in December, after a successful European City of Culture year, of more than 400 events, enjoyed by more than 400,000 people.

But our dedication to culture continues with Heritage Malta opening its sites to students for free, and the Culture Pass broadened to include all students under 18 – €10 million was also earmarked for cultural heritage conservation.

We also continued our investment in our population’s security, with the signing of the Malta Police Force agreement. And in our population’s health, with the opening of the first health centre in 20 years in Kirkop, plus the Barts Medical School Campus Anatomy Centre which will improve both medical education and healthcare in Gozo.

We upped our investment in sport, with a state-of-the-art National Shooting Range and Snooker Academy both having opened in the past six months. And with a second additional day of vacation leave given to all workers to compensate for public holidays falling on the weekend, there is more time to spend on hobbies, or with our families this year.

With the announcement that an embassy will open in Japan, Malta’s diplomatic reach will stretch further to where it should be. And with Air Malta reaching breakeven, we will have the means to get there.

As we go from looking back at our achievements to looking forward, one thing out of our control is Brexit. But we have worked hard to have plans in place for whatever happens, even a ‘no deal’.

Our priority is always to protect the Maltese living, working, and studying in the UK, and the British citizens residing here. But due to the special, and historic relationship between our two countries, we aim to be the most UK-friendly member state post-Brexit.

This issue looks at what the rest of 2019 has in store, including the European Parliament and Local Council elections in May – the first elections in which 16-18 year olds can vote.

From protecting our family businesses and countryside, to creating a stable and fair rental market for both renters and landlords. From a new Mental Health Strategy and V18 Legacy projects, to the next stage of our infrastructure upgrade and sports projects.

All just a snippet of what is in the pipeline from the government, to further future-proof our economy, and continue improving all Malta‘s citizens and residents’ lives. So, let’s keep Moving Forward together.

Joseph MuscatPrime Minister of Malta

02

CONTENTS

A FAIR RENTAL MARKET FOR ALL04SAY NO TO PLASTIC06

STAY SAFE OVERSEASWITH MALTA TRAVEL POINT08

V18: LEAVING A CULTURALLEGACY FOR ALL12

UPGRADING MALTA’SROAD NETWORK14

LET’S GET MALTAMOVING16

CONNECTING OURSISTER ISLES20

SUPPORTING FAMILY BUSINESSES FOR GENERATIONS TO COME18

A NEW MENTAL HEALTHSTRATEGY FOR MALTA10

PROTECTING MALTA’S CITIZENS22

03

AIR MALTA, THE AIRLINEOF THE MEDITERRANEAN 24

REGENERATINGCHADWICK LAKES FOR ALL 26

A POWERHOUSE OFECONOMIC INNOVATION 28

YOUR GUIDE TO VOTING IN MAY’S EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT ELECTIONS 30

YOUR GUIDE TO VOTINGIN THE LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS 32

A FAIR RENTAL MARKET FOR ALL

BUT HOW WILL THE PROPOSED ‘RENT REFORM’ ADDRESS THESE ISSUES?

Stability will be the top priority, so a compulsory minimum duration will be introduced, which should encourage longer duration contracts. This will also allow landlords and tenants to plan their income and expenses better.

The proposed rent reform also seeks to put an end to abusive situations where a tenant’s rent can be abruptly increased, or they can be asked to leave at short notice. An obligatory notice period is being proposed, which would reflect the duration agreed in the contract. And any annual rent price increases must be agreed upon by both the landlord and tenant before the contract comes into effect. In order to have a fair and just rental market, the rent reform is also recommending tenants have access to their utility bills, reducing the ability of landlords to unfairly inflate bills.

Deposits should also be safeguarded by the amount being included in the registered contract – these should be accompanied by a photo inventory showing all furnishings, and what state they are in when the tenant moves in.

Landlords also deserve safeguards from tenants who default on contracts. So the rent reform will establish a new Dispute Resolution Unit tasked to settle minor disputes, alleviating the excess time and costs incurred by a court. Plus amendments will be made to the judicial procedure required for eviction, to make the process more expedient.

In fact, in order to ensure both parties are safeguarded by the new proposals, rental contracts will need to be registered. A new specialised unit within the Housing Authority will be set up for this, also tasked with enforcement and monitoring duties.

Although that seems a normal scenario for a renter, in Malta, it is sadly an exception. Because, not all stories are like Suzanne’s.

Take Carl, who has lived in four different apartments in the past three years. He lives in fear that his landlord will raise his rent overnight, without notice, and he will have to move again. An unstable scenario unfortunately being experienced by too many people. And it is for this reason the government decided to meet landlords, and tenants, to find a way to rectify the situation − and to create a fair and transparent rental market for all.

Suzanne has been renting an apartment with her partner and daughter for six years. They have become part of the local community, enjoy a respectful relationship with their landlord and, even though their rent increases slightly each year, Suzanne doesn’t mind because this was agreed upon before they moved in.

04

BUT HOW WILL THE PROPOSED ‘RENT REFORM’ ADDRESS THESE ISSUES?

Stability will be the top priority, so a compulsory minimum duration will be introduced, which should encourage longer duration contracts. This will also allow landlords and tenants to plan their income and expenses better.

The proposed rent reform also seeks to put an end to abusive situations where a tenant’s rent can be abruptly increased, or they can be asked to leave at short notice. An obligatory notice period is being proposed, which would reflect the duration agreed in the contract. And any annual rent price increases must be agreed upon by both the landlord and tenant before the contract comes into effect. In order to have a fair and just rental market, the rent reform is also recommending tenants have access to their utility bills, reducing the ability of landlords to unfairly inflate bills.

Deposits should also be safeguarded by the amount being included in the registered contract – these should be accompanied by a photo inventory showing all furnishings, and what state they are in when the tenant moves in.

Landlords also deserve safeguards from tenants who default on contracts. So the rent reform will establish a new Dispute Resolution Unit tasked to settle minor disputes, alleviating the excess time and costs incurred by a court. Plus amendments will be made to the judicial procedure required for eviction, to make the process more expedient.

In fact, in order to ensure both parties are safeguarded by the new proposals, rental contracts will need to be registered. A new specialised unit within the Housing Authority will be set up for this, also tasked with enforcement and monitoring duties.

Although that seems a normal scenario for a renter, in Malta, it is sadly an exception. Because, not all stories are like Suzanne’s.

Take Carl, who has lived in four different apartments in the past three years. He lives in fear that his landlord will raise his rent overnight, without notice, and he will have to move again. An unstable scenario unfortunately being experienced by too many people. And it is for this reason the government decided to meet landlords, and tenants, to find a way to rectify the situation − and to create a fair and transparent rental market for all.

Ultimately, the proposed rental reform will introduce desperately needed measures to strike a balance between the interests of the landlords on one side, and those who rent on the other. It’s goal will be to encourage trust, best practice, and stability for all.

05

SAY

to plasticIn line with global trends, people in Malta are becoming increasingly conscious about their health and well-being, checking food labels for nutrition values before choosing what groceries to buy and consume. However, when inspecting food labels, we are often unaware that there could be an unwanted missing ‘ingredient’: plastic particles.

The use of plastic has exploded in recent years. We cannot deny it has revolutionised our world, from high performance plastics for vehicles and planes, to allowing us to keep food safely for longer. And in Malta, most of us get our drinking water from bottles.

Due to our fast, throw-away society, plastic seems irreplaceable if we want to continue with our current standard of living. We choose products because they are lighter, tougher, and often cheaper than more environmental−friendly alternatives. But it is not always a question of replacing our plastic containers − what we cannot cut down on, we can recycle.

It is when plastic is discarded in a reckless way that it does the most damage, from littering our beautiful countryside, to our sea and beaches where the ecosystem can be fatally damaged. Our wildlife often dies due to consuming, and getting tangled in plastic objects. This is because plastic is not biodegradable. It just breaks down into smaller and smaller fragments until it becomes microplastics, no longer visible to the naked eye.

It is these microplastics that are finding their way into the air we breath, and into our food chain, affecting our health. In Malta, especially after storms, the amount of plastic debris is so significant the public have been mobilised to organise clean-ups. However, the microplastics remain unnoticed, and there is

nothing we can do to fix that, apart from removing plastic from our environment. Due to the damage plastic has done outweighing its benefits, it’s time to say “no” to plastic.

Thankfully, global awareness on the harm plastic does has skyrocketed in recent years, and the local population has started to change its consumption and disposing patterns. However, there is a misconception that every plastic item can be effectively recycled – recycling is more complex than that. It depends on the local stakeholders, and condition of plastic product being disposed of, to whether or not it can be re-used.

Education remains critical if we are really committed to improving the quality of our environment. In the past few years the government has increased its investment in both the Don’t Waste Waste and Sort it Out campaigns, as well as making recycling easier for households, from giving bins for organic waste, to making sure localities have rubbish bins and collections for specific recycled goods, from food to plastic and glass. Regulations have also become more stringent, with strict penalties for littering.

As a country we are currently in the process of making a positive transformation that, if maintained, will ensure a better environment for everyone, and future generations. But, we must do more. Because if not, our demand for creating landfills will keep increasing, and our island will become more polluted.

Malta is committed to being part of the global fight against plastic, with a government pledge at the Our Ocean’s conference about the introduction of a Beverage Container Refund Scheme which will kick−off this year. This initiative is gathering momentum, with local producers, importers, and retailers, already pledging their support, as well as the general public. This scheme will target the estimated 200 million plastic, metal, and glass bottles in circulation every year.

Because ultimately, we all need to pull together to create a better environment. Not just for Malta, but also globally, because seas and oceans do not have borders, and the lack of action of one country will still negatively affect the world. So let’s all do our bit. The long-term price to the environment and our health is too high not to.

06

In line with global trends, people in Malta are becoming increasingly conscious about their health and well-being, checking food labels for nutrition values before choosing what groceries to buy and consume. However, when inspecting food labels, we are often unaware that there could be an unwanted missing ‘ingredient’: plastic particles.

The use of plastic has exploded in recent years. We cannot deny it has revolutionised our world, from high performance plastics for vehicles and planes, to allowing us to keep food safely for longer. And in Malta, most of us get our drinking water from bottles.

Due to our fast, throw-away society, plastic seems irreplaceable if we want to continue with our current standard of living. We choose products because they are lighter, tougher, and often cheaper than more environmental−friendly alternatives. But it is not always a question of replacing our plastic containers − what we cannot cut down on, we can recycle.

It is when plastic is discarded in a reckless way that it does the most damage, from littering our beautiful countryside, to our sea and beaches where the ecosystem can be fatally damaged. Our wildlife often dies due to consuming, and getting tangled in plastic objects. This is because plastic is not biodegradable. It just breaks down into smaller and smaller fragments until it becomes microplastics, no longer visible to the naked eye.

It is these microplastics that are finding their way into the air we breath, and into our food chain, affecting our health. In Malta, especially after storms, the amount of plastic debris is so significant the public have been mobilised to organise clean-ups. However, the microplastics remain unnoticed, and there is

nothing we can do to fix that, apart from removing plastic from our environment. Due to the damage plastic has done outweighing its benefits, it’s time to say “no” to plastic.

Thankfully, global awareness on the harm plastic does has skyrocketed in recent years, and the local population has started to change its consumption and disposing patterns. However, there is a misconception that every plastic item can be effectively recycled – recycling is more complex than that. It depends on the local stakeholders, and condition of plastic product being disposed of, to whether or not it can be re-used.

Education remains critical if we are really committed to improving the quality of our environment. In the past few years the government has increased its investment in both the Don’t Waste Waste and Sort it Out campaigns, as well as making recycling easier for households, from giving bins for organic waste, to making sure localities have rubbish bins and collections for specific recycled goods, from food to plastic and glass. Regulations have also become more stringent, with strict penalties for littering.

As a country we are currently in the process of making a positive transformation that, if maintained, will ensure a better environment for everyone, and future generations. But, we must do more. Because if not, our demand for creating landfills will keep increasing, and our island will become more polluted.

Malta is committed to being part of the global fight against plastic, with a government pledge at the Our Ocean’s conference about the introduction of a Beverage Container Refund Scheme which will kick−off this year. This initiative is gathering momentum, with local producers, importers, and retailers, already pledging their support, as well as the general public. This scheme will target the estimated 200 million plastic, metal, and glass bottles in circulation every year.

Because ultimately, we all need to pull together to create a better environment. Not just for Malta, but also globally, because seas and oceans do not have borders, and the lack of action of one country will still negatively affect the world. So let’s all do our bit. The long-term price to the environment and our health is too high not to.

07

STAY SAFEOVERSEAS with

The Maltese are travelling more than ever before. With more routes in and out of the island available we are better connected, and better off, than ever − which means more holidays, and more business opportunities. Curious youngsters are increasingly backpacking to all parts of the globe, as well as taking advantage of scholarships to study abroad. Many Maltese work abroad, travelling home as regularly as friends and family visit. And businesspeople attend meetings and conferences overseas.

Although this is positive for the country on both a cultural and financial level, it also means Maltese citizens are being exposed to more security risks than ever before, from being in the wrong place at the wrong time during a natural disaster, or when a terrorist attack or civil unrest happens. When these incidents occur, the government and its consular outreach needs to make sure its citizens are safe − and if they need help, be able to give it as quickly as possible.

The Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion has created an easy-to-use app, called the Malta Travel Point, which citizens can download free (from the App Store or Google Play) and let the government know where they are going, and for how long.

It can also be used by anybody just for information, with other regularly updated sections (in both English and Maltese) containing travel advice and contact details of the nearest hospital, police station, and Maltese embassies, high commissions, or consulates, who can help you in an emergency.

08

TRAVEL POINTwith MALTA

The Malta Travel Point app sections:

Travel Advice This highlights any precautions that should be taken before travelling to a particular country; information on the political and security conditions of that country; plus any local laws, customs, and health warnings travellers should know about.

Malta Representations This contains the map location and contact details of all the Maltese embassies, high commissions, consulate generals, and honorary consulates in the country visiting which can be contacted directly by a Maltese citizen in case of an emergency. The map will also show directions on how to get there, but on-the-move internet access is needed for this feature to work.

Useful Information This guides users on what to do in case of an accident, illness or death; arrest or detention; financial difficulties, including the loss or theft of credit cards; hostage taking or kidnapping; loss or theft of travel documents, including passports; missing relatives; when there is an emergency situation, including being a victim of any crime.

Emergency Services Travellers can find the nearest police station and hospital by geolocation in this section, giving both the address and a map showing directions on how to get there (this also needs internet access to function).

Travel Journal Users can register their travel itinerary here so, in the event of a crisis such as a terrorist attack, natural disaster, or civil unrest, the Ministry can proactively contact Maltese citizens to ensure they are safe, and to keep them updated on the situation, administering help as necessary.

Notifications This section allows users to access information on the countries they are considering travelling to, to make sure they are making a safe decision, and to get travel advice updates instantly via push notifications.

09

Mental illness is not discriminatory, and can affect any one of us. In fact, it has affected half of the Maltese population at some point in their lives. Which is why the government has made mental health a key priority within an overarching National Health Strategy, aimed at further improving health services.

The strategy embraces a shift away from mental health care in institutions, towards community-based care. And is dedicated to

upholding the values of dignity and autonomy for all people with mental

disorders, ensuring their right to appropriate mental health care and mental well-being

during their life.

Starting in 2020, the strategy − currently being honed in consultation stage − will run over a decade. And, with a current cost to our national health system of around €400 million, spending on mental health will increase, as will policies to increase awareness and reduce stigma, giving mental illness the same attention as physical, transforming the current care available to patients.

In Malta, the government is committed to not leaving anyone behind. Which is why the necessary steps to ensure our mental health system is able to respond effectively to changing societal needs and expectations are being taken.

This is reflected in the government’s vision for mental health care, which will:

‘Foster policies and environments that are conducive to promoting mental health and well-being for everyone, preventing mental disorders among individuals at high-risk, and providing quality treatment and care to individuals with mental illness, thereby facilitating their participation as active members of society.’

This vision will be implemented through 75 proposed actions, under four clusters:

• Promoting mental health awareness, and addressing the wider determinants of health;

• A reconfigured Mental Health Service Framework;

• Enhanced support for all people suffering from mental disorders;

• Building capacity and fostering innovation to improve performance.

10

A NEW MENTAL HEALTHSTRATEGY FOR MALTA

The strategy embraces a shift away from mental health care in institutions, towards community-based care. And is dedicated to

upholding the values of dignity and autonomy for all people with mental

disorders, ensuring their right to appropriate mental health care and mental well-being

during their life.

It is undeniable that Malta’s mental health sector has not been sufficiently resourced over past decades. The proposed government funding plan will invest the required capital into new and refurbished facilities, including information systems. Several initiatives have already started, including steps to integrate inpatient and outpatient mental health care. And the planning of the acute psychiatric hospital (adjacent to Mater Dei’s teaching hospital) is at an advanced stage, with Mount Carmel Hospital’s refurbishment proceeding at a steady pace.

These actions, and the goal of the whole strategy, and the current administration’s Ministry-wide vision, is to transform and develop Malta’s mental health services for the long-term. Creating employment opportunities, reducing material poverty, and modernising approaches to substance misuse are all initiatives that contribute to the prevention of mental illness.

The government also recognises the importance and expertise of people who have experience of mental illness, those who cared for them, civil society and NGOs who can all play a part in the wider care network. So it will continue to strengthen the existing relationships, and offer further opportunities for experts and organisations to fill identified gaps in relation to prevention and support.

By 2030, mental health care in Malta will be transformed, with every individual who experiences mental health problems being empowered to seek and obtain the right help at the right time, free from discrimination and stigma, so they can be independent and fully integrated in society.

The government wants every person living in Malta to have happy, healthy, fulfilling lives − and supports the development of a fairer community where everyone is able to reach their full potential. But this can only happen when mental health is considered at par, and fully integrated with physical health. Which is what the mental health part of the National Health Strategy aims to achieve.

Starting in 2020, the strategy − currently being honed in consultation stage − will run over a decade. And, with a current cost to our national health system of around €400 million, spending on mental health will increase, as will policies to increase awareness and reduce stigma, giving mental illness the same attention as physical, transforming the current care available to patients.

In Malta, the government is committed to not leaving anyone behind. Which is why the necessary steps to ensure our mental health system is able to respond effectively to changing societal needs and expectations are being taken.

This is reflected in the government’s vision for mental health care, which will:

‘Foster policies and environments that are conducive to promoting mental health and well-being for everyone, preventing mental disorders among individuals at high-risk, and providing quality treatment and care to individuals with mental illness, thereby facilitating their participation as active members of society.’

This vision will be implemented through 75 proposed actions, under four clusters:

• Promoting mental health awareness, and addressing the wider determinants of health;

• A reconfigured Mental Health Service Framework;

• Enhanced support for all people suffering from mental disorders;

• Building capacity and fostering innovation to improve performance.

To make sure it reaches its aims, the public are being encouraged to read the strategy (https://deputyprimeminister.gov.mt/en/Documents/National-Health-Strategies/Mental_Health_Strategy_EN.pdf) and submit any feedback to mentalhealthstrategy.health@gov.mt by February-end 2019.

11

V18

Although the L-Aħħar Festa celebrations last December drew Valletta 2018 (the European Capital of Culture Year) to an official close, its

success has meant a strong cultural legacy is being left behind for all – and for future generations to enjoy.

LEAVING A CULTURAL

LEGACY FOR ALL

Run by the Valletta 2018 Foundation, the year-long cultural programme saw more than 400 events take place across Malta and Gozo, attended by more than 400,000 people, and featuring 1,600 local and international artists. This boosted the cultural, social, and economic infrastructure throughout the capital, with many projects involving community members in art for the first time.

Culture-oriented tourism also sky-rocketed, with Malta’s historic sites and museums registering record visitors. Legacy projects run by the Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government will continue to enhance the local cultural scene, and be enjoyed by both Malta residents and tourists alike. These include MUŻA, the Valletta Design Cluster, and MICAS.

12

MUŻALaunched last November, MUŻA (MUŻew Nazzjonali tal-Arti), which means ‘inspiration’ in Maltese, is Malta’s new national-community museum of fine art. Named as one of the must-visit new museums in the world by UK broadsheet the Guardian, this was a flagship project for V18, pioneered by Heritage Malta.

Based in the majestic Auberge d’Italie, in the heart of Valletta, it houses the Malta National Museum of Fine Arts’ collections, and showcases how a historic building can be retrofitted for the current day − it is even green-powered by renewable energy.

A hybrid of public spaces, galleries, and retail facilities, visitors to MUŻA are encouraged to experience, engage, and interact with the art on show. As a community museum, it also aims to promote social cohesion, intercultural dialogue, creativity and inspiration, continuing what V18 started, as part of the legacy project.

muza.heritagemalta.org

Valletta Design ClusterHoused in the capital’s Old Abbattoir (Il-Biċċerija), the Valletta Design Cluster is currently being transformed into a modern and functional space to entice and build a creative community which will learn, network, and create cultural projects together. When finished, it will have state-of-the-art facilities, from co-working spaces and studios for individuals and start-ups to develop ideas, to a relaxing roof garden. The Valletta Design Cluster is already heading projects and having successes, from Design4DCity (which addresses the well-being of residents through co-creative approaches towards public space), to the Malta Robotics Olympiad (Malta’s annual design, technology, and education event). The Valletta Design Cluster, and its projects, reflect the government’s commitment to the Valletta 2018 legacy by linking research and policy initiatives aimed at strengthening the contribution of design to people’s social and economic well-being, with education and industry support.

The Valletta Design Cluster will also give its creative community − people from the cultural and creative sectors, Valletta residents, students, start-ups, etc − spaces needed locally, as well as equipment and staff support. The engagement events being hosted are connecting future users with current, making the organisation a community-driven platform for cultural and creative practice and exchange in Malta.

valletta2018.org

MICASLaunched as a concept last October and due to open in 2021, the Malta International Contemporary Art Space, known as MICAS, has already made a big splash on the international art scene.

The launch included an exhibition and series of talks by leaders in the cultural field, which was covered in the international press, including Architectural Digest who listed MICAS in their ‘A Design Lover’s Guide to Malta’.

Based in Ospizio, the stunning historical fortifications of the San Salvatore Bastions in Floriana, MICAS’s Art Director, Dr Ruth Bianco, said it aimed to not only give space to local contemporary artists to showcase their work, but also to engage with international institutions to bring acclaimed work from global artists to Malta.

But MICAS will offer more than exhibition spaces. It will have educational events and cultural activities for all ages, plus be an inspirational space at the foot of Valletta, like other capital cities have, from London’s Tate Modern to New York’s MoMA and France’s Musée du Louvre. It will put Malta on the contemporary art world map, becoming an attraction in its own right, ensuring the Valletta 2018 legacy lives on.

micas.art

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Through years of neglect by previous administrations, the Maltese road network gradually became notorious for poor quality and its seemingly hopeless state. Which is why this government committed to upgrading Malta’s roads, allocating €700 million of investment to upgrade infrastructure. With many major road projects either underway, or concluded, and the first batch of residential roads that need to be built, rebuilt, and resurfaced due to start in the first few months of this year, it is becoming increasingly evident that the government is delivering on its pledge.

The work concluded, or being carried out on a number of major road arteries has been significant. Projects such as the Marsa-Ħamrun Bypass, the Kappara Junction, and the first stages of the Marsa Junction Project have all resulted in an increase in capacity, as well as improved quality and safety on the country’s road network.

The Marsa Junction Project in particular is unprecedented: it is the country’s first multi-level junction. With an investment of €70 million, co-financed by the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility, it has moved to its third phase, which will see the flyover structures being built. Upon completion of the second phase, the six-lane road became ten – six northbound, four southbound – reducing travelling time and improving air quality for the surrounding areas. The final phase will see the complete elimination of the Addolorata traffic lights junction, which will be replaced by multiple level roads and flyovers, drastically reducing waiting times and improving junction safety.

The next large-scale road network project is the Central Link Project, which was announced in 2018, and will transform Malta’s most congested central link: the artery between the bottom of Saqqajja Hill in Rabat and the Mrieħel Bypass.

This will eliminate three traffic lights junctions, see a new bypass, alter carriageway directions, and redesign 13 junctions. It will return Attard residential roads to the residents and positively impact 30,000 car commute journeys.

Other medium-term projects on arterial roads have facilitated daily commutes for thousands of drivers, including Vjal l-Avjazzjoni, Vjal ix-Xarolla, and the Żebbuġ and Qormi projects, with other similar initiatives in the pipeline. These include the Triq Bormla upgrade, which is currently at an advanced stage, as well as the planned Triq San Tumas/Triq Ħal Qormi project, plus the Triq Ħal Luqa project which will continue facilitating journeys from the centre to the south of the country.

UPGRADING Malta’s Road Network

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UPGRADING Malta’s Road Network

Although projects on arterial roads tend to gain the most attention (perhaps because they are most visible to the majority of the population), the upcoming residential roads project is also essential, especially because it will improve the quality of life of Maltese and Gozitan residents.

Infrastructure Malta was set up last year, immediately issuing a collective tender for multiple residential roads projects, to ensure the efficient implementation of the government’s €100 million pledge in this year’s budget – the first seventh of the €700 million investment to be made over seven years.

Roads such as Triq Bontadini in Birkirkara, Triq il-Linja in Attard, and Triq il-Wied in Balzan are all examples of roads that desperately needed an upgrade, which now have either been completed, or are in progress. And works on another 120 roads are expected to begin this year.

An important part of this change was the government’s commitment to promote and cater for alternative means of transport, through the provision of safer facilities. Pedestrian and cycling bridges are planned in Vjal l-Avjazzjoni in Luqa, in Triq San Ġorġ Preca in Blata l-Bajda, and a segregated cycle lane and footpath in Triq Bormla. Last year also saw the introduction of the ‘Share the Road’ concept in Żebbuġ, together with safe cycling routes at the roundabouts on either end of Mdina Road in the same locality.

And this year not only promises the first flyovers of the Marsa Junction Project and the start of work on residential roads, it will also see works start on the St Andrew’s Road, the Tal-Qroqq, Santa Venera, and Kirkop tunnels upgrade, the ambitious Santa Luċija tunnels project, plus the completion of the Regional Road Project.

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When it comes to road and public infrastructure, it is clear the government is sticking to its commitments, plus improving the quality of life of local residents who use these roads on a daily basis. It is the government’s priority to continue to deliver the high-quality infrastructure Maltese people deserve.

According to a recent Eurobarometer survey, 56% of Maltese adults neither exercise nor play sport. The negatives from a sedentary life are far-reaching, from obesity to physical and mental health issues. And without more participation in sport, the quality of our elite athletes and their standing on the global sporting stage will never increase − from winning medals in international competitions, to attracting the world’s best teams to Malta for all to enjoy watching.

It is for those reasons, and more, the government decided it needed a strategy to increase participation in both sport and exercise at all levels and ages. But to do this, the strategy would need to radically shake-up both the Maltese sporting culture and its management of sport.

So a Sports Strategy Commission, made up of experienced members from different local sport sectors, was recently appointed. It has been tasked to design a National Sport and Physical Activity Strategy, outlining the main priorities for sport in Malta, and short and long-term strategies to achieve the government’s vision.

Local research found that participation in sport during childhood is often the key to lifelong participation. Therefore, schools will be the starting point, using the National Sports School as a model, from strengthening links with local sports clubs to increasing Physical Education lessons.

LET’S GET MALTA

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Lessons should be more than just increasing fitness levels of all children, of all abilities, enticing them to exercise for life. The aim should be to introduce a wide range of sports before the child reaches 10, so they can pursue the sports they both enjoy, and show a talent for, in after-school clubs under the supervision of trained coaches.

But to do this, an increase in coaches, as well as officials, administrators, volunteers, and ultimately funding is needed. This has been committed to, and there will be an emphasis on higher standards and a more professional outlook.

The Government also realises that it has to be more ambitious and innovative to reach its targets. The international success that has been achieved in recent years, and higher participation in disabled global sporting competitions, needs to be built upon.

But how?

Malta looked at how other countries managed to do it, especially Great Britain who drastically increased their medal wins at both their home Olympic and Paralympic Games, plus Rio 2016. The UK had identified sports with the highest medal chances and increased the funding allocated to them. Although this will not be a popular action to take locally, the government deems it necessary if we want to reach our sporting potential.

But that does not mean less popular sports will be left behind. Adequate infrastructure for all sports is also vital in raising standards of elite athletes and fostering mass participation for fun.

This year, many sport facilities will be up-graded and, following the inauguration of the new Shooting Range and Snooker Academy Centre, works will start on new facilities including an Olympic size indoor pool in Cottonera and a Handball Sports Hall in Hamrun. This will help Malta host more international sporting events, which not only sparks interest in that sport, but also allows our athletes to compete at home against higher-ranking athletes, improving performance.

The Sports Strategy Commissionwill also be setting targets, including performance indicators, to ensure progress. Because sport has the unique power to change people’s lives and bring them together. But to do this, it must be accessible on every level, from fun to elite participation, to all.

Funding sport and exercise is a win-win scenario: From young athletes getting the chance to compete overseas and master team skills useful for life, to elite athletes reaching their potential and gaining sporting recognition for Malta. Because ultimately, sport and exercise is the catalyst for us all to live healthier, happier lives.

LET’S GET MALTA

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SUPP RTING FAMILY BUSINESSESfor generations to comeFamily businesses dominate all free enterprise economies, and have been crucial in the global economy’s survival during the most recent recession. Locally, Malta owes a lot to its family-led companies, who have been the bedrock of its economy for decades – their success continues to provide stability and economic growth.

The key to family businesses’ lasting growth and success is multifaceted, the world over. Each family business has a unique recipe on how to mix business with family well, embracing tradition, and a long-term vision that can build on previous generations’ successes, yet adapting to new and ever-evolving market trends.

Family companies can be vulnerable, plus tricky to lead and manage – is it the eldest in the family who should run the company, or the family member most qualified? Or an external professional? Their unique structures are often their handicap to success, or even demise. In fact, many family businesses did not fail because of increased competition or technological transformations, but because the owners failed to have a long-term plan, not managing to transfer to the next generation.

As a rule, only a small minority of highly successful business-owning families have excelled and thrived through the generations. Many fall prey to the ‘third-generation curse’: Although 49% of businesses are successfully transferred to the second generation, only 21% make it to the third, and just 12% to the fourth.

These figures are alarming when local studies show that around 80% of Malta’s businesses are family-run, and only 20% of these businesses have a robust, documented, and communicated succession plan in place. Which is why – and because it recognises the importance of family-run companies – the government introduced a regulatory policy to assist them, called the Family Business Act.

The legislation was introduced after a two-year research project looked into the governing structures of local family businesses. Findings showed a company’s long-term success increased if the generational baton was passed on before the founder passed away. It also revealed that a business can fail after the sudden death of a company’s founder, if a long-term strategy is not in place. So incentives for allowing transparent, smooth transitions were deemed necessary to maintain stakeholder confidence.

Which is why the government set-up the Family Business Office, where family business members can go to get advice about incentives available, and how to access them. It also offers a platform for companies to come together, organises events for the sector in Malta and Gozo, and has a website for online support:

www.familybusiness.org.mt

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The 11 incentives designed to ensure businesses have long-term success include:

Bank financingIn collaboration with the newly established Malta Development Bank, the Family Business Office offers advantageous loan debt financing through the Bank of Valletta, up to a value of €750,000 – this is the first ever incentive by a local bank to specifically cater for family businesses.

Micro investmentMicro investment of a maximum tax credit of €70,000 over a three−year period can be applied for.

Malta recognises that what is beneficial to a family business, is beneficial to the country’s economy. And how the role of family firms within Malta’s economic growth, development, and prosperity has been neglected – not only locally, but also on a global and European level. With family businesses making up more than 70% of all companies in the European Union, they should not have been, because they are a vital source of private sector employment.

Which is why Malta was the first jurisdiction to specifically legislate for family businesses. As well as defining the family business model for identification and regulation purposes, paving the way for successful transfers of family companies in Europe, and creating cross-border scale-up opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises. This has increased Malta’s attractiveness as a jurisdiction for the restructuring of international family businesses and relocation.

There is no doubt that this has helped Malta power ahead to achieve the highest economic growth figures in the EU. Family businesses have played a paramount role in Malta’s economic history, and will continue to do so in the country’s future.

Education and trainingEducation and training for owners, and their employees, of up to €1,000 annually per family business will be made available.

Family business transferAnnounced during the last Budget, parents transferring their family business to their children during this one-year period will benefit from a reduced stamp duty of 5% to 1.5%, with no capping on the amount to be transferred.

Immovable propertyWhen transferring a family business, duty on immovable property shall be chargeable on the first €500,000 of the value of the property transferred at the advantageous rate of €3.50 per €100.

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modernise Malta, and to embrace opportunities, as well as a commitment to not leave anyone behind. Why should Gozitans have to leave home to study or work, or face a long commute? Tunnels have been successfully connecting islands in other parts of the world, so it is time Malta caught-up.

Various studies by experts have been undertaken to make sure the project will be implemented in the safest, and most financially viable way. This will not just be a 13.5-kilometre tunnel, this is a connection that invests in the quality of life for people who live and work in Gozo. And an investment that will trigger employment and tourism opportunities, as well as economic growth.

This is not a promise for the distant future. The tender for the tunnel’s design, building, maintenance and operation will come out later this year, with work expected to start shortly after the tenders have been decided upon. As with all the other projects of any scale or magnitude, the Government is committed to delivering the tunnel on time, and to the highest possible quality.

Ways to connect our sister islands of Malta and Gozo have been debated for years, if not decades, with the idea of a permanent tunnel at first dismissed as unrealistic, and then an unfeasible proposition.

This is because there is drive and determination to

CONNECTINGOUR SISTER ISLES

But with the majority of Gozitans wanting, and deserving a link, the government decided not to shy away from such an ambitious project and promised to make it happen. And it is.

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modernise Malta, and to embrace opportunities, as well as a commitment to not leave anyone behind. Why should Gozitans have to leave home to study or work, or face a long commute? Tunnels have been successfully connecting islands in other parts of the world, so it is time Malta caught-up.

Various studies by experts have been undertaken to make sure the project will be implemented in the safest, and most financially viable way. This will not just be a 13.5-kilometre tunnel, this is a connection that invests in the quality of life for people who live and work in Gozo. And an investment that will trigger employment and tourism opportunities, as well as economic growth.

This is not a promise for the distant future. The tender for the tunnel’s design, building, maintenance and operation will come out later this year, with work expected to start shortly after the tenders have been decided upon. As with all the other projects of any scale or magnitude, the Government is committed to delivering the tunnel on time, and to the highest possible quality.

Because ultimately, the government is committed to delivering the project for all the people of Gozo, as well as delivering a better future for the island.

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PROTECTING MALTA’S CITIZENS

It will function as a control room, host the CPD administration, plus the Urban Search and Rescue and Dog Section K9. It will also have training facilities, and a hostel for foreign trainees.

Also part of the CPD plan is the construction of new fire stations in Delimara and Paceville. The Delimara station will cater for industrial buildings’ emergencies, whilst the Paceville station will specialise in high-rise buildings. Other stations will be renovated and upgraded.

Beyond infrastructure and human resource investments, the CPD will now be entrusted to regulate fire safety. And legislation is currently being prepared to grant executive powers to the department concerning precautions against fires in all buildings, including the Fire and Safety Act Procedures, Health and Safety Events, and European Laws.

Ultimately, this plan shows how the government is committed to protecting its citizens, and Malta is prepared for any emergency.

This included the upgrading of its current vehicle fleet and equipment. with 24 high-tech vehicles purchased in the last few months, and more on their way, which will enable CPD to respond more effectively.

This is part of a six-year plan, which will also see an increase in operating personnel to 400 fire fighters, needed due to the increase in both population and demand for CPD services.

To be better prepared for emergencies, especially in the case of a natural disaster, Malta’s fire fighters are attending advanced and specialised training programmes both locally and abroad. CPD has also trained fire fighters from other countries, from Ghana to Palestine.

Other projects underway to modernise the CPD include rebuilding fire stations so they are seismic proof, in case of earthquakes. Including the new fire station being built in Santa Venera, which will become the General Headquarters of the CPD due to it being located in easy reach to both the central part of the island, and the North Harbour Region.

There is much more to Malta’s Civil Protection Department (CPD) than answering 112 calls to put out fires and rescue pets. Founded in 1998, not only does it operate Ta’ Kandja, Hal Far, Floriana, Xemxija, Kordin, Marsa and Gozo fire stations, it also runs Dog Section K9, the Urban Search and Rescue, Marine Section, and the Humanitarian Aid Unit. This is due to the changing nature of emergency situations, and the resources needed to address them. Which is why the government has invested heavily in upgrading the department.

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Dogs Section K9CPD’s dogs are trained to search for, and detect the scent of inaccessible victims buried under rubble or partially collapsed structures with the Urban Search and Rescue team. This section is equipped with vehicles to transport the dogs, and a training area. Training comprises of basic obedience, agility, bark alert behaviour, rubble area search, directional control and multiple victims search.

Humanitarian Aid UnitSet-up after an EU agreement to provide reciprocal assistance to countries which suffer natural and man-made disasters, its remit is to stockpile necessary supplies which may be required in the event of a national disaster. It also co-ordinates the distribution of such supplies should the necessity arise. It collects goods from the Maltese public to be dispatched to countries requesting such assistance. For example, it dispatched more than 54 containers full of food stuffs and personal items to Indonesia after a recent tsunami.

The Marine UnitCovering fire-fighting, as well as search and rescue at sea, oil pollution control and prevention at sea, the Unit incorporates the HAZMAT (Hazardous Materials) and diving team. The fire-fighting vessel MV-Garibaldi – and smaller sea craft, including vehicles equipped to combat hazardous material incidents – are based at this Unit.

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AIRMALTAThe airline of the Mediterranean

Air Malta’s success story began when it started operating on 1st April 1974, with just seven scheduled European routes. Today, the airline flies to more than 30 destinations in Europe, North Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean. It carries two million passengers every year, with 55 million passengers having flown with the airline throughout its 45 year history.

These numbers will continue flying high after Air Malta added a new Airbus A320 neo model to its fleet last year, which currently numbers nine Airbus A320/319 aircraft. This is due to increase further, with two similar – more environmentally friendly and cost efficient – models due to join the Air Malta family later this year. Last year also witnessed 21 new routes launched, including the re-launch of intra-European routes with the Catania-Vienna operation.

In addition to its own network, Air Malta offers more than 150 additional destinations through code share agreements with several large network airlines, connecting Malta to the far corners of the world. Business and tourism lures 80% of all Air Malta passengers to Malta. This winter alone, Air Malta will operate more than 110 weekly flights to 22 destinations – an increased capacity of 21 per cent (equivalent to 146,000 seats), with aircraft flying hours soaring by nearly 30 per cent.

These actions, plus the introduction of a cost control mind-set, increased aircraft utilisation, improved staff productivity, and a move to a hybrid business model offering more customer choice, has seen Air Malta navigate out of turbulent times, establishing itself as the airline of the Mediterranean, while finally breaking even for the financial year ending March 2018.

This is the first time the national airline has achieved a positive financial performance outcome in nearly two decades, the direct result of a new strategy launched in mid-2017. This strategy aimed for growth, and prioritised an increase in routes, the frequency of popular routes, the aircraft fleet, cooperation with airlines such as Ryanair and Qatar Airways, plus improved staff productivity, a revamped product range including the Go-Light fare, and industrial stability following the signing of collective agreements with all unions representing employees.

It has been a success. And Air Malta was rewarded for its achievements at the renowned CAPA World Aviation Outlook summit held in Berlin last year, where it scooped the ‘Turnaround Airline of the Year’ award. It was chosen from the world’s airlines for its “innovative strategic changes and/or a restructuring”, which is a remarkable achievement, considering its situation just five years ago.

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AIRMALTAAir Malta’s success story began when it started operating on 1st April 1974, with just seven scheduled European routes. Today, the airline flies to more than 30 destinations in Europe, North Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean. It carries two million passengers every year, with 55 million passengers having flown with the airline throughout its 45 year history.

These numbers will continue flying high after Air Malta added a new Airbus A320 neo model to its fleet last year, which currently numbers nine Airbus A320/319 aircraft. This is due to increase further, with two similar – more environmentally friendly and cost efficient – models due to join the Air Malta family later this year. Last year also witnessed 21 new routes launched, including the re-launch of intra-European routes with the Catania-Vienna operation.

In addition to its own network, Air Malta offers more than 150 additional destinations through code share agreements with several large network airlines, connecting Malta to the far corners of the world. Business and tourism lures 80% of all Air Malta passengers to Malta. This winter alone, Air Malta will operate more than 110 weekly flights to 22 destinations – an increased capacity of 21 per cent (equivalent to 146,000 seats), with aircraft flying hours soaring by nearly 30 per cent.

It also confirms Malta’s success in the aviation and tourism sector. With the country’s airport now more connected to Europe than even London Heathrow, it broke tourist arrival records last year when an estimated 2.6 million tourists visited Malta. And that number looks to continue soaring.

This is the first time the national airline has achieved a positive financial performance outcome in nearly two decades, the direct result of a new strategy launched in mid-2017. This strategy aimed for growth, and prioritised an increase in routes, the frequency of popular routes, the aircraft fleet, cooperation with airlines such as Ryanair and Qatar Airways, plus improved staff productivity, a revamped product range including the Go-Light fare, and industrial stability following the signing of collective agreements with all unions representing employees.

It has been a success. And Air Malta was rewarded for its achievements at the renowned CAPA World Aviation Outlook summit held in Berlin last year, where it scooped the ‘Turnaround Airline of the Year’ award. It was chosen from the world’s airlines for its “innovative strategic changes and/or a restructuring”, which is a remarkable achievement, considering its situation just five years ago.

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REGENERATING CHADWICK

LAKESFOR ALL

One of the most exciting environmental projects the government will undertake this year will be the regeneration

of the popular Wied il-Qlejgħa, known as Chadwick Lakes.

The project will give a new lease of life to a unique area of the Maltese countryside, which is particularly stunning after rainfall, making it an ideal place for birdwatching, or to take a hike along the valley bed on the planned trekking trail.

The new trail will also have educational enjoyment, highlighting the importance of the hydro-ecological role of valley systems in the Maltese islands, due to increased access.

Plus the upper Chadwick Lakes area will be rehabilitated into an educational zone by the installation of visitor information panels, supported through the use of web-based information technology, highlighting cultural and ecological information along the trail – perfect for school trips to teach our younger generation about the beauty of Malta’s rural areas and biodiversity.

This web-based application will be made available in many languages, attracting tourists and locals alike, guiding all from the starting point of the Rabat Water Awareness Conservation Centre, where visitors can download the app free.

A dedicated website will also be set up for the purpose of promoting the natural heritage of Chadwick Lakes, and embracing natural heritage tourism, so far an untapped niche in Malta. This project is the first of its kind, creating a new tourism

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REGENERATING CHADWICK

LAKESFOR ALL

experience, which is hoped to be repeated in other areas in Malta, encouraging the population to get out into green areas and be active.

The project will mainly focus on the reinstatement of the storage capacity of the existing dams, and the restoration of the valley’s ecology through the removal of debris and silt deposits, which have accumulated over the years. Banks and retaining walls will be rebuilt in an environmentally-friendly way, whilst intrusive development will be removed.

Fiddien Box will also be restored. With works including the conservation of the existing rooms, preventing any further dilapidation. As a result, the fully restored rooms will house a visitors' centre, pump room, plus storage space.

The preparatory phase of this project took more than two years, with numerous environmental and ecological studies undertaken by expert environmental consultants to make sure the environment would be enhanced, and not damaged in any way.

The studies revealed the valley is currently in a degraded state. This is due to lack of maintenance and improper management over the years, which has led to a number of problems including reduced surface water retention capacity due to the accumulation of sediment and debris, a rapid growth of invasive and non-native plant species, the dilapidation of the retention walls and, sadly, illegal dumping.

That will all change now the Planning Authority has green-lighted the regeneration project, with the European Union co-financing the costs from its European Regional Development Fund.

The finished project will ensure this unique area will be conserved and protected, for everyone to enjoy. Tourists will also be motivated to visit Malta for its natural in-land assets, which can contribute towards the economic development of this rural area.

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Malta: The Digital Island, once a distant dream and seemingly unachievable aim, is materialising before our eyes. And this year the government will reaffirm its commitment to being at the forefront of the technological revolution by building on the groundwork it has already put in place to diversify the economy further and sustain the industry, while establishing sector resilience to future-proof the country against any economic shockwaves lurking on the horizon. From the introduction of trailblazing Blockchain regulation, to investing in Artificial Intelligence (AI), as well as embracing the rapid evolution of gaming and eSports, Malta is more prepared than ever to take its digital services sector to an exciting new level.

For example, the country’s financial services – which support so many livelihoods and contribute so much to the economy – will be strengthened due to exploring new economic niches, which are already present on the island, such as Fintech: a fusion of finance and technology.

This new disruptive technology must be embraced because it will modify every existent sector, including financial services. It will also put Malta in a better position to anticipate future challenges posed by the industry, as well as strengthen the work of regulators.

One way to do this is to invest in the technology needed to create a paperless sector, reducing bureaucratic procedures and increasing efficiency for all entities operating from Malta. This will upscale the fight against reputation-harming irregular activities, such as money laundering.

Malta has also been nicknamed The Blockchain Island after it was the first country to enact three laws in this technology space, providing legal certainty for operators, while ensuring market integrity, financial stability, and consumer protection.

However, this resulted in demand by local companies for workers with specialised Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) skills. To support and help the Maltese upgrade their skills, the government

invested €300,000 in a scholarship fund aimed at finance, law, engineering, and management students to pursue their studies in DLT.

This year the Government will also continue to build on the success of Malta’s gaming industry. A new law will soon come into force, which will broaden the regulatory scope of the industry, increasing Malta Gaming Authority’s (MGA) oversight. This will allow, in a proportionate manner, intervention where and when necessary. It will also reduce unnecessary bureaucratic procedures for operators by reducing the number of licenses, while consumer protection standards can be prioritised. Responsible gaming measures will also be prioritised, especially the reporting of suspicious sports betting transactions in the fight against the manipulation of sports competitions, and objective-orientated standards to encourage innovation and development. In fact, the MGA has also issued guidelines for an experimental framework (sandboxed) for the gaming industry which will allow for the use of Virtual Financial Assets. Malta also provides the ideal backdrop for eSports, a growing industry where multiplayer video games are played competitively for spectators. To prepare for this, Malta will launch an eSports strategy in 2019, which will also cater for the video gaming sector, laying the foundations for the industry to flourish on local shores.

AI is undoubtedly setting the pace for our planet’s future. The government has set its sights on reaping the opportunities this revolutionary and pioneering technology presents.

However, as Malta delves into AI unchartered territory, with all that this entails, increasing its population’s standard of living will be of utmost importance.

Consequently, the Malta AI Taskforce was set-up, tasked with drafting a national strategy – one of only 10 countries in the world to have such a strategy in place. These reforms will ultimately modernise the existing regulatory framework and ensure that the local gaming sector is further future-proofed.

The 2019 Budget will yet again prove to be a historic one for our digital economy. It is predicted that in the second quarter of this year, the first licence will be issued to a Blockchain based company – a world first. This is important to highlight due to Malta being the first jurisdiction in the world to issue a licence within a new emergent sector.

This year will also see Malta’s digital services’ ecosystem enhanced and therefore strengthened, further enabling its digital economy and businesses to grow and flourish – further evidence of the government’s forward-looking approach, and its commitment to establish Malta as one of the global digital revolution leaders.

It is a goal which is well within sight, together with the government’s ultimate objective of Malta becoming the quintessential powerhouse for economic innovation – moving one step ahead of its peers and its competitors, always in the best interest of today’s and tomorrow’s generations. Because the govern-ment believes Malta’s future is now, and it is digital.

A POWERHOUSE OF ECONOMIC

INNOVATION

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Malta: The Digital Island, once a distant dream and seemingly unachievable aim, is materialising before our eyes. And this year the government will reaffirm its commitment to being at the forefront of the technological revolution by building on the groundwork it has already put in place to diversify the economy further and sustain the industry, while establishing sector resilience to future-proof the country against any economic shockwaves lurking on the horizon. From the introduction of trailblazing Blockchain regulation, to investing in Artificial Intelligence (AI), as well as embracing the rapid evolution of gaming and eSports, Malta is more prepared than ever to take its digital services sector to an exciting new level.

For example, the country’s financial services – which support so many livelihoods and contribute so much to the economy – will be strengthened due to exploring new economic niches, which are already present on the island, such as Fintech: a fusion of finance and technology.

This new disruptive technology must be embraced because it will modify every existent sector, including financial services. It will also put Malta in a better position to anticipate future challenges posed by the industry, as well as strengthen the work of regulators.

One way to do this is to invest in the technology needed to create a paperless sector, reducing bureaucratic procedures and increasing efficiency for all entities operating from Malta. This will upscale the fight against reputation-harming irregular activities, such as money laundering.

Malta has also been nicknamed The Blockchain Island after it was the first country to enact three laws in this technology space, providing legal certainty for operators, while ensuring market integrity, financial stability, and consumer protection.

However, this resulted in demand by local companies for workers with specialised Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) skills. To support and help the Maltese upgrade their skills, the government

invested €300,000 in a scholarship fund aimed at finance, law, engineering, and management students to pursue their studies in DLT.

This year the Government will also continue to build on the success of Malta’s gaming industry. A new law will soon come into force, which will broaden the regulatory scope of the industry, increasing Malta Gaming Authority’s (MGA) oversight. This will allow, in a proportionate manner, intervention where and when necessary. It will also reduce unnecessary bureaucratic procedures for operators by reducing the number of licenses, while consumer protection standards can be prioritised. Responsible gaming measures will also be prioritised, especially the reporting of suspicious sports betting transactions in the fight against the manipulation of sports competitions, and objective-orientated standards to encourage innovation and development. In fact, the MGA has also issued guidelines for an experimental framework (sandboxed) for the gaming industry which will allow for the use of Virtual Financial Assets. Malta also provides the ideal backdrop for eSports, a growing industry where multiplayer video games are played competitively for spectators. To prepare for this, Malta will launch an eSports strategy in 2019, which will also cater for the video gaming sector, laying the foundations for the industry to flourish on local shores.

AI is undoubtedly setting the pace for our planet’s future. The government has set its sights on reaping the opportunities this revolutionary and pioneering technology presents.

However, as Malta delves into AI unchartered territory, with all that this entails, increasing its population’s standard of living will be of utmost importance.

Consequently, the Malta AI Taskforce was set-up, tasked with drafting a national strategy – one of only 10 countries in the world to have such a strategy in place. These reforms will ultimately modernise the existing regulatory framework and ensure that the local gaming sector is further future-proofed.

The 2019 Budget will yet again prove to be a historic one for our digital economy. It is predicted that in the second quarter of this year, the first licence will be issued to a Blockchain based company – a world first. This is important to highlight due to Malta being the first jurisdiction in the world to issue a licence within a new emergent sector.

This year will also see Malta’s digital services’ ecosystem enhanced and therefore strengthened, further enabling its digital economy and businesses to grow and flourish – further evidence of the government’s forward-looking approach, and its commitment to establish Malta as one of the global digital revolution leaders.

It is a goal which is well within sight, together with the government’s ultimate objective of Malta becoming the quintessential powerhouse for economic innovation – moving one step ahead of its peers and its competitors, always in the best interest of today’s and tomorrow’s generations. Because the govern-ment believes Malta’s future is now, and it is digital.

A POWERHOUSE OF ECONOMIC

INNOVATION

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YOUR GUIDE TO VOTING IN MAY’S EUROPEANPARLIAMENT ELECTIONS

This year, and every five years, citizens of all European Union member states get the right to vote for representatives in the European Parliament in Brussels (Malta’s elections will take place on 25th May). MEPs represent the voters, and their country’s interests in regard to EU law-making. And it is the European Parliament’s job to ensure the other EU institutions are working democratically.

The European Parliament is the only democratically-elected EU institution, and is an important forum for political debate and decision-making at EU level. Together with the European Council, it decides on proposed legislation on a wide array of policy areas, including migration and climate change.

Having been a full member for nearly 15 years, Malta can see the benefits of membership, from funded projects such as new roads and restoration of buildings, to 80,000 pages of Maltese law.

Once registered, each voter will receive a document in person from the Malta Police a few days before the election, which needs to be presented at the polling booth at your local voting station. EU citizens voting in Malta will only be able to vote for candidates standing in the Maltese elections.

But why should you vote?It is your democratic right to exercise your right to vote or not. But if you do, you can have a say in shaping the future of the EU via Malta’s six (out of 705) elected MEPs.

Although six sounds a small amount, Maltese MEPs sit within different parliamentary groups reflecting different political families – Labour Party MEPs from Malta are part of the Party of European Socialists, for example. These groups are larger, with more voting power on important legislation and policy, from youth employment to data privacy, and the rise in political extremism.

Since the last European Parliament elections in 2014, negotiations on almost 600 legislative proposals were concluded successfully between the institutions, including the European Parliament where Maltese MEPs were instrumental.

These included the Passenger Name Records’ Directive for the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime; the clampdown on the wasteful use of plastic carrier bags; removal of roaming charges within the EU; and the introduction of free WIFI in public spaces, plus data protection reform to give citizens back control of their personal data.

Who is eligible to vote?All EU citizens have the right to both stand as candidates and vote in May’s MEP elections. But each citizen can only vote once, in either the member state they are from, or where they live. For the first time this year, 16 and 17-year-old EU citizens resident in Malta will also be able to vote – but this is not an EU-wide rule, so 16-17 year old Maltese citizens living abroad and wanting to vote in their resident country need to check age restrictions in that member state.

How to vote?Member states organise elections according to their respective electoral systems – Malta uses the Single Transferable Vote system, where you vote in numerical order for your favourite candidates.

Maltese citizens are registered for the MEP elections automatically. As are non-Maltese EU nationals, if they requested to be during their e-ID card registration. If needing to renounce your home country vote to vote in Malta, or vice versa, please go to the Electoral Commission in person. You can find the address and further details here:

https://electoral.gov.mt

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And more are in the pipeline, all aimed at improving the lives of all EU citizens, in every member state. Which is why you need to use your vote wisely, voting for competent representatives who will put the needs of Maltese citizens first in Brussels.

This year, and every five years, citizens of all European Union member states get the right to vote for representatives in the European Parliament in Brussels (Malta’s elections will take place on 25th May). MEPs represent the voters, and their country’s interests in regard to EU law-making. And it is the European Parliament’s job to ensure the other EU institutions are working democratically.

The European Parliament is the only democratically-elected EU institution, and is an important forum for political debate and decision-making at EU level. Together with the European Council, it decides on proposed legislation on a wide array of policy areas, including migration and climate change.

Having been a full member for nearly 15 years, Malta can see the benefits of membership, from funded projects such as new roads and restoration of buildings, to 80,000 pages of Maltese law.

Once registered, each voter will receive a document in person from the Malta Police a few days before the election, which needs to be presented at the polling booth at your local voting station. EU citizens voting in Malta will only be able to vote for candidates standing in the Maltese elections.

But why should you vote?It is your democratic right to exercise your right to vote or not. But if you do, you can have a say in shaping the future of the EU via Malta’s six (out of 705) elected MEPs.

Although six sounds a small amount, Maltese MEPs sit within different parliamentary groups reflecting different political families – Labour Party MEPs from Malta are part of the Party of European Socialists, for example. These groups are larger, with more voting power on important legislation and policy, from youth employment to data privacy, and the rise in political extremism.

Since the last European Parliament elections in 2014, negotiations on almost 600 legislative proposals were concluded successfully between the institutions, including the European Parliament where Maltese MEPs were instrumental.

These included the Passenger Name Records’ Directive for the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime; the clampdown on the wasteful use of plastic carrier bags; removal of roaming charges within the EU; and the introduction of free WIFI in public spaces, plus data protection reform to give citizens back control of their personal data.

Who is eligible to vote?All EU citizens have the right to both stand as candidates and vote in May’s MEP elections. But each citizen can only vote once, in either the member state they are from, or where they live. For the first time this year, 16 and 17-year-old EU citizens resident in Malta will also be able to vote – but this is not an EU-wide rule, so 16-17 year old Maltese citizens living abroad and wanting to vote in their resident country need to check age restrictions in that member state.

How to vote?Member states organise elections according to their respective electoral systems – Malta uses the Single Transferable Vote system, where you vote in numerical order for your favourite candidates.

Maltese citizens are registered for the MEP elections automatically. As are non-Maltese EU nationals, if they requested to be during their e-ID card registration. If needing to renounce your home country vote to vote in Malta, or vice versa, please go to the Electoral Commission in person. You can find the address and further details here:

https://electoral.gov.mt

31

Maltese citizens are registered for the Local Council Elections automatically. As are non-Maltese nationals, if they requested to be during their e-ID card registration. If you want to check whether you are on the Electoral Register, check on the Electoral Commission’s website, or go in person – you can find the address and further details here:

electoral.gov.mt

It’s not only MEPs who the local electorate will be voting for on 25th May. The population will also go to the polls to elect local councillors, who are elected every five years. Those elected will run the 68 local councils (54 in Malta, and 14 in Gozo), and the candidate with the highest amount of votes (from the party securing the most seats) in each council will become Mayor.

Malta’s local government system gives authority to elected citizens to take control of some aspects of local community life and organisation, from traffic flows and road improvements, to taking care of the community’s needs. This year marks the first time 16 and 17 year olds can vote, and last year marked the 25th anniversary since local councils were established, following the 1993 Local Councils Act. Apart from commemorating the anniversary, the government decided a modern Malta needed a reformed and revitalised local government system. To do this, a reform was drafted and is now in White Paper stage, with proposals hoped to roll out later this year.

The reform aims at strengthening local government by better defining the roles and responsibilities of councils for the provision of higher-quality, more efficient, better-resourced services that can cope with the needs and aspirations of all local residents.

The Local Council Regions are at the forefront of the reform, with key proposals including: changing the appointment system for the President of the Regions; increasing the amount of regions from five to six; waste collection contracts being agreed on a regional basis; and regional committees being given more responsibility to manage and allocate funding used for social needs.

The reform also proposes that mayors should have the option to work on a full-time basis. Currently, if a mayor has a full-time job elsewhere, it is challenging to always be abreast of what is happening in their locality, let alone participate actively in every activity, be present at the local council offices, and be regularly accessible to the local residents.

These are just a few examples of the proposals detailed in the Local Council Reform White Paper, which has been widely discussed and analysed during public consultations with all stakeholders and citizens. But the real reform cannot happen without the participation of the electorate, which is why everyone is encouraged to vote, and to be an active member of their community.

YOUR GUIDE TO VOTING IN THE LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS

In order for local councils to be more effective, another proposal highlights the importance of further enhancing the current IT infrastructure, as well as increasing the human resources of councils.

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Maltese citizens are registered for the Local Council Elections automatically. As are non-Maltese nationals, if they requested to be during their e-ID card registration. If you want to check whether you are on the Electoral Register, check on the Electoral Commission’s website, or go in person – you can find the address and further details here:

electoral.gov.mt

• Attard Local Council (Attard)• Balzan Local Council (Balzan)• Birkirkara Local Council (Birkirkara)• Birżebbuġa Local Council (Birżebbuġa)• Cospicua Local Council (Cospicua)• Dingli Local Council (Dingli)• Fgura Local Council (Fgura)• Floriana Local Council (Floriana)• Fontana Local Council (Fontana)• Għajnsielem Local Council (Għajnsielem)• Għarb Local Council (Għarb)• Għargħur Local Council (Għargħur)• Għasri Local Council (Għasri)• Għaxaq Local Council (Għaxaq)• Gudja Local Council (Gudja)• Gżira Local Council (Gżira)• Ħamrun Local Council (Ħamrun)• Iklin Local Council (Iklin)• Kalkara Local Council (Kalkara)• Kercem Local Council (Kerċem)• Kirkop Local Council (Kirkop)• Lija Local Council (Lija)• Luqa Local Council (Luqa)• Marsa Local Council (Marsa)• Marsaskala Local Council (Marsaskala)• Marsaxlokk Local Council (Marsaxlokk)• Mdina Local Council (Mdina)• Mellieħa Local Council (Mellieħa)• Mġarr Local Council (Mġarr)• Mosta Local Council (Mosta)

• Mqabba Local Council (Mqabba)• Msida Local Council (Msida)• Mtarfa Local Council (Imtarfa)• Munxar Local Council (Munxar)• Nadur Local Council (Nadur)• Naxxar Local Council (Naxxar)• Paola Local Council (Paola)• Pembroke Local Council (Pembroke)• Pietà Local Council (Pietà)• Qala Local Council (Qala)• Qormi Local Council (Qormi)• Qrendi Local Council (Qrendi)• Rabat Local Council (Rabat)• Safi Local Council (Safi)• St Julian’s Local Council (St Julian's)• San Ġwann Local Council (San Ġwann)• San Lawrenz Local Council (San Lawrenz)• Senglea Local Council (Senglea)• St Paul’s Bay Local Council (St Paul's Bay)• Sannat Local Council (Sannat)• Santa Luċija Local Council (Santa Luċija)• Santa Venera Local Council (Santa Venera)• Siġġiewi Local Council (Siġġiewi)• Sliema Local Council (Sliema)• Swieqi Local Council (Swieqi)• Tarxien Local Council (Tarxien)• Ta' Xbiex Local Council (Ta' Xbiex)• Valletta Local Council (Valletta)• Victoria Local Council (Victoria-Gozo)• Vittoriosa Local Council (Birgu)• Xagħra Local Council (Xagħra)• Xewkija Local Council (Xewkija)• Xgħajra Local Council (Xagħjra)• Żabbar Local Council (Żabbar)• Żebbuġ Local Council (Żebbuġ)• Żebbuġ Local Council (Żebbuġ-Gozo)• Żejtun Local Council (Żejtun)• Żurrieq Local Council (Żurrieq)

Local Councils in Malta and Gozo

Published by the communications team, Office of the Prime Minister of MaltaEditor Sarah-Louise Galea / Design Ikona Artworks Ltd / Printing Velprint Ltd

www.primeminister.gov.mt

IN THIS ISSUE…

A FAIR RENTAL MARKET FOR ALL

SAY NOTO PLASTIC

LET’S GET MALTAMOVING

SUPPORTING FAMILY BUSINESSES

AIR MALTA: AIRLINE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

Cover photoAntonio Sciortino’s Speed, MUŻA