We Care

There is widespread consensus that Budget 2024 has continued to strengthen social measures. Thousands of families and individuals are set to benefit from a wide array of incentives given.

Among the measures is a €250 per child in children’s allowance; an additional cost-of-living payment to 95,000 families and a €15 a week increase in pensions.

Making up for the rising inflation, a global phenomenon, the cost-of-living adjustment is set to amount to €12.81 a week – a 30 per cent increase over last year.

First-and second-time property buyers will keep paying lower rates of duty; a tax refund cheque of between €60 and €140 is to be issued to thousands of families and individuals; the minimum wage is to increase to €213.54 per week and unemployment benefits are to be adjusted to 60% of previous salary.

Senior citizens will see their pension rise for the ninth year in a row, a weekly increase of €15 or €780 annually – the biggest increase pensioners have ever received in one year.

Parents are to receive €500 bonus for each newborn child, and €1,000 for a second child, both up from €400 previously.  An extra €487 a year shall be given to parents who quit work to take care of a child with a disability whilst disability benefits are to increase by €8.54 per week.

Energy benefits and other subsidies are to remain firmly in place, amounting to 350 million Euro – a far cry to what is happening in other European countries whose taxpayers are experiencing draconian increases in the electricity and fuel prices.

Not one single tax was introduced – a far cry from what used to happen pre-2013 under the watch of Nationalist Party Prime Minister Gonzi who is now defending his poor economic track record that inflicted hardship on hundreds of thousands of families and individuals.

There are challenges of course. Inflation, despite being on a downward trend, causes an additional burden on everyone. But budget 2024 targets, specifically, the vulnerable and those that are mostly in need. As someone who has militated within the Labour Party for my entire young and adult life, I can safely state that this is the most socialist budget ever.

As Minister for Public Works and Planning, I am also proud of the various initiatives that my Ministry shall be taking in 2024 as announced by my colleague, Finance Minister Clyde Caruana, during the budget speech.

Under my watch, further regulation is being introduced to strengthen the regulatory framework for the the building and construction. Building, excavation and demolition contractors now require a license to operate. A new Mason’s licence is in the offing. These are much-needed reforms which shall be fully implemented in the coming weeks and months. Next year we shall continue to implement further changes and introduce new requirements to improve the level of skills within the industry. Operators must ensure that all those who operate within the industry have the necessary skills and abilities to do so. It is imperative that we raise standards and ensure quality and responsibility and that’s exactly what will happen.

Work is ongoing on defining National Building Codes  to provide a regulatory platform and technique for the industry to ensure better construction standards.

We also remain committed to make the building sector carbon neutral by 2050.

We shall also be creating further open public spaces to be enjoyed by our families, with further investment at the Ta’ Qali National Park amongst others.

Prime Minister Robert Abela was right in describing budget 2024 as social and just. It certainly is especially given that it is happening during, global, turbulent times.

The current turbulent times caused by conflicts in Europe and the Middle East,  are causing untold damage to the world economy, and worse, leaving thousands of innocent people dead.

Notwithstanding, Malta’s economy continues to grow at a fast rate, faster than we anticipated a year ago and the deficit is safely under control.

Our track record speaks for itself. As a government, and as a country, we’ve overcome what at first appeared to be insurmountable challenges – Covid 19 was one of them.

We are determined to keep helping families and individuals to ensure a better standard of living for all.

Budget 2024 shall ensure that it gives people peace of mind and stability.

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SACES – Architecture Student EXPO 2023

This year’s Architectural Student Expo is an opportunity for students to showcase their work to their colleagues and the public.

Since its inception in 1974, SACES – The Society of Architecture and Civil Engineering Students – within the Faculty for the Built Environment at the University of Malta, managed to bring together different skills and to maximize the potential of our future architects. Indeed, the passion, creativity, and innovation of the students within this organization augurs well for Malta’s architecture.

The economic, social and cultural developments in the post-war period in Malta, as much as in Europe, have been substantial. The population of the Maltese Islands has witnessed several demographic changes between the 19th and 21st century. In fact, the resident population of the Maltese Islands grew more than fourfold between 1842 and 2023. Population growth during the 21st century was essentially a result of demographic changes including influx of foreign workers as a result of unprecedented growth.

Undoubtedly, in the recent past, the real estate sector has registered substantial activity. It attracted various investments together with an enhanced productivity. This activity was the result of higher demand for property units both for residential and commercial purposes.

While this is very positive from an economic point of view, it also has its challenges because it paved the way for a construction boom. This has brought with it various challenges not least amongst others the requirement that we must improve our standards to enhance the quality of our construction projects.

For this to happen the need was felt to take a thorough look at the various laws that regulate the sector so as to consolidate where it is needed.

The Ministry for Public Works and Planning and the University of Malta are currently working together to make the first compendium of the laws that regulate construction.

Against this backdrop, the Ministry for Public Works and Planning and the University of Malta are currently working together to make the first compendium of the laws that regulate construction.

Besides, the Planning Authority with the assistance of various local and international consultants is finalising the necessary studies for the updating of the Strategic Plan for the Environment and Development (SPED). These studies shall provide essential tools in reviewing national planning objectives based on various important aspects that shall indicate the country’s need in the next two decades.

One of the major objectives that shall be addressed within the immediate term is a review of current policies and regulations in relation to aesthetics. The urban fabric has been impacted with the increased development Malta has registered over the years. Therefore, there will be more emphasis to promote good practices, adopting policies that protect streetscapes and a more holistic approach in this regard.

On the other hand, a focused discussion leading to a specific review is being undertaken to address the needs of Gozo. While working towards the future economic advancment of the island, Gozo’s regional particularities and specific necessities need to be respected. To this end, the Gozo strategy, that has recently been published will indicate the aspects that require review to protect the uniqueness of Gozo, the Island of Villages.

The vast majority of Maltese live in urban areas and the quality of our built environment has a considerable impact on our quality of life. Against this backdrop, more than ever, future architects and civil Engineers are duty bound to develop meaningful and healthy places because these have a profund effect on the country’s social and economic wellbeing.

While acknowledging the importance of preserving buildings with valuable heritage and safeguarding our natural resources, the Government and all involved stakeholders including future architects need to ensure better regulation and implementation for the construction sector and higher quality.

In this regard, the Government has already embarked on a number of unprecedented reforms to make the leap forward to upgrade quality in construction. In July the Licensing of contractors regime that will regulate demolition, excavation and construction came into force. By 1st January 2025, the entire construction industry must have a licence for contractors to continue operating at construction sites. Coupled with this, we are also updating the Mason’s Licence. This will be the first major change to the licence in many years. The overarching objective of this reform is to instill more responsibility among masons and pave the way for higher quality in the construction sector.

Furthermore, the process towards the introduction of the Building Codes is being intensified to ensure completion in the near future. The introduction of compulsory skill cards and the promotion of more training and education in the sector shall be the main thrust in achieving the objectives of this reform. These changes shall continue to be adopted with a continuous and structured involvement of all stakeholders including the general public which expressed a clear message towards a change for more responsible and sustainable development that achieves better and higher standards.

Architects have a pivotal role to play because their expertise in architectural design is critical in ensuring that construction projects meet the highest standards. To this end, architects should refrain from presenting non-starter projects. Architects should advise their clients to present projects that are more sensitive to the surroundings of the site of the project. Moreover, planning applications need to be preceded with processes that ensure stakeholder interaction and participation.  Thus, it is imperative that architects prioritise the public interest over any interests that their clients may have, when these go against planning policies.

Following a consultation process between the Ministry for Public Works and Planning and the Chamber of Architects various parts of the 2021 Periti Act entered into force and several regulations were introduced. I truly believe that this is a crucial step in the right direction because while these regulations provide better guidelines to those who intend taking a course leading to architects’ profession, they will also lead to stronger work ethics to ensure better quality in the industry.

Added to this, we are also setting the country on the path to a Green transition. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) is currently working to make the buildings more energy efficient and to update the regulations on Energy Performance Certificates known as EPCs.

Besides, through the Construction and Demolition Waste Strategy for Malta short and long-term measures are being implimented to prioritise reuese and recycling.

A new regulatory framework for Construction and Demolition Waste is currently being developed, aiming to streamline waste management efforts and promote sustainable practices within the construction sector. This regulatory framework is expected to come into force by end of year.

Yesterday we have announced a consultation that will lead to an important reform in the planning process particularly when third party appeals are presented. It is being envisaged that permits that are appealed should be suspended pending the appeal process. This change shall be founded on a clear balance between the interests of all involved and a clear assurance that the appeal process shall be an efficient and swift one to ensure certainty in the process.

This year’s Architectural Student Expo is once again an opportunity for students to showcase their work to their colleagues and the public. It is also an important tool to help us think outside the box about the much-needed change in our built envrionment.

All construction has an impact on the public, to this end all actors involved in construction need to join forces and work together towards more responsibility, more seriousness, and above all better quality in the construction sector.

Let us not forget that Every man wants to belong to a “place”; he wants to believe that he is in the most wonderful spot on earth and he takes pride in how and where he spends his time on this earth. Emotion is the most important determinant in architecture.”

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Inħejju għall-ġejjieni

Meta għaxar snin ilu ingħatajna l-mandat biex immexxu l-pajjiż sibna ekonomija b’attività batuta.

Fl-2013 il-Partit Laburista tela’ bl-għajta li se jagħti spinta ‘l quddiem l-ekonomija u fil-fatt dak li għamilna. Kemm ilna fit-tmun tal-pajjiż naqqasna l-qgħad u t-taxxi biex il-familji jkollhom aktar flus fil-but u jgħixu kwalità ta’ ħajja aħjar. Barra minn hekk, investejna f’niċċeċ ekonomiċi ġodda u saħħaħna dawk eżistenti.

Għadni niftakar sew il-Partit Nazzjonalista jbeżża’ lill-votanti li jekk il-Partit Laburista jkun fil-Gvern ħafna nies kienu ser jispiċċaw jirreġistraw għax-xogħol. Illum nafu li din kienet ħrafa biex tbeżża’ lin-nies għax ġara l-oppost ta’ dak li qalu dak iż-żmien.

Mhux talli l-qgħad kompla jonqos sena wara l-oħra, iżda tant kibret b’ritmu mgħaġġel f’qasir żmien l-ekonomija Maltija li min iħaddem qed isibha diffiċli biex isib ħaddiema ġodda. Dak li għamilna huwa bażi biex aħna nkomplu nsaħħu lil pajjiżna u nkomplu noħolqu x-xogħol.

Fl-istess waqt, irridu nirrikonoxxu wkoll li t-tkabbir ekonomiku ġab miegħu realtajiet ġodda għall-pajjiżna fosthom ħtieġa għal aktar ħaddiema li wassal għal żieda fil-popolazzjoni u bżonn ta’ aktar żvilupp biex in-nies ikollhom post fejn jgħixu.

Fid-dawl ta’ dan hemm bżonn li l-formula li użajna fl-aħħar għaxar snin inkomplu nibnu fuqha b’mod li din tikkunsidra l-kuntest li qed ngħixu fih illum biex l-isfidi li għandna quddiemna jiġu indirizzati. Ikun żball jekk inwaqqfu t-tkabbir ekonomiku li ħdimna għalih b’tant bżulija fl-aħħar għaxar snin. Madanakollu, is-suċċess ġab realtajiet ġodda f’pajjiżna li rridu nagħtu t-tweġibiet għalihom u nkomplu ntejbu l-kwalità tiegħu.

Dan it-titjib fil-kwalità rridu nagħmluh f’kull qasam u mhux l-inqas fil-qasam tal-kostruzzjoni. Fl-aħħar snin partikolarment mill-2017 ‘il quddiem pajjiżna esperjenza tkabbir sostanzjali fl-industrija tal-kostruzzjoni. Dan kollu ħalla u qed iħalli impatt għaliex it-tip ta’ żvillup li għandna f’pajjiżna huwa mifrux u b’hekk huwa suġġett li joħloq diskussjoni. Għaldaqstant, aktar minn qatt qabel jeħtieġ li l-kelma kwalità trid tkun il-mira li trid tintlaħaq f’kull xogħol li qed isir. In-nies jridu jaraw settur ta’ kostruzzjoni li jagħmel qabża fil-kwalità kemm fil-mod kif isir ix-xogħol kif ukoll kif isir il-pjannar għall-ġejjieni. In-nies jridu jserrħu rashom li min qed jagħmel proġetti ta’ kostruzzjoni fil-viċinanza tagħhom jaf x’inhu jagħmel u x-xogħol isir b’mod responsabbli.

Tlaqna mill-fatt li pajjiżna kellna liċenzja waħda biss, il-liċenzja tal-bennej li kienet ilha ma tiġi riveduta għexieren ta’ snin. Bid-dħul tar-regolamenti dwar il-liċenzjar tal-kuntratturi li se tkun qed tirregola lil min jista’ jwettaq xogħol ta’ twaqqigħ, skavar u bini għamilna riforma li qatt ma rajna bħalha qabel. Din se ddaħħal sens ta’ dixxiplina għax jekk wieħed jonqos din tista’ tiġi sospiża jew revokata, bħal meta jkollok liċenzja tal-karozza. B’dan il-mod qed nagħmlu distinzjoni ċara bejn il-kuntratturi serji u responsabbli fil-mod kif jaħdmu u dawk li jaħdmu mingħajr taħriġ u b’nuqqas ta’ responsabbiltà. Qed inwasslu messaġġ b’saħħtu favur kwalità ogħla u aktar serjetà fit-tħaddim f’dan is-settur biex il-kostruzzjoni ssir b’rispett sħiħ lejn id-drittijiet ta’ terzi persuni u bl-inqas impatt fuq il-madwar.

Fl-aħħar jiem, intemmet il-konsultazzjoni pubblika dwar it-tibdil fir-regoli tal-liċenzja tal-bennej. Din hija riforma oħra importanti  biex inkomplu ngħollu l-livell fis-settur tal-kostruzzjoni. Filwaqt li dawn ir-regolamenti qegħdin jikkumplimentaw ir-regolamenti l-ġodda li ġew introdotti mill-Gvern dwar l-obbligu tal-liċenzjar tal-kuntratturi, dawn se jiddefinixxu x’ħiliet irid ikollha persuna biex titqies bennej liċenzjat.

Fl-aħħar jiem ukoll ġejt ippreżentat bl-ewwel rapport tar-riċerka li saret mill-Fakultà tal-Liġi fl-Università ta’ Malta biex isir kompendju tal-liġijiet li jolqtu s-settur tal-kostruzzjoni. Nemmen li dan il-proċess huwa bidu tajjeb għal analiżi li se jservi b’mod importanti fil-proċess ta’ tisħiħ ta’ regolamenti li qed iwettaq il-Gvern għas-settur tal-kostruzzjoni.

IL-gvern immexxi mill-Partit Laburista kien katalist għal suċċess ekonomiku u soċjali f’pajjiżna. Dak li kiseb pajjiżna irridu nkompli nibnu fuqu għall-ġejjieni. Irridu ngħarrfu r-realtaijiet ġodda u l-isfidi tal-lum u ta’ għada. Ħidmitna triq tibqa’ tkun maħsuba biex nibqgħu nimxu ‘l quddiem u nassiguraw li f’pajjiżna jibqa’ jinħoloq il-ġid u l-ġid jitgawda għall-avvanz ta’ kulħadd.

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Għas-Servizz tal-Komunità

Il-kwalità tal-ħajja tan-nies fil-lokalitajiet f’pajjiżna tista’ tkompli titjieb permezz ta’ servizzi u xogħlijiet li jsiru biex insebbħu żoni differenti, nipprovdu faċilitajiet ġodda kif wkoll nieħdu ħsieb patrimonju li ħallew ta’ qabilna. Id-Dipartiment tax-Xoghlijiet Pubbliċi qed iwettaq bosta proġetti f’lokalitajiet differenti f’bosta okkażjonijiet b’kollaborazzjoni mal-Kunsilli Lokali. Din il-kollaborazzjoni qed tagħti riżultati u se nkomplu naħdmu aktar flimkien.

Huwa fatt magħruf li l-Kunsilli Lokali f’bosta okkażjonijiet jitolbu l-assistenza tad-Dipartiment tax-Xogħlijiet Pubbliċi biex jgħinhom iwettqu proġetti li mingħajr l-appoġġ ta’ dan id-Dipartiment ftit ikollhom tama li jistgħu jwettqu. Id-Dipartiment jipprovdilhom assistenza mhux biss fit-tfassil u l-ippjanar tal-proġetti imma mbagħad anke jassisti fit-twettiq tagħhom.

Id-Dipartiment tax-Xogħlijiet Pubbliċi huwa mgħoni bi professjonisti ta’ esperjenza fosthom periti u inġiniera, u anke ħaddiema speċjalizzati f’diversi snajja’ fosthom mastrudaxxi, ħaddieda, bennejja u oħrajn.

L-elenku ta’ xogħlijiet li tul il-medda ta’ snin twettqu minn dawn il-ħaddiema jixhed is-siwi kbir ta’ dan id-Dipartiment.

Kien ta’ sodisfazzjon fl-aħħar jiem naraw it-tlestija tal-proġett tar-restawr u r-rikostruzzjoni tal-Mitħna tax-Xarolla wara l-ħsarat kbar li ġarbet bil-maltempata ta’ Marzu tas-sena l-oħra. Ix-xogħol metikoluż li wettqu l-ħaddiema tal-Garaxx tal-Gvern f’Kordin biex irrestawraw din il-ġawhra storika fiż-Żurrieq huwa wieħed ta’ min ifaħħru u li juri l-kapaċitajiet ta’ dawn il-ħaddiema. Ix-xogħol tagħhom wassal biex in-nies taż-Żurrieq, il-Maltin b’mod inġenerali u anke t-turisti issa jistgħu jerġgħu jgawdu dan il-wirt storiku li daqt jagħlaq it-tliet mitt sena.

Minbarra x-xogħlijiet fuq binjiet ta’ wirt storiku, il-ħaddiema tad-Dipartiment tax-Xogħlijiet Pubbliċi qed jagħtu sehemhom biex jgħinu lill-komunitajiet tagħna b’diversi modi. Għadna kif inawgurajna ġnien Bir l-Iljun fir-Rabat fejn tajna spazju miftuħ għat-tgawdija tar-residenti tal-inħawi. Isiru kontinwament xogħlijiet ta’ patching fit-toroq u anke water culverts filwaqt li jsir xogħol ukoll fuq bankini bħalma sar fil-Furjana u f’San Pawl il-Baħar. Għaqdiet ta’ volontarjat bħall-klabbs tal-Boċċi tal-Birgu, Bormla u ż-Żejtun gawdew minn xogħlijiet li saru mill-ħaddiema tad-Dipartiment bħall-klabbs tar-Regatta ta’ Birżebbuġa u l-Birgu. Saret ukoll l-art ġdida fejn jitpoġġew id-dgħajjes f’Wied iż-Żurrieq filwaqt li fi Ġnien is-Serenità f’Santa Luċija sar xogħol sostanzjali ta’ manutenzjoni fuq l-injam, ħitan u pompi ġodda. Fix-Xgħajra għaddej proġett biex jinbidel ir-railing kollu tul ix-xatt.

Hemm diversi ġonna pubbliċi li qed igawdu mix-xogħol tal-Ħaddiema tad-Dipartiment tax-Xogħlijiet. Insemmi fost l-oħrajn Ġnien il-Kunsill f’Birżebbuġa, Ġnien George Zarb f’San Ġwann, u Ġnien il-Madonna ta’ l-Anġli f’Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq. Id-Dipartiment, b’kollaborazzjoni mal-Ministeru tat-Turiżmu qed jieħu ħsieb ukoll il-manutenzjoni tar-railings f’San Pawl il-Baħar, Buġibba, l-Qawra u l-Mellieħa.

Bħalma ġara fil-każ tal-Mitħna tax-Xarolla, ħaddiema tad-Dipartiment tax-Xogħlijiet u kuntratturi mqabbda mill-istess Dipartiment ikunu wkoll involuti f’xogħlijiet li jkollhom x’jaqsmu ma’ binjiet storiċi bħax-xogħol li sar fuq il-Pont ta’ Gomorino taħt l-Imtarfa. Sar xogħol ta’ restawr fuq id-dawl tal-faċċata tal-Kappella ta’ Loretu fil-Gudja filwaqt li l-pjazza ta’ quddiemha ġiet pavimentata. Qed jinbidlu l-ballavostri kollha taz-zuntier tal-Knisja ta’ Sant’Antnin f’Għajn Dwieli filwaqt li beda x-xogħol preparatorju ħalli jinbena mill-ġdid iz-zuntier kollu tal-Knisja ta’ San Nikola tas-Siġġiewi. Sar ukoll xogħol f’parti miz-zuntier tal-Knisja Parrokkjali taż-Żurrieq li kellu ħsarat strutturali.

Xogħol ieħor importanti mid-Dipartiment tax-Xogħlijiet huwa dak li għandu x’jaqsam mal-kontroll tal-ilmijiet tax-xita. Isiru diversi xogħlijiet f’postijiet kritiċi fejn huwa magħruf li jinġabar ħafna ilma speċjalment waqt xi maltempata bil-għan li dan jgħaddi mingħajr xkiel u nevitaw għargħar f’dawn il-postijiet.

Mingħajr l-ebda dubju, is-siwi tax-xogħol li jagħmlu l-ħaddiema tad-Dipartiment huwa wieħed vast u ta’ siwi kbir għall-komunitajiet tagħna fl-ibliet u l-irħula tagħna. Irridu nkunu ċerti li dan id-Dipartiment jibqa’ mgħammar bl-aqwa talent ta’ ħaddiema tas-sengħa biex ikunu jistgħu jaqdu l-ħtiġijiet tal-komunitajiet tagħna u tal-pajjiż b’mod inġenerali. Irridu nkomplu ninvestu fit-taħriġ taż-żgħażagħ tagħna biex snajja’ użati minn ħaddiema tad-Dipartiment tax-Xogħlijiet f’dawn il-proġetti għall-komunitajiet tagħna jibqgħu ħajjin u nibqgħu insibu l-Maltin li lesti jagħmlu dan ix-xogħol.

 

 

 

 

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The Future Landscape of Malta’s Property Market

Our direction needs to be built on the clear objective to upgrade quality.

Analysing the property landscape in a scientific manner based on data is of great importance. It is fundamental in understanding present and future trends. An occasion for reflection of the current situation as well as a basis for discussion to forge the future of this sector.

I firmly believe that this sector is of great importance particularly in the light of the extensive investments Maltese families, businesses and financial institutions have made over the years. We are at an interesting juncture. We need to take stock and a number of decisions following a wide discussion between all stakeholders.

Our direction needs to be built on the clear objective to upgrade quality. Quality of the buildings that are planned and designed, quality in the way construction of buildings is carried out and the operational qualities of the available buildings.

We cannot address the future landscape of Malta’s property market without taking into consideration one of the most pressing and challenging issues worldwide, Climate Change.

It poses both environmental and socioeconomic threats. Its effects are being felt and they are set to increase. Action is needed for it is a truly urgent matter.

One-third of global GHG emissions are due to building-related energy consumption. Sustainable buildings are a must if climate change is to be tackled effectively. However, this does not mean, and in no way should it be an excuse, for less affordable housing. Affordable housing and sustainable buildings are not in conflict. They should complement each other.  The study that is being published provides very interesting results to this effect.

Energy-efficient buildings actually improve the quality of peoples’ lives whilst adding additional benefits to the economy and to society as a whole.

We need to enhance our efforts together with major stakeholders ensure that we have more energy-efficient buildings. This objective has to be achieved without putting additional burdens on consumers. It is crucial that all relevant stakeholders are involved. The aim is to strike a balance between achieving greater energy efficiency and economic feasibility so that people are not burdened in the process.

Balance is key. It is imperative that public and private stakeholders within the building industry scale up their efforts to provide energy-efficient property that is affordable for consumers.

This requires behavioural changes, by developers, contractors, industry professionals and consumers. Given that the construction sector remains attached to traditional practices, the need to take a step-by-step approach is a necessary step forward. There is a growing focus on raising standards, harmonizing regulations, and upgrading working methods and rules in a staggered process.

There is a need to regenerate and improve vocational subjects and recognize new skills, such as green jobs and technical professionals, and to upscale and generate innovative practices and regulatory aspects to ensure that the sector moves to new standards.

The Government has embarked on a number of initiatives to ensure better quality in the construction sector.

In the foremost we are on the eve of concluding a consultation process on the proposed legislation that for the first time ever, will introduce the obligatory licensing of contractors in the fields of demolition, excavation and construction. Our endeavour to regulate the construction sector will have to be followed by other regulations with regard to the upgrading of skills of all those involved in the sector. The obligatory licensing of other trades will also follow in due course.

The level of interest and discussion that the Public Consultation has generated in the country is noteworthy. The next step is for the Building and Construction Authority to evaluate all suggestions and proposals put forward during the Consultation process and propose the necessary amendments to the Draft Legal Notice which will eventually become law. As government we are determined to implement this reform in the proposed timeframes thus ensuring that the transition occurs within a realistic timeframe yet clearly achieving the desired objectives.

The licensing regime is a bold and necessary step to strenghten the regulatory framework and raise the skills of those who carry out these works. We need to strengthen the current regulatory framework and ensure levels of competence and other requirements for anyone operating in this sector.

 

We shall continue with further initiatives to ensure that the impact of projects during their execution is addressed. This is not only an issue of regulation but also a question of an industry that must upgrade its methods and systems of work whilst embracing more environmentally friendly techniques.

The upgrading of the Energy Performance Certificate is another task currently being carried out by the Building and Construction Authority.  as this has to reflect today’s realities. This certificate will, in the coming months, gain more importance as it becomes more rigorous to provide a very true picture of the energy efficiency of each building. This will also contribute towards creating more awareness in consumers to search for energy efficient buildings when deciding on buying new properties.

The average consumer, in my opinion, is not yet adequately aware of energy performance in buildings. Thus it is of great importance that consumers are made more aware of the qualities and advantages of energy efficient buildings. Information is key. I firmly believe that estate agents have an important role to this effect. When promoting property on the marketing, it is high time that estate agents take an active role in promoting energy efficiency in buildings.

Energy performance within buildings is an important element to achieve our decarbonisation goals. However, it is evident that energy performance shall determine the availability of finance as well as other regulatory requirements that must be adhered to.

This is a clear message to all stakeholders particularly developers that we need to update the manner in which projects are carried out. We have no time to lose.

We must collectively embark on a collective journey towards higher quality in the real estate sector. Our success depends on this paradigm shift.

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Faculty of Engineering Projects Exhibition 2023 – Speech

I have recently had the opportunity to address three consecutive engineering events in quick succession, the Chamber’s Annual Engineering Conference, the Ceremony of the bestowing of Engineering Warrants and today, the Engineering Projects Exhibition.  I can get used to it !

Today, I must admit that I am most enthusiastic to go through the exhibition to witness for myself how the ingenuity, creativity and innovation spirit manifests itself in physical projects delivered by upcoming engineers together with the academic community.

I am confident that each of the projects has pushed the boundaries of applying, what I have described in previous occasions as the engineers’ unique ability to identify opportunities.  For each and every student, it must have been an exercise in tenacity and determination to face problems and find solutions that now would have the potential to transform industries and have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.  I have been told that the range of projects on display today is quite remarkable.

I reiterate my strong belief that modern engineering innovation involves a process of continuous improvement, rather than breakthrough discoveries.  In this spirit, I encourage you to retain this innovative attitude throughout your careers.

We need our engineers to continue to develop our modern society not by being compliant with the status-quo but to defy it, being innovative and bringing forward novel ideas – new manufacturing processes, unique materials, cutting-edge medical devices, dependable utilities and so many more strides in all fields of engineering.

I also encourage you to engage with other professions, complementing each other to achieve sustainable but affordable solutions to reduce the human impact on the environment.  A particular upcoming challenge in front of us involves the design of better energy efficient buildings and low-carbon transportation.  As a country, we have already achieved some remarkable results, but now, going a step further this will be even more taxing on your innovation skills.

We now need to challenge our standing mindset and start measuring our success using a quality yardstick rather than by simply gauging quantity.  I strongly believe that engineers should be at the forefront of this needed change.  They should be leading this new approach towards the next step in a raised quality performance – by their enhanced designs, by employing better implementation methods and finally by shouldering professional certification.

I conclude by thanking the esteemed academic staff of the Faculty of Engineering who mentored and supported all students.  Your expertise and commitment have produced several new engineers which are invaluable for the challenges that lie ahead.  I encourage you to continue to foster the innovative outlook of this University in future students.  In a world where it has become more difficult to lure students into engineering, your efforts in making the profession more attractive do not go unnoticed.

Finally, I augur that today’s event continues to motivate all of you to strive in your interest towards science, to leave a lasting legacy so that engineers continue to transform the world, one step at a time.

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Igniting Change – The Need For Fire Safety Legislation In Malta

Our collective commitment has to be based and focused on one direction – higher standards in the construction industry.

We can only achieve this if we collectively understand that the upgrade of this sector is not simply about better designs or better implementation during the constructions phase of the building but we must also plan and achieve higher quality in the functioning of the buildings we construct, utilise and occupy.

Adopting a fire standard in buildings is not only about the drafting and approval of a document which will acquire legal enforceability.  It is an important task that must be undertaken in a timely manner that evaluates the current situation as well as forges a way foreword in order that the new standards are adopted in a seamless manner.

These standards need to address two important aspects. On the one hand the standards will guide professionals in the design of buildings with particular reference to the construction of a building as well as the design of fittings that will be included in the building. On the other hand the standard must define the level of upkeep in a building to ensure that the required levels of safety are adhered to during the lifetime of a building.

This standard is therefore about people’s safety and people’s lives. The drafting of the standard has to be the result of a solid interface between the Building & Construction Authority which is responsible for building codes together with the Civil Protection Department that has various important responsibilities in relation to this specific topic.

I cannot stress enough the need to create awareness with regard to fire safety. The process of change cannot simply be based on a technical discussion of a document that shall establish the legally enforceable standards. We need to make the public as well as all interested parties in the sector aware for the need of improvement in this particular aspect. Sometimes I get the impression that people in Malta think that fire does not pose risks to Maltese buildings. This is completely untrue.

Recent experiences have shown the risks our various buildings have and how a timely intervention by using safety equipment on site coupled with an efficient and effective Civil Protection Department can save people’s lives. We are facing new challenges resulting from taller buildings, car parking spaces under residences, the new realities of electric cars as well as the presence of more potentially flammable materials in the various buildings we occupy. All these matters confirm the need for a structured process towards more fire safety.

The implementation of Fire Standards is not simply a law enforcement process. It has to be coupled with the presence and availability of recognised trained and qualified professionals and technical personnel who can carry out the Works that are needed within buildings to ensure that these standards can be achieved.

We need to undertake a widespread process that bolsters the certifying processes that are currently available. This shall require a wide discussion with the Chamber of Architects, the Chamber of Engineers as well as other institutions and stakeholders to ensure the availability of the necessary framework.

As Government we are committed to spearhead more reforms towards higher standards in the contruction and real-estate industries. The Contractors’ Licensing process is a concrete example of our commitment towards this change. This change can be carried out if it continues to find the support of stakeholders, professionals and all involved parties in this sector, particularly the general public that utilises all forms of buildings. As a country we need to undertake one solid commitment: Let us do things better.

 

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Chamber of Engineers 30th Annual Conference

“Engineers have a unique ability to identify opportunities.”

Engineering the future – that is our collective responsibility. The choices we make today shall forge the quality of the future. The effects of tomorrow’s world are the results of what we decide to achieve and how we act from now.

Over and above the legal definition of an engineer – which today I will avoid going into the snare of discussing here as it has raised enough controversy within the profession – I will seize this opportunity to express and share with you my humble opinion and own experience of the engineering profession.

In my view, engineers are not just cliché problem solvers.  Prior to solving difficulties, I strongly believe that engineers have a unique ability to identify opportunities. Continuously showing their tenacity as catalysts of innovation.

The distinct attribute of being able to apply scientific knowledge, technical expertise, and creativity to design, develop and implement new solutions to improve people’s lives is what defines my view of an engineer. In short, engineers are innovators.

In a world where our economies are being challenged by post-pandemic realities and by complex geopolitical issues within our own continent, innovation is of key importance to remain relevant.

To achieve this, our modern society relies on the value that engineers are able to bring forward, be they new manufacturing processes, novel infrastructure materials, cutting-edge medical devices, reliable and dependable utilities, IT and so many more.

Innovation, however, does not necessarily take the form of extraordinary technological breakthroughs. With growing environmental concerns, the ability to find and develop solutions to complex challenges, taking small but progressive improvements to the ultimate goal of decarbonization, is a matter of equal importance.

I see the crucial role of our engineers being innovative for this country to reach its sustainability goals. Beyond generation of renewable energy, which is already challenging considering our geographical limitations and environment, the intelligent and efficient use of energy and other limited resources is paramount.

We need good engineering skills, breaking traditional boundaries and venturing beyond our customary comfort zones to design energy-efficient buildings and low-carbon transportation. This can be achieved in collaboration with other professions too. Furthermore, sustainable but affordable efforts towards the reduction of the impact of human activities on the environment, shall not come at the expense of comfort or being prohibitively unreachable.

Another very important facet of innovation is digitalisation. We have all witnessed, during the pandemic, how digital communications, remote purchasing platforms and a plethora of new services suddenly transformed what was our normal way of life and became essential commodities. Beyond those specific uses, to mention a few other openings, I believe that digitalisation can contribute towards better manufacturing processes, more comfortable homes and buildings, reliable and secure financial services, optimized supply chains and efficient transportation and communication. The list of possible prospects is endless, and I am sure that there are other openings yet to be realised.

Here is where we need to be clever – to make these achievements without adding unnecessary burdens on our economies and on the environment using digital technologies. Engineers have the academic training and the necessary aptitude to make this possible.

Complementing this, our role as government is to foster the right conditions for this to happen.

Energy efficiency in buildings is a priority and a commitment for this Government. It is a key peg to reach our ambitious 2050 decarbonisation goals.  In this year’s budget, we have extended the assistance for the installation of renewables in residences and for renovations in private sector buildings.

We cannot and we will not only focus on new buildings. I strongly believe that we must be innovative to find effective and affordable solutions to retrofit our existing buildings so that they achieve a better performance whilst respecting the local heritage.

It is true that some commercial engineering solutions are universally adaptable.  But there are several others that require local knowledge so that they can be adapted to suit our climate, our building materials and the constructions methods of our existing building stock. The Chamber of Engineers can serve as a catalyst for discussion and evolution of best practices.

A similar situation prevails in various other sectors of our economy.  This administration has been characterized by constant and robust economic growth driven by numerous sectors. We all agree that we need to continue to nurture economic growth.

In this setting, it is imperative that innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation should continue to be the central drivers for further development of our future economy. We acknowledge the need to focus on these drivers to deliver the much-desired results whilst minimizing the impact of economic growth and reducing disruptions on our society in the process.

By embracing digital technologies, engineers can drive innovation, rethink existing solutions, improve efficiency, and deliver solutions that meet the evolving needs of today’s world. Engineers can provide new tools to design, analyze and manage our projects differently.

The critical role of the engineering profession to contribute towards technological advancements, infrastructure development, sustainability efforts, manufacturing and industrial innovations, and research and development is unparalleled.

This is an opportunity to shape the future by both identifying opportunities to do things differently and creating transformative solutions that improve our lives and drive societal progress.

During the past year my ministry together with the Engineering Profession Board has taken a number of steps to ensure measurable improvements. Several administrative issues that have been brought to my attention have been addressed conclusively.

I bode that the engineering community at large finds its means to come together and present itself as a coordinated body of society to ensure that this nation continues to be a forerunner in its most challenging aspects.

I will conclude by sharing my concern that this profession is in dire need to attract more members of the younger generation.  I do not subscribe to the idea that the profession is less appealing than it used to be a decade ago. Technology has continued to make significant strides of which people speak about on a daily basis. Innovation is, in itself, an alluring prospect.

This is a collective interest. I believe that we should team up as Government, the engineering community, and academic stakeholders to draw more people towards engineering, if we do want to determine the shape tomorrow’s world.

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Il-Ħarsien għall-Ħaddiema Kollha

Is-saħħa u s-sigurtà trid tiġi osservata f’kull post tax-xogħol irrispettivament mit-tip ta’ xogħol li jkun qed isir.

Ix-xogħol huwa parti integrali minn ħajjitna fejn inqattgħu parti sostanzjali mill-ħin tal-ġurnata tagħna. Għalhekk kull min iħaddem għandu l-obbligu li joffri ambjent ta’ xogħol sigur lill-ħaddiema tiegħu. Mill-banda l-oħra, kull ħaddiem għandu d-dmir jissalvagwardja s-saħħa u s-sigurtà tiegħu nnifsu kif ukoll ta’ persuni oħra li jistgħu jiġu affettwati bix-xogħol li jkun qiegħed isir.

Ħafna drabi nassoċċjaw ir-regolamenti tas-saħħa u s-sigurtà fuq il-post tax-xogħol max-xogħol fiżiku, partikolarment ix-xogħol tal-kostruzzjoni peress li dan iġib miegħu aktar perikli u riskji minn xogħlijiet oħra. Madanakollu, jeħtieġ li wieħed jifhem li s-saħħa u s-sigurtà trid tiġi osservata f’kull post tax-xogħol irrispettivament mit-tip ta’ xogħol li jkun qed isir. Illum il-ġurnata pereżempju qed issir enfasi kbira fuq l-importanza tas-saħħa mentali fuq il-post tax-xogħol minħabba li n-nies qed jaħdmu ħinjijiet itwal u minħabba l-istress tax-xogħol fost raġunijiet oħra. Marbut ma’ dan is-suġġett, din il-ġimgħa attendejt summit fi Stokkolma, l-Isvezja organizzat mill-Presidenza Svediża tal-Kunsill tal-Unjoni Ewropea bit-tema “Occupational Safety and Health Stocktaking Summit”.

Dan is-Summit laqqa’ madwar 300 delegat fosthom politiċi u uffiċjali mill-Istati Membri kollha u esperti tas-sigurtà u s-saħħa fuq il-post tax-xogħol. Is-Summit Ewropew dwar is-Saħħa u s-Sigurtà organizzat mill-Presidenza Svediża tal-Unjoni Ewropea kellu bħala waħda mit-temi ewlenin is-Saħħa Mentali tal-ħaddiema. Matulu sħaqt fost l-oħrajn dwar l-importanza li għandha tingħata lis-saħħa mentali tal-ħaddiema kollha u li każijiet bħal dawn għandhom ikunu ttrattati minn min iħaddem bl-akbar urġenza. Barra minn hekk, enfasizzajt li meta sid ta’ post tax-xogħol ikollu indikazzjoni ta’ problema ta’ saħħa mentali fost l-impjegati tiegħu, għandu jieħu azzjoni mill-ewwel u jkun hemm mezzi ta’ għarfien biex il-problema tiġi indirizzata. Fl-istess waqt, l-impjegati għandhom jitrawwmu fihom ħiliet ta’ kif għandhom jiffaċċjaw dawn is-sitwazzjonijiet fil-postijiet fejn jaħdmu.

F’pajjiżna jeħtieġ li l-Gvern flimkien mas-sħab soċjali naħdmu flimkien għal aktar prattiċi tajba fil-ħarsien tas-saħħa u sigurtà fuq il-post tax-xogħol għaliex b’dan il-mod nistgħu inaqqsu r-riskji u l-inċidenti fuq il-post tax-xogħol. Kemm min iħaddem kif ukoll il-ħaddiema jeħtieġ li filwaqt li jkunu konxji ta’ dawn il-prattiċi, jimxu b’mod konformi magħhom.

Sa mit-twaqqif tagħha 20 sena ilu l-Awtorità għas-Saħħa u s-Sigurtà fuq il-Post tax-Xogħol, l-OHSA, ħadmet qatigħ biex toħloq kampanji ta’ għarfien biex tedduka lill-ħaddiema u l-pubbliku inġenerali dwar is-saħħa u s-sigurtà fuq il-post tax-xogħol. Fl-aħħar xhur il-Ministeru għax-Xogħlijiet Pubbliċi u l-Ippjanar b’kollaborazzjoni mal-Awtorità għas-Saħħa u s-Sigurtà fuq il-Post tax-Xogħol għamlu numru ta’ laqgħat ma’ numru ta’ ħaddiema barranin biex jingħataw aktar għarfien dwar is-saħħa u s-sigurtà fuq il-post tax-xogħol. Dan apparti laqgħat oħra li jsiru matul is-sena mill-istess Awtorità. Barra l-importanza tal-edukazzjoni u l-kollaborazzjoni f’dan il-qasam hemm ukoll l-aspett importanti l-ieħor, dak tal-infurzar li huwa ċentrali u kruċjali fid-dinja tax-xogħol. Fis-sena 2022 saru madwar 4,387 spezzjoni fuq il-post tax-xogħol, medja ta’ 84 spezzjoni fil-ġimgħa.

Fit-28 ta’ April, fil-jum internazzjonali għas-Saħħa u s-Sigurtà fuq il-Post tax-Xogħol nedejna konsultazzjoni pubblika dwar White Paper li qed tipproponi tiġdid tal-Liġi tal-Awtorità dwar is-saħħa u s-sigurtà fuq il-post tax-xogħol. Il-liġi attwali dwar l-Awtorità għas-Saħħa u s-Sigurtà fuq il-Post tax-Xogħol ilha fis-seħħ għoxrin sena. Għaldaqstant, wasal iż-żmien li din il-liġi tkun aġġornata biex tirrifleti aħjar ir-realtajiet tal-lum fid-dinja tax-xogħol u twassal biex jissaħħaħ il-qasam leġislattiv u t-tħaddim tiegħu. B’dan il-mod ser tingħata vuċi aktar b’saħħitha lill-imsieħba soċjali biex tinkoraġġixxi parteċipazzjoni aktar attiva u l-OHSA ser titħalla tirreaġġixxi b’mod aktar effiċjenti għall-bidliet kontinwi fid-dinja tax-xogħol. Il-bidla tas-sistema ta’ pieni amministrattivi ser twassal biex l-Awtorità ikollha aktar għodod ta’ infurzar permezz tat-twaqqif ta’ Tribunal Amministrattiv relatat ma’ kwistjonijiet tas-saħħa u s-sigurtà.

Dan il-proċess ta’ tiġdid fil-qafas leġislattiv tal-OHSA irrid ikun akkumpanjat minn ħidma kbira biex indaħħlu kultura favur aktar saħħa u sigurtà fuq il-post tax-xogħol.

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Occupational Safety and Health Summit Speech – Stockholm 2023

I wish to thank the Swedish Presidency for this opportunity to discuss occupational health and safety. It is indeed my pleasure to participate in this roundtable discussion, which provides an opportunity for us decision-makers to meet and exchange our views and ideals, while exploring ways that may lead towards a common vision and a shared political framework to address the dual transitions and the challenges they produce in the remit of occupational health and safety.

The existence of a safe and healthy working conditions is a precondition for a healthy and productive workforce.

Here we are talking about people’s lives and workers’ health. The existence of a safe and healthy working conditions is a precondition for a healthy and productive workforce. During the last three decades, we have made significant progress in the field of OSH: Fatal accidents at work in the EU fell by around 7% between 1994 and 2018. Nonetheless, more than 3,300 fatal accidents have occurred in the EU in 2020, and more than 200,000 workers die each year from occupational diseases. Maintaining and improving workers’ protection standards remains a challenge and constant necessity.

We are now at the beginning of two powerful transition processes, the innovation-driven digital transformation, and the policy-driven climate transition. At the same time, we are now facing a pandemic-driven restructuring of important sectors of our economies. During Covid-19, OSH policy and legislation had a crucial role in helping workers, businesses, and governments to protect lives and manage well-being risks, business continuity, and sustainability. It is thus essential to draw the lessons of the pandemic and increase preparedness for future health crises by improving not only the physical health, but also the mental health of our workers.

With the green and digital transition, the nature of the workplace and the pattern of work is changing. Within this context, our governments need to find innovative and creative solutions to anticipate and manage such changes.

Primarily, many of the challenges being anticipated because of green and digital transitions can be easily addressed by the correct application of existing European occupational health and safety Directives, and the direction given in the strategic Framework.  To name a few examples, Member States can ensure the integration of actions in the national health and safety inspectorates’ work plans, placing these challenges on the agenda of the meetings between Government and Social Partners; or for instance, by launching national inspection and awareness raising campaigns that address such challenges.

At an implementation level it is essential that  the respective stakeholders  work together to effectively integrate occupational safety and health measures into green and digital initiatives, the collaboration of all the parties involved is imperative, not only on these issues, but on all safety and health matters at work. It is essential that we recognise that we are here also dealing with important social impacts that have considerable effects on our citizens. It is therefore essential to adopt a bottom-up approach in order to ensure that all voices are heard.

At a local level, the Ministry responsible for Public Works and Planning, together with the national Occupational Health and Safety Authority, have been stressing  this point for several years. We need to move away from a situation where Government dictates what needs to be done, and instead embrace a philosophy that we are all in this together. A healthy and safe workforce is the fundamental basis of a strong and resilient economy and society. At Social Partners’ level, there should be meaningful initiatives to support the efforts being taken by Government. Employers should strive towards self-regulation where they act on the risks they are creating and, at the same time, committing themselves to do more than the law requires.

When it comes to addressing mental health aspects at work in the context of the dual transitions, the key is finding ways to develop the skills, competence and resources at an enterprise level to address such challenges; for example, by ensuring that the employers’ protective and preventive services and measures are aligned towards this challenge.

Effective help in the early stages can help prevent long-term problems both for individuals and for the organisation.

It is also important that situations involving issues of mental health are addressed as early as possible, and that the employer takes the appropriate, early action when faced with warning signs in support of the wellbeing of its employees. Effective help in the early stages can help prevent long-term problems both for individuals and for the organisation. Likewise, it is crucial to highlight the importance of teaching healthy coping skills, which can also be described as dynamic responses to psychological stress. These should in fact be considered as important life skills; the relevance of which transcends the working environment.

It also seems to be a common experience to find that psychosocial hazards are generally neglected by duty-holders and at times not even considered. This may partly be due to the fact that most national workplace health and safety campaigns tend to focus on key “physical” hazards, while the subject of psychological health is addressed through ad-hoc campaigns. This is why psychosocial risks need to be mainstreamed into all information and inspection campaigns so that mental health stops being considered as an afterthought.

Organisations shall also ensure that they have policies or programmes to prevent, anticipate and address these problems at the workplace from a very early stage. Existing tools such as the online and interactive risk assessments and guidance on these subjects will thus be of utmost importance. By way of example, guidance to employers and workers may cover those situations which are associated with these challenges, such as work arrangements, workloads, working hours or remote working. These challenges will also affect the national inspectorates, and hence, assistance in this regard will also be needed. It is also important to highlight the actions that may be needed by the Social Partners to help their members, both at EU and local levels.   

Meanwhile, Governments must take a common approach across the EU. While, in the long term, some form of legislation and enforcement will be warranted, in the short term, there is more scope for education and promotion.

In addressing the occupational safety and health improvement, while minimising the psychosocial risks at work in the context of these dual transitions through collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders, it must be noted that for small Member States like Malta, one cannot overstate the wealth of information that is already available at EU level, such as that being prepared and disseminated by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. Social partners are advised to make use of this already available information for the benefit of their members.

Unfortunately, and despite the magnitude of the problem and its impact on workers, the economy and society in general, psychosocial health remains the Cinderella of occupational health and safety. Even in the years to come, everybody’s focus and attention will be on reducing asbestos risks, lowering the exposure limit values for carcinogens, mutagens and reprotoxic substances, musculo-skeletal disorders, problems associated with display screen equipment and so on. These are also important issues, but they cannot remain at the forefront of action at the expense of psychosocial health.

Greater awareness raising and promotion are the least to expect, as would be the promulgation of guidance and the development of employee support programmes. I am proud to say that an initiative taken by the Maltese Government to establish a mental health support unit and make it accessible to all Government employees has been a huge success. This Employee Support Programme was also commended by the European Agency for Safety and Health as an example of good practice. But we need to do more, although a cautionary approach to developing new legislative instruments in this field may be indicated, practical solutions based on exchanges of best practice may be the best way forward.

Thank you very much for your attention.

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