1.0 Revenue Measures

Revision in Excise Taxes

The rate of excise tax on cigarettes and tobacco, fuel and cement will be revised upwards, however the price of fuel will still decrease due to better negotiations by Enemed on behalf of the Government. There will also be a revision of excise tax on mobile phone lines and an excise tax on wine. The Government will replace the eco-contribution on tyres, ammunition and petroleum oils with excise tax.

 

Revision in Stamp Duties

Stamp duty on insurance documents and services will be revised. No changes will be made to stamp duties on life insurance policies.

 

Revision in Licences

Licences on cars that pollute by more than 100g/km of Co2 will be reviewed, while those with Co2 emission rates by not more than 100g/km and registered after 2009 will not be affected. There will also be a revision in licences of swimming pools.

 

Revision in Fees of Office

There will be marginal upward revisions in fees of offi ce charged by Government departments.

2.0 Fiscal Incentives to Make Work Pay

Reduction in Income Tax

The rate of personal income tax of 29.0 per cent applicable to those who earn sixty thousand Euro or less will be reduced to 25.0 per cent. This will apply to every computation: single, married and parental. Income from dividends received by individuals will remain taxable at the same rate.

 

Cost of Living Adjustment

The Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) as calculated by the established mechanism agreed between the Social Partners resulted in compensation of €0.58. Furthermore, for the coming year, the full amount of COLA will be granted to pensioners.

 

One-Time Additional Bonus

Against a backdrop of low inflation, the COLA for 2015 amounted to €0.58 per week. The Government, conscious of its social obligation towards certain categories of households, will give a one-time additional annual bonus of €35 to all persons in receipt of social security benefits, all low income earners, and all those income tax payers working full-time not benefitting from the 2015 income tax reductions. It will also be given on a pro-rata basis to students and part-time workers.

Relief from Income Tax on Minimum Wage and for Pensioners

This Government is committed not to tax minimum wage earners.

Thus, the present tax ceiling will be raised to take COLA into consideration. Furthermore, pensioners whose pension does not exceed the minimum wage will also be exempted from paying income tax.

 

In-Work Benefit

The Government will continue strengthening the concept that of ‘making work pay’ by introducing an in-work benefit scheme.

This benefit will be paid to those low-to-medium income families where both spouses are in employment and have dependent children up to 23 years of age. This benefit will also apply to single parents in employment.

 

Extension of Free Childcare Service

The introduction of free childcare centres succeeded in improving the work-family balance, leading to an increase in female participation in the labour force. Given the success of this initiative, the Government is committed to maintain and expand this service.

 

3.0 Creating Opportunities not Dependency

Benefits for Single Parents - Tapering

Single parents on social assistance can at present retain their benefits if they are earning less than €56.94 a week. This is leading to some abuse and also precarious employment.

Therefore, as from the 1st January 2015, this clause will be replaced with tapering of benefits. Single parents who become employed will retain 65.0 per cent of social assistance for the first year, 45.0 per cent for the second year and 25.0 per cent on the third year. Their employers will also benefit from 25.0 per cent of the benefit for the first three years. This means that single parents will be able to substantially improve their income if they enter employment.

 

Youth Guarantee

This Government remains committed to ensure that all young people between 16 and 23 years of age enter employment, education, or training. The Youth Guarantee, funded through the European Social Fund, will be strengthened. New claimants for social assistance benefits, under the age of 23, will be placed on Youth Guarantee. Existing claimants, under the age of 23 years, will be given a time window of four months to enter Youth Guarantee. 

Single parents will be exempted until their youngest child is one year old. For 2015, 700 Traineeships and 200 Work Trials will be financed.

 

Tapering of Social Benefits after Marriage

From the start of next year, a person who is receiving social benefits and gets married, or forms a civil union, with a person in employment will no longer lose entitlement to social benefits immediately after the union. Instead, the social assistance will be reduced gradually over a period of three years.

 

Regularisation of Benefits Entitlement

Those persons on social benefits will have up to February 2015 to regularise their position. Thereafter, in case of abuse, a penalty will apply.

 

4.0 Improving the Competitiveness of the Maltese Economy  Reforming 

Eco-Contribution

The Government, is committed to reform the eco-contribution mechanism so that local businesses compete on a level playing field with foreign ones. The first phase of the reform will entail eliminating eco-contribution on electronic and white goods classified as WEEE items, by September 2015.

 

Seed Investment Programme

Income tax law will be amended to provide tax credits equivalent to investment made in start-ups, up to a maximum of €250,000 per year.

 

Implementation of the Family Business Act

The Family Business Act will be introduced next year. The act will provide a clear definition of what constitutes a family business and will facilitate and incentivise the transfer of business between members of the same family. A set of incentives linked to this act will be launched.

 

Benefits for those who provide Employment and offer Training to their Employees

The European Social Fund will be re-launched. Through this scheme, employers will be able to access the fund when they employ disadvantaged persons or provide training for their employees.

 

Data regarding the Labour Market

Now that agreement has been reached regarding the legal notice regulating the exchange of student data, the Employment and Training Corporation (ETC) is expected to work on an Employability Index. The ETC will also be working on an Occupational Handbook.

 

Work Programme

This Government strongly believes in the role of the private sector in the Maltese economy. We will be introducing the concept of the Work Programme, an initiative very similar to that utilised in the United Kingdom. The private sector together with the ETC will be working together to help persons who have been unemployed or inactive for long periods to re-enter the labour market.

 

Changes to the ETC Register

Through the use of new IT tools, a Virtual Labour Market will be created where employers and those seeking employment will have a virtual meeting place. Matching will no longer be done solely on the basis of individual preferences but will start to take into consideration individual skills and aptitudes.

 

Social Enterprise

The Government will offer the possibility for those on the Community Work Scheme to participate in a social enterprise.

This enterprise will be managed independently and will be giving services to schools and local councils.

 

Skills Card – Construction Industry

The Building Industry Consultative Council, in collaboration with MCAST and the ETC, is expected to submit a plan for the introduction of skill cards in the construction industry. The purpose of the skill card is to have skills of construction workers certified and recognised.

 

Better Regulation of the Estate Agent Sector

During the coming months, the Government will be issuing a White Paper to allow for consultation on regulating real estate agents and property agents and consultants.

 

Special Unit for Local Businesses

To ensure fair competition and a more level playing field, a special unit will be introduced on the same lines as that of the Border Agency in UK.

 

United Nations Pension Programme

The Government will launch a United Nations Pension Programme, which is a scheme designed to attract foreign pensioners retiring from international organisations, like the United Nations, to reside in Malta.

 

Public-Private Initiatives - Projects Malta

In 2014, the Government set up the company Projects Malta and, since it started operating in July, the company has been working on identifying a number of public-private initiatives. In the coming months, Project Malta will be launching a number of projects across various sectors, including health, commerce, tourism, and sports.

 

PPP for Enlarging Sandy Beaches

The Government will be introducing the concept of the Private Public Partnership, or PPP, in coastal, rural and urban works through a number of programmes and initiatives which will include access for divers, creation of artificial reefs through scuttling of vessels, enlargement of sandy beaches and better access to rocky shores. There will also be additional work on aspects of country walks, work with environmental NGOs, and management of sites financed through ERDF, funds as well as upgrades of touristic zones. This development will be carried out in a sustainable manner which respects the environment.

 

PPP for the Construction of a Breakwater between Valletta and Sliema

Projects Malta, together with the private sector, is looking at the possibility of building a breakwater between Valletta and Sliema. Among other benefits, this will facilitate the development of yacht marinas in the area.

 

PPP for a Hotel at Bighi

The Ministry for Tourism has identified the tourism potential that Bighi can offer. Together with the National Centre for Science and the private sector, the Government is studying the possibilities of developing the area into a major Mediterranean tourist centre.

 

PPP for a Health Centre in Cospicua

This administration continues to give priority to primary health care. A pilot project with the private sector is being launched to modernise the Cospicua Health Centre, while assuring the public that the service will remain free of charge.

 

Incentive for Cruise Liners Overnight Stays

Through this budget, the Government will be launching a scheme whereby cruise liners can remain in Malta overnight. They will be able to open their casinos after obtaining approval from the Lotteries and Gaming Authority upon the payment of a fee. 

To safeguard Maltese casinos, these cruise liners will only be able to allow registered passengers to engage in such activities.

In addition, and in order to promote Gozo, cruise liners which choose to remain overnight in Gozo will be exempted from paying the fee.

 

Tax Refunds for Non-EU Residents

A number of countries operate various schemes whereby visitors, coming from countries outside of the European Union, can obtain a refund on VAT before leaving the country. During the next year, this Administration will be introducing similar systems in Malta.

 

Cooperatives

The Government is committed to promoting the use of the cooperative model so that there is a level playing field for cooperatives to operate without being at a disadvantage when compared with other enterprises. The Government will work closely with the Cooperative Board to revitalise cooperatives.

 

Gaming Malta

The LGA, which presently is the regulatory authority, will be converted to a Malta Gaming Authority. This is a new way of repositioning the Authority in the existing industry and that of the future. Furthermore, the Gaming Academy is expected to start operating during the first quarter of next year. Gaming Malta will also promote Malta as a primary jurisdiction where the gaming industry is concerned.

 

Shop Opening Hours

Following a process of extensive consultation carried out last year, regulations governing shops opening days and hours will be revised.

 

Studies regarding Fibre Optic Cable Connection

In order to improve the adaptability and the quality of the existing international telecommunications connectivity in Malta, the Malta Communication Authority will finalise an analysis of the technical, economic and financial feasibility of a new submarine cable between Malta and continental Europe.

 

“Sukuk” and Islamic Banking

Following various meetings with representatives of the banking and financial sectors, the Government feels there is space for a new commercial activity in the form of “Islamic Banking”.

During the coming year, the necessary legislative changes will be made to attract and facilitate fi nancial institutions involved in this sector to start operating in Malta.

 

Trade Malta

Projects Malta, together with Malta Enterprise and the Ministry for the Economy, will set up Trade Malta Ltd. The aim of this joint venture between the Government, the Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry will be to see that there is a collective eff ort to enable Maltese enterprises to better exploit international markets.

The Valletta Monti

The Government is working hard to relocate the Valletta ‘Monti’ to ensure that street hawkers are able to operate in a suitable setting.

 

Scheme for Shops in Valletta

A scheme for retail outlets in Valletta will be set up, which includes the opportunity for owners to apply for the title of ground rent instead of a lease.

 

Conventions Malta

The Government will set up a foundation that promotes and encourages foreign conventions and congresses to be held in Malta.

 

Incentives for the Film Industry

The Government will introduce a set of incentives in connection with specialised courses for the local film industry.

 

Wi-Fi State

The Government is committed to make Malta and Gozo a Wi-Fi state. Currently there are 191 hot spots areas of free internet, these will be extended to cover more places.

 

Yachting Malta

Through Public Private Partnership, the Government is confident it can boost the tourism sector by improving the touristic product and provide additional value to the existing product. To this end, Project Malta has started working to join with the private sector to strengthen the sport sailing sector.

 

Marina Implementation

Earlier this year, Transport Malta issued a call for tenders for the privatisation of the Sa Maison Marina. The call attracted five bids and the evaluation process is now well under way. Once completed, this yacht marina is expected to add around 250 new berths.

 

National Agricultural Policy

A National Agricultural Policy will be drawn up, providing a vision for this sector.

 

European Funds for Fisheries

Funds from the 2007-2013 Programme will continue to be utilised during 2015. The projects and initiatives range from a new fish market to a campaign promoting the consumption of fish, as well as infrastructure improvements in ports used by fishermen.

 

National Quality Framework

The Government will continue working to promote quality Maltese products by enforcing the national quality framework.

 

Strengthening the Land Department

This Government will strengthen the Land Department with the objective of reducing the amount of time one has to wait for a decision from the said Department. By the end of the year, the Land Register will have launched an initiative which will allow the public to order site plans online and receive them by post.

 

Reform of Local Wardens

Following consultations carried out this year, the Government will continue with reforms of the Regional Government and local warden system.

Reform in the Police Corps Organisation

During next year, the Police Corps will be further strengthened through an internal reorganis tion of the corps. A new Executive Head will be appointed as part of the reform. Now that the Police Academy Building is complete, it will function as a college with accredited courses.

 

National Centre for Interactive Science

Work is under way for Villa Bighi in Kalkara to be converted into a National Centre for Interactive Science.

 

Arbitration Act

The Government will submit a concrete plan, drawn up by a dedicated team of experts in the sector, to introduce amendments to the Arbitration Act. The Act will also introduce procedures and rules which allow international arbitration that will be completely separate and distinct from domestic arbitration, while off ering a unique alternative to the rules of the Model Law for International Commercial Arbitration.

 

Sharing Responsibilities between the Councils, the Regions and the Central Government

The size of our country, the diversity between localities, and the resources available are proof that services like roads, road illumination, waste, enforcement and others, are a community service. While ensuring that these services are still provided and financed by the Central Government, discussions are under way to find means of sharing these responsibilities between the Councils, the Regions and Central Government.

 

New Methods for Strengthening Financial Assistance to Local Councils

This Administration is working to find new methods for strengthening financial assistance to those Local Councils involved in organising activities which promote local history, culture and economy.

 

Ideas Forum

An Ideas Forum will be launched to receive proposals in connection with sustainable development so that in collaboration with the private sector, specific projects for re-generation will be undertaken.

National Strategy for Electronic Payments

Electronic payment systems are more secure and efficient when compared to cheques and cash payments. To this end, a Working

Group will be set-up to make recommendations to Government of how to widen electronic pa ments.

 

5.0 Investing in Education and Vocational Studies

Increase in Stipends Related to Cost of Living

The Government is committed to upgrade stipends with the cost of living. Therefore, in 2015 stipends will increase by the pro-rata amount of COLA and for the first time, these will be topped up by a one-time additional pro-rata bonus per week in view of the fact that students are solely dependent on COLA as the main source of increase to their student income.

 

Upgrading the Stipends and Grant Systems

The Government will continue improving the student grant system, including the one-time grant at the beginning of the school year, stipends every four weeks, and the supplementary grant to students coming from low income families. In order to maximise the aid to each student, all student maintenance grant income will be tax exempt.

 

A Tablet for Every Student – Implementing the Next Phase

The implementation of the One Tablet Per Child initiative started in 2014 with the Pilot Project involving some 340 students in 20 State Church and Independent Schools. After March 2015, there will be a period of evaluation so that the resulting recommendations will be launched on a national level. Moreover, by October 2016, a tablet will be issued to every student starting from the 4th Year of Primary School in State, Church and Independent schools.

 

Reduction in VAT when Buying Digital Books

This Government will be introducing a reduced VAT rate on e-books.

 

Construction and Modernisation of Schools

The Government is continuing work on the Skola Sports project in Pembroke and the construction of new schools in Rabat, Malta, Naxxar and Rabat, Gozo. As from next year, work will start on building two new schools in Dingli and Kirkop.

 

White Paper on School Opening Hours

With the aim of reducing traffic congestion and within the framework of other measures to be announced in this budget, the Government will be launching a White Paper to initiate a process of consultation with regard to the transport of children and school opening hours.

 

New Academic and Vocational Subjects

The Ministry of Education will be launching a pilot project of five vocational subjects with local programmes which will form part of the examination for the Secondary School Certificate (SEC).

 

Research in University

For the year 2015, given that 80.0 per cent of research in Malta is carried out by the University of Malta, the University will be aiming to increase its research activity through funds provided both by the Government as well as the EU.

 

6.0 Enhancing the Environment 

Expression of Interest on Recycling Plastic Waste

An expression of interest will be issued to introduce recycling of plastic waste.

 

Green Recreation Areas

A study will be undertaken to evaluate the possibility of creating greenbelts around building zones. Where possible, this initiative will be undertaken in collaboration with the private sector.

 

Environmental Taxes

The amount of feed used in fish farms has a negative environmental impact. Based on a polluter pays principle, a tax will be applied on these products.

 

Finalisation of the Separation of MEPA Responsibilities

As from next year, the enviro mental protection function will be split from MEPA.

 

Wasteserve

Projects expected to be concluded next year include the Mechanical Biological Treatment Plant at Għallis, and the Waste Transfer Station in Gozo. 

An application will also be submitted to start preliminary work on the rehabilitation of the old landfill site at Wied Fulija.

 

Wied Blandun

A study will be undertaken with the aim of rehabilitating Wied Blandun.

 

Green Public Procurement

Work is also ongoing in the field of green public procurement so that the goods and services purchased by the Government will be of a high environmental standard.

 

Parks and Afforestation

In 2015, there will be a national afforestation plan for Malta that will conform with the Government overall biodiversity strategy.

 

Animal Rights

For next year, the Government is committed to continue implementing measures that strengthen animal rights. There will be the opening of an animal cemetery, and the launch of a national fund for animal protection. The renewal and installation of shelters for ‘karozzini’ horses will continue.

 

7.0 Reforms in Priority Sectors 

Energy Reduction in Utility Rates for Industry

As promised, in 2015, utility rates for the industry will be reduced.

 

Energy Audits for SMEs

Presently, only large enterprises have the capacity to benefit from executing proper energy audits. The aim for 2015 is to extend these audits to SMEs.

 

Solar Farm Policy

In collaboration with the Planning Authority, a solar farm policy will be announced to regulate sizeable installations of solar panels with the aim of minimising any negative impact on the environment.

 

Renewable Energy

The Government will continue incentivising investment in renewable energy and efficiency improvement in the use of energy. The Malta Resources Authority will launch additional schemes for the installation of photovoltaic panels and solar water heaters, as well as initiatives to encourage efficient use of energy.

 

Customer Service Charter for Enemalta

The Government has requested Enemalta to conclude work on a Customer Service Charter which lists in a transparent way the rights and obligations of the clients of this company.

 

Health

PPP in the Health Sector

The Government has set up a company which entered into an arrangement with Orthopaedic Specialists at Mater Dei Hospital.

The parties are committed to increase the number of operations carried out during their normal working day and continue with a number of operations in their spare time including weekends.

The aim is to reduce the waiting list substantially. This pilot project aims to maximise the use of operating theatres as well as the equipment at Mater Dei Hospital.

Screening for Cervical Cancer

In line with the National Cancer Plan, the Government intends to introduce a scheme for cervical cancer screening during 2015. In this regard, the necessary investment in equipment and training by foreign experts was intensified to compliment the investment in the Oncology Centre.

 

Measures against Ebola

The Government has made all the necessary investment in Mater Dei hospital so that the hospital is in readiness in the event that a person arrives in Malta infected with Ebola. The Ministry for Health has also sought and received the full cooperation of other Ministers within the Government in order to compliment and support the services given by the hospital.

 

Changes to the POYC Sytem

The Pharmacy of Your Choice (POYC) system continued to increase the number of beneficiaries by 43,000 persons so that the total number of beneficiaries now exceeds 128,000. The POYC IT system has been further extended so that it now includes medicines issued on the pink and grey cards. For the year 2015, the Government plans to import new medicines for the treatment of diabetes and review the entitlement criteria for various medicines.

 

PPP for Work on the Old St Luke’s Hospital

Once the plans for St Luke’s are completed, the Government will issue a call for expressions of interest so that this site is developed in a way that will benefit the needs of the Maltese and Gozitan people.

 

Neuro Myelitis Optica Added to the Social Benefit Schedule

Currently, persons who suffer from Neuro Myelitis Optica, which is a disease similar to ALS, are not covered medically and legally to become eligible for a Disability Pension. Therefore, as from next year, the Government will include this condition in the list of disabilities which may entitle a person to the Disability Pension.

 

Launch of a White Paper on Organ Donation

This Government is working on a White Paper which should lead to the first Act which regulates donation of organs in Malta. With the help of this Act, this Government intends to decrease the waiting list for transplants and also provide adequate security in this sector.

 

Consultations on the National Diabetes Strategy

The consultation on the National Diabetes Strategy will be completed during 2015, so that the services given to diabetic patients are placed on a sound and modern basis.

 

Transport Implementation of the New Public Transport System

At the beginning of next year, the new operator will take over the public transport system. The new public transport system will see more routes introduced and an overall improvement in the service of public transport.

 

Ex-Gratia Payment on Reg-istration Tax

The Government will continue fulfilling its pledge of refunding the tax paid on vehicle registration. Hence, as from 2015, those who registered a vehicle for personal use between the 1st May and the 31st December 2004 will receive a refund. In this way, by next year, those who had registered a vehicle in 2004 would be reimbursed in full.

 

Elimination of Registration Tax on Vintage Motorcycles

This Government will be eliminating the existing anomaly whereby no registration tax is paid on new motorcycles with a cylinder capacity of 250cc or less, while a registration tax of 11.0 per cent is payable on motorcycles considered ‘old’. Therefore, the Government will going to remove the registration tax on motorcycles classified as ‘vintage’.

 

Reduction in Registration Tax on Quad Bikes

In order to promote the use of vehicles with small engines that pollute less, the registration tax on ATVs or quad bikes will be reduced.

 

Incentive for Parents to use School or Scheduled Transport

The Government wants to incentivise the use of school and scheduled transport by parents whose children attend private schools. These parents will be eligible for a tax credit on part of transport charges, up to a maximum of €150 if they use school or scheduled transport.

 

Pedelec Bicycles

The Government will continue to incentivise the use of alternative transport. Another means of transport is the use of mechanised bicycles, better known as pedelec bicycles. As a first step, Government will grant a sum equivalent to 15.25 per cent of the cost of this category of bicycles during 2015.

 

Car Pooling

The Government will be launching an incentive for people who are willing to start travelling together by opening bus lanes to those cars which are carrying three or more passengers.

 

Traffic Management Systems using Cameras

The Government will be investing in a system called the Intelligent Traffic Management System. Through strategically placed cameras and messages displayed on screens, drivers will be better guided on how to avoid traffic holdups. The system will also be able to adjust traffic lights automatically according to the volumes of traffic.

 

Pilot Project to Promote Greater Use of Bicycles

Another Government initiative is a pilot project intended to promote greater use of bicycles. Therefore, a number of bicycle racks will be installed around Valletta to promote ‘green transport’ in the City.

 

Government Grants on Purchase of Environmentally-Friendly Vehicles

For next year, the scheme for scrapping old and polluting vehicles will continue. Other schemes relating to Autogas and electric vehicles will also be renewed.

 

Permits for Construction Equipment

Traffic congestion can arise due to vehicles or equipment used for construction such as cranes and scaffolding, which although needed, can generate traffic problems by causing lengthy road closures. To address this issue, the Government will be revising the rates paid on cranes and other equipment used for construction in order to incentivise users to use such equipment for the minimum possible time. These revisions, which will comeinto effect on 1st January 2015, will also ensure that all loca councils charge uniform rates.

Infrastructure National Flood Relief Project (NFRP)

It is expected that by mid-2015, work will be completed on the project for flood relief which starts from Wied Incita in Attard and Mosta, and ends at Ta’ Xbiex. Work will also commence on culverts and other works in the Marsa area. Furthermore, the Government plans to establish premises in Mosta for coordinating the operations of the team responsible for the management of the National Flood Relief Project.

 

Development of a National Water Management Plan

A National Water Management Plan is being developed in consultation with stakeholders. The aim is to have this plan ready and adopted by next year.

 

Setting Up of a PPP to Direct Underground and Sea Transport in Valletta

Projects Malta is studying the feasibility of alternative forms of transport including sea transport and underground tunnels which will help to solve part of the exis ing traffic problem.

 

A PPP to Construct Parking Facilities in the Vittoriosa and Cospicua Areas

Another project is the construction of a parking facility that caters for around 370 cars at Santa Margherita, Cospicua. The project also includes sporting and commercial facilities.

 

Infrastructural Projects: The Kappara Flyover

The Government is investing in building the Kappara Flyover. This project will also invest in improving various roads in the area which will be serving as alternative routes when work on the junction is initiated.

 

Schreiber Ground

Schreiber ground will be transformed into a community complex inclusive of underground parking, commercial space and sports facilities.

 

Pilot Projects in Particular Valleys

The Government intends to apply for EU funding for the implementation of a number of pilot projects, in particular valleys, during 2015. It is planning to continue the programme of works on valleys at Ta’ Slampa in Wied il-Qlejgħa, ir-Rabat, Wied il-Ġnejna, l-Imġarr, Wied Ħarq Ħamiem, Pembroke and, Wied Mofru and Wied il-Fiddien at Rabat. Furthermore, the rock passage at Wied iż-Żurrieq will be rebuilt, while repairs on a number of coastal structures will be completed.

 

Renovation of Castille and Other Public Locations

In 2015, the Government is planning to finalise the City Gate and New Parliament projects.

 

Change of use of a number of Halls and Rooms in the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta

The Government, together with the Parliamentary Secretary for the 2017 Presidency, will begin to alter the uses of a number of halls and rooms in the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta in preparation to the EU Presidency.

 

Parking in Valletta

Parking in Valletta is also a priority and, therefore, part of the Valletta Ditch will be utilised as a parking area.

 

Master Plan for Beltissebħ and Kordin

The Government is working on the preparation of a Master Plan for Beltissebħ, in particular the area planned for demolition, to allow the construction of a new building for various users, amongst them the Departments of Finance. It is also working with various entities on the preparation of a master Plan for the development of the land known as the ‘Schreiber Ground’ in Kordin.

 

Studies on Facilitating Public Pedestrian Access to Valletta

Various methods for facilitating public pedestrian access to Valletta are being studied. These include the opening of existing passages in Valletta and Floriana.

 

Restoration of Wignacourt Tower and the Wignacourt Fountain

Work will commence on the restoration of the Wignacourt Towernear Sarria and the Wignacourt Fountain found in San Filippu Garden.

 

Works in Valletta

In Valletta, paving works have been carried out in Ordinance Street while a series of bronze monuments have been restored.

In 2015, work is planned for Mikiel Anton Vassalli Street, Treasury Street, and Strait Street. Furthermore, work on the restoration of the Triton Fountain will be completed by early 2017. Work will also start on the embellishment and rehabilitation in the area around the Triton Fountain and Castile Square.

 

Works in Cottonera

In Cottonera, embellishment works at Xatt ir-Riżq were completed and work is under way to open underground passages to the public. During the coming weeks, restoration and embellishment work will commence on the church of Santa Tereża in Cospicua. In addition, the extensive damage to the War Memorial in Senglea will be repaired, and the present fibreglass monument will be replaced by a bronze one.

 

Works in Imdina

In Imdina, work on the renewal of paving will be carried out near the Cathedral, and the management of the ditch will continue.

A plan is being drawn up to explore various cultural routes in the city as well as measures to mitigate the impact of tourism on the residents. Work has started for Imdina to be recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.

 

The Microwave Link Project and Construction of the New Armed Forces Maritime Headquarters

The microwave link project and the construction of the new Armed Forces Maritime Headquarters will be completed.

 

Enlargement of the Corrective Facility for Youths at Imtaħleb

Next year, work should also start on the enlargement of the corrective facility for youths at Imtaħleb.

 

Kennedy Grove and a New Park at Ħaż-Żabbar

New children’s play equipment and garden furniture will be installed at Kennedy Grove. New public pathways will also be developed at Żabbar Grove.

 

Judicial and Constitutional Reforms 

Implementation of a Judicial System Reform

The year 2015 will be an exciting year in the justice sector where, after continuing to give new rights both to arrested persons as well as victims in the penal sector, the Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government will start to implement reforms in the civil sector.

 

Constitutional Convention

In 2015, this Government is committed to continue the process of the Constitutional Convention. Hence, the Government will move onto the next phase by initiating a consultation process with the relevant stakeholders in order to obtain their recommendations on changes which they would like to be included in the Constitution.

 

Unit on Major Crimes

The final report on the Holistic Justice Reform recommended the freezing of all assets belonging to persons accused or convicted of major crimes. In order for this unit to have the necessary strength and autonomy, the Government is considering the possibility of converting the present unit into one operated between the Government and the private sector.

 

Legal Assistance Agency

New structures, such as the Drugs Court and the Legal Aid Agency, will also be set-up.

 

Administrative Autonomy for the Maltese Parliament

Legal and administrative steps will be taken to strengthen the operational framework of the Maltese Parliament.

8.0 Gozo 

Studies for the construction of an airstrip in Gozo

This Government intends to boost to the physical accessibility of Gozo. Studies are underway regarding a project for a rural airfield in Gozo.

 

Tender for a Cruise Liner Terminal as well as a Marina in Gozo

Following the conclusion of the Request for Proposals, the Government will be evaluating the proposal submitted by the selected consortium.

 

Cruise Liner Mooring Buoy in Gozo

The present buoy in Xlendi is not suitable to the use of the industry. A new one will be constructed to moor off Xlendi, which will provide adequate facility where cruise liners can moor to disembark quality tourists in Gozo.

 

Programme for Employment in Gozo

Gozo will be given priority in the employ