Nationalist MP Robert Cutajar asked Family Minister Michael Farrugia if he was concerned that there was a 15% increase in people looking for alternative housing or government housing.

Mr Farrugia in response said that a big part of this increase have been due to the previous administration’s rental scheme. He said that the previous government had launched a rental scheme for alternative housing, of €80 a month, adding that this amounts to roughly €1,000 per year. He called this unacceptable for people in such vulnerable situations.

He also said that around 400 requests have been made for a change in location, which is yet again a result from previous the administration’s schemes. Mr Farrugia emphasised the need for alternative schemes and said that the number of vacant properties, due to ‘non compliance’ was not proper in the light of demand. He said that once a period of regularisation happens it should help to meet supply with demand.