In public finances, a clear vision and diligent planning yield good results. When taken care of by safe and reliable hands, results become excellent and lead to an ongoing prosperity with a purpose.
It has become habitual each time I prepare my Sunday piece to learn of an even better financial outcome in the country's performance, which makes me even prouder to form part of Dr Joseph Muscat's administration. This week again we have the good news that during January-February 2018, Government's Consolidated Fund has registered another surplus of €18.7 million.
Recurrent revenue was recorded at €657.9 million, up from €621.6 million last year. This comparative increase was primarily the result of higher Value Added Tax and Income Tax which increased by €34 million and €24 million respectively. This confirms that the growth in consumption and employment continues to be robust.
Surplus up, debt down
I must point out that the €18.7 million surplus was not achieved as a result of a tight-fisted administration, as official figures show that, compared to January-February 2017, total expenditure rose to €639.1 million from €590.9 million. Here again, the very concept of 'prosperity with a purpose' is manifestly relevant, as the increase was due to - among other things - social security benefits (€7.2 million), dues to church schools (€11.8 million), medicines and surgical material (€3 million) and Jobsplus Programmes (€2 million).
In addition, a most welcome fact is that at the end of February this year, Central Government Debt stood at €5,409 million, down by €261.4 million over the corresponding month last year. This means that both our generation and those in the future can be assured that a pair of really safe hands is in full control of the nation's finances. Hats off to Professor Edward Scicluna who, for the past five years, has shown what the responsible administration of public money should be made of.
These excellent results are further proof that Labour is reducing the annual interest burdens to service the national debt, operating through the current budget with no new taxes and yet registering one surplus after another. It is indeed a shame that the Opposition, which is constitutionally expected to check the government's performance and come up with alternative policies, is blatantly lost in a delirium of deviating tactics that uncover the deep vacuum of their political content and focus.
Committed to deliver
However encouraging they may be, all positive results will further strengthen our resolve to further eradicate the risk of poverty among those who need additional support in order to lead a dignified life. The government has been constantly tackling the issue and so far has eliminated from the risk-of-poverty list the equivalent number of people that had been added during the pre-2013 administration. Labour's determination will not falter in the coming months and years to ensure that bold social and financial measures continue to address the situation. This administration is determined to deliver on its election pledges, with the fundamental principles of social justice at the basis of all our economic, fiscal and social measures.
The moral strength of the fair society we are committed to build is best measured through the endless initiatives to establish equal opportunities for all, not least people and families who require equity remedies to achieve what they deserve. Let us never forget the undeniable truth that, over the years, it has always been the Labour movement that pioneered all social solidarity measures. We will not shirk from our duty to secure a level playing field for all Maltese and Gozitan citizens, irrespective of their abilities or disabilities. A fair society must be all-inclusive and all-embracing, and the excellent financial and economic results achieved during our first five years in office will only enhance our resolve to deliver further.
Gozo's opportunities
After attending the consecration at the Vatican of fellow Gozitan Archbishop Alfred Xuereb last Monday, I proceeded with the usual packed schedule on the island. Further inspired by the wise words of Pope Francis, I felt even more committed to continue providing opportunities for people with disabilities to fully participate in the community. It was an honour to attend an event organised by the Gozo Ministry at the Villa Rundle Gardens to mark World Down Syndrome Day.
Addressing teachers and carers, together with children from various schools, clients of Agenzija Sapport and the Santa Marta Day Centre, I emphasised the importance of further awareness about Down Syndrome, together with promoting full inclusion among children from an early age. I appealed for more interest in this and similar events so that we can truly live the spirit of inclusion, where every child is accepted in a society that provides equal opportunities to everyone.
Our documented heritage
This was followed by a visit to Gozo's National Archives for an exhibition of historic 19th-century watercolours by Gozitan Notary Antonio Portelli. It was an opportunity to call for government documents related to Gozo to be returned to the island. I strongly believe that the Archives, where useful work is already being carried out, should be the home of what we may consider as the Gozitan collective memory.
It is imperative to safeguard the rich heritage of the island so that the documentation of our culture and lifestyle remain intact and accessible for years to come and the Gozo Ministry is committed to providing financial help towards the better preservation of documents.
Farming and irrigation in Gozo
The remit of the Gozo Ministry is spread over various commitments. This week, we have launched a new scheme for the restoration/cleaning of wells and reservoirs owned by Gozitan farmers. Through this scheme - launched precisely on the UN World Water Day - eligible farmers will be reimbursed for up to 90 per cent of capped expenses to enhance water storage in their fields.
In line with this initiative, and upon receipt of the necessary permits, the EcoGozo Directorate will begin the valley clean-ups during the summer. This will not just be a one-off project by the Gozo Ministry, as we will also build rubble walls in the countryside, thus protecting the fields from further soil erosion and preserving Gozo's rural landscape.
Landscape forum in Gozo
It was an honour to welcome the Le Notre Landscape Forum for 2018 to our island-region. In my address to a distinguished group of local and foreign academics, I highlighted the fact that the increase in tourist activities has certainly had an impact on our natural and environmental landscape and that we need to tread carefully when dealing with development and infrastructure.
It is the basic reason why I personally insist on wide consultation prior to any planning of new projects which, irrespective of their necessity, should never be allowed to tarnish the beauty of our environment - the best jewel with which creation has endowed the island.
The serene landscape that pleases the eye of residents and visitors alike is to be preserved for the enjoyment of posterity. As has been said over and over again, the environment is the legacy we leave for future generations. We all agree that tourism has, and always will be, an indispensable industry for Gozo and all our efforts should be aimed at nurturing the whole island and its shores as a primary element of great importance.
We are fully aware of our island's natural attractions, with landscapes and skylines that are innately associated with Gozo, and it is our duty to sustain this natural heritage, knowing that appreciation and diligent use are the best ways of ensuring this. This is especially important in view of our plan up to 2030, which will shortly be finalised for consultation, the scope of which is to identify potential sectors for economic growth and job creation in Gozo and the impact thereof on spatial planning implications and in other areas where sustainability is core and crucial.