Parliamentary Secretary for EU Funds and Social Dialogue Aaron Farrugia announced a €23 million investment in 22 projects related to cultural assets and renewable energy co-funded by EU ERDF Funds.
16 non-governmental organisations and six local councils benefitted from these funds. 19 applications were approved under the natural and cultural heritage theme while 3 applications were approved under the renewable energy theme.
In his address, Farrugia made emphasis on Malta's rich and unique historical, cultural and architectural heritage and Government's efforts to restore and protect it for both current and future generations.
Today's launched projects touched upon several cultural themes in the field of :
- Natural heritage including the creation of a wildlife rehabilitation centre
- Cultural investment in Valletta including the extension/refurbishment of St. John's Co-Cathedral Museum, restoration of St. Paul's Anglican pro-Cathedral, development of artistic and creative centres in Valletta at Palazzo de La Salle and Valletta Contemporary,
- Coastal Watch Towers including the restoration works of southern, northern coastal watch and restoration and conservation of Xlendi towers to create a heritage trail ,
- Religious and ecclesiastical patrimony including the restoration of a number of churches and chapels and other ecclesiastical sites in Malta and Gozo,
- Local tradition: including restoration of Naxxar windmill, Mtfara Clock Tower and creation of the first Pyrotechnics Museum in Malta,
- Railway Heritage including the renovation of the Attard Railway Heritage and Birkirkara Old Railway Station Museum,
- Renewable Energy Sources including the installation of PV panels on buildings at St Monica Schools, Malta Red Cross and Oasi Foundation.