Government has approved the first mechanism that will be part of the exit programme for victims of prostitution, a statement by government read.

The aim of the mechanism, a government statement read, is to provide professional help to people exit this circle.

Government approved a proposal so that specialised aid will be given to people who are in the Corradino Correctionaol Facility, and who at some point in their lives were involved in prostitution. This is the first programme of its kind offered by the state.

 The help is aimed at aiding these people live independent lives away from prostitution. The mechanism will also give them the necessary tools to prepare them for basic life challenges after exiting jail.

Government will ensure that the specialised programme at the Corradino Correctional Facility will include opportunities for education and training, both formally and informally, the statement read.

This initiative comes after discussions between the Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms Julia Farrugia Portelli and the Dar Hosea Administration. Dar Hosea is the only home in Malta run by the voluntary sector focused solely on prostitution cases.

Farrugia Portelli considers this programme as just the beginning on a comprehensive programme to recognise the individual difficulties of vulnerable persons who express the wish to exit prostitution.

The PN, in a statement, welcomed the mechanism, but was not pleased that government did not consult with the Opposition on such an important subject.

The PN said that an exit from prostitution programme must be realistic and sustainable. The PN also said that the Opposition is ready to give its contribution in this reform.