A collaborative agreement has been signed between the Directorate for Human Rights and CheckPoint Malta to commence the offering of medical testing services for HIV within the LGBTIQ+ Hub in Paola.

This collaboration will bring together the dedicated efforts of CheckPoint Malta, a voluntary organization committed to promoting health and sexual well-being, particularly concerning HIV, and the Directorate for Human Rights, which operates the LGBTIQ+ Hub. This centre is a crucial space for providing services related to the LGBTIQ+ community in Malta.

Rebecca Buttigieg, the Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality, who presided over the signing of the agreement, explained, "As a government committed to reducing stigma in every possible sector, and this agreement between the Directorate for Human Rights and the NGO CheckPoint Malta will serve as another step forward to continue strengthening the services provided by the LGBTIQ+ Hub."

Parliamentary Secretary Buttigieg added that this agreement signifies a more efficient service where the community can utilize these services for testing. Moreover, as a government, they will continue to intensify efforts to ensure equal access for everyone.

Marc Buhagiar, the President of the organization CheckPoint Malta, expressed his satisfaction because now the NGO will have additional facilities where they can provide testing services for sexually transmitted diseases, especially HIV. "Our primary goal as an NGO is to improve access to testing, and those who access these services will feel more comfortable because this service, supported by the government, is given by the community itself," Buhagiar said.

Meanwhile, individuals who wish to learn more about the services offered within the LGBTIQ+ HUB can contact the Directorate for Human Rights at +3562223210 or via email at [email protected].