Social and affordable housing, commonly referred to as housing, is at the very core of Labour politics. From providing social housing to promoting affordability, Labour's commitment remains clear: making sure that Malta's economic progress translates into better housing outcomes for all families.

Home

History clearly shows that the Labour Party is synonymous with housing. Labour Prime Minister Dom Mintoff was a pioneering leader in this field. His premiership saw the construction of extensive housing projects across Malta and Gozo. He provided people with their most basic need: a roof over their heads, a place to call home. Since then, Labour has never looked back. Today, I have the extraordinary privilege of serving as the Minister responsible for social and affordable housing.

Dignity

Circumstances have changed since the Mintoff days, and people's needs, challenges, and aspirations have evolved drastically, yet the need for affordable housing remains. In fact, it has grown significantly. We have a thriving economy, but the benefits of economic growth must reach everyone, including those struggling to find affordable housing or keep a roof over their heads. When a family enjoys housing stability, it can live with dignity, plan, and participate fully in society. This is the true meaning of a government that works for everyone: a strong economy and a fairer, more inclusive, and more supportive society.

A clear plan

Labour's electoral manifesto is strong on social accommodation and on affordable housing.

In the electoral manifesto, we have many excellent proposals for this sector. Here's a brief recap:

• 260 new affordable housing units to be sold at 30% below market value.
• 700 new social housing units over the next five years.
• €16 million to restore and improve housing estates.
• €15 million to install new apertures, photovoltaic (PV) panels, and heat pump water heaters in 1,000 social housing units.
• The creation of a Buyers' Charter.
• Simplifying the process of paying tax when purchasing property.
• Greater protection for families with pre-1995 rental agreements.
• The creation of a Property Register.
• Peace of mind for families who still do not have an official title to their homes.

Basic need

And much, much more. The housing portfolio is sensitive and often very complex. But what is human dignity without a roof over one's head?

Indeed, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that "Housing is a basic human need and a fundamental human right." Likewise, the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights states that "Adequate housing means more than having a roof over one's head. It means having somewhere to live in security, peace, and dignity." Access to stable housing is associated with better physical and mental health, higher educational achievement, and better employment opportunities.

I have recently read an interesting article, from 2018, by leading Maltese sociologist Dr. Michael Briguglio on this subject, who argued that "Housing affordability is not only an economic issue but also a social one, as rising housing costs can lead to exclusion, delayed independence among young people, and increased vulnerability among low-income households." (Times of Malta, 3 December 2018)

Foundations

I am succeeding Andy Ellul and Roderick Galdes, whom I salute for their work in the sector.  I also salute all the Ministers who served in this sector and gave their contribution both under Nationalist and Labour governments: Dr Michael Falzon (PL); President Emeritus Marie Louise Coleiro Preca (PL); Dr Chris Said (PN); Dolores Cristina (PN); former Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi (PN); Dr Edwin Grech (PL); Dr George Hyzler (PN); President Emeritus Dr Ugo Mifsud Bonnici (PN); Freddie Micallef (PL); Patrick Holland (PL); Danny Cremona (PL); Guze Cassar (PL); and President Emeritus Agatha Barbara (PL).

Onwards

In my first days in this new role, I have begun meeting with the workers and leadership in the social housing sector. There are challenges, but there are also opportunities. There are important decisions to be made, and we will make them with a strong sense of social justice.

Wherever I have served, I have always given my very best. In every role I have held, I have strived to make a positive difference and to carry out my duties with honesty and integrity. I believe trust is earned through hard work and consistency. Therefore, I have always sought to serve those who entrusted me with responsibility in the best possible way, as Minister for Education, Justice, Culture, Lands, and Local Government, and now as Minister for Social and Affordable Housing and Lands over a stretch of 13 years plus. Her Excellency President Myriam Spiteri Debono's speech at the inauguration of Parliament last week places a great responsibility upon us. Now it is time to roll up our sleeves, to give all our strength, and to give all our heart.

There are many ambitious reforms we must deliver. We face many challenges, and we will overcome them together.