If we are to combat poverty at all levels, then we must do our utmost to tap the vast opportunities that are available through European Union funding, Family and Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina said yesterday.
Speaking at a seminar to launch the consultation process for the National Action Plan against Poverty and Social Exclusion, she said that social policy is not simply a ministerial remit but a national concern.
Minister Cristina explained that the consultation process for the plan would take six months, with the target date to achieve its goals set for 2008.
To address the impact of globalisation, new family structures and a better understanding of equality, a plan was needed.
The minister said that a new phenomenon is the fact that the family is becoming smaller and, coupled with an ageing population, it is increasing the risk of poverty and social exclusion – especially for those who reach old age.
She said more jobs have to be created, more investment in human resources is required and a culture of lifelong learning has to be introduced, so that the opportunities are not lost.
Minister Cristina said the National Action Plan is based on the creation of a sustainable social base, aimed at creating awareness for those who are at risk of poverty, and assess their capabilities and identify opportunities.
“We are not doing enough to tap EU funding in this respect and all social partners must work together to eradicate poverty and social exclusion. This an ambitious target, but it is achievable.”
Policy coordinator at the ministry, Bryan Magro gave a presentation that dealt with coordination methods, which included protection and social inclusion, followed by health services and long-term care.
Therese Micallef, from the Office of Social Inclusion, said that the aim of the plan was to create national policies so that social inclusion would continue advancing on various fronts.
Dr Marisa Scerri, who is responsible for the formulation of policy and implementation of programmes, said that the chief scope of any policy is its creation and its eventual implementation.