A delegation from the Union Haddiema Maqghudin (UHM) yesterday met Labour leader Alfred Sant and Labour’s main spokesperson for social solidarity Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, to discuss the party’s draft plan for the elderly, a statement issued by the MLP said.

Dr Sant said the MLP believes a balance should be struck between the support given to elderly people leading a good life and others who need constant attention in order to lead a decent life.

The Labour Party has been carrying out a long consultation process regarding various aspects of its policies during the past months. Dr Sant said the draft plan on equality forms part of a framework that includes five social plans incorporating issues like work conditions, the family, young people and the elderly.

Dr Sant said the Labour Party is open to suggestions with regard to the plan, which will still be open for change, even after it is approved during the party’s general council.

The work that is being carried out by the Labour party will form the basis of the party’s electoral manifesto for the next general election, said Dr Sant.

UHM secretary general Gejtu Vella was quoted as saying that the Labour Party’s draft plan for the elderly includes a number of important aspects. The implementation plan for the MLP’s proposals now needs to be refined, said Mr Vella, adding that UHM believes that while the private sector should be granted opportunities in the area of elderly care, the ultimate responsibility remains that of the government.