A series of public dialogue meetings aiming to provide the public with an opportunity to contribute towards the formulation of the 2008 pre-budget document is to be held, called Djalogi 2008.

The Office of the Prime Minister said the Prime Minister would be present throughout the dialogue sessions in order to listen to people’s suggestions, concerns and opinions.

It described the open dialogue process as an effective and thorough manner by which the public can have its collective voice heard by policy-makers.

“It is essential for a democratic society to come together and listen to those of similar and different beliefs in order to gain new perspectives on issues that may affect our lives. Through thoughtful discussion of the issues, people are able to clarify and verbalise their own values, attitudes and beliefs and then attempt to arrive at a conclusion which will translate into effective policy recommendation. Djalogi 2008 shall continue to reinforce the government’s approach towards inclusive governance with public consultation at the core,” it said.

Health, job opportunities, pensions, environment and Gozo are among the themes that will be discussed. The first public dialogue will be held on 25 April at 6pm at the Office of the Prime Minister in the Auberge de Castille, Valletta.

The other meetings will be held as follows: Increasing job opportunities, with better pay and conditions, 25 April; Achieving an improved and healthy environment, 2 May; Securing quality health services, 9 May; Enhancing Gozo, a unique region, 16 May; Better pensions, 23 May; Assisting our children to realise their full potential, 30 May; and Guaranteeing our families’ prosperity, 6 June. All meetings will be held in Castille except the one dealing with Gozo, which will be held at the Gozo Ministry in Victoria.

Persons interested in attending a session in this series are to contact the Office of the Prime Minister on tel.: 2200-1464 or via email to: [email protected].