Family and Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina urged social workers to be a beacon to those in society who were in need, so that they would help promote opportunities for the social inclusion of vulnerable persons.

Ms Cristina was speaking at the presentation of professional warrants to 56 social workers. She said changes in societies around the world were leaving their mark and Malta was no exception.

Which made the role of social workers essential. They had to be innovative and prepared for change, she said.

Ms Marika Borg Wirth, speaking on behalf of the Social Work Profession Board, said the 2003 legislation on the profession gave recognition to social workers, who had important responsibilities to carry.