Family and Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina presented money to voluntary organisations working in the social inclusion sector. Over e8,921,500 (Lm 3, 830,000) had been invested in the sector by the ministry.

2007 had been an important year for the voluntary sector, with the enactment of legislation about voluntary organisations and the appointment of a commissioner for voluntary organisations. The aim was to give a legal framework to the sector, which is an integral part of the country’s economy.

This year’s funds allocation had gone up by e209,644 (Lm90,000) to e2,026,555 (Lm870,000), proof of the government’s commitment for the sector, Ms Cristina said. Seven new projects would be launched this year. Voluntary organisations wishing to be registered with the commissioner could do so by filling in the application obtainable from the commissioner at Block C, Belt is-Sebh, Floriana, FRN1700, or from www.mfss.gov.mt.