Remember those days when children played outside all day? Climbing up the learning tree in Sliema, running through the streets of Marsalforn from Kartell to the Menqa and back or just playing on the Zuntier tal-Knisja of our villages? Sadly, those days are rare for a child of today.
Today’s children spend much more of their time indoors. This is attributed to the stress of homework and exams and the advent of computer games but also to the lack of safe quality outside areas of play. This government is more than committed to reversing this trend. In line with the 1959 UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child which states that “the child shall have full opportunity for play and recreation which should be directed to the same purposes as education.”
Over the last two years this government, at both national and local level, has worked hard to upgrade existing outdoor areas for children and create new ones. Ta’ Qali Adventure Park is the epitome of government policy in the area. The creation of a natural and inviting open space encouraging children to spend more time outdoors learning and engaging in imaginative play is at the heart of our national plans. Exposure to this natural world is essential for a child’s emotional health. Nature inspires in children a sense of wonder, which is the forerunner to a love of learning.
Our track record cannot be questioned. St Anne’s Square in Sliema, St George’s Square in Valletta, the Xghajra Promenade and the many upgraded playgrounds and parks across Malta and Gozo stand testament to our commitment to future generations. These and the many more in the pipe line will contribute in no small way to a generation of memories. While admitting there is much more to do we are on the right track and will leave no stone unturned in order to give our children the carefree childhood they deserve.
The Nationalist Party has always been at the forefront in its belief in the younger generations. These are the future of our country and it is fundamental for them to grow into reasoned and healthy citizens. For this to become a reality we need to ensure that all children from all walks of life and all family situations are given a childhood – one full of good memories with the freedom to be children and act like children. This includes play in safe open spaces.
Our belief is such that we have ensured these open spaces, for more often than not these places are etched into our collective childhood memories. No doubt the next generation will be looking at the beautifully restored Upper and Lower Barrakka and the Mixtla ta’ Bormla together with the numerous parks and valleys such as Kennedy Grove that have been cleared and cleaned as part of their childhood.
This is what this government has achieved – the capacity to create childhood memories for our children. We have given our children the chance to spread their wings and be free. Play outside in the fresh air, swim in unpolluted waters and build castles on safe beaches – the value of such memories is incalculable.
David Agius is the government whip