The Parliamentary Secretary for Health and the Malta Union of Midwives and Nurses have agreed to start working on a structured database for specialised nurses and midwives as well as a specialisation register.

These would ensure that nurses and midwives who acquire qualifications are duly recognised.

Mr Fearne said the framework will lead to better quality workers as well as specialised care to patients. He said this was an exciting time for the country’s health sector, with a number of projects announced by the government expected to lead to increased opportunities for health workers.

These included the €200 million private hospital in Gozo, the modernisation of St Luke’s and Karen Grech hospitals in Guardamangia. This investment would not only lead to an increase in opportunities but also for a better quality service. The Gozo project would also attract medical tourism and safeguard jobs.

MUMN President Maria Cutajar praised the initiative which, she said, would improve the level of specialised nursing in Malta.