The new extension for St Vincent de Paul (a home for the elderly) that would see 500 beds added will be ready in May, Parliamentary Secretary for Active Aging Anthony Agius Decelis said on Wednesday.

The project began seven months ago, and will see four blocks constructed. Agius Decelis said that this is the first time that such a massive project is being build at St Vincent de Paul, through a €30 million investment in capital expenditure, and €274,000,000 more over ten years to accommodate 500 high dependancy elderly persons.

Through this project, the waiting list for elderly people who are highly dependent on support will be addressed, he said, and added that the process of relocation for the elderly who live in residential homes who require more intensive care will take place.

The new blocks will be built in a 33,500 sqm zone, and will include open spaces for socialising and activities, as well as physiotherapy rooms, a chapel, a therapeutic pool, gymnasium and other facilities. It was also said that currently, work is ongoing to recruit more professionals and workers, and in all, there would be 600 employees including 250 carers.