It might sound like a terrible cliché, but life and experience have shown that eventually there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Over the past few months, life as we know it has come to halt and adjusting to a new ‘normal’ has seen all sectors of our society adjust to this unprecedented reality.

It has been a turbulent few weeks, however, human resilience has come valiantly to the fore. Our capability not only as a nation but also as human beings to adapt and flourish through this pandemic and its ensuing repercussions has seen us through this dark period in our history. However, the moment has come where we need to continue fanning the flame of optimism, which slowly but surely is being re-ignited across our country.

Companies and businesses sought to ride the wave of new opportunities this situation has brought about, while others have diversified their operations in a bid to overcome financial dire straits. As a government we have sought to stand shoulder to shoulder with our workers and businesses, setting out economic support measures aimed at keeping both afloat. This reminds me of what Charles Darwin presciently stated all those years ago: it is not the strongest who survive but the most adaptable. It is therefore wholly encouraging to see companies, which, when faced with an unprecedented sink or swim situation, choose not only to survive, but make the most of new prospects which have arisen through this pandemic.

One such company is Baxter Malta, which has just recently expanded its production capacity by 20% and as a result shall engage up to 100 new employees. Since the emergence of the coronavirus, Baxter has taken proactive measures to protect employee workplace safety, provide aid to healthcare providers and those affected by the pandemic, and to maintain a global supply of life-saving and life-sustaining products. We have also seen a highly commendable effort by Metallform, another Maltese company that exports medical devices worldwide, which has not only expanded its operations but will be employing another 50 workers.

It is this very sense of optimism that we, as a Government are committed to instil and encourage as means to stimulate our economy and generate economic activity. As we enter a new phase of uplifting more restrictions, the coming weeks are even more crucial for our country’s wellbeing. That said, we are more than aware of the fact that assistance for our businesses to find their feet once again remains vital and for this reason we shall be extending the wage supplement through May and June; a valuable breathing space to adjust to this new, unprecedented reality.  

Together we have shown immense courage in the face of adversity and while the road to full recovery may be long, we can face the journey ahead with optimism and determination. Let us avail ourselves of the lessons learnt throughout this period and look forward to continue finding balanced solutions for more prosperity within this new economic reality.

Silvio Schembri is Economy Minister