The implementation of a new system for the issuance of masons’ licenses is in full swing, Planning Minister Aaron Farrugia and Construction Parliamentary Secretary Chris Agius said on Monday.

They were speaking during a visit to a construction site, together with CEO of Vassallo Builders Group Ltd Pio Vassallo.

Farrugia explained that the previous regime for such licences has been in place for quite some time and does not reflect modern practices and standards.

Therefore, this new measure is another step towards modernising industry practices and ensuring further safety and sustainability, with a focus on enhanced regulations and expertise.

During the visit, the Minister explained that it is important to maintain dialogue with stakeholders and everyone involved in the industry on all levels, and to work hand-in-hand with them towards the country’s building and construction reform.

“Today, we took this opportunity to explain what we intend to do with the reform. We believe that the reforms which find a wide range of support are those reforms that the country needs. During this visit, we met with workers at their place of work, including builders and stonemasons who have acquired this license. We also discussed a particular aspect of this reform through which we intend to license and register construction site workers. This will provide more peace of mind to families, as well as a more sustainable construction industry,” Farrugia said.

Parliamentary Secretary Agius said that this visit was part of the government’s process to increase laws and regulations governing construction. “We met with several workers and explained the government’s intentions for the coming period, including masons’ licences, licensing and regulation of contractors, and more knowledge on the responsibilities of people working in construction sites. I think that this is another important step towards having a better-regulated sector,” he said.

CEO of Vassallo Builders Group Ltd Pio Vassallo said that every job in construction creates more jobs in other related sectors. “We have always pushed for the reforms which are needed for this sector, reforms related to health and safety in construction sites, and training of workers which has unfortunately been missing for several years. We have always been trailblazers in the sector, and we look forward to further consultation between the government and the private sector to develop a successful reform,” he concluded.