The Minister for the Economy and Industry Silvio Schembri opened the new Ta’ Qali Crafts Village Scheme in a press conference on the site on Friday.
The government acknowledges the true work and commitment which workers of businesses in Ta’ Qali’s Crafts village have put in to finish their projects in a difficult period such as the pandemic, said Schembri.
While having given the Covid-19 wage supplement, the government is ready to assist the craftsmen further by providing a scheme to continue works, Schembri said.
In collaboration with the Industrial Innovative Solutions Malta (INDIS), 20 businesses who have managed to complete or are finalizing their works will be exempt from rent payment for the first two years, said Schembri. The following eight years’ payment will be postponed, and businesses will start payments from the 11th year, he said.
Businesses who have fallen behind in building of their properties will be given funds accordingly, in fact, along with the 10 huts already being built, 10 more are underway, said the minister.
Schembri added that the scheme will enable the village to become a centre for creativity and for Maltese craftsmanship to be exhibited.
CCTV cameras and interactive screens will also be included, as well as projects such as a new kiosk, parking lots and a new health centre for children, he said. Schembri added that there will be various open spaces such as playgrounds and parks to ensure that the village becomes a landmark on the local map, for tourists and for Maltese families.
An INDIS Malta spokesperson said that current works are being done so the area does not remain a construction zone, and an appropriate person from INDIS will be selected to work completely on the crafts village.