Prime Minister Robert Abela, while addressing a Labour event in Santa Lucia, announced that if elected by the Maltese population, his government will be increasing educators’ salaries substantially as part of widespread investment in the education sector.

“A Labour government will not only be increasing educators’ salaries but will be heavily investing in strengthening the framework present for all educators. Educators our biggest human capital and their value towards society is immeasurable,” Abela said.

As part of the education reform, Abela also announced that all educators in training, LSEs, and kindergarten student teachers will be paid in full throughout the term of their teaching practice. 

Apart from these, Abela also confirmed the extension of the tablet scheme, not only for primary students but also for secondary students. “We have to adapt to the different realities. Before, the basic needs required one to have a book were as nowadays a laptop and tablet are required.”

Abela also paid tribute to the memory of Rita Ellul, who was murdered on Saturday.

“Horrific events like this push us to continue making reforms like the femicide law, and I can’t wait for Parliament to resume for these amendments to be enacted.”

Answering questions on environmental reform, Abela stated that the Labour Partys objective is to “reach the 2050 targets of carbon neutrality and that is why we pledged to invest €700 million over 7 years towards the environmental sector.”

Abela also confirmed that Malta has till now brought 5 oncology patients to Malta from Ukraine. “We must not do as the Opposition has and vilify all Russians. On the other hand, we are pushing for peace while helping Ukrainians in humanitarian aid as is our duty.”

With regards to IVF treatment, Abela said that a new Labour government will be extending free IVF treatment to couples who are seeking their second round of treatment as well providing free medicines to all IVF recipients.