Prime Minister Robert Abela promised on Monday that, under a Labour government, the arts and culture scene in Malta will be given the much-needed boost it needs.

Addressing constituents in Kirkopp, Abela also stated that the interests of Malta in the Ukraine - Russia war will always be safeguarded even throughout an electoral campaign.

“No one was prepared for the Russia invasion of Ukraine. Together with the leaders of other countries we were not expecting this to happen. Attending meetings in France as is my duty, Maltese interest will always be my priority.”

 

Arts and culture

Shifting focus on the arts and culture sectors, Abela said that although these sectors were the most hit throughout the pandemic, “we were always attentive to help the artistic and arts sector throughout the pandemic. This also ties with the traditional aspects in our country.”

Talking about the Labour Party proposals and government incentives for band clubs, the arts sector and feasts, Abela reiterated the importance these sectors have on the Maltese social life.

“We are helping band clubs become independent while also helping them in restoration projects to preserve our culture. That is why I can proudly say that feasts will be happening as normal throughout the summer.”

Abela also stressed on important proposals affecting these sectors such as incentivising young children to learn to play music instruments and for band clubs to restore their feast decorations.

 

Moral justice

Moral justice is one of the main areas this government has focused on, Abela said. Referencing a court case concerning the police department who were not being paid for overtime, Abela said that “although previous administrations might have had the legal right not to do some things, this government felt that it was morally incorrect to do so and the situation changed.”

Abela then announced that till the end of the next legislature, whoever had cases in court due to wages not being paid and so on will be paid in full for their service.

 

Businesses

“My only message to small business is that we will remain with the people and the businesses no matter what.”

Abela referred to the economic crisis of 2008 which, according to him, was “much smaller” than the economic effects felt due to the pandemic as a clear indication of bad management. “The way we led the country during the worst crisis in the world is a clear indication of how we want things moving forward.”

Reference was also made in the low fuel prices and electricity prices that the government managed to keep throughout the pandemic.

“These are the things which help people and not calling our incentives and proposals gimmicks.”