Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that there will be increases in student stipends and the children's allowance during his Freedom Day address in Birgu on Thursday evening, but did not say by how much.

Speaking at a ceremony in Vittoriosa, Abela said the increase in stipends will be for all, with special emphasis on students studying sectors required for the Maltese economy.

Abela said that he hopes to diversify the economy and encourage more girls to take jobs in science, mathematics, and technology.

The government has also increased children's allowance and will continue to do so, he said.

In addition, new tax credits will soon be implemented to help people with disabilities, and equality laws will continue to be strengthened, the Prime Minister said.

Abela highlighted his government's achievements and promised to correct any mistakes, particularly referring to the health sector. He said that the PN only wants power, and their desire for power is beyond the love for their country. He said that the PL does not talk about power, but about gaining the people's trust.

He also reiterated his promise for a new state-of-the-art hospital in Gozo and a better environment.

The Prime Minister assured the public that his government would keep aiding the people by shouldering their burdens, no matter how big the challenges are, referring to the energy sector where prices have increased abroad, but the Maltese government cushioned the costs.

He emphasized that each measure his government implements reflects the principles of social justice they believe in.

Abela laid flowers at the foot of the Freedom Monument at the end of the ceremony.