There exist various economic indicators and methods with which to calculate how well a country is doing.  For me, the one indicator which provides the best measurement with regards to economic progress or otherwise of a nation is the level of employment which is being achieved.

As former Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi had said ten years ago in Iklin, "Jobs are what really matter."  And indeed I cannot agree more with this statement.  The difference however lies in what subsequent Labour Governments have actually achieved in this sector, compared to the situation obtaining before Labour's rise to the headship of the Government.

Per last July, unemployment rate hit an all-time low, with fewer than a hundred individuals actually jobless. This is a milestone which we have never reached before as a country and it shows that from the disastrous situation we were in under the Gonzi administration, in a generation we have achieved practically full employment.

These promising numbers were recently released by the National Statistics Office (NSO), the authority that keeps track of our country's economic data. According to their report, a total of 893 people registered with JobsPlus in the last month. This marks a decrease of 32 people compared to the same period last year. It is in fact an improvement over July 2022, when the unemployment rate stood at 925 individuals.

What is particularly striking is that these encouraging figures come at a time of global crisis due to the Ukraine War. This international conflict has led to unexpected challenges, including a surge in energy prices and widespread inflation. Despite these difficulties, our country's economy is resilient, and the positive employment trend is testament to that. 

This positive momentum also extends to other very delicate sectors, such as employment levels amongst individuals with disabilities.   Here, the unemployment rate remained low. Only 226 people with disabilities were without jobs in July. This can be attributed to the various incentives and measures that have been introduced in recent years to support this important segment of the population which is very close to our heart.

The record-low unemployment rate in July paints a positive outlook of Malta's economy. It is clear that our country's resilience and strategic initiatives are paying off. As we move forward, I am confident that this positive trend will continue, and we will keep bringing prosperity and opportunities to all individuals across our nation.

We recognize and deeply value the invaluable contributions that our workforce makes towards the growth and stability of our nation.   We are dedicated to ensuring that our workers receive nothing less than what they rightfully deserve. I am not only referring to the right of workers to have fair wages (which is very important), but also to the need of having safe and conducive working environments that nurture their talents and potential.

Through comprehensive labour laws, policies, and initiatives, we aim to empower our workers, providing them with access to healthcare, education, and - when needed - social support systems.

By fostering a culture of respect, inclusivity, and collaboration, we aspire to create a workforce that feels appreciated, motivated, and fulfilled. As a government, we stand resolute in our commitment to championing the rights and aspirations of our workers, because we firmly believe that a prosperous nation is built upon the foundation of a content and thriving workforce.

In this context, I would like to make reference to a small occasion which filled me with great satisfaction: the signing of a new collective agreement at the St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation.  In fact the Foundation and the St. John's Co-Cathedral Employees' Union came together to officially sign a this important agreement which, supported by our dedicated employees, shapes the path for our future work at this beautiful temple.

This significant agreement is set to last for four years. The signing event had special guests including Mgr Prof. Emmanuel Agius, Mr. Tonio Mallia, Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Kevin Attard, Chief People Officer. Ms. Kirby Sciberras, Ms. Rosalie Farrugia, and Ms. Marika Farrugia were also present, representing the Employees' House Union and the workers.  I salute each and everyone of those fantastic individuals whom I appreciate and respect very deeply.

The St. John's Co-Cathedral Foundation is an outstanding organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the St. John's Co-Cathedral, a stunning example of Baroque art and architecture in Valletta. As an 'Employer of Choice,' the Foundation is dedicated to respecting the rights and dignity of its employees, and this freshly signed collective agreement is a clear reflection of that commitment.

Eastern Region - Cultural Region for the year

As we are slowly edging towards 2024, Parliamentary Secretary Alison Zerafa Civelli and I have just announced that the Eastern Region will take centre stage as the Cultural Region for the year. This decision comes with an allocation of funds - a quarter of a million euros - so that local councils within the region can create an interesting cultural calendar and this in itself is, at the end of the day, direct investment in the artists themselves.

This investment goes beyond just hosting a variety of cultural events in different neighbourhoods. It is also about providing support to the talented artists and creators within our communities.

The Region has been planning a diverse array of cultural activities that will unfold throughout the upcoming year and is stepping up to become the second region with a designated cultural calendar, following the Southern Region's lead earlier this year.

And with regards to the Southern Region, so far, they have already organized 14 cultural activities, and are aiming to hold another nine until the end of the year.   Through these efforts, we are establishing strong connections that will enrich our cultural tapestry.

These cultural activities not only foster an appreciation for Maltese culture but also contribute to preserving our heritage for generations to come. The Cultural Regions program continues to thrive, promoting cultural heritage across various localities in the country according to strategies which were published in advance after various consultation. Therefore it is with anticipation that we await the unveiling of the Eastern Region's cultural calendar for the year ahead.

I would like to express my gratitude to all involved in this collaborative project, particulary the President of the Region Mr Anthony Chircop and his hard-working theme. The localities that make up the Eastern Region's Cultural Region include Birkirkara, Pembroke, Swieqi, Pietà, Għargħur, Ħal Lija, Imsida, Ta' Xbiex, St. Julian's, Sliema, Iklin, and Gżira.

Stay tuned as we embark on a year filled with cultural enrichment, appreciation, and celebration.