Speaker of the House Anglu Farrugia on Monday led a press conference in which the Parliament of Malta and the Malta Employers’ Association (MEA) launched a book titled "The Low Birth Rate in Malta – An Existential Challenge."
The book compiles the interventions and contributions made by all participants in the National Conference on the Low Birth Rate in Malta, which took place in July 2023 at the Parliament of Malta in collaboration with the MEA.
Farrugia emphasized the involvement of organizations such as the MEA and others as collaborators in Parliament, conveying their views on proposals not only on the Parliament's agenda but also contributing to more extensive discussions on nationally significant topics.
Through these informal meetings in Parliament, crucial aspects of parliamentary democracy, including active public participation in discussions and decision-making in various areas of our lives, such as heritage and common well-being, are strengthened, a government statement read.
The National Conference on the Low Birth Rate in Malta is also considered important as it provides participants with the opportunity to discuss a subject that poses an existential challenge for our country.
Farrugia said that "a country, a population, and a nation without children can be perceived as lifeless and without a future.”
He said that every individual adds dimensions of higher value, intellectual faculties, knowledge and cultural values, educational skills, professions, industries, and other physical capabilities. There all contribute to all that is necessary for Malta and Gozo to aspire to a dignified and truly sustainable existence, Farrugia said.
Farrugia reminded of the love that the Maltese and Gozitans have towards the family, considering it as the cornerstone of every society.
The Speaker mentioned the appeal made to address the issue of property prices, which is causing significant difficulties for youth in forming their families.
He pointed out that despite the authorities making many positive steps in the social sphere, incorrect human behaviour is leading to circumstances that can hinder human development.
Officials from the Malta Employers’ Association discussed the impact of the low birth rate on the economy and social conditions in Malta. They observed that the average age of Maltese workers is increasing, affecting the labour market in Malta, which is becoming dependent on foreign workers.
A concern was raised for Maltese companies to focus on flexible, innovative, and trained young Maltese workers.
The MEA emphasized the importance of having a balance in the labor market with young Maltese workers and the experience of older workers. The MEA also acknowledged that other countries face similar circumstances to those of Malta, indicating that our country needs to compete to improve, retain, and attract the best workers.
The conference was addressed by MEA President Joanne Bondin and MEA CEO Joseph Farrugia, as well as by PN MP Claudette Buttigieg, and Parliamentary Secretary for Active Aging Malcolm Paul Agius Galea.