On World Diabetes Day, the Nationalist Party once again urges the government to declare whether it agrees with the establishment of a Parliamentary Committee on Diabetes. Such a non-formal committee within Parliament, comprising Members from both sides of the House, would facilitate a collective and national effort in this field.

The government should no longer ignore this request, which could lead to constructive and beneficial action in our country for those suffering from this condition, the PN said.

On this day, the PN salutes the thousands of patients living with this condition. It also extends appreciation to all the specialised workers in this medical field and thanks them for their efforts and dedication.

The number of diabetes patients in our country continues to grow, and the Government has given up addressing this rising trend seriously, which affects over 10% of our population. This means that today, around 56,000 people in our country are living with this condition

According to a study by the University of Malta, the national cost associated with diabetes and its related complications - including eye, kidney issues, and amputations - currently amounts to approximately €175 million. This expenditure is expected to continue increasing each year.

This year, the international theme for World Diabetes Day is the Mental Health and Quality of Life of patients and their families. There are significant needs in this area that the Government is ignoring. People who do not manage their diabetes suffer from many complications that affect the quality of life for themselves and their families, which urgently need to be addressed.

The statement was signed by Claudette Buttigieg, Shadow Minister for Public Administration, Public Broadcasting, and the Fight Against Diabetes, Adrian Delia, Shadow Minister for Health and Ian Vassallo, Shadow Minister for Primary Care and Mental Health