Four years have gone by in this third consecutive Labour-led legislature, although the initial impetus remained constant. It has far from died down. This is manifestly clear from the immense volume of reforms and measures that are continually implemented as a result of Malta's unprecedented economic growth.
This is not simply a statistical reality, but an objective truth, whereby this success is invested back in the working population of these Islands, and neatly woven into the progressive fabric of Malta Vision 2050. We can safely look ahead to the future of our children, in what is already a fast-changing and challenging world.
This is the moment where we look back, to be able to envision the coming years. No less than 82% of Labour's electoral manifesto has been implemented, and there is more to come. The main recipients have been our families, thanks to many new and improved benefits, among them the larger increase in children's allowance, a tax cut for all persons in employment, and yet another €160 million in tax cuts for working parents.
The focus on Maltese and Gozitan families has also been translated into the increased stability they enjoy, rooted in a just and equal society, and a better quality of life. Renewed vigour around environmental concerns and the protection of our heritage continued, with such determined moves as the promised return to our people of Manoel Island in Gżira, and Fort San Salvatore in Cottonera, alongside more open spaces and gardens in our towns and villages.
We know where our priorities stand - social progress and the common sharing of the nation's undisputed prosperity, for the benefit of today's and future generations. And all this at a time of worldwide concern over global crises that have seen less sustainable economies falter.
The inclusion and voluntary sectors have, in a solid manner, featured repeatedly during the past years, as more and more concrete measures were implemented. These align with the government's end goal of creating a truly inclusive society, where every person enjoys independence, choice and control over their lives. Better community services were a key tool in relevant reforms, that will lead to a lasting impact on our ever-changing and vibrant society.
The current government has overseen the successful completion of five new Volunteer Centres across Malta and Gozo. In tandem with these developments, the ongoing process of reform in respect of personal assistance services and personal budgets will lead to more persons with disabilities truly being able to exercise their Freedom to Live - as headlined in Malta's 2021-2030 National Disability Strategy. Freedom to live an independent life within their own communities.
Adults in situations of vulnerability will also now benefit from a long-awaited legal safety net, guaranteeing them protection from abuse, in fulfilment of yet another Government electoral pledge. A dedicated unit, alongside a joint stakeholder committee and the courts, will oversee assistance, Individualised Support Plans and protective intervention, while managing a strong but fair system of clearance certificates.
Safeguards are further underpinned by the establishment of a constantly updated register of offenders convicted of such abuse.
New measures have also been introduced to further support families and children with disabilities, among them the launching of a pilot programme promoting safety in water-based activities for autistic children. Meanwhile, for the third year running, the eligible amount for refunds was increased to €1,000, in respect of the scheme covering regulated private therapy services for children with disabilities.
This is just a glimpse of what has been achieved in the Disability and Voluntary sectors over the past four years. More lies ahead, as part of the larger masterplan driven by Malta Vision 2050, under a Labour government. This includes action fostering social dialogue and accommodation policy, equality reforms, responding in real time to developments in current affairs, and continually growing our tourism and cultural sectors. Leading such collective efforts, Labour continued to prioritise the economy, employment, local enterprise and strategic projects, while never neglecting key traditional mainstays like agriculture and fisheries.
These efforts, alongside others such as local governance and management of public land, however, must never forget those most left behind. They must be continually informed by broader social policy, and specific fields such as children's rights and animal rights, while taking into account the environment, and working to achieve a green transition.
Such efforts will continue to be achieved through a targeted investment of both effort and finances, not only in areas such as the energy sector, and in better public cleansing, but in Malta's key resource - our people. Education throughout the lifespan, sport for all, our youth, and research and innovation, while strategically tapping into tools such as European funds.
In implementing its electoral manifesto, Labour wanted to ensure a society that delivers justice, including through key reforms in the construction sector. A safe country for all those living in Malta and Gozo. A society that truly safeguards everybody's health, while maintaining active ageing as a key priority area. A society that is mobile and connected, by choosing innovative solutions for accessible and inclusive transport and public infrastructure.
This vision is driven by an awareness of the different realities on the ground, informed through close and constant engagement with all different sectors of our society. In all of this, Labour stands determined to keep making sure that the family will still always come first.
Inclusive, sustainable economic growth is a natural trigger. Our commitment is to keep it going.
And Labour delivers.
Julia Farrugia Portelli is Minister for Inclusion and Social Wellbeing