Speaker of the House of Representatives Carmelo Abela held a series of meetings with community leaders, youth organisations and social service providers during an official visit to Gozo aimed at strengthening dialogue between institutions and society, the Office of the Speaker said in a statement.
The visit included a courtesy meeting with former Speaker Anton Tabone, who served as Speaker between 1998 and 2008. The two discussed the responsibilities and challenges of the role, as well as the evolution of parliamentary work over the years. Abela thanked Tabone for his contribution to Parliament, while Tabone wished the current Speaker success in carrying out his duties.
Abela also visited the Gozo Curia, where he met Bishop Anton Teuma and members of the diocesan staff. Discussions centred on the island's social realities, challenges facing families and young people, and the importance of cooperation between institutions in addressing community needs.
Youth issues featured prominently during a meeting with representatives of the Gozo University Group, the Gozo Diocesan Youth Commission and Aġenzija Żgħażagħ. Participants discussed employment opportunities, career prospects, volunteering, political engagement, environmental concerns and accommodation challenges affecting young people. They also highlighted the need for schemes aimed at supporting youth to be better publicised and more accessible.
Addressing the representatives, Abela praised the commitment and talents of young people, describing them as both the present and the future of society. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining dialogue with youth organisations and supporting initiatives that encourage greater participation in Parliament and democratic life.
The official visit concluded with a stop at the OASI Foundation, where Abela met Chief Executive Noel Xerri. Talks focused on the foundation's work in preventing and treating addiction, as well as the support it offers to individuals and families affected by substance abuse.
The Speaker expressed appreciation for the work carried out by the foundation's staff and volunteers and said he remained committed to raising awareness of addiction-related issues and recognising the contribution of organisations such as OASI to Maltese society.
The visit formed part of the Speaker's ongoing efforts to engage with different sectors of society and promote dialogue on issues of social and democratic importance.