The Nationalist Party said Thursday it will vote in favour of the amendments to the Social Enterprise Act.

However, we cannot ignore the fact that this law was unanimously approved by Parliament in 2022 and, four years later, has still not been brought into force, with the Government claiming that it first needed to amend legislation it had itself introduced before bringing that same law into effect, the party said.

This is a delay that should never have occurred, particularly when social enterprises contribute so much to our society. They create opportunities for people who may find it more difficult to access the labour market, strengthen communities, and demonstrate that the economy can generate not only profit, but also social value.

This delay also reflects a government economic model that measures success almost exclusively in terms of figures and economic growth, rather than also considering quality of life and the impact the economy has on people.

The PN said it has long insisted that the government stop dragging its feet and give this sector the attention it deserves. Therefore, while we welcome these amendments and will support them in Parliament, we expect that this time there will be no further excuses or delays.

These amendments should be the final step before the law is effectively implemented. We now expect the Government to act so that social enterprises in Malta finally have the framework, recognition and support they have been waiting for.

The statement was signed by Michael Piccinino, Shadow Minister for the Self-Employed, Small Enterprises and Cooperatives.