Source document: https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1694844380466.pdf (Malta)
IT-TLETTAX-IL LEĠIŻLATURA P.L.

2782 Dokument imqiegħed fuq il-Mejda tal-Kamra tad-Deputati fis-Seduta Numru 183 tal-15 ta’ Jannar 2019 mill-Ministru għall-Enerġija u l- Immaniġġar tal-Ilma, f’isem il-Ministu għall-Familja, Drittijiet tat-Tfal u Solidarjetà Soċjali.

___________________________ Raymond Scicluna Skrivan tal-Kamra POLITIKA STRATEĠIKA NAZZJONALI GĦAT-TNAQQIS FIL-FAQAR 8337.

L-ONOR.
L-ONOR.

IVAN BARTOLO staqsa lill-Ministru għall-Familja, Drittijiet tat-Tfal u Solidarjetà Soċjali: Jista’ l-Ministru jindika l-inizjattivi jew proġetti ġodda kollha li jindirizzaw il-91 azzjoni ta’ policy li huma rrakkmandati fil-Politika Strateġika Nazzjonali għat-Tnaqqis fil-Faqar għas-snin bejn 2014 u l-2024?

11/01/2019 ONOR.

MICHAEL FALZON: Ġentilment ninforma lill-Onorevoli Interpellant illi, qiegħed inpoġġi fuq il-Mejda tal-Kamra l-informazzjoni kollha mitluba minnu.
It-tabella turi n-numru kbir ta’ miżuri li ġew jew għadhom qed jiġu mwettqa, sabiex jintlaħqu l-miri tas-6 dimensjonijiet illi tindirizza il-Politika Strateġika Nazzjonali għal Tnaqqis fil-Faqar u għal Inklużjoni Soċjali (2014-2024).

Qiegħed inpoġġi wkoll fuq il-Mejda tal-Kamra, lista li tispeċifika dawn il-miżuri.

B’wiċċi minn quddiem ngħid illi, dan il-Gvern li jien kburi li nifforma parti minnu, bil-fatti qed juri r-ruħ soċjali tiegħu u l-impenn li għandu sabiex ikun eradikat il-faqar minn pajjiżna.
Seduta 183 15/01/2019 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

Dimension 3.1 - Income and Social Benefits .

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·•···.••· ··•.··.• ·.· An incentive aimed at persons who have been registering for work for more than two years and want to work by introducing a system whereby, instead of terminating the full unemployment benefit the moment such persons start working, the benefit would be decreased gradually over a number of years in order to create a smooth transition from registering as unemployed, to entering the labour market.
In the first year, the beneficiary will retain 65% of the benefit, 45% in the second year and 25% in the third year.

The difference will be redirected to a training fund.

Start the process so that over a number of years, and in a gradual manner, the National Minimum Pension would be equivalent to 60% of the national average wage.
Employed widows will benefit from the full widows' pension since the link that currently exists between this pension, income derived from work, and the age of their children will be removed.

Retain the measure by which service pensioners continue to benefit gradually from improvements in the two-thirds pension.

As of 2014, the amount of service pension that is not taken into consideration in assessing the social security pension, which is €1,266, will rise by €200, thus amounting to €1,466.
Senior Citizen's Grant - During 2013, the €300 annual allowance was given to individuals aged 78 years or over.

As from 2014, this allowance was extended to individuals who are 75 years of age or over.

Exempt elderly persons and persons with a disability from paying the National Insurance Contribution when they employ a live-in carer to help them continue living in their own homes.

Increase the allowance given to children with disability from €16.31 per week to €20 per week .

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.


9.

10.

1 Incentives to encourage the employment of older persons.

1 Measures 10 and 11 are being implemented by MEDE.

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i 11.
i 11.

Encouraging single parents to get training.

12.

13.

Flusi fldejja!

- a project for money management awareness both on a personal and family level at the Msida/Birkirkara LEAP Community Services.

Improved guidance and support from existing specialised services to protect citizens from abuses such as usury, rental violations, and fraud.

14.

Drawing up a legislation to specifically address precarious work2• 15.

16.
16.

Implementation of regulations enacted to address bogus self-employment and the resultant abuse.

Professionals and volunteers worked on a tailored plan of action to support families/individuals experiencing budgeting difficulties as part of the Budgeting Project at the Msida/Birkirkara LEAP Community Services.

17.

From this year onwards, the full amount of CO LA was granted to pensioners so that they will receive full compensation for the increase in the cost ofliving.

18.

19.

20.

21.
18.

19.

20.

21.

A one-time additional, non taxable bonus of €35 to be given to all those full-time workers who will not benefit from the reduction in income tax as well as pensioners and all those on social security benefits.

This will also be given pro-rate to part-time workers and students.

The introduction of the in-work benefit, which is linked to the concept of work will be paid to those families where both spouses are in employment, have low income and have children up to 23 years of age.
This benefit will be calculated on the income after deduction of the social security contributions, and there will be not deduction from any other benefit that the family may be entitled to such as the Children's Allowance.

Those persons receiving Social Assistance for unemployment will be given four months to either join the Youth Guarantee and continue to receive benefits, or keep on registering in which case benefits will stop when one exceed the age of qualification for the Youth Guarantee.
In cases of single parents under the age of 23 who are receiving social assistance for unemployment- this assistance will be paid until the youngest child is one year old.

As soon as the child is one year, the mother will be enrolled in the Youth Guarantee and will continue to benefit from social assistance and free childcare.

In cases where the younger child is over one year of age she will be given the 4 month chance to join 2 Measures 14and 15 are being implemented by MSDC.
MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 2 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social inclusion.

the Youth Guarantee.

Should she refuse to enter the Youth Guarantee, the benefits will cease.
New cases of singe unmarried parents under the age of 23 years, who apply for social assistance will be accepted and this will be paid on the same conditions (see measures 15 & 16).

As from 1'' january 2015, the tapering of benefits shall be introduced.

Single parents who enter the labour market will still receive a percentage of their social assistance.

In fact during their first year of employment they will be receiving 65%, 45% in the second year and 25% during their third year of employment.
The employer shall also benefit from 25% of the assistance for the first three years.

Launching a programme through which by end of February 2015, those who are not sure of their entitlement or are receiving benefits they are not entitled to, will have the possibility to.

regularise their position.


Those who come forward by the stipulated date to verif'y the benefits due to them, and are found not to be in conformity with the law, will only have to pay a one-time minimal penalty as long as it is not a case of systematic fraud.

The penalty will increase if the beneficiary does not come in time or is caught defrauding the Department for Social Security.
As from 1'' january 2015, a single parent who receives social assistance and marries or enter into civil union with a person who is employed will no longer lose entitlementto social assistance with immediate effect, but gradually over a period of three years.

They will be receiving 65% during their first year, 45% in the second year and 25% during their third year of employment.
As from 1'' january 2015 onwards the rate of the maternity leave benefit will be increased and be paid at a rate equivalent to the National Minimum Wage.

This means that all women in employment and giving birth will benefit from an increase of more than €6 per week in their Maternity Leave benefit.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

The Senior Citizen's Grant (€300 annual allowance) will still be given to elderly aged 75 years or over.
In order to correct the anomalies created in the social security pension, and which affected thousands of works, among them former Shipyard employees, as from 2015, the peg with Government salaries will no longer be applied at the point where the person retired from work but at the point when the company closed down or the post no longer was in place, and therefore the comparability will be based on the collective agreement currently in force.
The anomaly was created when upon the closing down of the company or when their post became suppressed, their pension was calculated on the same salary structure of Government employees.

In view of this, all pensions which were paid according to this system will be reviewed.

Page 3 (30.06.2018) 28.


MFCS Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.


Service Pensioners shall continue to benefit, in a gradual manner, from the improvement in their two-thirds pension whereby an increase of €200 will not be taken into account in the calculation of their social security pension.
As from 1'' January 2015, persons who are still in employment but do not have enough contributions to qualify for a pension will be given the opportunity to pay up to five years in missing contributions, so that they improve their pension.

These years do not need to be the five years preceding the claim.
As from 2015, those retirees aged between 62 and 74 years and do not have a pension will receive a bonus of €200 if they have paid more than five years contributions, and €100 if they have paid contributions for more than one year but less than five years.

This measure aimed at bringing justice to a number of workers in particularly women, who in the past spent many years out of work either due to the laws applicable or the prevailing social situation during that time, and hence do not have a pension.
During 2015, an income supplement of €400 per child (€200 from the 4th child up) will be given to low income families to combat child poverty.

A project to carry out structural works in private homes shall be initiated in order to allow disabled persons to continue residing in their own homes.

Improve respite services in specialised residential centres, in order to give relief to parents of children with a disability..
This will also include the possibility whereby families will be able to provide this service on a basis similar to that of fostering.

Extend the services provided by day care centres for persons with a disability.

A full disability pension shall be given to disabled persons even when they enter the labour market irrelevant of their income.

During 2015, the sum of €500,000 was invested for the documentation scanning of public documents by persons with a disability.
This initiative will create 80 job opportunities for persons with a disability in Gozo.

The government is working to identify a centre where minor immigrants, whether accompanied or not, may be placed in a more dignified manner.

39.

Extension of the in-work benefit.

40.

Guaranteed National Minimum Pension.


MFCS (30.06.2018) Page4 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

41.

42.

43.

44.

45.

46.

47.


Married couples who receive the minimum pension for married persons and who will not benefit from measure 35 will be given increased payments beyond the COLA to a total amount of€4.15 per week The full Widows Pension will be paid to those pensioners who were entitled to a retirement pension but had to renounce it on the death of a spouse.
Persons who are in receipt of the Disability Pension will be paid the Age Pension rate as soon as they reach the age of 60 years without the need to submit an application.

To continue to pay the Senior Citizen's Grant to elderly people aged 75 years or over who are still living in the community.

As from 2016, the children's income will not be considered in the means testing for Social Assistance purposes.
The Sickness Allowance will be paid to single persons who cannot work due to mental or terminal illness, and who live with their parents who are pensioners.

The National Commission for Persons with Disability (CRPD) will be setting up a call centre to improve the services it provides to persons with disability and their families.

Families wanting to care for young people and adults with disability will be given support through the Sharing Lives scheme.
Above all, the support given to persons with disability will be enhanced through the Empowerment Programme intended for disabled persons wishing to live independent lives as well as to provide improved respite services.

48.

The "Giiaqal id-Dar'' project.

49.

Extension of the In-Work Benefit.

50.

Increase in the Supplementary allowance for persons on minimum wage.

51.

Increase of €4 ;week in the pension.

52.

Supplementary allowance for elderly with low income.

53.
53.

Increase in the Bonus to make justice to a number of workers who do not have a pension; in particularly women; who in the past spent many years out of work either due to the laws applicable or the prevailing social situation.

54.

Increase the rate of the Retirement Pension.


MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 5 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

55.

Elimination of gender discrimination in pension rates.

56.
56.

Reform in the carers pension (increase of€35 weekly and removal of the means test) 57.

58.

59.

60.

Increased Carers' Allowance for carers, including married persons, who take care of another person, in their own home and who is highly dependent Increased Carers' Allowance for carers, including married persons, who take care of another person, in their own home and whose dependency level is medium.
Increase in the payments to those who really cannot work and introduce a 3 tier payment system to persons with a missing lower or upper limb.

Extend the Free Medical Aid by 1 year instead of 3 months for persons with a disability qualil'ying for such a benefit.

61.

Increase in subsidy on rent payable by tenants to private landlords.

62.

Widen the criteria on eligibility on rent payable by tenants to private landlords.

63.

Revision of accommodation.


the minimum rent on Government/Housing Authority rented 64.

Fund for those Service Pensioners who are still experiencing discrimination.

65.

Extension of the Live in Carer Project.

66.

67.

68.

69.

70.

71.

72.

73.

MFCS Revision of the means test for all non-contribution assistance including the free medical aid, be the same as non-contributory benefits Personal assistance for persons with a disability.

Domiciliary respite service for carers.


Launching of the Strategy for Retirement and Financial Capability (2017-2019).

Media Campaign: "Afiseb glial gliada •: Close liaison with National Statistics Office with the aim of establishing poverty indicators.

Migrant Integration Strategy & Action plan (Vision 2020).

National Agreement on the Minimum Wage.


Page6 (30.06.2018) Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introduced/enhanced/ongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

74.

Equal Pay and Working Conditions for employees engaged by sub-contractors in the private sector.

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75.

76.

77.

78.

79.

80.

81.

82.

83.

84.

85.

An increase in the pension (both contributory and non-contributory) of €2 weekly.
Service Pensioners shall continue to benefit, in a gradual manner, from the improvement in their two-thirds pension whereby an increase of €200 will not be taken into account in the calculation of their social security pension.

Pensioners who remain in employment continue to pay social security contributions up till when they reach the age of 65.
In cases where these do not have enough contributions paid (many of which are women) and hence are not receiving the full pension, as soon as they reach 65 years, a revision is to be done whereby the contributions paid after they reached pensionable age up to when they actually stopped working will also be taken into consideration.

Introducing the pro-rata (15%) contribution option for pensioners who are self employed.
Continue to address the discrimination faced by a number of penioners who worked during the 1970s.

This year €10.5 million are being allocated to address these anomalies.

To increase the rate of the in-work benefit (from €350 to €450/child) payable to couples where only one person is in employment, and thus when both persons are working, they will qualify for a much better rate of the In-work benefit.
Reducing the tapering period for those who benefit from soical assistance and enter the labour market, from 2 years to 1 year for a faster transition from depending on social benefits to be fully independent.

Increase in the Carers' Allowance.


To be in line with Social Assistance where an additional increase of €8.15 per week is awarded for any additional person in the family composition, besides the beneficiary, if the married person loses his or her right to another social benefit when entitled to the Increased Carers' Allowance.

Increase in the Orphans Allowance to those orphans who are in the labour market.
In order to enhance their way of living and encourage them to remain in employment all orphans who reach working age will benefit equally from the higher rate.

Increase in the Foster Care Allowance from €70 to €100 weekly.

To date widow pensioners who receive the contributory pension and are in gainful employment are not granted sickness benefit.
In order to enhance their way of living, MFCS (30.06.2018) Page7 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects} introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Sociallnclusion.

they will be granted this benefit.

The sickness benefits are being granted to those who have dependent children aged below 23.

86.
86.

Free Medical Aid (Pink Form) - Persons who receive/forward maintenance from/to their ex-spouses are having rejections when applying for this benefit, since the maintenance amountt is taken into consideration for the means-test and thus it exceeds the ceiling.

As from 2018, the amount received/forwarded as maintenance will not to be considered for means-testing purposes.

87.
Contributory Pensions and divorce In addition to the 87 measures listed above there are also another 4 overarching measures that feed into the Income and Social Benefits Dimension (two of which commenced in 2016: the Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD} and the launching of the Positive Parenting Policy, one which commenced in 2017: the State Funded Food Distribution (SFFD), and one in 2018: Housing Affordabbli- White Paper) MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 8 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introduced/enhanced/ongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.
Dimension 3.2 - Employment No.'

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Youth Guarantee Scheme.

Work in Gozo for Gozitans.

Circular 2/2014- Contracts for the Provision of Care, Security and Cleaning Services'.

Circulars 8,9,12 & 16/2014 - Blacklisting of Economic Operators from the award of Public Contracts after being found guilty of offences in breach of the provisions of the Employment and Industrial Relations Act.
Circular 27/2014- New Regulations Regarding the Award of Service Contracts within the Public Administration.

Preparation of a Charter on Employees Rights•.

Develop the Framework Document for the Control of Work-Related Stress.

Free Childcare.

Access to Employment.

10.

Training Aid Framework (2).

11.

Work Programme.

12.

Community Work Scheme.

13. f-----1 Two incentives to encourage people with disabilities to seek employment.

14.

15.
14.

15.

Circular 4/2015 - New Regulations Regarding the Award of Service Contracts within the Public Administration.

'Measures 4, 5, 15 are being implemented by MFIN.

4Measures 6, 7, 16, and 17 are being implemented by MSDC.
MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 9 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projeLts) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

16.

Revision of Employment and Industrial Relations Act (EIRA).

17.

Engagement of Inspectors.

18.

Investing in skills.

19.

Training pays.

20.


Work exposure and traineeships.

21.

More work-based learning as part of the MCAST apprenticeship scheme.

22.

Community Work Scheme and Document Management.

23.

Work and Training schemes in Gozo.

24.

25.

26.

Circular 4/2016 -Award Criteria With Respect To Security.

Cleaning, Clerical and Care Worker Services Contracts.'
Circular 6/2016 - Duration of Contracts And Conditions Of Work With Respect To Security, Cleaning, Clerical And Care Worker Services Contracts.

Procurement Policy Note 25 -Award criteria with respect to Security, Cleaning, Clerical and Care Worker Services.

27.

New Public Procurement Regulations.

28.

Reserved Contracts.

29.

Publishing and distribution of Your Employment Rights Charter?

5 Measures 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 are being implemented by MFIN.

6 Measure 29 is being implemented by MSDC.


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Dimension 3.3 - Education i > ··•········.

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Free childcare centres.

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2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Breakfast clubs.

Incentives for employers who offer work placements and apprentices.

Tablets for Year 4 students.


Professional Staff Development, Training and Quality Assurance for Adult Educators in the Community.

Students' stipends increase to include Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) pro-rata.

Stipends for students who repeat an academic year.

The Aqra Mieghi programme to encourage reading.

Government-run childcare services.

10.

Klabb 3-16 and Skala Sajf 11.

Alternative Learning Programme (ALP).

12.

Strategic Plan for the Prevention of Early School Leaving in Malta.

13.
13.

Publication of 3 workbooks for year 4, 5 and 6 regarding growing up topics in the primary for PSCD teachers.

14.

One to one career guidance sessions.

15.

Setting the stage for Budding Rockstarts.

16.

Students' stipends increase to include Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) pro-rata as from 1'' january 2015 as well as the additional bonus pro-rata.

17.

All students' maintenance grants are exempt from income tax.
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18.

Higher Priority to Mathematics, Science and ICT in secondary schools.

19.

New vocational subjects.

20.


Introduction of Design and Technology, Home Economics, Art and Music to Year 7 (Form 1) students.

21.

An increase of Physical Education lessons.

22.

MCAST will continue to strengthen and widen the scope of the apprenticeship scheme whilst introducing new forms of work based learning at different levels.

23.

The establishment of the Youth Village.

24.


A workbook for all Form 5 students, where objectives and outcomes related to sexual relationship education (SRE) are also highlighted.

25.

26.

27.

28.

Four day training course organised in collaboration with the Health Promotion Unit for Education Officers and Heads of Department of Science, Religion and PSCD of both state and non state schools.
A day seminar for the general public on issues related to sexuality in collaboration with the Health Promotion Unit.

Training regarding sexuality and relationships issues for State and non state heads of school.

Ongoing training for PSCD and Religion teachers in the form of in set courses on different issues related to SRE, such as, the serialization of children, pornography, masturbation, sexual orientations, sexuality and the Church.

29.

Career Exposure.

30.


Increase in Personnel in Student Services Department (SSD).

31.

I choose Fair programme.

32.

Child Care centres.

33.

Paid Study Leave for teachers (Sabbatical leave).

34.

Continuation of the development of the Youth Village.
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35.

Outreach and Detached Work for Youths.

36.

Stipends to students applying under the maturity clause.

37.
37.

Screening programme entitled 'Lentifuq 1-/zvilupp ta' W/iedna'.

38.

Agreement with University of Cambridge.

39.

Prince's Trust Programme.

40.

Revision of Klabb 3-16 programmes.

41.

New School in Gzira- Gem 16+.

42.

Transformation of the Foundation College, Technical College and University College at MCAST.

43.

Sports facilities in Youth Village.

44.

Updating the curriculum through the Learning Outcomes Framework with special emphasis to sexuality even in relation to internet use, eg.
sexting.

45.

Training for Church primary teachers who are obliged to teach SRE at primary level of education.

46.

Stregthening services offered by the National Libraries and the National Literacy Agency.

47.

Strengthening the courses offered during the scholastic year and the summer intensive course for foreigners who cannot communicate in the English or Maltese language.

48.

Using football to overcome illiteracy.

49.


Automatic access to maintenance grants including supplementary grants for students with disabilities and those living in Homes.

50.

Stipends for students following the ALP+ course.

51.

Training for teachers provided by the Institute for Education.

52.

Partnership with other foreign Universities for training in the pedagogy of vocational subjects.
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53.

Fund targetting the quality of life of students in difficulties.

54.
54.

Core Competencies Online Assessment Tool [European fund for the Integration of Third Country Nationals (TCNs).

55.

56.

57.

Reading and Spelling Software [European fund for the Integration of Third Country Nationals (TCNs)].

Language Learning and Parental Support for Integration [European fund for the Integration of Third Country Nationals (TCNs)].

Design of Learning Outcomes Framework (LOF), associated Learning and Assessment programmes and related Training (ESF 1.228).

58.
58.

Enhancing Autism Services in Schools 59.

Waiver of the Matsec and Sec Examination Fees 60.

My journey: Achieving through different paths 61.

Enhancing the Get Into Programme 62.

Training to educators on autism 63.
The possibility of a school for children with Autism In addition to the 63 measures listed above there are also another 2 overarching measures that feed into the Education Dimension (BM 222/223: The Launch inn of the National Strategy for Voluntary Organisation, and BM 62: Free Transport for Church and Independent Schools) MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 14 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.
Dimension 3.4 • Health and Environment 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

The opening of two acute wards by the end of 2015.

These wards will accommodate 68 new beds by the end of 2015.

An action plan was formulated to improve the services offered by Mount Carmel Hospital, the Young People's Unit and other mental health services.

Some mental health services will be extended in the community.
Further increase the efficiency in the use of operating theatres to ultimately increase the total number of operations performed.

A plan to deal with the exigencies in the health sector by increasing the number of beds in our acute hospital.

The formulation of protocols and other systems will ultimately increase efficiency.

Inter-sectoral work with the private sector will help to overcome the challenge of an ageing population.
New stock control practices which will decrease the fragmentation of stocks that characterises the current process, hence improving stock management.

Development of a Health System Performance Assessment Framework The Food and Nutrition Policy and Action Plan for 2015-2020.

National Strategy for Diabetes 2016-2020.

Cervical cancer screening will be introduced in 2015.

This is one of the action plans set in the National Cancer Plan.
Healthy weight programmes will be offered for those overweight persons suffering from diabetes.

The government will invest in the modernization of existent health centres and the building of a new health centre for the residents of :i:urrieq and nearby villages.

12.

Opening of the new Sir Anthony Mama Oncology Centre.

13.
13.

MFCS Investment in equipment and services as recommended by the experts from various Page 15 (30.06.2018) Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

specialities.

14.

15.

16.


Three national surveys are being conducted by different entities: the European Health Interview Survey (together with a food consumption survey), a study about diabetes and a survey about sexual health.

Increase the number of surgical procedures to be able to perform various surgical procedures during the weekend.

Develop a plan to extend secondary and tertiary care services in the community, outside Mater Dei Hospital.

17.

Implement the National Health System Strategy.


18.

Reduction of waiting lists for operations.

19.

Introduce new systems with regards to bed management at Mater Dei Hospital.

20.

Renovation at Karen Grech Hospital.

21.

Develop a new rehabilitation hospital.

22.

A new dermatology centre with 12 beds (inpatient).

23.

Address the out of stock medicines issue.

24.

Renovation will be carried out at Kirkop Health Centre.

25.

Enhance the services at Mount Carmel Hospital.

26.
26.

Develop a Charter of Patients Rights and an Act on Organ Donation.

27.

Provide primary healthcare through ACCESS Centres.

28.

Upgrade the Paola Health Centre through ERDF Funds.

29.

Free medicines for diabetic patients.

30.

Free medicines for patients with rare conditions.

31.

Introduce a Mobile Sexual Health Unit.

32.

Implement the National Strategy for Diabetes 2016-2020.
MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 16 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introduced/enhanced/ongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social inclusion.

33.

Launch a National Cancer Plan.

34.

Conduct research on obesity.

35.

36.


Setting up an Inter-sectorial Advisory Council on healthy lifestyles and wellbeing for the prevention of non communicable diseases.

ESF Project determinants of health.

in collaboration with WHO to determine the socio-economic 37.

The construction of a new regional medical hub in Paola.

38.

The opening of a new health centre in Kirkop.

39.

The pilot project regarding the distribution of medicine in clients' own homes is to be extended to other localities.
40.

Initiate the process to build a new acute mental health hospital.

41.

Community mental health support in partnership with NGO's.

42.

Continue to invest in equipment at Mater Dei Hospital (MDH) in order to improve both the quality and the efficiency of service delivery.

43.

Continue to address the waiting lists for outpatients and operations.

44.

45.

46.

47.

48.

Introduction of new medicines for diabetic patients on Government Formulary.

Free glucose sticks for diabetic patients.


Increase the benefits for diabetic patients.

Introduction of new medicines for cancer patients on Government Formulary.

Legislation banning smoking in cars in the presence of children.

49.
49.

Treatment for persons with Hepatitis C MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 17 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

Dimension 3.5.1- Social Welfare Services 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.


Publish a Green Paper for consultation regarding a national strategy against poverty and social exclusion.

After that, in 2014, the strategy would become Government Policy.

Launch of the National Standards for Residential Services for Persons with Disability.

Reform in long-term care assessment.

LEAP Media interventions.

Measures taken at Agenzija Appogg to tackle waiting list.

Measures taken at Agenzija Sedqa to tackle waiting lists.
Promoting the professionalism of social welfare employees and encourage their retention and progression.

Re-evaluate Public Private Partnerships and other forms of market based welfare systems.

Setting up the Inter-Ministerial Administrative Committee on Disability (IACD) for a more holistic approach with regards to Disability Services offered by the State.

Capacity building (6 new assessors, 2 research officers and 1 research analyst were recruited) within the Department for Social Welfare Standards.
11.

Developing a Hub for Persons with Disability.

12.

Setting up of an Inter-Ministerial Inter-Disciplinary Professional Board on Disability (IIPBD).

MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 18 Mistoqsija Parlamentari Numru 8337- Seduta Numru 183 List of measures/initiatives and projects (including EU co-financed projects) introduced/enhanced/ongoing during 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social inclusion.

13.

14.

15.
13.

14.

15.

16.

Enrichment of community services.

Forecasting, budgetary planning and allocation.

Provision of respite services at Casa Leone XIII in St. julian's, Villa San Lawrenz in Gozo, and St. Elizabeth Home in Mtarfa.

Provision of night shelter services at Dar Padova in Gliajnsielem, Gozo and Casa Francesco in Santa Venera.

17.

Setting up the Dementia Day Care Centre at Dar Padova in Gliajnsielem, Gozo.

18.

19.

20.

LEAP- Building the future together: Promoting Social Mobility.
Capacity Building in Care for the Elderly and Persons with Disability.

Enhancing Human Capital through the Regulation of Social Care.

21.

A new Day Centre for persons with disability in the central part of Malta.

22.

Consolidation of Supervised Access Visits (SAVs) Services.

23.

Co-Parenting Skills Pilot-Programme.

24.

Programm REACH.

25.

National Standards for the Child Adoption 26.

Investing in long-term care for the elderly by exploring private and public private partnerships possibilities.
27.

Renovation of the day care centre for persons with a disability MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 19 List of measures/initiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

Children and Young People Embark for Life Programme - This programme envisages the integration of young people into the labour market.
It empowers young persons in acquiring skills, which would enable them to get into mainstream education andfor employment.

Implementation of the Be Smart Online service.

Various projects at the Cottonera LEAP Community Service.

Improvements in the Kids Point project.

The 12 to 14 Project and 12 to 14 Summer Project to offer a space for young people between the age of 12 and 14 years to express their creativity and feelings and attain social skills.

Outreach within the community by LEAP Centres.


The Colours of Life project at the Cottonera LEAP Community Services.

Progett Taglilim at the Cottonera LEAP Community Services.

Progett Familja at the Cottonera LEAP Community Services.

The Qawsalla project at the Cottonera LEAP Community Services.

Homework clubs at various LEAP Community Centres.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

The project We Are Young at the Msida/Birkirkara LEAP Community Services.

13.
13.

The Literacy Club in partnership with the Third World Group (TWG) at the Valletta LEAP Community Service.

14.

The Pre-Teens and Teens project at the Valletta LEAP Community Service.

15.

16.

Mentoring at the Valletta LEAP Community Service.

The Butterfly Centre at the Qawra LEAP Community Service.

17.

The project Dawra Durella at the Qawra LEAP Community Service.

18.

19.

MFCS Sessions at Summer Schools at St. Paul's Bay (including Qawra and Burmarrad).
The opening of a residential home for teenage girls.

Page 20 (30.06.2018) List of measures/initiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

20.

Informative sessions at St. Paul's Bay (including Qawra and Burmarrad).

21.

The opening of two Youth Hubs7.

No.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.


The benefit of leave days granted in case of adoption of children will be extended to be the same length as that granted to cases of maternity.

Implementing a more efficient Child Protection Service (CPS) system in working with high-risk children and youth.

The Youth Exchange project at the Cotton era LEAP Community Services.

The project Prima Klassi at the Cottonera LEAP Community Services.

The project Primi Passi at the Cottonera LEAP Community Services.
The Community Workshop at the Cottonera LEAP Community Services.

28.

Youth Forum at the Valletta LEAP Community Service.

29.

Home Based Family Therapy at the Qawra LEAP Community Service.

30.

The Children's Project at the Valletta LEAP Community Service.

31.

The project Alternative Youth Entertainment (AYE) at the Msida/Birkirkara LEAP Community Services.

32.

The Mums & Tots project at the Qawra LEAP Community Centre.

33.

Mental health support group at the Qawra LEAP Community Centre.

34.
34.

Marital separation support group at the Qawra LEAP Community Centre.

35.

36.

The setting up of a Secure Unit for Young People.

Befriending the Community 37.

Ftit Min Ghalijja 7 Being implemented by MEDE.

MFCS Page 21 (30.06.2018) List ofmeasuresjinitiatives and projects introduced/enhanced/ongoing during 2014,2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Sociallnclusfon.

38.
38.

Learn and Play in a Fun Way at the Qawra Community Service 39.

Financial help to adoptive parents.

40.

A secure centre for troubled girls.

MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 22 List ofmeasuresjinitiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

Elderly 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.


To pay the full pension to the elderly who choose to continue working beyond retirement age.

Allocation of funds for the extension of the Home Help service.

The opening of two new day centres for the elderly in Birgu and Balzan.

The government in partnership with the private sector will improve the Telecare service through new technology.

The Carers Pension and the Social Assistance for Carers are to be revised and amalgamated within one framework.
Increase the number of credited years entitlement for pension purposes to those who had to stop working due to child/ren bearing and rearing.

Encourage people to strengthen their competencies, skiiis and knowledge as much as possible without the impact of not having enough contributions paid which may affect negatively their entitlement of a retirement pension.

lncentivise gainfully occupied persons to stay as long as possible in the labour market.
Increase the rate of pension of a number of persons who used to pay a high rate of social security contributions when they were employed but then became self occupied with a lesser income with the consequence of having a lesser rate of pension.

Increase the rate of the Retirement Pension by including another €2 00 to be deducted from the original service pension.
Live in carer Pilot Project - A fund will be set to help families who care for an elderly dependent who needs constant supervision so as to subsidise the wages payable to qualified carers employed on a full-time or part-time basis.

Setup an Authority to implement minimum standards in residential homes for the elderly.

The Senior Citizen's Grant €300 annual allowance will still be iven to elder!
a ed MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 23 List ofmeasuresjinitiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

75 years or over who still reside in their home.

14.

Enhancement and improvement of the service: "Meals on Wheels".

15.

Embellishment and improvement of the day centre at Imtarfa.

16.
16.

The Senior Citizen's Grant (€300 annual allowance) will once again be given to elderly aged 7 5 years or over who still reside in their home.

MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 24 List ofmeasuresjinitiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

Other Vulnerable Groups No.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.


Launch the National Policy for the Rights of Persons with a Disability.

Enforcement of the Persons with a Disability (Employment Act)- Cap.

210.

Major amendments made in the Equal Opportunities (Persons with a Disability) Act Cap.

413.

Guidelines regarding Access for All Design Standards in the Built Environment.
Amend the Equality Bill so as to enforce such forms of abuse through the establishment of a Commission for Human Rights8• Rehabilitation and re-integration of released offenders through social work services offered by the Intake and Family Support Services (IFSS) and Community Services within FSWS.

Providing individualised guidance and empowerment programmes for lone parent households.

Developing new forms of deterrent measures against any form of abuse on the elderly.
These were later incorporated in the Maltese Criminal Code through the Commissioner for Older Persons Act, 2016.

Strategy for the Reception of Asylum Seekers and Irregular Migrants'.

Reception Conditions Regulations under the Refugees Act (Cap.

240).
240).

Strengthen the integration of TCNs in Malta through: i) a dedicated website and publications; ii) the launch of a Framework Document entitled Towards a National Migrant Integration Strategy 2015-2020; and iii) the setting up of an Inter-Ministerial Committee on Integration and the a Forum on Integration Affairs.

12.

Addressing addictive behaviour through the consolidation of preventive, outreach and rehabilitative services.

13.
13.

A reement between obs+, the Chamber of Commerce and Malta Em lo ers "Measures 5 and 11 are being implemented by MSDC.

'Measures 9 and 10 are being implemented by MHAS.

MFCS (30.06.201 B) Page 25 List ofmeasuresjinitiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014,2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.
Association so that companies would be more committed in employing persons with a disability.

14.

Introduce the Bill of Rights (19 new rights for persons with a disability).

15.

Launch the Maltese Sign Language Act.

16.

Launch the Persons within the Autism Spectrum (Empowerment) Act.

17.

Launch the National Strategy on the Rights of Persons with a Disability.

18.

Combat violence against women/gender based violence.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.


Consultation process: Protection of Vulnerable Older Persons and Adult Persons with Disability Act Intercultural project: Building friendships Challenging BehaviousfOutreach to parents Information Sessions for Migrants at the Qawra Community Service Society's Concern: Gender-based violence and domestic violence strategy and action plan Launching of an enforcement unit with CRPD *Measure 18 is being implemented by MSDC.
MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 26 List of measures/initiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

Dimension 3.5.2 - Housing .

No.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

The Housing Authority (HA) will put on the market a number of apartments in shell or semi finished form at subsidised prices.
The HA is undertaking an exercise to revise social leases in line with clear criteria and a rental index which the Authority will establish for families and individuals.

In partnership with the Ministry for Transport and Infrastructure, the HA will be carrying out repair works in housing estates.

General improvements and maintenance will also be carried out in residential property rented by the Government or the Authority.

The HA will resume the project of installing lifts in government-owned blocks.
Embellishment work in eleven blocks within three areas (St. Paul's Bay, Paola and Senglea) by the HA.

Embellishment works to be carried out in Flamrun Housing Estate by the HA.

Embellishment works to be carried out in Ta' Giorni Housing Estate by the HA.

Embellishment works to be carried out in Pembroke Housing Estate by the HA.

Building of new Housing Estates by the HA.

10.


The HA will be increasing the grant given with regard to 2 existing schemes - 'Subsidy on adaptation works in residences occupied by owners or tenants' and 'Subsidy on adaptation works related to dangerous structures in private dwellings held on lease or emphyteusis'.

13.

Regeneration of Housing Estates.


MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 27 List ofmeasuresjinitiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014, 2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

14.

Widening of qualifying thresholds for the Rent Subsidy Scheme.

Elderly over 65 years of age will enjoy more benefiting thresholds and subsidy.

15.

Financial assistance for rehabilitation works 16.


Beneficial rates for elderly in residential homes when returning social housing back to Government 17.

Installation of lifts and embellishment works.

18.

Maintenance and Embellishment works.

MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 28 List of measures/initiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014,2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.
Dimension 3.6- Culture lNo.

: •.

I •• .·· ·.

> .

·: ·.·.· .. ·.·.·.·····.

.• •·· .. ·.•·· .... ·.

·.. ··.· / P~o.

·.

J.;ect··.···s·· by Her.i~ .. a. g. e Malta·····.

: : . '

> ' -.

: { .

·>/ .

.. .

: : •••: .· •... :··'.• .... ,· ·····•······· :.·· 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Reduced Rates for local groups and local councils, and assistance for local cultural heritage displays.

Creative Communities Fund.

Kreattiv.

President's Award for Creativity.

Create 2020 Strategy.

Kultura TV.


Happy jam.

L-ikla t-tajba.

Curatorial School.

10.

MCAST projection mapping.

11.

Darba Walida.

12.

KantaKantun.

13.

The Box.

14.

Valletta Forum.

15.

Ondamarela.

16.

Naqsam il-MUZA.

17.

Sounds Out Loud.

18.

Oliloq Kultura.

19.

Audit on Theatre Spaces.


MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 29 List ofmeasuresjinitiatives and projects introducedjenhancedjongoing during 2014,2015 and 2016, 2017and 2018 contributing to the implementation of the National Strategic Policy for Poverty Reduction and for Social Inclusion.

20.

National Cultural Participation Survey 21.

Culture Pass (in collaboration with the Culture Directorate) 22.

Dance4All 23.

GewwaBarra 24.

Exiled Homes 25.

Rima 26.

Equality in Music 27.


Utopian Nights 28.

Opening Doors 29.

Of Peace and Unrest In addition to the 29 measures listed above there are also two overarching measures that foed into the Cultural Dimension (MJCL 24: Altofest Malta, and M]CL 25: Subjective Maps Malta} MFCS (30.06.2018) Page 30