The Government is focused on continuing to achieve social justice for all, especially the most vulnerable and those in difficult situations. In addition to implementing major measures that affect thousands of people, this Government is aware of the realities that affect minorities. Accordingly, measures are continuously being implemented to protect the well-being and provide a better quality of life for these people.
The Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon visited the Santa Maria Community, a residence where a drug rehabilitation program is provided. Here, Minister Falzon met and spoke with residents who are undergoing a rehabilitation program, as well as with the administration and professionals who are providing this service. It was here that he announced that two measures will come into force that directly affect people undergoing a drug rehabilitation program.
“We will continue to help you to take another step in your life, because we truly believe in social justice. You all know how we embrace a policy where we do not judge anyone, not even those who seek help for the second and third time,” stated Minister Michael Falzon.
For his part, Permanent Secretary Mark Musù explained how an increase of €10 per week will be given to the allowance paid to drug addicts who are attending a rehabilitation programme. “Furthermore, if they successfully complete the rehabilitation programme and find permanent employment, from this year they have been given the right to qualify for 4 years of accredited social security contributions, and their employers will be exempted from paying their social security contributions for two years,” explained Permanent Secretary Mark Musù.
For his part, Sedqa Director Charles Scerri expressed the importance of measures such as these that continue to provide support in what is the final phase of the programme offered by Sedqa. This is due to the fact that the final phase of the rehabilitation programme will be the most challenging, when these people reintegrate into the community.
Photo: DOI/MSPC
