The government is not only looking to give higher priority to the fisheries and agriculture sectors but above all it wants to make these sectors an economic opportunity for today and for future generations.
The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo, during a press conference, explained how in the budget for next year the government is putting forward an unprecedented investment that should serve as an essential tool to achieve a strong vision to address existing challenges and look to address the future.
Minister Refalo said; At the top of this work, our commitment is to instill a culture of training and innovation in order to see these sectors grow like other sectors. Through a number of schemes we want to encourage more young people to enter these fields and no longer see these sectors as some second class sectors, but sectors which bring great opportunities.
So we will be happy to give grants equivalent to the tax paid on the sale of products that farmers and fishermen sell in the Pitkalija and the Pixkerija, in order to continue to ensure sustainability.
We strongly believe that technology can be the key to the future in the agricultural sector, so the government will be introducing aid that encourages companies in these areas to be more innovative and know how to move with the opportunities of agriculture. our times.
All this is being done in a full framework of different schemes that continue to incentivize various niches within these sectors together with long-needed projects that need to be implemented and that should serve to facilitate assistance, resource and necessary financial support to the Maltese farmer, villager and fisherman who consistently struggle with various elements.
One must also not forget the unprecedented commitment when it comes to animal protection. Here we will continue the work in strengthening the Department of Animal Welfare so that it helps by not only continuing with its rescues but being proactive in its fight for a healthy life for these cherished creatures.
Among a full list of initiatives planned for 2021 we will be improving the facilities for the quarantine of small animals and in the coming months work will begin on the construction of the animal cemetery, a project that has been long awaited by many.
This investment further confirms that the government not only cares about the agricultural, fisheries and animal welfare sector, but has a clear vision to see strengthening and growth in sectors of national importance.
