During Tuesday, more associations and associations met with Prime Minister Robert Abela in the Auberge de Castille for further discussions as the 2022 Budget is being drawn up.
The discussion focused on the environment and climate change as the Prime Minister welcomed the environmental organizations Nature Trust, Din l-Art Ħelwa and Ramblers ’Association of Malta.
Dr Abela stressed that the Budget that will be presented in less than another month will be one that recognizes the importance of the environment for today and for the future of our country. He said that just as our country has faced a pandemic and knew how to identify opportunities from it, so too will it be doing so from the global phenomenon of climate change.
He emphasized that economic growth and the environment are the opposite of the same currency that needs to go hand in hand to ensure the quality of life of Maltese and Gozitans.
For his part, Nature Trust President Vince Attard spoke about the need for sustainable development that ensures a balance between open spaces in a healthy environment and development. He said that the pandemic has shown us that Maltese families are thirsty for more open spaces where they can spend their leisure time.
Even the President of the association Din l-Art Ħelwa Alex Torpiano spoke about sustainable development and how to raise awareness about climate change which is having an impact on various aspects including the ecosystem of our country.
Ingram Bondin from the Ramblers ’Association of Malta spoke about protecting the countryside as more families are spending their time in open spaces.
Present for this meeting were Ministers Clyde Caruana, Miriam Dalli, and Aaron Farrugia.
Anyone wishing to share their aspirations for the 2022 Budget and be part of the discussion can do so by visiting finanzi.gov.mt/22.
