At the Auberge de Castille, during a consultative meeting with representatives of the Malta Developers Association (MDA), Prime Minister Robert Abela stressed that the Government’s vision drives greater professionalism, higher standards and greater commitment towards a sustainable future.
Prime Minister Abela noted how our country has succeeded in building a diversified economy with a wide range of sectors that contribute to a profitable economic success. He added that we are seeing positive prospects for sustained economic growth even in the coming years.
Dr Abela pointed out how the Government is working wisely to ensure that the challenges that economic success brings are addressed. “We must continue to ensure that the measures we take forward are sustainable, that is, while we want to ensure that we continue to have economic progress, it is equally important to ensure that there is a positive social impact as well as ensuring that there are also safeguards for the natural environment that surrounds us,” the Prime Minister said.
The Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) is embracing a modern and solid governance structure, and is increasingly strengthening enforcement to ensure that the necessary standards continue to be maintained. This, together with a strong regulatory framework of the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), the Prime Minister said. He also referred to inspections being carried out jointly by OHSA and BCA.
Dr Abela mentioned that the 138 helpline service, which is used to report any abuses or concerns about buildings or construction sites, is also helping to strengthen the enforcement process. He added that a year ago, the BCA launched a free professional assistance service for those citizens affected by construction sites near them. This service is provided through legal and technical advice from lawyers and architects engaged by the same authority. The service is giving a stronger voice to those affected, and is resulting in greater peace of mind. Within a year since we launched this service, there were around 1,200 people who made use of it, the Prime Minister stressed.
Prime Minister Abela said that these are just a few of the measures that the Government has worked on over the past few years. He added that the Government’s vision drives more professionalism, more standards and more commitment towards a sustainable future. While he maintained that there is still more to be done, he stressed that together, with shared ideas and commitment, we can build a safer, better and stronger country for all.
Also participating during this meeting were Ministers Owen Bonnici, Silvio Schembri, Jonathan Attard and Chris Bonett, Parliamentary Secretary Omar Farrugia; Deputy Chris Agius; and the Head of the Secretariat of the Office of the Prime Minister, Colonel Mark Mallia.
Photo (OPM)
