Prime Minister Robert Abela, accompanied by Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri, began his visit to Eman Patisserie, a family business that has been operating in Gozo for the past 33 years. The Prime Minister had the opportunity to hear the history of this business, including how its name carries with it a personal and cherished memory for this family. Today, the family members who operate Eman Patisserie are looking forward with optimism to continue developing the work of this business that has been built over the past three decades.
The Prime Minister praised the courage, determination and entrepreneurial spirit of this family. He noted that family businesses such as Eman Patisserie not only create economic opportunities, but also form an integral part of the identity and life of Gozitan communities.
The visit continued with a meeting with the Rabat Local Council, where Prime Minister Robert Abela and Minister Clint Camilleri met with Mayor Brian Azzopardi and the Rabat Councillors. During this meeting, the priorities of the locality, the challenges faced by residents and the joint work being carried out between the Government and the Local Council were discussed. Dr Abela stressed how Local Councils are key partners in strengthening communities and in working to continue to improve the quality of life of residents.
Prime Minister Abela also visited Dar Emmaus, an ‘Emergency Shelter’ for adults who find themselves homeless as well as providing shelter and support to victims of domestic violence. This Home is run by the Kenn u Tama Foundation — Non-Governmental Organization and consists of two apartments that have been equipped to not only offer residential services to adults and their children but also to offer care and rehabilitation programs.
During this visit Dr Abela also met with workers from the Foundation for Social Welfare Services, FSWS which collaborates closely with the management of Dar Emmaus through its Directorate in Gozo where on a daily basis, social workers work with these people who for one reason or another end up homeless. These workers continue to follow the residents of Dar Emmaus, with the aim of providing them with the tools and assistance needed to rebuild their lives independently.
Between 2022 and 2025, the Government and the Kenn u Tama Foundation have entered into an agreement of over €500,000 to continue to strengthen the services offered by Dar Emmaus to vulnerable people in Gozo. This investment is being continued through a partnership agreement between the Kenn u Tama Foundation and the Ministry for Social Policy and the Family for the period between 2025 and 2027. Through this agreement, a total funding of €565,020 is being allocated over a three-year period.
The Prime Minister thanked all the workers and volunteers involved in the work carried out by Dar Emmaus and reiterated the Government’s commitment to continue investing in services that protect the dignity of the person and offer concrete support to those going through difficult circumstances.
He stressed that investment in Gozo should embrace every aspect of Gozitan life, from the development of businesses and the strengthening of Local Councils to support for the most vulnerable in society.
Photos: OPM
