Last Updated on Monday, 11 October, 2021 at 8:55 pm by Andre Camilleri
Government to publish national strategy for animal protection and welfare
Anti-racism strategy to be implemented
The government is carrying out work on drastically reducing the number of people living in the Marsa migrant centre. This process is at an advanced stage with the aim of completely shutting down the centre.
Among the measures the government has implemented towards reducing irregular immigration, it will continue to strengthen the human resources of the Immigration Police and the Agency for International Protection.
In addition, the government envisions to generate this area and make it possible for facilities and space in this area to be used by organisations, children, and young people. This will be done without putting a burden on other localities.
Community Policing & Armed Forces of Malta
Over the next year, the Community Policing service will be extended in various localities including Żabbar, Xgħajra, Marsaskala, San Ġwann, Żebbuġ, Gżira, Msida, Pietà, Mosta, Mġarr, Żurrieq, Safi and Kirkop.
With an investment of around €50 million, the Armed Forces of Malta’s Maritime Squadron will be getting a new patrol vessel. This vessel will be the largest of its kind in Malta and will strengthen the surveillance in Maltese waters and border protection.
Civil Protection to further invest in resources
The Civil Protection Department will continue investing in resources. These include the replacement of vehicles by purchasing new trucks, vans specially designed to serve Malta’s narrow roads, investing in vehicles with which workers can better reach high-rise buildings and investing in modern technology as well in protective clothing for officers.
Legal Aid & Security
The government will continue investing in legal aid to create a digital system where prospective clients eligible for legal aid can apply online, as well as from the service.gov hubs located in different regions and villages around Malta.
Meanwhile, security will remain one of the main pillars of the Maltese government.
Victim Support Agency
In 2022, the Victim Support Agency will be further strengthened and will continue improving its services within the areas of victims’ rights, while remaining more efficiently accessible, and increasing the workforce and professionals serving in it.
Equality
Within the field of equality, the government will continue working on keeping Malta among the most inclusive in Europe. Initiatives will be implemented including an equality brand that certifies local companies, the empowerment for diversity project and expanding the program ‘I belong’.
The government will also be implementing an anti-racism strategy together with the social partners and the media.
Animal Protection and Rights
In 2022, the government commits to prepare a national strategy for the protection and welfare of animals. Over the next year, the government will begin exploring the possibility of opening a modern rehoming centre for animal adoption, including street animals.
