The Minister for Gozo, Dr Anton Refalo and the Parliamentary Secretary for the Rights of Persons with Disability and Active Ageing, Dr Justyne Caruana, on Sunday attended an event organised by the Gozo Branch of Nanniet Malta, held at the at Villa Rundle Gardens, in Victoria.

One of the objectives of this Society – Nanniet Malta – was the creation of the celebration of Grandparents Day, in order to raise awareness on a national level, of the respect and recognition that grandparents deserve, and to ensure that grandchildren continue to cherish their relationship with grandparents throughout their lives.Another purpose of this day is to place more emphasis on the older generation, by strengthening solidarity between all generations, and young people are encouraged to honour and thank Grandparents for the knowledge, love and values that they share with their families.

The Gozo Branch organised a marathon of family activities by Gozitan talent, which took place through the day, under the direction of George Mizzi. This included craft stands and displays to name but a few.

On Sunday evening a ‘Musical Cultural Evening,’ was held in the gardens which was attended by a large crowd as well as guest personalities.

The Minister expressed his pleasure in attending this event and reiterated that when a person achieves a long life, it is always with the grace of God; especially if they keep healthy and they are able to enjoy the fruits of a fulfilled life, particularly in the company of friends and family during the latter phases of their life.

Dr Refalo went on to say that he was pleased that MEPA has now issued the necessary permits to demolish part of the St Joseph Home in Ghajnsielem, and to construct a new old people’s home, where older people can enjoy their twilight years in an environment equipped with the best modern facilities available. The Home has most recently been used as a youth hostel

Parliamentary Secretary for the Rights of Persons with Disability and Active Ageing, Dr Justyne Caruana, said that she was very pleased to be celebrating Grandparents Day for the fist time in Malta and Gozo, and that due to a Government motion passed through Parliament Grandparents Day will continue to be celebrated on the second Sunday of October of each coming year.

Dr Caruana said that the role of Grandfather and Grandmother is vitally important and is an extremely valuable contribution to society as a whole. Grandparents often help their children by caring for grandchildren when their parents are not able to, or when they have to go to work, therefore, acting as mother and father for the second time whilst assisting their own children in childrearing.

Photographs: MGOZ/George Scerri

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