Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri opened the conference ‘Social services … should not stop at Cirkewwa,’ which had been organised by the Foundation for Social Welfare Services and the Ministry for Gozo.

Minister Camilleri said that social services for the benefit of vulnerable people are not only now extended in Gozo, but they are also of the same quality as Malta.

Minister Clint Camilleri explained that despite economic growth and the reduction in poverty, importance must continue to be given to the inclusion of vulnerable groups.

He went on to say that “this government does not differentiate between Gozo and Malta in terms of social services and any other assistance.”

He thanked Minister Michael Falzon for his work, saying that “the inter-ministerial collaboration between the Ministry for Gozo and the Ministry for Solidarity and Social Justice, the Family and the Rights of the Child is of great importance for us to continue to work together, as well as moving forward for the good of our society, in particular of Gozitans and those who need our help, whether Maltese or foreign.”

He provided examples such as; “The training scheme for the vulnerable which was launched a few days ago where the Ministry for Gozo will be allocating €300,000 to the FSWS for the first year of training, i.e. in 2021; The agreement to make adequate housing for the homeless; And the conference itself which shows how essential this joint work between ministries is.”

He said that “this Government has worked hard to ensure that Gozo is no longer considered as second class, but also that it has become an economic engine.”

He added that this was not enough and aware of the social realities, the government’s work in the social field, including social housing, was extended to the island of Gozo.

He stressed that this government is “working hard to further improve the education system and vocational training as well as create new job opportunities.” However, he pointed out that there are still individuals from certain vulnerable groups facing particular challenges and disadvantages due to their economic, social and cultural situation and the aim of the government is to work to help these individuals.

Minister Camilleri said that the aim of the Ministry for Gozo is to continue collaborating with the Ministry responsible for social services and therefore with the FSWS, as evidenced by this conference.

He concluded by saying that, “our mission remains above all to make Gozo and its people a priority.”

Among those who addressed the conference was the Chief Executive of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services Alfred Grixti, the Director of Operations of the Foundation Mons. Joseph Vella Gauci and the Bishop of Gozo Mons. Anton Theuma.

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