Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1529157
6 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 10 NOVEMBER 2024 BUDGET2025 Budget 2025: Investing in quality for Malta's fisheries and animal welfare WITH the recent unveiling of Budget 2025, the Maltese government has made it clear that enhancing quality across all sectors remains at the fore- front of its agenda. Branded as "Kwalità," this budget is com- mitted to delivering concrete, positive changes in areas vital to Maltese society. Key sectors, such as fisher- ies and animal welfare, have received substantial support, aimed at both preserving Mal- ta's heritage and promoting sustainable growth. A commitment to Malta's fisheries sector Malta's fishing industry, a symbol of the nation's cultural heritage, faces numerous chal- lenges—from rising operation- al costs to environmental pres- sures. Recognizing these issues, Budget 2025 has introduced a series of measures to ensure the industry not only survives but thrives sustainably. One of the new initiatives is the installation of nearly 100 new pillars across various bays. These structures provide fish- ers with increased accessibility to shore-based facilities, in- cluding power and water con- nections. The pillars, located in popular areas like Marsaskala, St. Paul's Bay, Kalkara, and Marsaxlokk, aim to improve convenience and efficiency for fishers. For example, Marsaskala will see four new pillars strategically placed to serve the entire port area. This enhancement mini- mizes unnecessary movement and reduces fuel consumption, thanks to features that allow vessels to connect directly to power for refrigeration, mir- roring a "shore-to-ship" model. Moreover, new winches are being installed in locations such as Marsaskala and Ġnejna to assist fishers and boat own- ers with vessel management, and ice machines are being set up at various sites to help keep the catch fresh at ideal temper- atures. These improvements reflect the government's com- mitment to delivering quali- ty, making a real difference in the daily operations of Malta's fishers. Budget 2025 also lays the groundwork for a long-term strategy for the fisheries sec- tor, covering 2025-2030. This includes incentives for young fishers, who can access funding schemes to help them enter the trade. Additionally, maintenance grants for fishing vessels are being introduced to ensure that Malta's fleet remains safe and up-to-date. Plans are also underway to expand the facil- ities at the fish market, allow- ing fishers a more substantial space to process and sell their products, with an eye on in- creasing local sales through new partnerships, such as the upcoming Farmers' Market. Internationally, the govern- ment continues to work with organizations like ICCAT to expand Malta's tuna quota starting in 2026. Initiatives like the recent China-Malta tuna export agreement are also in place, allowing Maltese fishers to diversify their markets and potentially earn better prices for their catch. The government has further increased funding for Aquat- ic Resources Malta, with €1.5 million allocated to support research in sustainable aqua- culture practices and the es- tablishment of a new research center, ensuring the fisheries sector has the tools needed to face future challenges. Raising the bar in animal welfare Budget 2025 equally reflects Malta's commitment to ani- mal welfare, with over €6 mil- lion allocated, representing a significant increase over the previous year. This investment supports a wide range of pro- grams, all centered on improv- ing the quality of life for ani- mals across the country. One major reform in animal welfare will unfold by 2026, built around seven key pil- lars. Among the immediate upgrades are new ambulances equipped for animal rescues and stricter legislation to raise the standards of animal care services. The budget extends free neu- tering services for stray cats and select breeds of dogs, an initiative that helps manage the population of stray animals hu- manely. A registry for cat feed- ers has also been established, offering dedicated volunteers the support and incentives they need, backed by €350,000 in voucher funding. The government is also work- ing with local councils and enti- ties like Projects Green to iden- tify suitable locations for more Dog Parks and Cat Cafes, sim- ilar to the Dog Park in Ħal Safi and the Cat Café coming soon to Żurrieq. Such spaces foster community engagement and promote responsible pet own- ership. Moreover, €646,000 is being directed toward the Live- stock Welfare Scheme, which aids local farmers in caring for their animals. A noteworthy addition this year is the creation of a Pet Memorial, fulfilling a promise from the government's man- ifesto and responding to the community's calls for a place to honour beloved pets. In ad- dition, €450,000 has been ear- marked for aftercare services for animals rescued from the streets, which include medical support and rehoming efforts. Beyond fisheries and animal welfare: Broad economic and social support The overall budget also brings welcome relief to families and workers through a robust Cost- of-Living Adjustment (COLA) and tax-band adjustments, ef- fectively increasing disposable income for Maltese house- holds. In line with the "Kwalità" theme, these measures aim to ensure a high standard of living while easing the financial pres- sures on households. Engaging stakeholders for a shared vision Budget 2025 demonstrates a government that listens and acts. Fishers, animal welfare advocates, and community members are encouraged to participate actively in shaping the implementation of these initiatives, contributing to a strategy that addresses real needs. The government's com- mitment to quality is not mere- ly about meeting targets but about making a tangible impact on everyday life. Through Budget 2025, the government sets a clear path forward, rooted in tradition yet geared towards a sustaina- ble and inclusive future. It is a vision for a better Malta—one where quality is at the heart of progress. Alicia Bugeja Said, Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Malta's fishing industry, a symbol of the nation's cultural heritage, faces numerous challenges— from rising operational costs to environmental pressures