Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545062
THIS IS A PAID COLLABORATION Graziella Attard Previ 1. What fresh ideas do you bring to Malta's political system? I bring a perspective shaped by many roles and lived experiences. With over 23 years of professional experience as a social worker, I have been consistently engaged with the com- plex challenges facing our society—listening to unheard voices, witnessing silent suffering, and advocating alongside individuals who are often marginalised or disadvantaged. I am also a mother, a grandmother, and a daughter. My professional and life experience enables me to approach issues with depth, empathy, and long term perspective. It is this understanding that I believe can tru- ly bring a grounded, thoughtful, and much needed breath of fresh air to our political sys- tem. 2. What are three pressing challenges fac- ing the country in the next five years? Apart from overpopulation and traffic, I would say: Malta's falling fertility rate, deterio- ration of the quality of life, and weakened so- cial connections. We now have one of the lowest birth rates in Europe. It means a rapidly ageing population, increasing pressure on pensions and health- care, and a shrinking pool of local workers. While migration has helped sustain economic growth, it cannot replace the social stability that comes from families feeling confident to have children. This challenge requires policies that support family life, not just financially, but through better childcare, more flexible work arrangements, and affordable housing. Another pressing issue is the deterioration of the quality of life despite economic growth. Rising property prices, environmental degra- dation, noise, and the loss of open spaces are making everyday life more stressful. The policy challenge is to slow down and rebalance de- velopment so that economic progress goes hand in hand with environmental quality, live- able communities, and social fairness. Another issue is the erosion of social connec- tions, driven by fast changing demographics and more isolated ways of living. A growing share of the population consists of newcomers who may not easily connect with local com- munities. Diversity itself is not the problem; the issue is the lack of investment in integra- tion, community spaces, and neighbourhood level support. Strengthening community life is therefore essential for social harmony, resil- ience and collective wellbeing. 3. What is one issue you are most person- ally passionate about, and why? Women's rights—with a difference. So far, the drive for women's rights has fo- cused on the right to contribute economically, intellectually and on a societal level. Progress has been registered but when talking with women, I know that in most cases, they have the lion's share in the allocation of domestic chores. The situation often depletes wom- en's physical and psychological strength. This needs to be addressed. The PN is proposing various work-life bal- ance proposals, including extended maternity leave at full pay, an increase in paternity leave, and the right to request flexible working hours to better balance work and family responsibili- ties. Another proposal is the introduction of an additional 15 days of leave that parents may utilise when their children are unwell. 4. Why did you decide to run for election? I have always regarded politics as a positive and powerful tool for bringing about mean- ingful social change, and as a genuine service to the people. This belief has consistently guid- ed my actions and commitments. I now look forward to once again being of service, and to further expanding my work in the social field through political engagement. 5. Outside of politics, how do you like to spend your free time? In winter, I enjoy relaxing by watching a se- ries on Netflix. In summer, I love the sunshine and look forward to spending time at the beach, which I find very calming. I am also a fan of Formula 1 and proudly support Ferrari. I enjoy going for walks in the fresh air. Quickfire Q&A Jo Etienne Abela 1. Looking back on your ten- ure, what do you consider to be the most significant achieve- ment in your ministry, and what impact has it had on peo- ple's lives? The creation of the 1400 help- line, which within a year of its launch has already served 35,000 people with urgent conditions and reduced 15,000 admissions to the Emergency Department of Mater Dei Hospital. Yet anoth- er important achievement was the creation of the CAYS units in Rabat Gozo and Birkirkara, which offer a quality and a dignified ser- vice to thousands of children and young people with developmen- tal and mental health problems. 2. Looking back, is there any decision you would have made differently? And if you had the opportunity to make that de- cision again, what would you have changed? There are several decisions which I would have made differ- ently had I made them now, but I believe that what is important is that I have learned from each and every experience. 3. What are the three most pressing challenges that the country will face in the next five years? There may be logistics and needs that could be impacted by protracted wars in Europe and the Middle East. The expan- sion of essential public services and infrastructure to address the needs of an ever-growing population. Plans to introduce a strengthened, mass transporta- tion system that will be crucial in addressing traffic challenges. 4. What led you to contest the election? I am satisfied that throughout this current legislature that is now reaching its end, I have worked tirelessly to accomplish what was required of me. I am ready to continue working for good of the country. 5. Name an issue that you are particularly passionate about, and why? I feel passionate about animals, especially dogs and cats, and I find myself satisfied whenev- er the government and society seek to improve the wellbeing of these friends of ours. 6. Outside of politics, how do you like to spend your free time? In my free time, I really enjoy watching films and following anything related to the world of cinema, as well as reading and studying books about history. maltatoday | SUNDAY • 24 MAY 2026 NATIONALIST PARTY LABOUR PARTY I believe that what is important is that I have learned from each and every experience