Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545062
THIS IS A PAID COLLABORATION Jonathan Attard 1. Looking back, what do you con- sider your most significant achieve- ment and what impact has it had on people's lives? We successfully steered through parliament an average of one bill per month. These reforms have been in- strumental in modernising our justice system and delivering tangible im- provements to people's lives. The changes in the field of magisteri- al inquiries represent a major step for- ward. We strengthened victims' rights, enhanced accountability, and intro- duced faster, more structured process- es. We also addressed long-standing challenges in the construction sector, which had seen little meaningful re- form for decades. Key achievements include the introduction of licensing regulations for contractors and ma- sons, and new support services for citi- zens impacted by construction activity. 2. With the benefit of hindsight, what is one decision you would ap- proach differently, and what would you change if given the opportunity again? I have always worked from the prem- ise that whatever we put forward is done in good faith and with full convic- tion. However, every day in office is a learning experience. There were instances where I piloted laws that were set aside due to calls for further consultation. I believe we could have implemented them while continuing to strengthen them simul- taneously. That balance could have been achieved. If given the opportu- nity to serve again in Cabinet, I would approach things differently, by push- ing forward legislation and continue to strengthen them throughout the process. 3. What are the three pressing chal- lenges facing the country in the next five years? The international situation undeni- ably has an impact on Malta, contrary to what some may suggest. That is why we are committed to providing sta- bility and guarantees to our citizens. Other challenges, include the way our society is evolving. It is our responsibili- ty to introduce more measures that en- courage family time, create more open spaces, and invest further in education tol ensure people have the necessary skills to make the most of the opportu- nities offered by Malta's economy. 4. Why did you decide to contest the election? My vision of politics has always been that it should serve as a tool and a means of service. This legislature has included moments of challenge, but even more moments of satisfaction, through which we made a tangible and positive difference in people's lives. This has motivated me to put my name forward again for the general election with the Labour Party. 5. What is one issue you are most personally passionate about, and why? As a lawyer by profession, I have al- ways believed that the country, espe- cially from a legislative perspective, must continue to modernise its laws. I am always focused on ensuring that our laws continue to be updated. A clear example is the reform of the Oc- cupational Health and Safety at work legislation, which we updated after 22 years to reflect today's realities. 6. Outside of politics, how do you like to spend your free time? Time with my family remains my greatest priority. I particularly enjoy cooking, as it allows me to spend qual- ity time with my wife and our two chil- dren. At the same time, it gives me a chance to disconnect from my phone and technology and truly enjoy mo- ments of rest. Quickfire Q&A Ramona Attard 1. Looking back at your term, what do you consider your most significant achievement was and what impact has it had on people's lives? I have been serving in parliament since January 2025. Despite the relatively short time, I managed to place the dis- cussion on homework reform on the na- tional agenda. I believe children should have a balance between revision at home and the opportunity to enjoy their childhood and family life. I also advocat- ed for increased maternity and parental leave. From being one of the countries with the lowest maternity leave in the EU, our electoral proposals will now place Malta among the countries with the most generous leave arrangements. 2. With the benefit of hindsight, what is one decision you would ap- proach differently, and what would you change if given the opportunity again? In life, there will always be decisions you look back on differently because every experience teaches you some- thing. Rather than dwelling on what I could have done differently, I try to focus on the positive lessons and use them to continue growing personally and polit- ically. 3. What are the three pressing chal- lenges facing the country in the next five years? We must ensure the economy contin- ues to grow sustainably. A strong econ- omy is the cornerstone because without it we cannot continue investing in public services, education, healthcare and the care of our elderly. Given the unstable international situation, we cannot take economic stability for granted. The second major challenge is traffic. The government has never believed this problem should be solved by increasing driving licence costs or fuel prices. In- stead, it invested in free public transport and fast ferry services. Significant infra- structure projects were also completed in areas such as Mrieħel and Luqa. We al- so need more frequent bus routes, bet- ter village connectivity, and modern bus shelters with air conditioning and live information monitors. The third chal- lenge is preparing future generations for technological change. Our education system must equip children with critical thinking, creativity and the skills needed for a rapidly changing world. 4. Why did you decide to contest the election? Politics always found me. When I had decided to take a short break from poli- tics to focus on my profession after hav- ing twins, just three months later Robert Abela asked me to contest for the role of party president. Afterwards, Robert Abela asked me to be co-opted into par- liament. However, the real moment that convinced me to accept the parliamen- tary seat and contest the general elec- tion was a message from a woman who had spoken during the party's general conference before the last election. She had appealed for changes to Malta's IVF laws—reforms we implemented within the first 100 days of the legislature. At the time, she had been trying to become a mother for five years. Today, she has a beautiful daughter. It reminded me how politics can change people's lives. 5. What is one issue you are most personally passionate about, and why? Education is an issue I care deeply about. I believe we must prepare chil- dren for a rapidly changing future by equipping them with the skills they will need in life and at the workplace, while also ensuring they can still enjoy their childhood. 6. Outside of politics, how do you like to spend your free time? I enjoy spending time with my family, especially going for countryside walks where I can relax and enjoy quality time with my loved ones. maltatoday | SUNDAY • 24 MAY 2026 LABOUR PARTY LABOUR PARTY