Investment in people, particularly pensioners, youths and families, remains at the heart of a renewed Labour Government, Minister Michael Falzon and Labour candidate Samantha Pace Gasan said as they addressed the latest set of electoral proposals.

From social spending to real investment

Falzon made it clear that what has been delivered in the social sector over the past years should not be seen as expenditure, but as a long-term investment in people, with tangible returns for society.

He stressed that pensioners were among the groups that benefited most from this approach, noting that today they are living with greater dignity, inclusion and financial security than in the past.

Falzon contrasted this with previous administrations, recalling that for almost a quarter of a century pensions were not increased, while under a Labour Government pensioners have benefited from consecutive increases year after year.

He highlighted that every pensioner has seen an increase of at least €80 per week, with pensions effectively doubling over time. What pensioners used to receive in 13 payments years ago, they are now receiving in just seven payments.

Falzon also pointed to additional measures that expanded eligibility and support, including bonuses for those with limited contributions, targeted measures for widows, and initiatives that brought more individuals into the pension system.

A guarantee built on delivery

Looking ahead, Falzon emphasised that this investment will continue, with further measures aimed at strengthening inclusion and improving quality of life, ensuring that more people can live with dignity, including those facing challenges such as energy affordability.

He concluded with a strong political message, stressing that while financial investments may carry uncertainty, the record of a Labour Government offers reassurance.

“Under a Labour Government led by Robert Abela, the past is a guarantee of the future,” he said, underlining that credibility and delivery remain the party’s strongest assets.

A stronger voice for youths and inclusive growth

Samantha Pace Gasan focused on the importance of ensuring that economic growth continues to translate into real benefits for people, particularly youths and families.

She welcomed the newly announced measures, noting that they address the realities of different social groups and reinforce the principle that everyone should have access to opportunities and support.

Referring to young people, she highlighted how Labour Governments have consistently empowered them, not only through education and employment initiatives, but also by giving them a stronger voice in society.

She pointed to milestones such as the introduction of voting at 16, describing it as part of a broader effort to recognise youths as active participants in decision-making.

An inclusive economy that delivers for all

Pace Gasan emphasised that the strengthening economy is not an end in itself, but a means to deliver inclusive and social progress.

She noted that investment is being channelled directly into people’s lives through tangible, measurable measures that have a real impact – from support for families of persons with disabilities to initiatives that improve everyday quality of life.

She underlined that these proposals continue to build on a clear pattern of governance, one where economic growth is translated into concrete benefits for citizens.

A movement focused on people

Both speakers reinforced a central message: that Labour’s approach is rooted in investing in people and ensuring that no one is left behind.

From pensioners to youths and families, the emphasis remains on inclusion, dignity and opportunity, backed by a track record that, they argued, provides certainty for the future.

As the campaign continues, the message is clear: a strong economy will continue to be used as a tool to improve people’s lives, delivering results that are felt in every household across the country.