In recent years, our country’s economy has flourished, successfully navigating significant international challenges. This robust economic performance is underpinned by various strategic pillars that the current government has actively strengthened since its inception. Central to these strategies is the worker, who remains at the heart of the government’s economic policies. Consequently, unemployment rates have consistently declined, while employment opportunities have diversified and expanded.

An increase in workforce numbers across various sectors necessitates enhanced protection measures for workers. Recognising this, the Ministry for Justice and Construction Sector Reform, led by Minister Dr Jonathan Attard, has made unprecedented investments in the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) over recent months.

Significant progress has been achieved concerning human resources at OHSA, fulfilling commitments to boost staffing. Within the last 12 months alone, OHSA’s workforce has nearly doubled, increasing from approximately 30 to 55 employees, with ongoing efforts to expand further.

Recently, Minister Dr Jonathan Attard, accompanied by the Minister for Gozo and Planning, Architect Clint Camilleri, visited two factories in Gozo, coinciding with the inauguration of the new OHSA Hub in Gozo.

Commenting on this development, Minister Attard explained that, following the launch of this key infrastructural project, OHSA has actively assessed safety conditions on the island. Over the past year, the Authority has conducted more than 1,000 inspections at construction sites without prior notification.

The Gozo office will feature a dedicated team responsible for inspecting construction sites, engineering facilities, offices, factories, and other establishments. The primary goal is to foster a culture of accident prevention. Moreover, the Gozo office will be pivotal in handling complaints, including those received through helpline 138 and directly via the Authority.

The inspectorate will oversee initial assessments, investigative planning, and subsequent follow-ups to ensure timely and effective issue resolution.

“This investment enables the Authority to gather extensive local data, which will inform targeted campaigns designed to significantly improve workplace safety in Gozo. This information is critical for identifying areas needing additional focus,” Minister Attard stated.

Additionally, the investment includes a vehicle specifically allocated for on-site inspections and logistical resources to facilitate systematic and efficient operations.

OHSA is also conducting demographic analyses across Gozo, gathering data from workplace inspections to identify locations with heightened accident risks and implement more effective preventative measures.

Minister Attard described the Gozo OHSA Hub as a symbol of the government’s serious, long-term commitment to occupational safety, which is already yielding positive outcomes. He acknowledged OHSA’s critical role, expressing the government’s appreciation to OHSA’s board, chaired by Mr Pierre Fava, and its workforce, led by CEO Dr Josianne Cutajar.

Dr Attard emphasised that the responsibility for workplace safety extends beyond workers, encompassing their families, communities, and the broader future of the country.

PROPERTY MARKET REFORMS RESPOND TO LONGSTANDING DEMANDS

Stakeholders Acknowledge Government’s Commitment to Sector Improvements

“The establishment of the Property Market Agency represents a significant reform initiative spearheaded by Minister Jonathan Attard, responding to calls stakeholders have made for years. These reforms protect both local and international buyers by ensuring that property transactions involve regulated, educated, and structured agents,” stated Michael Stivala, President of the Malta Development Association (MDA), during a recent seminar for property intermediaries organised by the Property Market Agency.

Sandro Chetcuti, Chairman of the Malta Property Foundation, expressed satisfaction with the establishment of the Agency, praising Minister Attard’s commitment to implementing a regulatory framework that has been under discussion for several years. He noted that recent dialogues have significantly advanced the sector, resulting in incentives for regulated practices that provide enhanced security for buyers and sellers alike.

Minister Attard himself emphasised the importance of collaboration during periods of change, remarking, “Through cooperation, respect, and collaboration, we can foster an environment where consumers feel confident, investors discover new opportunities, and property professionals operate with certainty and ethical responsibility.”