Here’s my take on Bridget Bugeja’s open letter “Are our political representatives investing in our wellbeing?” sent to “A Bird’s Eye View”. 

Bridget’s call for a discussion on Malta’s wellbeing is likely echoed by many. As both a voter and a candidate in the upcoming election, I am keen to hear what my peers propose about vital issues surrounding economic growth and public amenities, such as: public transportation, housing, and community spaces.

My aim, if elected to the European Parliament, is to ensure that Malta’s unique needs are heard in Brussels. This mission involves advocating for policies that recognise and address the distinct challenges faced by the various EU states, and as a Maltese representative I believe it would be my duty to make sure our peripheral voice is heard loud and clear.

Balancing Cost, Quality, and Liveability

Is my quality of life something I’m happy with? Is my work being paid for what it’s worth, and can I afford the necessities and have money left over? 

Personally I don’t think most people can confidently say yes to both. To address the rising cost of living, we want to introduce a regional adjusted European Basic Income (EBI) for those earning below a certain threshold. The idea is to prevent poverty traps and secure basic needs without the complexities of traditional welfare systems. 

We also want to fund innovative housing models like co-housing, rent-to-own, and lifelong renting programs to make home ownership more accessible and equitable. 

We also propose direct EU funding for the development of “15-min cities, designed to place essential services within a short distance for all residents, developed with ample green and community spaces. ”

To fight inequality we will also advocate for simplifying tax systems to benefit lower-income earners and setting regionally adjusted minimum wage standards to constantly match the current reality, and ensure businesses do not abuse the EBI.

Worker rights are also at the forefront of our agenda (the moonshot programme), and as such we are committed to creating a fair and productive work environment. We are also advocating for the right to disconnect, harmonising European labour laws, protections for gig workers equivalent to full-time employees, ensuring there is a system of regulation which reflects the needs of sex workers, and to push for more remote workers/ing.

We also advocate for universal childcare, shared parental leave, transferable pension rights and much more, all of which lay the groundwork for a society that not only tackles the cost of living head-on but also builds towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all EU citizens. 

Proper Transport Infrastructure

Am I happy with my environment, the public transport system, and the availability of public spaces?

I’m definitely not. 

Volt firmly believes in the potential of well functioning public transport. In a way it does not make sense that Malta is so car dependent when everything is so close. A drive across the island can sometimes take longer than a flight to Rome. Volt wants public transport to be recognised as ‘critical infrastructure’ due to the positive impact it can have on everyone’s life if it works well.

We also want the EU to promote active transportation like  walking and cycling, and guarantee safe infrastructure. We also need to be open to exploring the rail system for Malta. Since 2022 we have called for a national study into what solution/s make sense and would be feasible (Metro system, tram system, light rail system, a wider ferry system, rapid bus transit system) and with a commitment to see it through. This is something I still believe strongly in and will advocate for irregardless of my status as an MEP or otherwise. 

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The views expressed in this article are those of the author/s and do not necessarily represent a position or perspective of this or any organisation

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