130 proposals in MCESD's pre-budget document

The upcoming budget will focus on improving quality of life, as a benefit of the prosperous economy the government has put in place, Finance Minister Edward Scicluna said today. 

Addressing the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) in Valletta, Scicluna said that a prosperous economy deserved a high quality infrastructure of technology, roads and housing as well as investment in high quality education and healthcare services that complement and contribute to continuing economic success. 

He said that social investment was also within the government's vision, which will see the deficiencies in social housing being addressed through a public-private partnership. 

The MCESD met the minister to present its pre-budget document, containing 130 proposals that it feels need the government's urgent attention. 

The document and proposals were to be discussed during a closed-door meeting with Scicluna. 

Parliamentary secretary for social dialogue Aaron Farrugia said that social partners should serve as a bridge to the future. 

"The 130 proposals you are presenting today as MCESD are clear evidence that you are looking at the long-term wellbeing of society," he said.