Government to direct EU funds towards economic growth

The government aims to make the best possible use of Cohesion Policy funds in Malta, for the benefit of current and future generations, Deputy Prime Minister Louis Grech said.

Accompanied by the Parliamentary Secretary for EU Presidency 2017 and EU Funds, Ian Borg, Louis Grech held a bilateral meeting with the European Commissioner for Regional Policy, Johannes Hahn.

Discussions focused primarily on the 2014-2020 Programmes where the Deputy Prime Minister emphasised the need for flexibility to take into account Malta's needs at this stage of development, the country's specificities and territorial reality.

The Maltese delegation updated the Commission on the status of its preparation with regard to programming and stated that the EU funds will be utilised to address existing infrastructural requirements as well as to stimulate private sector investment. 

"Moreover, importance will be given to the social dimension and human capital, including initiatives relating to education, social inclusion and employment," the government said.

It added that the Commissioner welcomed these areas of focus and expressed the view that EU cohesion policy should complement national development endeavours by Member States.

In regards to the 2007-2013 programming period, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Parliamentary Secretary discussed ongoing projects and government's plans to ensure timely and successful  implementation.

Commissioner Hahn was informed about Government's efforts to ensure that, as far as possible, no funds are lost.   The Commission was also informed of the various measures being taken by Malta in this regard. 

Taking note of Malta's objectives, Hahn expressed his appreciation for the need for flexibility and acknowledged that the specific economic realities of Malta would need to be taken into consideration. He also assured the Maltese delegation of his support on the issues raised.

The two delegations also exchanged views on various aspects relating to the ongoing legislative negotiations  with regard to the implementation of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2014-2020.   

Grech emphasised the importance of ensuring a rapid conclusion of the EU negotiations concerning Cohesion Policy, underlining that Structural Funds play a decisive role in stimulating growth and generating jobs.