‘Civil society funds had not been allocated’ – Dalli

Social Dialogue Minister Helena Dalli announced that funds promise in 2012 to civil unions would be given after no vote had been allocated in Budget 2013.

Addressing the Malta Employers Association during a meeting at Castille, Dalli said she couldn't promise anything to the constituted bodies before a concrete solution had been found.

"I know that you had commitments and that you were promised the funds. But in reality, no vote had been allocated in the budget and we had to find the necessary funds," the minister said.

She went on to call for a more serious approach to the issue and highlighted the need for more discussion for a better distribution system.

"I looked at the present system and we definitely need to sit down and talk, especially to make sure that a balance is reached," Dalli told MEA representatives.

On his part, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said it was the government's policy to hold regular meetings with constituted bodies.

Speaking on the Budget 2014 soon to be presented in parliament, Muscat said he was confident that all deadlines and targets would be met.

"We have been in constant contact with the European Commission and we will definitely meet our deficit targets. A plan has already been presented to the Commission," the PM said.

Muscat reiterated that the government's priority was the creation and fair distribution of wealth and the creation of job opportunities for everyone.