PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR SOCIAL AND AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION
Minister for Social and Affordable Accommodation Roderick Galdes attended and addressed the launch of the Housing Authority’s publication Beyond Walls: A Social Housing Story. This first comprehensive publication on social housing in Malta presents the academic, historical, and artistic elements of the sector, highlighting its evolution through historical research since the Second World War, supported by archival photographs.
“When we see where we left as a country and where we are today, one cannot fail to point out the progress made in this sector. This evolution is felt daily through the work we carry out and is leaving so much tangible difference in the lives of beneficiaries,” Explained Minister Roderick Galdes.
The history of social housing in our country is deeply united with the social history of our country; the crisis brought about by the World War, as well as the ongoing efforts to address current challenges, turning the same challenges into opportunities.
After the Second World War, the need for social housing became more of a priority. Today, there are about 8,000 social housing units across the country. Minister Galdes emphasised that the guiding principle behind this approach is that dignified housing is not only a basic necessity, but a fundamental right that should be accessible to everyone, regardless of social background.
Further, the minister explained how over the years, social housing models have diversified, from large-scale projects to more specific initiatives designed to address the individual needs of each person. Highlighting projects in which the Housing Authority worked hand in hand with NGOs to broaden services, the minister named some of them including: Dar Bla Hitan, Dar Teresa, Dar il-Kantuniera, as well as Dar Qawsalla. “All these projects have different objectives, but they all show how much in practice we are carrying out a policy that looks at the individual’s holistic needs; a policy that leaves a mark in Maltese and Gozitan society,” said Minister Galdes.
This diversification shows a change that reflects the specific needs of each society, which evolve continuously. Consequently, Minister Galdes mentioned regeneration projects in the areas of old houses, as well as elevator projects, which are further raising the quality of life of residents.
“Social housing remains a priority for us. This commitment is reflected not only in words but in continuous action, with new projects being implemented on a daily basis. Last year alone, around 514 social housing units were allocated. Work is currently underway on several other projects, including the largest social housing project ever undertaken in our country, located at a site in Ħal Farruġ,” said Minister Galdes.
The minister concluded with words “History not only continues to teach us, but on it we can continue to build a strong vision for the years to come. Against the background also of the Vision 2050 announced by the Government, I feel that the research behind the book we are launching today, continues to show the willingness to learn the history of our country, but also to deliver a proactive policy that caters for the needs of today and tomorrow of the Maltese and Gozitan people.”
Housing Authority CEO, Matthew Zerafa stated that this book will serve as an invitation for a mature discussion leading to a clear vision on the future of Housing in Malta.
