Repair the front
How to quantify a good quality of life? There are various ways and means. Meeting all your basic needs and offering the essentials of life are obvious, non-negotiable when it comes to a decent lifestyle. However, as the old saying goes: man no longer lives on bread alone.
We have recently seen an unprecedented investment in projects that are important to the nation, as they increase the heart, life and motivation for the ordinary everyday. These projects not only contribute to an optimized quality of life, but are investments that are taking place in our national interest and are beneficial from an economic perspective, both in the immediate and long term. The Government is not only investing in numbers, structures and buildings, but is investing in what is closest to the heart of the nation.
A prime example is the new € 20 million car racing track announced for Ħal Far. This is not only exciting news for motorsport enthusiasts, but it is also a boost for the Maltese economy. Sorry for the pun, but it’s another way for the country to move forward. The economic figures are impressive, and the project will create jobs for many years to come. I must add that this investment is not just about numbers. For years, motor sports enthusiasts had to either make the current sub-standard conditions, or else go abroad to practice what they love. This discriminatory situation was both frustrating and dangerous, as many resorted to practices that were not exactly safe for motorsport athletes and spectators.
The NDSF investment means that not only will these problems be solved, but that the South of Malta will be put on the map of the Mediterranean as the ‘place’ that should be for motorsport enthusiasts. That’s a great way to turn an actually negative situation into a very positive one, for both enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. The latter will surely benefit from the amount of visitors who will be seeing Malta. This, in turn, creates full-time and part-time jobs, addresses issues such as tourist seasonality, and directs a sport that is loved by thousands toward a professional turn.
You can ask about the quality of life of neighboring residents. This is indeed a very valid question. It is interesting to see many different plans of this project that have been presented over the years. This has even led to criticism from some, who may argue that this is another plan that will never transpose to reality. The truth lies in the fact that such a massive project requires massive studies. I prefer the government to take a cautious but studied approach, to ensure that the racetrack actually slows down and does not increase current noise levels. I would prefer the government to take its time to find a site where no ODZ land is captured. I prefer that people like the President of the FIA express his enthusiasm to help the Maltese authorities ensure that vehicles reach a certain level when it comes to noise and pollutants discharged.
This investment by the NDSF is not the only one that delivers long-term benefits. We will all benefit from the financial support being run by the NSDF to our athletes. Who doesn’t want their nation to win? However, winning means investing: in the right coaches, equipment and resources. An unprecedented five million euros are being invested in Maltese athletes who will compete in the European Small Nations Games in 2023. This investment will not only motivate current athletes, but will set the right tone. In short, the government has sent a clear message: believe in our local talent, and want to raise it to the next level.
All of this means soothing for those who take their passion seriously. While I mention reassurance, I can’t help but mention the government’s intention to provide band clubs with mandate security. The government intends to negotiate with privately owned owners in order to acquire a band club building, and eradicate their fear of eviction. The owners will have a fair price, the band clubs will have certainty, but the country will also benefit, and get new assets. Band clubs are not being given talent. These properties will be capital, our property all.
The fact that the right funds are available to support so many people in their efforts is not a happy coincidence. Rather, it is the result of this government leading foreign direct investment in a way that is reaping the greatest benefit. Initiatives leading to residency or citizenship are resulting in this type of investment. If there has ever been any doubt about the benefits that flow from these initiatives, that doubt is slowly but surely turning into a realization that these initiatives are resulting in projects that serve the good. larger.
Daniel Camilleri is Communications Coordinator, Ministry of Home Affairs, National Security and Law Enforcement.
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