Volt Malta proposes Smart State, language courses for asylum seekers
Maltese as a foreign language as well as programs that teach Maltese and European cultural and civic norms for refugees and those seeking asylum, are among the ten proposals put forward by Volt Malta.
In its pre-budget document, the party focused on poverty reduction, and suggested an increase in the minimum wage and stipends, as well as the removal of VAT on all food products. menstruation.
The party is also proposing a bonus if students complete financial literacy courses while studying. According to her proposals, stipends should increase to a base rate of €130, increasing to €150 upon completion of a financial literacy course. In the case of prescribed courses, the stipends should increase to €200 and increase further to €220 upon completion of a financial literacy course; while student stipends in high priority courses should increase to €385 and increase further to €405 upon completion of a financial literacy course.
The party explained that by linking a financial literacy course with additional stipend income, “it will raise a more fiscally responsible generation.”
“Malta’s minimum wage is one of the slowest growing in the EU, it has not kept pace with the increase in the cost of living in years and it facilitates the exploitation of workers less paid among us,” said Arnas Lasys.
The Co-President of Volt added “There is no evidence of an equivalent increase in inflation when minimum wages are increased.”
The party also proposed that the government finance the education of “Maltese as a Foreign Language” for refugees, and those seeking asylum, which is also open to others. In addition, it is also proposing the funding of Maltese and European cultural and civic norms learning programs aimed at refugees and asylum seekers, and which are also open to others.
“We need to be an open society, not a closed one” said Alexia DeBono, Volt Co-President.
”By making sure that as many people as possible who live here feel part of the community, share their life experiences with their neighbors, we strengthen our community with new ideas and solidarity.”
The party also proposed that a non-governmental entity conduct a thorough Audit and Performance Review of the entire public sector. The results of the audit shall then be published. After this exercise, the government should then develop a Digital Dashboard of State Expenditure.
“It is time to reduce the fat where it is abundant” explained Kassandra Mallia. and added that the public should have all the tools at their disposal to scrutinize public expenditure, it is their money after all.”
Three other proposals have to do with the environment, with the party proposing that all publicly owned buildings be covered with solar panels, and introducing ‘sun rights’. She urged to increase cleanliness and an educational campaign about cleanliness in the open air. It also proposed the launch of grants and incentives for vertical farms, community gardens and roof gardens.
“Both with the pandemic and now with the war, we can’t take anything for granted anymore” observed Matthias Portelli, Volt Policy Lead.
“The supply chains can be disrupted and Malta depends entirely on imports to sustain itself, especially for sustenance and electricity. We want to make sure we maximize the amount of food we produce here, and spread knowledge in the process.”
Volt also noted that there is a growing issue of pests, whether rodents or hornets. She said she believes a strong community and state effort is needed to clean up our streets and customs, which will pay dividends through a more livable island for its citizens, and a more pleasant experience for visitors.
“The party hopes that the Government will take some of its proposals for the 2023 Budget,” reads the statement.