Various industries have been conveying different levels of concern pertaining to their performance within the current circumstances. But what is blindingly certain is that apart from a lucky few entities such as those in health care and food supply, the vast majority have experienced an unparalleled downturn.
This is why governmental intervention, policy and action is so vital to our economy. For this edition, we have had the honour of interviewing those ministries which are perhaps the most pertinent to the construction, property and interiors industries; ministries which are equally vital to their mid and long-term sustenance.
Dr Ian Borg shares with us some of the national projects that endeavour to improve our standard of living and he highlights how his Ministry is enhancing the environment in so doing. Dr Borg also brings to light how Malta’s public transport infrastructure is being improved and how its inhabitants are being prompted to make more use of it.
Dr Aaron Farrugia’s reputation of being a ‘doer’ which stems from his previous roles as CEO of Malta Freeport, and as Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds and Social Dialogue, has made the fact that both construction and the environment were allotted to his Ministry a welcome surprise to many. His determination and experiences will help him symbiotically integrate these two crucial elements of our living into one. Our interview with him explains how he and his Ministry intend to accomplish this mission, and more.
Design & Build also met up with Mr Chris Agius, Parliamentary Secretary for Lands and Construction who shared his views on the current state of the real estate sector. He has also outlined governmental reaction vis-à-vis the construction sector on how the unprecedented effects of the Covid-19 pandemic are being mitigated in order to allow survivability, and continuance. He also argues that the resilient nature of our citizens will ensure that we not only prevail but will moreover allow us to emerge stronger and better than before, with a new appreciation of a better way of living and working.
MDA Director General Dr Marthese Portelli voices within this edition her aspirations for the MDA to bring Malta’s people and the construction industry together for the common good.
We have also had the pleasure of interviewing various market leaders within their respective fields; gauging how they have prospered throughout the years and these current times.
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