MCESD Social Partners continue discussing the National Drugs Policy – 2022-2023

The MCESD has once again convened all social partners to continue to address the influence of drug use in our society and on our economy. The aim of the meeting was to continue the ongoing dialogue and collaboration among social partners to seek and promote effective solutions to combat the influence of drugs in Malta.

The meeting was launched by the Chairman Perit David Xuereb followed by the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, the Hon. Andy Ellul.  The Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, the Hon. Michael Falzon, was invited to introduce the subject and answer questions from the floor.

Professor Richard Muscat presented the National Drugs Policy for 2022-2023, which emphasises evidence-based research, monitoring, and reporting on drug use realities and solutions. The policy includes measures to reduce drug supply and demand, such as law enforcement ties with the FIAU, a National Law Enforcement Body, a Cybercrime Unit, and Community Policing. The policy also includes demand reduction measures, such as Community Centres, Treatment Programmes, and an intense addiction unit.

The presentation on the National Drugs Policy for 2022-2023, can be accessed from here.

Social partners actively considered the matter in detail. As representatives of employees and employers, they shared their insights on the cases they frequently encounter in the workplace, highlighting the need for increased law enforcement to address the evolving social shortcomings.

It is encouraging to see that the MCESD continues to address the issue of drug-induced shortcomings and the impact it has on society. MCESD continues to work closely with the relevant Ministries to compile and present positions of convergence on this critical matter.

MCESD’s follow-up to subject, can be accessed from here.

By working collaboratively with the government and other stakeholders, the MCESD can help ensure that effective policies are implemented to address concerning drug use and its root causes.