The first Social Dialogue MCESD meeting for 2023 addressed social vision, research and innovation

The Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, the Hon. Andy Ellul, and all social partners welcomed the new MCESD chairperson, Perit David Xuereb, and deputy chairperson, Mr. Mark Musù, at the first meeting of the council in 2023.

The new chairperson emphasised the importance and relevance of the MCESD in his introduction and stated that the next step is to “increase the impact of this Council, drive expectations, and work to accomplish them professionally.”

According to Perit Xuereb, the keys to success include dialogue, empathy, robust research, collaboration, value, credibility and accountability.

During this meeting, two important topics were discussed.

The Ministry responsible for Social Policy and Children’s Rights presented the subject of the Social Vision for the year 2035, where the Hon. Minister Michael Falzon introduced the subject and answered questions from the social partners. This subject was explored in the light of recent tragedies driven by perceived increased violence and accidents related to drug abuse in our country. The topic was thoroughly discussed in order for Maltese society and economy to thrive in a truly sustainable and safe manner.

The presentation “Social Vision for Malta 2035” may be accessed here.

The Malta Council for Science and Technology presented the national Research and Innovation strategic plan 2023-2027. The Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation detailed the subject matter and answered questions posed by the social partners. This discussion zoomed at how we may better our society and economy in a fast-changing international competitivity landscape. The need to address the fragmented nature and infrastructure of this ambition and the need to focus on attracting local and international talent to strengthen research activity will make innovation tangible and valuable to our economy and society.

The presentation “National R&I Strategic Plan 2035” may be accessed here.