Event report

In an event at the Juventutis Domus Hall in Żejtun, presenter Clare Agius discussed different themes with the future of Europe, with various representatives of associations from different sectors. Representatives of organisations working in various sectors, in particular those of young people, inclusion of vulnerable people, protection of cultural heritage and social life in the community participated in the meeting. The meeting was also attended by the Chief Executive of SEM, Mandy Falzon and the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Carmelo Abela, who heard what the participants had to say, so that their views would be included in the feedback being collected and presented at the Conference on the Future of Europe. The above ideas and suggestions can be summarised as follows: • In decision-making and policy-making, the European Union should adopt more ‘bottom-up approach’; • Further cut red tape when it comes to European funds while regional funds for local projects go directly to administrations in the regions; • Setting up centres in which young people can learn new skills; • Setting up very small funding schemes, which with less red tape make it easier for youth organisations to experiment and learn how to carry out larger projects. • The European Union should devote more funds to social sectors, going directly to help individuals living alone among others; • More importance needs to be given to vocational and training education, with more craft learning, to reach those who do not want to focus on academic education; • Support organisations involved in youth activism and in the implementation of exchanges, from which young Europeans are more mixed and learn more from each other; • The European Union should address more low-paid jobs, as this increases the chances of racism growing. Both SEM Chief Executive and Minister Abela intervened during the discussion to clarify some points where needed and referred to services and help that already exist in Malta. Mandy Falzon spoke about SEM services, in particular as regards applications and the implementation of projects with European Union funding. The personalised and professional service makes it easier for organisations with limited resources to carry out projects for the community. Minister Carmelo Abela, among his interventions highlighted the purpose of such activities whose purpose is to bring the European Union closer to the people. While addressing the young people present, he encouraged them to continue to dream, but also to seek where to help their dreams fulfil it.