New apartments currently being built by the Housing Authority will be rented out only for as long as tenants cannot afford alternative housing, Social Policy Minister John Dalli said today.

He said the Housing Authority is building 2,000 apartments which will be offered at subsidised rents to those who really need them.

Contrary to other schemes, the tenants will be able to stay at these apartments only until they can afford alternative accommodation. In this way, the apartments can be used by other people in need, the minister said.

When questioned about health during a radio interview, he also said that the government is considering the opening of new health centres where minor operations can be performed, thus reducing the load on Mater Dei Hospital. The centres will also treat emergencies.

Certain services currently given at Mater Dei Hospital, such as therapy, may start to be given in patients’ homes.

The minister said an analysis of the Pharmacy of Your Choice Scheme is underway so that, after refinement, the scheme can be extended to other localities.

He said that a system of regular medical check-ups may also be developed for the population.