Organisations in EU gold rush

A total of 125 organisations have applied for EU funds amounting to more than €3 million over the past 10 months with the help of the Malta-EU Steering Action Committee.

"Through these programmes more people are helped to develop their talents, abilities and experiences both in Malta and other EU countries," Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said.

Dr Gonzi said Meusac was bringing the benefits of EU membership to the people. Speaking during a meeting of the committee's core group, Dr Gonzi said it was imperative people remained well informed about the EU, which had an impact on their lives.

He said together with the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development, Meusac was an important consultation forum.

Meusac, which was active prior to Malta's EU accession, was set up again last year with the aim of disseminating information, communicating with people and tapping into opportunities presented by the EU.

"The government believes in Meusac's potential to continue helping civil society and local councils make use of EU funds," the Prime Minister said, adding that the government was co-financing projects through a €500,000 fund and a new fund for NGOs amounting to €280,000.