I refer to a report carried in Times of Malta (August 5) under the heading ‘Dressing down pays off for NGO’.

Both heading and contents are in fact inaccurate since Dar Kenn għal Saħħtek, which was the subject of the report, is not an NGO and should not be so confused in the public perception. Though its statute refers to the foundation (Fondazzjoni Kenn għal Saħħtek) that runs it as being “a social purpose and a non-profit making foundation” it also states that “the foundation shall in general take into account the health policies of the Government of Malta in drawing up its own policies in the attainment of its objectives”.

Moreover, the chairman of the board of administration of the house is appointed by the President of Malta in agreement with the Prime Minister while its members are jointly appointed by the Malta Community Chest Fund (four) and by “the minister responsible for health” (four). This means that it cannot be classified or treated as a ‘non-governmental organisation’ or NGO.

Furthermore, its government involvement precludes it from being enrolled as a voluntary organisation in terms of the Voluntary Organisations Act (2007).