The list of projects that will absorb the €1.2 billion worth of EU funds earmarked for the island has been approved by the European Commission, government sources told Times of Malta.
The bulk of the new projects will focus on fostering competitiveness, a greener economy and improving the island’s health and welfare services.
Brussels is today expected to put its official seal to the government’s plans on making use of the 2014-2020 financial package, with “a number of initiatives” to begin before the end of this year, the sources said.
The project list, known as a partnership agreement, was submitted to the Commission in April after former prime minister Lawrence Gonzi had successfully negotiated for an increased budget to make up for the island’s “natural handicaps” in February 2013.
Transport-related projects include those aimed at ‘decarbonising’ the way people get around on the island
Despite the plan having been submitted on time and well within the prescribed framework, the Opposition last month criticised the government for what it branded a delay in the confirmation of the partnership agreement.
PN European affairs spokeswoman Marthese Portelli had claimed Malta had already lost the opportunity to utilise millions of euros following the Malta Enterprise decision to stop 18 schemes and the country could not wait any longer to start using the €1,128 million assigned by Brussels.
EU Funds Parliamentary Secretary Ian Borg had denied there was any delay, saying the Commission was still analysing the government’s submissions.
With the wait finally over, Times of Malta can confirm that the government will be allocating a substantial portion of the money to providing financial incentives for industry and small to medium-sized businesses.
While details are still sparse, sources said the government will also be setting money aside to support research initiatives and build a stronger research infrastructure on the island.
New businesses will not only benefit from financial incentives but will also be encouraged through a new incubator space – an industrial park subdivided into small units in order to house growing companies.
Greener initiatives will include a drive towards renewable energy as well as new water and waste management projects.
Transport-related projects include the new Kappara Junction and a number of others aimed at “decarbonising” the way people get around on the island.
On healthcare, projects will see heavier investment in primary care such as State health clinics as well as more training opportunities for healthcare professionals.
The project list was compiled following a consultation process carried out between interest groups, civil society and local representatives, in line with EU rules.
Dr Borg was not available for comment yesterday, but sources said he was en route to Brussels for the confirmation of the project list.