It was with great pleasure and satisfaction that I followed in the local news the statements by Culture Minister Jose Herrera on the setting up of a Malta Cultural Hub. The call for expression of interest will be issued by the ministry soon.

What was great news for photographers was that, at last, someone was taking notice and becoming aware of the need for Maltese photographers to be assisted and encouraged.

In fact, the minister twice made reference to photographers, saying they will be catered for in this hub which, it seems, will not only provide a meeting place but also logistical assistance for NGO associations within it.

It makes my years of incessant lobbying for photographers to have a place to meet, exhibit and network, seem worthwhile.

The hub will benefit not only local culture but also the promotion of our island beyond our shores.

I have been clamouring for help from the authorities on this issue for over 20 years and mostly by myself.

Although everytime I was told my demands were justified, unfortunately, until now, nothing concrete was ever offered to us photographers – we seemed to be always left out in the cold, unlike perhaps practitioners of other forms of art.

Ever since taking up his post, Dr Herrera and his staff have shown interest in the genuine plea of all photographers and, when this hub eventually comes to be, it would signify another big step towards the recog-nition and advancement of local photography.

May this hub become a reality soon so that the thousands of people who share my passion for this important medium will be helped to further their work, standards and enjoyment.