I submitted an application for maternity benefits in the first week of October through the Balzan social security office. I included the doctor’s declaration, department stamp from Mater Dei Hospital and all the required, correct information.

My child was born on October 8 and on the 11th I received a letter from an official stating that I should urgently send them the doctor’s declaration that I was really pregnant, otherwise I would lose the right to receive the benefits or part of them.

After several days trying to call this official, with someone even sending her an e-mail because she was on leave, I was given her direct telephone number. After several days I managed to get through to her. She said that since the baby had been born, there should be no problems. As soon as the Public Registry issues the birth certificate I shall be entitled to the benefits and I should call her at the end of that week (more than two weeks ago now).

I never managed to get my phone calls answered by anyone when I called on 2590 3051. When I called the Children’s Allowance section on 2590 3025/35 I never got an answer either and one day I tried to call the main line on 2590 3000. They were sorry, I was told. They could still not transfer my call and I would have to call direct!

In the meantime, a person from the main reception called me to tell me that by following Saturday the money would be deposited in my account because he took it upon himself to contact these persons directly himself.

What I would love to know is where and when these persons are at their place of work.