EU Commissioner ‘impressed’ by Malta’s handling of European funds

Addressing the press at Castille, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said the application of funds in European Regional Development Fund, in the European Social Fund and in cohesion funds have helped Malta move forward.

“I think it is of satisfaction for us all to note that the application of funds have helped Malta to move forward, to progress, to invest in infrastructure, to invest in its human resources, and the benefits are there for us all,” Gonzi said.

Referring to the meeting he had with EU Commissioner Johannes Hahn, Gonzi said they also discussed the future: “We had a brief discussion on the future now because we have always to look forward especially in the challenging times that we are facing now.”

Hahn – who also visited the sewage plant project and the waste treatment plant – said he was “deeply impressed” by how the funds were used.

“Indeed I can confirm that the absorption rate of the funds is above the European average so the money being given and allocated to Malta is well used,” he said.

Hahn said it was important to simplify the procedure in applying for European funds: “This is indeed a problem in particular for SMEs.”

Praising the building of the MCAST campus, Hahn said it was very important to train people and further improve the quality of professionals.

“I’m really satisfied and happy to be here. I can leave the island with very good feelings, knowing that Malta is a strong ally in the discussion about the future of the cohesion funds policy.”