You’ll never walk alone

The consequences of the pandemic in terms of public health and the restrictions on fundamental freedoms, were difficult to envisage at the start of this crisis.

It was a new experience, in the face of which, the government had to speedily organise its response. In particular, we were aware from the very outset that in times of crisis, persons in vulnerable situations such as the disabilities, elderly and the chronically ill, and people suffering from addictions, are the worst hit. This pandemic was no exception.

Indeed, from the start the government was adamant to accord the best protection possible to individuals in vulnerable situations, as well as to ensure the basic social security needs, to those whose livelihoods were threatened.

Notwithstanding all the good intentions, there were still those who considered the restrictions on travel, imposition of quarantine, wearing of masks and social distancing, as a violation of the rights and freedoms of the people.

It was indeed a balancing act that the government faced. In this context, the social rights, such as security of employment and the right to health, had for a time taken precedence over other issues, including economic issues. In view of the latter, a financial support plan was launched, on a scale which Malta had never seen before.

This double-pronged strategy is a testimony to the government’s commitment to enhance social cohesion policies and in particular to strengthen its ability to translate the value of solidarity and inclusion, into tangible measures that made a tangible difference to those at risk.

In other words, we wanted to make sure, that no matter how disruptive the pandemic would be, the links that bind every individual to his or her community, were to remain unshaken. We closely looked at those situations that could in any way negate human dignity, and devised measures that ensured respect and security at work and at home.

As a government, we were not taken up by simply addressing the immediate needs of individuals. We also looked at the living conditions of those affected by the pandemic and while providing instant support, we also ensured that long term consequences are not overlooked.

This approach is essential, as it goes right to the very core of our policy of social justice. Persons with disabilities were immediately directed to work from home as well as were those with chronic illnesses, while the elderly were served with groceries and medicines at their home, to avoid contact in risky environments. As a government we were not satisfied with just addressing the immediate needs of the persons in vulnerable situations. We also wanted to ensure that these individuals kept on their planned course.

In other words, the government did not want to act simply or just as a temporary stop gap, but it aimed to take measures and actions that ensured that those at risk could return to full functionality soonest. We were adamant, that we would not allow the pandemic to throw back the progress and achievements that many hard-working people had made in the last seven years.

It is a fundamental belief of this government that our policies need to be driven, even during a pandemic, by the fundamental notions of equality and inclusion and despite the disruption, this government held onto its principles.

This example in leadership, amplified the notion of mutual respect, and apart from a few unfortunate incidents of individualism and selfishness, we witnessed behaviour that truly showed care and concern for others. Human fraternity has indeed expressed itself in action, giving rise to new forms of solidarity, where state resources and voluntary organisations, as well as, individuals, collaborated like never before.

The respect for social distancing, the rules of hygiene and the introduction of flexible working arrangements, which became the norm in a matter of days, are a living demonstration of a clear understanding of solidarity and concern, for self and others.

The concern for each other, the recognition that all persons have dignity and the solidarity shown at all levels, became embedded in the way we do things. This culture of social justice kept us gelled together as a Nation, provided access to health services to those who needed, ensured social security for all and offered the peace of mind to one and all, that, no matter what. No one would be left alone.

We followed closely the impact of the Covid-19, on drug supply and more importantly on the users themselves. The pandemic itself led to restrictions of people gathering, party and enjoy recreational spaces. Yet these factors, did not lead to a decrease in demand. Cannabis is still the predominant drug used followed by cocaine and heroin. The use of the latter has remained stable, with around 700 clients using daily methadone dose, aiming to overcome their addictions. Some service users were given access to take-home methadone procedure, so as to minimise the influx of clients at the Detox centre.

Overall, I believe that the pandemic proved that this government, even in the worst of times, was able to translate the concept of social justice and social cohesion into pragmatic meaningful measures, that ensured the functionality of the people and assured their inclusion, for the long term.

While this achievement is undoubtedly a clear assertion of our deep-rooted beliefs in Social Justice and Social Cohesion, our greatest satisfaction is, that this is a Nation that cares and no matter who you are, the respect for your dignity will be our obligation and commitment.

With a Labour government at the helm of this country, truly and definitely “you will never walk alone”.

Dr Michael Falzon is Minister for Social Justice, and Solidarity, the Family and Children’s Rights