17. CULTURE AND THE ARTS

need to be aligned to the national EQS programme whilst rendering maritime studies eligible for sponsorship opportunities/grants and inclusion within the MyJourney programme.

The MEA joins calls made by the MMF for the re-establishment of a national entity solely responsible for the maritime industry and welcomed Government’s October announcement in this regard. It is believed that the heightened competitive and regulatory environment of the Industry merits a national authority dedicated to Maritime affairs. Malta was ahead of the market in the early Nineties when the Malta Maritime Authority was established, so much so that the example was emulated by others including the UK, Greece and Cyprus. A new, dedicated national maritime entity will, therefore, give the right signals at the international level about the country’s aspirations to defend and consolidate its position of strength and excellence. In addition, it would allow for better focus in the context of active participation in international fora and discussions that have a bearing on the Maltese maritime industry. Naturally, the new entity must be armed with adequate resources, technology and technical know-how to fulfil the highest expectations of Malta’s international client-base.

In spite of a rather disappointing Valletta 18, there have been many positive efforts to promote culture and the arts during this legislature through the promotion of local talent and offering Malta as a venue for international concerts and exhibitions. The exhibition ‘Masterpieces’ at MUZA is a case in point.

Culture defines our identity as a society and is also one of the experiential aspects of Malta as a tourist destination.

It is being recommended to provide artists with more space to develop their talents. MEA proposes setting up an artists’ quarter in Valletta, which could be an extension of the project being undertaken at the old abattoir. Such an initiative will add life to the city with positive effects on commerce. There are plenty of vacant buildings in Valletta that can provide studio space to musicians, painters, sculptors, film-makers and other disciplines through subsidised rent.