The Private Members’ Bill aimed at tackling loneliness and promoting social wellbeing has once again been tabled in Parliament by Nationalist MP Ivan Bartolo, renewing an initiative that had already progressed to its second reading during the previous legislature.
Announcing the move, Bartolo said the proposal has been reintroduced “with even greater determination,” stressing that Malta can no longer afford to delay action on an issue that is silently affecting thousands of people. He described loneliness as a growing social reality that deserves urgent national attention.
Bartolo insisted that the proposed legislation “is not a matter of Government or Opposition,” but rather “a matter of responsibility towards the people.” He appealed to all Members of Parliament to support “a serious and constructive discussion,” adding that where improvements to the Bill are needed, they should be made together instead of allowing the legislative process to be unnecessarily delayed.
Highlighting the human impact of loneliness, Bartolo noted that every day there are elderly people, young people, persons with disabilities, carers and others facing social challenges who deserve to have their wellbeing placed above political differences. He said these individuals should not be overlooked simply because the issue is not always visible.
Concluding his appeal, Bartolo expressed hope that this legislature will send “a clear message that no one should feel alone” and that social wellbeing should become a national priority.
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