Pregnant Third Country Nationals Already In Malta To Keep Free Childcare, Minister Confirms
Third-country nationals already living in Malta who are expecting a baby will continue to benefit from free childcare, Minister for Equality and Civil Rights Rosianne Cutajar has confirmed.
The announcement comes following concerns over the Budget 2027 measures, which would see certain non-EU nationals without long-term residency lose access to free childcare services.
In a social media statement, Cutajar welcomed the decision, explaining that her Ministry had been holding discussions with other Government ministries over the past few days to find a solution.
"Common sense has prevailed," Cutajar said, expressing satisfaction that the Government had reached what she described as a fair decision.
The Minister explained that the clarification would provide peace of mind to families expecting a child, particularly during what can already be a sensitive and challenging period.
Cutajar also revealed that numerous individuals had contacted her to express their appreciation for the decision.
The announcement follows her earlier comments expressing personal discomfort with some of the Budget 2027 measures affecting third-country nationals, despite acknowledging the Government's economic reasoning behind them.
The updated arrangements are also expected to cover children who have already been registered for childcare but have not yet started attending. Further clarification on the eligibility criteria is expected from Jobsplus.
Cutajar stressed that foreign workers make an important contribution to Malta and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
Referring to Prime Minister Robert Abela's recent comments in Parliament, she reiterated that these workers are human beings who deserve the same dignity as everyone else.
"I am very comfortable that a sense of humanity is being safeguarded through the decisions we have taken in recent days," she said.
The Minister concluded by reaffirming her commitment to protecting minorities and vulnerable individuals in Malta.
What do you think about the Government's decision to retain free childcare for these families?
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