The public consultation process on the introduction of Miscarriage Leave in Malta has now entered its final phase, with the last consultation meeting taking place in Gozo.
During this closing session, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul emphasised that over the past three months, the Government has intensified discussions on this important topic. These sessions have not only served to gather personal experiences of miscarriage but have also allowed experts, social partners, and members of the public to share their feedback, suggestions, and proposals.
This final consultation meeting brought together Members of Parliament from both Government and Opposition, as well as a number of social partners, including the Gozo Regional Committee. Key speakers included Lara Sammut, an Allied Health Practitioner at Mater Dei Hospital and a lecturer at the University of Malta; Sarah Farrugia, a teacher who shared her personal experience; and Maria Grech Debono, a Systemic Family Psychotherapist at the Gozo General Hospital.
Dr Ellul underlined that holding the final session in Gozo was a deliberate effort to ensure that this national initiative is inclusive of all regions. He extended his thanks to the hundreds of professionals and individuals who participated and contributed to the consultation process.
“The next step,” said Dr Ellul, “is to give an opportunity to anyone who, for any reason, could not attend the in-person sessions but still wishes to share their thoughts and suggestions. These can now be submitted online.”
He also reiterated the Government’s commitment, “Malta will be one of the first countries to introduce fully-paid Miscarriage Leave covered by the state. This move strengthens workers’ rights and sends a clear message that this Government is here to provide support when people need it most.”
Lara Sammut referred to research by the University of Malta, which found that approximately 23% of women who experience a threatened miscarriage ultimately suffer pregnancy loss. Moreover, around 1,000 women per year seek medical support due to complications in the first trimester. She explained how the study has led to the creation of a scientific model that can predict pregnancy outcomes with 93% accuracy following a threatened miscarriage. This enables more effective and personalised medical interventions.
“Miscarriage leave should not be seen as a luxury or indulgence,” Sammut concluded. “It is a measure that acknowledges the need for physical, mental, and emotional recovery after the loss of a pregnancy. This public consultation is a crucial step towards giving dignity to experiences that, until now, have largely remained unspoken.”
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