In the presence of the minister for Inclusion and Quality of Life the Hon Julia
Farrugia Portelli and the Parliamentary Secretary for Sport, Recreation and
Voluntary Organizations the Hon Dr. Clifton Grima, the government through
SportMalta signed a contract wherein the land on which store number 36,
Barriera Wharf, Valletta has been transferred to the Birżebbuġa
Regatta Club.
Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli said how “this Government believes that sport is
one of the contributors for a better quality of life. In fact, this year we are
investing €13 million in projects and capital investment in sports, to give young
people the best platforms to practice different disciplines”. She mentioned
that after years of waiting, this project will make a big difference for the
Birżebbuġa Regatta Club rowers, who now can now train at the Grand Harbour
itself, therefore on the actual elements and currents in which the regatta takes
place. She concluded by saying that “our country is very fortunate to find many
volunteers to run sports entities amongst others. If it wasn’t for them it would
not have been easy for such entities not only to be initiated but to continue.
Therefore it is the duty of the Government to do everything possible to assist
this voluntary work.”
Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Clifton Grima explained how through this transfer
Regatta Club Birżebbuġa will have a store where they can keep their boats. He
went on to say that the Government’s commitment is to continue to fulfil its
electoral sports promises. He stated that this Government wants to adopt and
strengthen a sports culture from an early age. “As a Government, we are aware
that to do this we need to invest in sports facilities and associations
themselves, and that’s what we’re doing today. We believe in giving facilities
and help so that sports clubs can continue to grow and improve their services,
ultimately our children will gain and enjoy it all. This Government is committed
in investing so together we do another leap in quality. We want every sport to
be given the opportunity to flourish” said the Parliamentary Secretary.
Dr Luciano Busuttil, SportMalta Chairman reminded that this land donation
process boosts sports associations to continue to grow and attract more
youngsters and children to sport. When a club is given land, it is given autonomy to grow without other direct help by attracting investment.
Birżebbuġa Regatta Club president, Mr. Ian Farrugia described this event as a
dream come true, through which the club is looking forward to continuing
offering the best training necessary, now more than before since the land has
been transferred to them. This Government is committed to carry out various
projects for the benefit of several sport disciplines, while encouraging
organizations to get up and strengthen so to give athletes all the space to
develop and excel in sports.
