Labour pledges legal recognition and fair pay for internships and traineeships<\/p>\n
Internships and traineeships would be formally recognised in Maltese law and students taking part in work-based learning would be entitled to fair pay under a new proposal announced by Prime Minister Robert Abela on Thursday.<\/p>\n
Speaking during a visit to MCAST, Abela said the measure aims to address a reality faced by many young people who spend months gaining experience through internships or traineeships without receiving any form of payment.<\/p>\n
He said a Labour government would launch the process to recognise work-based learning within Malta’s labour laws, giving internships and traineeships formal status while improving protections for students and recent graduates entering the workforce.<\/p>\n
“Many young people are carrying out internships during or after their studies without being paid,” Abela said.<\/p>\n
“Through this reform, students and graduates will receive fair remuneration, these experiences will gain formal recognition, and the quality of education will also improve,” he added.<\/p>\n
The proposal is the latest in a series of youth-focused measures being announced by Labour as part of its electoral campaign and was presented as part of the party’s wider vision to help young people balance work, studies and personal life.<\/p>\n
Among them is the “Kick Start” scheme, aimed at young people launching their own business or start-up.<\/p>\n
Under the proposal, youths would not pay tax on the first €30,000 they earn during their first three years of full-time work or while building a new business.<\/p>\n
The PL said this could leave young workers with up to €12,300 more in their pocket over three years.<\/p>\n
The party has also promised free legal assistance for young entrepreneurs setting up a start-up, together with an exemption from Malta Business Registry fees for the first five years of operation.<\/p>\n
Abela said Labour also plans to build on the “Intrapriża 16” initiative, which allowed 16- to 18-year-olds to open their first business, by introducing a mentorship programme involving experienced local entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n
“This will ensure young people have the support and knowledge they need to continue growing their businesses,” he said.<\/p>\n
Other proposals include a €200 annual Arts Pass for young people aged between 18 and 21, which could be used for concerts, theatre productions, exhibitions, films and other cultural events.<\/p>\n
Labour also promised to expand the Youth Fitness Support scheme beyond the current six-month free gym membership so it covers a wider range of physical activities.<\/p>\n
New mental health services were also promised at the campuses of MCAST, Junior College and the University of Malta.<\/p>\n
Abela also spoke about Labour’s proposed “My First Home” scheme, through which government would lend first-time buyers up to 25% of a property’s value interest-free.<\/p>\n
The Prime Minister said Labour’s proposals are intended to reflect “the realities young people are facing today,” while creating opportunities that give them greater financial stability and independence.<\/p>\n