NEWS
June 21, 2023
Meeting with Hon Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli
MFPA held a very fruitful meeting with the Minister for Inclusion and Voluntary Organisations, Hon Julia Farrugia Portelli on 15 June 2023. The small delegation included MFPA’s President Mr James Licari, CEO Ms Norma Camilleri and the General Secretary Ms Marcelle Abela. MFPA highlighted its mission and objectives as well as the various projects it carried out, particularly in recent years. The delegation also pointed out the sterling work that all of its 17 member organisations carry out and their contribution towards a better society. Hon Farrugia Portelli expressed her gratitude for the work that MFPA and voluntary organisations carry out.
April 27, 2023
MFPA Council elects new Executive Committee
The Malta Federation of Professional Associations, MFPA, recently held elections for its Executive Committee (EC). Mr James Licari, from the Association of Professional Conservators and Restorers, was elected as the new President, after having served for two years as Vice-President Membership. Prof Ruth Falzon, Malta Association for the Counselling Profession, and Mr Demis Cachia, Malta Association of Occupational Therapists, were confirmed as Honorary Secretary and Treasurer respectively. Ms Kerry Hermitage, Maltese Association of Social Workers, was elected as the new Vice President Membership while Ms Daniela Vassallo, Association of Speech-Language Pathologists, was elected as the new Vice President Administration. MFPA thanks outgoing President Mr Ben Rizzo, Malta Institute of Accountants, for almost three decades of service in MFPA’s EC. He will continue representing MFPA in both CEPLIS (Council for European Liberal Professions) where he currently is one of the Vice-Presidents, as well as the Civil Society Committee, within MCESD. Thanks also go to Ing Saviour Baldacchino (Chamber of Engineers) for his contribution to the EC in the past two years as Vice President Administration. MFPA comprises of 17 professional organisations and the new EC promises to continue on the work carried out by the previous EC and work on the organisation’s mission to promote professions and professional standards.
April 1, 2023
MFPA meets European Parliament President Hon Roberta Metsola
A delegation from MFPA had the opportunity to have a courtesy meeting with the President of the European Parliament, Hon Roberta Metsola. The meeting was held on 28 March 2023 at the European Parliament. Hon Metsola was briefed about the mission and objectives of MFPA. During the meeting, the delegation had the opportunity to touch upon various topics related not only to the 17 different professions represented within the Federation, but also to professionals in general.
April 1, 2023
MUTUUS project concluding conference
On 28 March 2023, a delegation of eight representatives of MPFA attended the concluding conference of the EU-funded project Mutuus, which concerned social protection schemes for self-employed professionals. MFPA partnered with Confprofessioni, the Italian Federation of Professional Associations, which was the leader on this two-year long project. This conference was held at the European Parliament in Brussels and the MFPA delegation included members of the Executive Committee as well as representatives from some member organisations: Mr Ben Rizzo – President Mr James Licari – Vice-President Membership Ing Saviour Baldacchino – Vice-President Administration Mr Demis Cachia – Treasurer Ms Maryanne Ciappara – Kamra tal-Ispiżjara ta’ Malta Dr David Muscat – Dental Association of Malta Dr Jacob Vella- The Medical association of Malta Ms Marcelle Abela – General Secretary MFPA MFPA’s role throughout the project included the organisation of a national seminar which was held on 23 June 2022.
July 28, 2022
Il-Professjonisti f’Malta – Radio Programme on Campus FM
Radio programmes: MFPA produced a series of radio programmes on Campus FM between April and July 2022. During this series it presented the different professional organisations forming the Malta Federation of Professional Associations. Each programme presented a different organisation explaining what the profession entails, who they work with and how an individual can seek help and advice from the respective professional. This programme aimed to raise awareness about the different professions and provide information to listeners about when to seek help. It also showcased the sterling work that voluntary organisations carry out. The programme was presented by the CEO of MFPA Norma Camilleri. This project has been funded through the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector on behalf of Parliamentary Secretary for Sports, Recreation and Voluntary Organisations within the Ministry for Inclusion and Social Wellbeing. The archive of the programmes can be accessed here
June 23, 2022
Social Benefits for Self-Employed: from Policy to Practice
In its mission to collaborate with international organisations, MFPA partnered with Confprofessioni, the Italian Federation of Liberal Professionals, on an EU Funded Project ‘Mutuus’, VP/2020/001 Support for Social Dialogue. The project was led by Confprofessioni, and other partners included CEPLIS, Equal Ireland and Uni Europa. As part of its activities, MFPA organised a business breakfast in collaboration with The Malta Independent, entitled 'Social Benefits for Self-Employed: from Policy to Practice'. The event was held on Thursday 23 June 8:15 - 11am, at the Marriott Hotel & Spa, St Julians. The programme included: keynote speech by Mr Grazio Barbara, DG Social Security panel discussion moderated by Neil Camilleri, Editor-in-Chief, The Malta Independent with the participation of Ms Abigail Mamo, CEO, Malta Chamber of SME’s, Mr Gian Paul Gauci, Deputy CEO, Union Ħaddiema Magћqudin and Victor Carachi, President General Workers’ Union. introductions by Mr Benjamin Rizzo, President MFPA and Ms Norma Camilleri, CEO MFPA Participants at the event included representatives from unions, professional associations, government as well as professionals in self-employment. Media reports covering the event and related articles: The Malta Independent – event coverage Lower birth rates led to necessity to resort to private pension schemes The evolving employment market, ensuring the fair adaptability to new market trends
March 17, 2022
The Perception of the public on the Professional research and seminar
MFPA held a seminar to conclude its 50th anniversary celebrations. Findings of the research "The perception of the public on the professional", carried out by MFPA, were presented. Sound work ethic, reasonable fees and ability to communicate/speak in a way that the client can understand are the top three priorities for service users when choosing a professional. Click here for a detailed report on the research. The project was funded by the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector. The programme included: A presentation of the research findings by Ms Vanessa Bajada, Director of Market Research at Esprimi. Panel discussion by Ms Roberta Farrugia Debono, Clinical psychologist & Family Therapist, Ing Helga Pizzuto, Chairperson MCCAA - Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority, and Rev Dr Carlo Calleja, Ethics lecturer, University of Malta. The discussion was moderated by Neil Camilleri, Editor-in-chief, The Malta Independent. Introductions by Mr Benjamin Rizzo, President MFPA and Ms Norma Camilleri, CEO MFPA Media reports covering the event and related articles: The Malta Independent – event coverage The perception of the public on the professional Cultivating Trust
February 22, 2021
MFPA celebrates its 50th anniversary
An eminent architect in the early 1970s, Mr Roger Degiorgio, shared his idea of setting up a federation for professional organisations, with Mr John Chadwick, then Director of the Commonwealth Foundation. The latter immediately gave his full support to this concept and on 19 February 1971, the Malta Federation of Professional Bodies was born, changing its name to Malta Federation of Professional Associations (MFPA) in 1999. It was founded by seven members, five of which are still active today: Kamra tal-Periti, Dental Association of Malta, Malta Institute of Accountants, Medical Association of Malta and Malta Association of Electrical Engineers, which later joined other engineering disciplines and formed the Chamber of Engineers. The other two founding members, the Economic Society of Malta and the Graduate Teachers Association dissolved a few years later. The late Economist Prof Salvinu Busuttil was the first President of MFPA. With the introduction of more courses at the University of Malta, the professional population in Malta increased, more professional organisations were established and hence the Federation started attracting more members. Today MFPA comprises 17 professional organisations representing approximately 10,000 professionals in Malta. The aims and objectives set in 1971 are still valid today: to promote different professions; to maintain professional standards; to promote inter-professional relationships; and to contribute towards the advancement of the interests of society. Since its foundation, MFPA sought to contribute to the improvement of Maltese society by bringing the professionals’ perspective to authorities, politicians and policy makers. It also participated actively during the period of Malta’s accession in the EU, the Pensions Reform as well as the Professional Qualifications Directive. One of the roles of the Federation is to bring together different member organisations to discuss topics of general and common interest. This leads to better understanding of different professions and promote interdisciplinary relationships. International affiliations For the past 17 years, the MFPA has been involved at European level through its membership within the European Council of the Liberal Professions, CEPLIS. It has contributed to various programmes such as the publication of the Common Values for Professionals. CEPLIS Director General Theodoros Koutroubas, claimed that “MFPA has achieved results and reputation inversely proportional to the size of its beautiful island country.” The Federation has also collaborated in various EU funded projects with Confprofessioni, the Italian Federation of Liberal professionals. Its President, Gaetano Stella, claimed that MFPA has always been able to play a key role in accompanying and representing Maltese liberal professionals, thanks to its presence and the continuity of its action: “The collaboration between our Confederations has been strengthened year after year by the common European commitment, by operating for the benefit of occupational sustainability of professional firms, training and professional ethics and joining forces in partnerships in important European projects.” The current President of MFPA, Ms Roberta Farrugia Debono, believes that the Federation has a very important role in society. She sees its main role to be the voice of the liberal professional in civil society: “It has also the role of putting on the national agenda issues that are of interest both to the professionals themselves as well as the persons who avail themselves of the services of the professional. It promotes good ethical practice at the basis of what constitutes the work of a professional.” Ms Farrugia Debono’s vision for the Federation is that it becomes more of a stakeholder on the national scene such that the collective expertise is used to promote a better society that is focussed on the well-being of every individual. Throughout this 50th anniversary year, MFPA will be holding various activities and events to increase its visibility. In recent years it embarked on two different projects: The Needs of the Professional in Gozo, funded by Gozo NGO scheme, and Professional Ethics: Safeguarding the service to the consumer, funded by the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme, managed by MCVS. The research findings of the first highlighted the different challenges that professionals in Gozo encounter in Gozo rather than when working in Malta. The research in the second project outlined the perception of university students, new professionals, and consumers (service users) with regard to professional ethics. A new research will now be carried out to address the challenges highlighted in the previous two studies. MFPA strongly feels that its sector’s strict adherence to ethical values constitutes much more than a mere legal obligation. It is the ultimate guarantee of a high-quality service to the consumer and the cornerstone of a relationship of trust between the professional and the clients/patients. The Federation continues to develop initiatives that accentuate the importance of professional ethics at a national level, including collaboration with member EU states. It is its contribution towards a competitive and ever-growing economy that remains at the service of citizens. MFPA is grateful to all present and past Presidents and Council members who have contributed, on a voluntary basis, to the Federation during these 50 years. The member organisations forming part of the Federation are: Association of Podiatrists of Malta (APM) Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (ASLP) Chamber of Engineers (CoE) Dental Association of Malta (DAM) Kamra tal-Periti (KTP) Malta Association of Occupational Therapists (MAOT) Malta Association of Physiotherapists (MAP) Malta Association of Professional Conservators and Restorers (MAPCo-Re) Malta Association of Social Workers (MASW) Malta Association for the Counselling Profession (MACP) Malta Chamber of Pharmacists (MCOP) Malta Chamber of Psychologists (MCP) Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA) Malta Veterinary Association (MVA) Maltese Association of Youth Workers (MAY) Medical Association of Malta (MAM) Society of Medical Radiographers Malta (SRM)
February 22, 2021
MFPA Appeals To Government To Be Vigilant And Stop Mass Events
The Malta Federation of Professional Associations is concerned about the impact that mass events (political, secular and religious) are having on the number of Covid-19 cases in Malta. MFPA reiterates the message it has issued in previous statements. It believes that, although resuming economical activities is important for the country, authorities must ensure the balance between the health of the nation and the economy. Opening up for tourism is not the same thing as promoting mass events. It is crucial to implement policies through an evidence-based approach, and to value what professionals are saying. An increase in cases will definitely not help destination management companies, the tourist industry and the government itself to promote our country as a safe destination. For instance, we should not be hosting mass events that were cancelled in other countries, merely to attract more tourists. We appeal for a sensible approach so that we can protect other segments within the tourism industry, which ensure a more constant support to our economy. Should the infection rate go out of control, the whole of the economy will suffer once again. We cannot jeopardise everyone’s sacrifices, especially those of front liners, earlier this year for a very small sector of the economy. It is also worrying that festa related activities, such as band marches and street parties, are being organised. These attract large groups of people without respecting social distancing and other precautions. We are also concerned that large number of people are congregating inside churches before pilgrimages take place. We appeal to ecclesiastical authorities to ensure that social distancing and use of masks/visors in churches are practiced in all churches. Politicians have a duty to safeguard public health, as much as to ensure a healthy economy. We must acknowledge that we are in “post partial lockdown period”, and not in “post covid-19 period”. Norms for all different economic operations and the population issued by the Superintendence of Public Health, which are still in force, should be publicly implemented by all, without regard to their societal rank. We should all set an example, whilst ensuring the credible enforcement of these precautions in society. The recent mass political activities, where those attending, including politicians and others addressing the event neither wore any masks/visors, nor observed the necessary social distancing, and resorting to frequent hand shaking, is very worrying and risky and also transmits to the general public the wrong message that CoVid-19 is now over. Once again, MFPA emphasizes the importance of unequivocal information to the public. Mixed messages are leading to individuals feeling anxious, insecure and afraid, exacerbating mental health issues.. The minimal recommendations constantly reiterated by WHO and the local Health Authorities, to wear masks, respect social distancing and avoid hand shaking and frequent sanitizing, should be respected by all. The MFPA represents a mix of professions from both the healthcare and economy sectors. It joins other organisations such as the specialist medical organisations, Public Health Association, as well as MFPA’s own organisations the Medical Association of Malta (MAM) and the Malta Chamber of Pharmacists (MCOP) who already issued statements asking the government to reconsider the present position on the holding of all forms of mass events. All member organisations are concerned and augur that all citizens realise the impact a second (and worse) wave may have on our country. This statement is endorsed by member organisations of MFPA: Association of Podiatrists of Malta, Association of Speech-Language Pathologists, Chamber of Engineers, Dental Association of Malta, Kamra tal-Periti, Malta Association for the Counselling Profession, Medical Association of Malta, Malta Association of Occupational Therapists, Malta Association of Physiotherapists, Malta Association of Professional Conservators and Restorers, Maltese Association of Social Workers, Maltese Association of Youth Workers, Malta Chamber of Pharmacists, Malta Chamber of Psychologists, Malta Institute of Accountants, Malta Veterinary Association and Society of Medical Radiographers. Government must be vigilant – stop mass events FINAL 28 Jul.docx
December 18, 2020
Open letter supporting people living with HIV
Hon. Minister Fearne, Minister for Health Hon Julia Farrugia, Minister for Inclusion and Social Well Being Hon Deo Debattista, Parliamentary Secretary Consumer Protection Mr. Karl Farrugia, CEO Procurement Ms Isabella Vella, CEO POYC Dear Hon. Minister Fearne, As President of the Malta Federation of Professional Association, I was alerted to another national health crisis that has been affecting the country in the past days regarding the shortage of HIV medication. Whilst I notice with satisfaction the recent news articles and the press release by the Ministry for Health of new medication for people living with HIV, currently this is not yet available leaving some of the persons living with HIV without the treatment they are required to take daily. I acknowledge that there are plans with relevant professionals for the drug replacement, the fact that there is currently shortage of the medication in the country for persons living with HIV is very worrying. Specialists in the field report that such shortage is having devastating and life-threatening impact on these persons’ lives. I was shocked to learn that people living with HIV have been reduced to beggars by using social media to request donation from other patients in order to curb the shortage. As President of MFPA, which brings together Professionals from the health sector and other sectors, I would like to show our solidarity with the professionals involved directly with this client group who are having a difficult time adhering to the core obligations of their profession. This is not out of their free will but because of lack of availability of necessary resources to do their work properly. I acknowledge the difficulties created by COVID-19 and by Brexit, however this cannot be used as an excuse for poor planning. The Health authorities were already aware that treatment was severely outdated and detrimental to the health of those who relied on them. Had timely action been taken, there would have been ample time to manage a proper transition even when considering the current difficulties. Whilst showing full solidarity with persons living with HIV, I remind you, that time and time again, MFPA has been very vocal in requesting that health authorities take the advice of professionals involved in a timely manner when effecting such changes this will surely have a more positive outcome for everyone. I am very aware that apart from physical consequences such shortage had a strong impact on the patients’ mental health status and thus we would like to support and encourage the professionals involved in supporting both physical and mental wellbeing of this patient group. I would like to appeal to everyone’s utmost good will and efforts to sort this issue as soon as possible and have the required medication available for patients before it is too late. This letter is being endorsed by the following associations: Association of Podiatry Malta Association of Speech-Language Pathologists Chamber of Engineers Dental Association Malta Malta Association of the Counselling Profession Malta Association of Occupational Therapists Malta Association of Physiotherapists Malta Association of Professional Conservators and Restorers Malta Association of Social Workers Malta Association of Youth Workers Malta Chamber of Psychologists Malta Veterinarian Association Society of Medical Radiographers Roberta Farrugia Debono President Malta Federation of Professional Associations
August 12, 2021
MFPA newsletter 04
The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and Malta The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is an institution established by the Treaty of Rome. Malta has been awarded 5 places in it. This institution together with the Committee of Regions (represented by the Malta Mayors Institution) must be asked the right to comment on all directives that the EU commission will be working on and issuing.The EESC is made up of three sectors: one representing employers, another representing workers and the third representing NGO’s called Diversity group. The EESC Malta representatives this year are Stefano Mallia (who also holds the Presidency of the Employers’ Section) and Doris Sammut from the Malta Employers Association, MEA, representing the employers. Representing workers are Jason Deguara (GWU) and Philip von Brockdorff (UHM). Benjamin Rizzo, who is also President of MFPA, represents the Group 3 which includes representatives from NGOs all over Europe. Mr Rizzo’s appointment was voted, first by the section of professionals within the Civil Society Committee (CSC), and then by the 12 sector leaders of the CSC within MCESD. All appointments are supported by the Maltese government. The members are then divided into six main sectors within the EESC structure and each member attempts to be appointed on a study group to work on and propose an opinion of all topics chosen by the EU commission. This opinion is discussed first in one of the six chosen sectors, where there will be around 110 members for the three groupings and then at plenary with around 320 members. Each member is free to make and suggest adjustments to the final document. A vote is then taken and the final version of the opinion is sent to the EU commission. The EU commission then gives its views within 3 to 4 months stating what it will accept from the opinion and providing reasons for its decision. Section meetings and plenary meetings are held practically every month except August. The Maltese members usually travel to Brussels, or lately via zoom meetings, to give their views and vote on the opinions. Professional Ethics: Safeguarding the service to the consumer In 2018, MFPA carried out the project Professional Ethics: Safeguarding the service to the consumer thanks to funds through the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector on behalf of Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Sports and Voluntary Organisations within the Ministry for Education and Employment. This project entailed carrying out two quantitative studies with two essential cohorts, namely, the Consumer who makes use of services offered by Professionals in Malta and University students and fresh graduates, who will be the Professionals of tomorrow.MFPA commissioned M.FSADNI & Associates, an independent market research consultancy firm to carry out both studies on its behalf. We will present salient research findings of both studies in this newsletter issue and others to follow. A Study on End-User Customers’ Perceptions on Services offered by Professionals in Malta The overriding objective of this Study aimed at obtaining a sound understanding of the views, attitudes and perceptions of individuals (end-user customers) who used the services of professionals (various) in the last three years, hailing across Malta and Gozo. This Study, which was carried out in September-October 2018, was carried out with 400 consumer respondents. This study research findings ensured a statistical significance at a confidence interval (margin of error) of +/- 4.9 at a 95% confidence level. Sourcing a professional and the salient expectations When asked on how they source a professional in a particular field when requiring such services for the first time: – 3 in 5 end-user customers source a professional through word-of-mouth recommendation when requiring a service for the first time. – 1 in 4 end-user customers rely on recommendations from other specialists in the field to source a professional. – The salient expectations of customers when receiving a professional service include: to receive a good service; the professional is to act in a professional manner; should show empathy towards the customer and be a good listener. Consumers’ Understanding of the term ‘Code of Professional Ethics’ – Some 80% of customers believe that the term ‘Code of Professional Ethics’ refers to a set of rules; others believe that it refers to confidentiality and work being conducted in a professional manner. – Only 1 in 2 customers believe that local professionals adhere to their code of professional ethics and some 40% of customers consult more than one professional for the same problem/service. – A high 84% of customers believe that professionals are legally obliged to follow a code of ethics when providing a service. Association of Podiatrists Malta Podiatry is a healthcare profession which deals with the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and management of medical conditions and injuries effecting the foot and ankle. The foot as, described by Leonardo da Vinci, “is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art.” Therefore, this elaborate structure requires a specialised profession with the knowledge and capability to meet its demands.The Podiatry profession is a relatively young profession in the Maltese healthcare system with Podiatrists only becoming state registered in the late 1980’s and even then, the number of Podiatrist was small. The Association of Podiatrists Malta (APM) was founded in December 1999 and since then it has continued to grow. APM is a voluntary non-profit and apolitical organisation set up to represent Podiatrists in Malta. Its main priorities, as set by the organisations’ statute, are to maintain and upgrade standards for Podiatry in Malta according to the worldwide standards, promote foot related health amongst the general public and to act as an active voice for Podiatrists as health care professionals in Malta. APM’s activity goes beyond Maltese soil. It is affiliated with the International Federation of Podiatrists (FIP), where the current President of APM, Ivan Farrugia, was recently re-elected as Vice-President. The APM would like to congratulate the Malta Federation of Professional Association on its 50th Anniversary and looks forward to continue growing the relationship for both the […]
July 20, 2021
MFPA Newsletter 03
MFPA’s International affiliations and projects For the past 17 years, the MFPA has been involved at European level through its membership within the European Council of the Liberal Professions, CEPLIS. It has contributed to various programmes such as the publication of the Common Values for Professionals. CEPLIS Director General Theodoros Koutroubas, claimed that “MFPA has achieved results and reputation inversely proportional to the size of its beautiful island country.”The Federation has also collaborated in various EU funded projects with Confprofessioni, the Italian Federation of Liberal professionals. Its President, Gaetano Stella, claimed that MFPA has always been able to play a key role in accompanying and representing Maltese liberal professionals, thanks to its presence and the continuity of its action: “The collaboration between our Confederations has been strengthened year after year by the common European commitment, by operating for the benefit of occupational sustainability of professional firms, training and professional ethics and joining forces in partnerships in important European projects.” Throughout this 50th anniversary year, MFPA will be holding various activities and events to increase its visibility. In recent years it embarked on two different projects: The Needs of the Professional in Gozo, funded by Gozo NGO scheme, and Professional Ethics: Safeguarding the service to the consumer, funded by the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme, managed by MCVS. The research findings of the first highlighted the different challenges that professionals in Gozo encounter in Gozo rather than when working in Malta. The research in the second project outlined the perception of university students, new professionals and consumers (service users) with regard to professional ethics. A new research will now be carried out to address the challenges highlighted in the previous two studies. MFPA strongly feels that its sector’s strict adherence to ethical values constitutes much more than a mere legal obligation. It is the ultimate guarantee of a high-quality service to the consumer and the cornerstone of a relationship of trust between the professional and the clients/patients. The Federation continues to develop initiatives that accentuate the importance of professional ethics at a national level, including collaboration with member EU states. It is its contribution towards a competitive and ever-growing economy that remains at the service of citizens. MFPA is grateful to all present and past Presidents and Council members who have contributed, on a voluntary basis, to the Federation during these 50 years. Malta Association for the Counselling Profession – MACP In 1999 a group of counsellors started discussing the possibility of forming an association for counsellors. The first executive council was elected, and a proposal drafted. Its main objective was to set up a professional body to represent the profession of counselling and to safeguard professional standards.The first newsletter was published in March 2002. Professional development sessions for the members and people using helping skills soon followed. These included avoiding burnout; making the best of supervision; storytelling; sand therapy. After 2015 and following members’ feedback, MACP started organising short three-hour training sessions rather than a whole week’s training. MACP has also hosted the annual conference of the International Association for Counselling twice, in 2008 and 2015. The most important endeavour for MACP was to regulate the profession which became a reality on 24th February 2015 with the 3rd Reading of the Counselling Bill and with its enactment on 3rd March 2015. This involved establishing standards of practice to include supervision and CPD hours in order for counselling professionals to receive an annual warrant; also to set up an independent Complaints Board. The immense work, time & energy that had gone into the preparation of the document that went on to become a Bill in parliament, cannot be quantified. MACP has been instrumental in lobbying for counsellor’s to be placed in all sectors of society, in context where counsellors had historically only working in schools or with the Curia (Kana). MACP has managed to make the public and private employment sector aware of its profession. MACP is currently working on ensuring that all insurance companies include counselling in their list of professions, that counsellors become VAT exempt like other helping professions and on the latest collective agreement of the Ministry for Education. MACP is also currently working on creating on a digital platform and application to facilitate counsellors work to facilitate the record keeping. MACP is also planning a training programme over a span of a number of months so that different workshops are covered. MACP keeps itself abreast with current issues and, together with the Malta Federation of Professional Associations, or on its own, issues relevant press releases. Letter from ConfProfessioni President Gaetano Stella ConfProfessioni, the Italian Confederation of Liberal Professions, expresses its warmest congratulations on the occasion of the important milestone reached by MFPA. Since 17th February 1971, many events and changes have taken place throughout the world, in Europe and in Malta, up until to the current pandemic situation, with its dramatic health, economic and social consequences.MFPA has always been able to play a key role in accompanying and representing Maltese liberal professionals, thanks to its presence and the continuity of its action. The collaboration between our Confederations has been strengthened year after year by the common European commitment, by operating for the benefit of occupational sustainability of professional firms, training and professional ethics and joining forces in partnerships in important European projects. In all this we were able to appreciate the valuable relationship with Mr. Ben Rizzo, who has always played an important role within your Confederation and is an important reference point also at European level, for his role both in CEPLIS and in EESC. We would like to think that this relationship evolved into friendship, which was enriched by his participation in our fiftieth anniversary in 2016. In all this we were able to appreciate the valuable relationship with the President of MFPA, Mr. Ben Rizzo, who apart from his role within your Confederation, he is an important reference point also at European level, for his role in both CEPLIS and the EESC. We were […]
June 11, 2021
MFPA Newsletter Issue 02/21
Address by President Mr Ben Rizzo Dear Colleagues,Following the April AGM, where a new Executive Committee was voted to lead MFPA, I am honoured to address you as the new President of the Federation. During that meeting it was also decided to appoint a CEO for MFPA, who will and already is helping the Federation to function more efficiently. The Council has identified, these last years, that the management structure of MFPA has to be more flexible to respond to the quasi instant replies needed in today’s new telecommunication world. The onus is on the new executive to bring change, as to how the Federation operates, keeping in mind the financial and ethical issues that we as professionals hold dear. The world is moving fast and we must also have protocols in place to respond to these new needs. In the coming months the Council will be asked to participate and decide on how to move forward together. This year is also the 50th Anniversary of the existence of MFPA. A subcommittee, set for this purpose, has planned and put in motion effective targets and milestones that we should reach. For this to be achieved we have managed to get funds from the Voluntary Organisation Projects Scheme, managed by MCVS, to implement this project. One of the targets is to raise awareness on the role of professionals in helping members of society lead a better life. I look forward to your participation in this project. Our old way of doing things is changing and we must see this as something positive. We have to follow and draft new beginnings and targets. Some professionals and business might have felt the sting of the pandemic but our education and training will help us to restructure ourselves, our practice and our business. The opportunity offered by the Covid-19 vaccine will lead to a better, more secure life for us and our families. Hence, I encourage you all to participate and take the vaccine. We must look at the future with new eyes and do our utmost in order to guarantee a better future for us and for our nation. History of MFPA An eminent architect in the early 1970s, Mr Roger Degiorgio, shared his idea of setting up a federation for professional organisations, with Mr John Chadwick, then Director of the Commonwealth Foundation. The latter immediately gave his full support to this concept and on 19 February 1971, the Malta Federation of Professional Bodies was born, changing its name to Malta Federation of Professional Associations (MFPA) in 1999. It was founded by seven members, five of which are still active today: Kamra tal-Periti, Dental Association of Malta, Malta Institute of Accountants, Medical Association of Malta and Malta Association of Electrical Engineers, which later joined other engineering disciplines and formed the Chamber of Engineers. The other two founding members, the Economic Society of Malta and the Graduate Teachers Association dissolved a few years later. The late Economist Prof Salvinu Busuttil was the first President of MFPA.With the introduction of more courses at the University of Malta, the professional population in Malta increased, more professional organisations were established and hence the Federation started attracting more members. Today MFPA comprises 17 professional organisations representing approximately 10,000 professionals in Malta. The aims and objectives set in 1971 are still valid today: ● to promote different professions; ● to maintain professional standards; ● to promote inter-professional relationships; and ● to contribute towards the advancement of the interests of society. Since its foundation, MFPA sought to contribute to the improvement of Maltese society by bringing the professionals’ perspective to authorities, politicians and policy makers. It also participated actively during the period of Malta’s accession in the EU, the Pensions Reform as well as the Professional Qualifications Directive. One of the roles of the Federation is to bring together different member organisations to discuss topics of general and common interest. This leads to better understanding of different professions and promote interdisciplinary relationships. The member organisations forming part of the Federation are: ● Association of Podiatrists of Malta (APM) ● Association of Speech-Language Pathologists (ASLP) ● Chamber of Engineers (CoE) ● Dental Association of Malta (DAM) ● Kamra tal-Periti (KTP) ● Malta Association of Occupational Therapists (MAOT) ● Malta Association of Physiotherapists (MAP) ● Malta Association of Professional Conservators and Restorers (MAPCo-Re) ● Malta Association of Social Workers (MASW) ● Malta Association for the Counselling Profession (MACP) ● Malta Chamber of Pharmacists (MCOP) ● Malta Chamber of Psychologists (MCP) ● Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA) ● Malta Veterinary Association (MVA) ● Maltese Association of Youth Workers (MAY) ● Medical Association of Malta (MAM) ● Society of Medical Radiographers (SRM) The Malta Institute of Accountants The Malta Institute of Accountants is the voice of the accountancy profession in Malta. Founded in 1965, the MIA has established itself as one of the biggest professional bodies in the country, with a membership exceeding 3,500.Accountancy is a major contributor to Malta’s economic success and the MIA is committed to the improvement of the profession, at par with global standards and in line with the country’s legal framework. The Institute supports accountants with specialised guidance, technical updates, and training and development opportunities. As an officially recognised professional body, it also carries out specific functions delegated by the state regulator. Part of the MIA’s mission is to represent the interests of its members with strategic national and international stakeholders as well as with the general public. It also seeks to attract new talent and facilitates the passage of potential candidates into the profession. The Institute is one of the founding members of the Malta Federation of Professional Associations and remains an active promoter of inter-professional dialogue and cooperation. The MIA’s vision for the evolution of the accountancy profession is rooted in the values of integrity, accountability, innovation, responsibility, excellence, and teamwork. The Malta Chamber of Pharmacists / Kamra Tal-Ispizjara Ta’Malta The Malta Chamber of Pharmacists congratulates the MFPA on its 50 year anniversary. Chamber officials have […]
May 3, 2021
MFPA newsletter issue 01/21
Address by outgoing President Ms Roberta Farrugia Debono Welcome to the first edition of the MFPA newsletter. As part of the anniversary celebrations we felt it was important to reach out to to the members of the Member Organizations through a newsletter. Through my 12 years of active involvement in the Council of MFPA I have come to know the hard work that is done by MFPA in promoting issues that are of importance for the professional. In the past year, as President, I have learnt more about the beauty of engaging in conversations that celebrate the diversity of the different professions who are still bound together by one overarching theme, good ethical practice. My hope is that through this newsletter you will all come to appreciate more the different facets of professional practice here in Malta and the enormous work that is done by the different organisations as well as MFPA in promoting the well-being of professionals as well as their clients. Something that always impresses me is that all this work is done on a voluntary basis.I believe that the Federation has a very important role in society and see its main role to be the voice of the liberal professional in civil society. It has also the role of putting on the national agenda issues that are of interest both to the professionals themselves as well as the persons who avail themselves of the services of the professional. It promotes good ethical practice at the basis of what constitutes the work of a professional. As I reach my end of my one-year term as President of this organisation, I augur the new Executive Committee, together with the Council, in the Federation’s continuous strive to become more of a stakeholder on the national scene such that the collective expertise is used to promote a better society that is focussed on the well-being of every individual. I conclude by saluting the many Council members of each organisation and MFPA for the relentless hard work that they put in with the utmost commitment and dedication to their profession. New Executive Committee for MFPA One of the aims of this newsletter is to provide information about the history of MFPA, information about projects it carried out throughout the years as well as its contribution to society. All this information will be shared in coming issues.The term of the 2020-2021 Executive Committee has come to an end and elections were held during the Annual General Meeting held on 26 April 2021. The new composition of the Executive Committee is as follows: President Benjamin Rizzo (Malta Institute of Accountants) Vice-President Administration Ruth Falzon (Malta Association for the Counselling Profession) Vice-President Membership Saviour Baldacchino (Chamber of Engineers) Treasurer Demis Cachia (Malta Association of Occupational Therapists) Secretary Yvonne Midolo (Association of Podiatrists Malta) With the ever-growing needs of professional voluntary organisations in line with the needs of society, the Council of MFPA has for the first time appointed a Chief Executive Officer to help with the smooth running of the organisation and address its needs more efficiently. Norma Camilleri, from the Association of Speech-Language Pathologists, was appointed in this role. Chamber of Engineers Engineers constitute a founding pillar on which the MFPA is built. Back in 1971, the Malta Association of Electrical Engineers was one of the founding members of the MFPA. This engineering organization within the Joint Group of the profession went on to form the Chamber of Professional Engineers in 1975.On 9th June 1978, the Chamber of Engineers (CoE) was officially founded and since then the organization has continued growing and renewing its vision to be recognized as an essential, dynamic engineering organization by contributing in a significant and professional manner to the advancement of our society. After its inception, the CoE has successfully pursued the regulation of the profession through the Engineering Profession Act (Cap. 321) and the formation of the Engineering Profession Warrant and a Code of Ethics. Nowadays, the CoE continues to represent engineers on various relevant for a, providing opportunities to members, organizing conferences and events while advocating the advancement of the profession. The organization had 15 Presidents through 42 years with the current, Inġ. Malcolm Zammit, having taken office on 3rd March 2021 together with an energized Executive Council. The CoE remains an active member of MFPA, having Inġ. Saviour Baldacchino as Vice-President – Membership who represents the CoE on MFPA Council together with Inġ. Johan Psaila. The Chamber of Engineers congratulates MFPA and all its member organisations on this 50th Anniversary and anticipates more regeneration and growth in the Association for the benefit of professionals in Malta. The Dental Association of Malta The Dental Association of Malta was founded in 1944.This scientific Association is non- political and non-profitable. The main objectives of the Association are to promote the profession of dentistry and maintain, safeguard and honour the interests of the dental profession as well as promoting the ethical conduct of its members.The Association represents its members in relation to the government, insurances, licences as well as other authorities and disciplines. It also collects and preserves dental literature and makes it available to the profession namely through the Dental Journal -The Dental Probe. The editor summarises every DAM lecture for the members in the journal. In normal times, the Association organises postgraduate lectures regularly for its members as well as social events such as St Apollonia – our feast on February 10th of each year. The Dental Association has in recent years organised the first ever Council of European Dentists conference in Malta as well as the first Mediterranean Dental Conference. In 2020 a two-day dental radiography conference was organised. In recent years we have also organised numerous well attended courses on endodontics, implants, restorative dentistry, occlusion. With every eligible course a CPD certificate is provided. The DAM is a member of the Council of European Dentists, CED, as well as the World Dental Federation, FDI. DAM also has an EU liasion officer who regularly attends meetings […]
