European Citizen’s Prize 2021 for Dar tal-Providenza

It was a special occasion for Fr Martin Micallef, Director of Dar tal-Provdenza, and Administrator Nadine Camilleri Cassano to be handed the Diploma of the European Citizen’s Prize 2021 on Tuesday 9th November 2021. The presentation was made by the European Parliament Vice-President and Chancellor of European Citizen’s Prize, Dita Charanzovà during a ceremony held at the Paul-Henri Spaak building in Brussels.

Charanzovà said that all the awarded projects for the years 2020-2021 are the examples, the inspirations and the real heroes for the work that they do in society.

MEPs Roberta Metsola and David Casa, who put forward the nomination of Dar tal-Providenza, said that the mission of the project submitted provides for homes in an atmosphere similar to that of the family, integrates and empowers persons with disability in the community in conformity with the norms and values of the EU and all this work went ahead even during the exceptionally difficult COVID-19 pandemic circumstances of last year.

During a commemorative medal presentation held at the Malta Europen Parliament office on 29th October 2021, Fr Martin expressed his appreciation for the recognition by the European Parliament and said the strategy of the EU for persons with disability for the decade between 2021 and 2030, is built around the recognition of the rights adopted by various other European countries; independent and, wherever possible, autonomous living; the elimination of discrimination as well as the creation of equal opportunities in every level possible.

The recognition of this work on a European level continues to encourage Dar tal-Providenza in its commitment, so that whatever is done at the Home is strengthened and that the sense of dignity towards persons with disability continues to gather steam in all the work that is done within this sector.

The Head of the European Parliament office in Malta, Dr Mario Sammut said that despite all the difficulties faced during the pandemic, Dar tal-Providenza continued to protect those most vulnerable in Maltese society. He also mentioned the excellent work done in these very difficult circumstances truly reflects the best of European values. The recognition of both the effort and dedication is of great importance to the European Parliament.

Prior to Tuesday’s ceremony, Fr Martin amd Camilleri Cassano met up with Maltese MEPs Roberta Metsola, Josianne Cutajar and Alex Agius Saliba.

Dr Agius Saliba said that Dar tal-Providenza and its project ‘Monument of Mercy’ demonstrates to all the European Institutions what we Maltese were already privileged to know. He praised the work done by Dar tal-Providenza and Fr Martin in particular for the spirit of community that is felt in the whole village of Siġġiewi.

Last year’s Maltese winners of the European Citizen’s Prize, the Lockdown Festival Group were presented with the award this year as no ceremony had taken place because of the COVID-19 pandemic.