PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY AND EMPLOYMENT Malta Prepared: more new vehicles for the Civil Protection Department

Another investment of over €7 million for an even better service for Maltese and Gozitan families

The Civil Protection Department has continued to strengthen its capabilities to provide an even better service to Maltese and Gozitan families through another investment of over €7 million in vehicles equipped with advanced technologies never before seen in Malta. This investment is aimed at ensuring that Malta remains fully prepared for every emergency and challenge.

During a press conference, Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri explained how this investment forms part of a long-term plan which, over recent years, has led to a major transformation within the Civil Protection Department.

The Minister stated that, with this investment, more than €10 million worth of new equipment for the Department has been inaugurated during the first four months of the year alone, an investment that is directly translating into greater safety, preparedness, and peace of mind for Maltese and Gozitan families.

“This is an investment that did not remain on paper. It is an investment that has been delivered, is being used by our workers and is making a real difference. Today, we have a clear track record that what we announce and plan, we carry out and deliver," Minister Camilleri said.

The investment includes two new vehicles for the Hazmat Unit, valued at nearly €3 million, equipped with advanced technology for the analysis of chemicals and hazardous materials, modern communication systems, as well as specialised protective equipment for workers.

The Minister emphasised that every investment is focused on the use of technology to ensure services become more efficient and effective, while also strengthening coordination between workers on site and the Department's headquarters.

Another investment of €4.5 million was also announced for two modern industrial firefighting vehicles designed for large-scale emergencies and complex industrial situations. These vehicles are equipped with advanced water and firefighting foam systems, high-powered pumps and superior facilities that further strengthen the Department's operational capabilities.

Minister Camilleri said that this investment demonstrates a clear shift in the way the country is investing in workers and essential services.

The Government remains committed to continuing its investment both in the Department's resources and in its workers, including through further improvements in their working conditions, following the signing of what has been described as the best agreement ever reached on their employment conditions.

While investment and preparedness remain crucial, the Minister stressed that prevention remains the best form of protection. Therefore, awareness and educational initiatives will continue to be strengthened in order to help prevent incidents before they occur.

The Director General of the Civil Protection Department Peter Paul Coleiro said that these investments are crucial for the Department to continue strengthening its preparedness for industrial incidents and emergencies involving hazardous materials. He explained that chemicals and hazardous substances are present across various sectors throughout the country, and therefore responses must be rapid, efficient and supported by the best technology available.

He also emphasised the importance of decontamination systems, which not only protect firefighters and emergency personnel during operations, but also ensure that, in the event of a large-scale emergency, a substantial number of people can be treated safely and efficiently.

The Director General added that the strategic distribution of specialised equipment across Malta and Gozo is essential to ensure teams can respond swiftly and minimise damage to people, property, and the environment.

Photo: MHSE