PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER “Failure to act is negligence — We know, and therefore we must act” – Speaker Anġlu Farrugia

“Failure to act is negligence — we know, and therefore we must act”, stated the Speaker of the House of Representatives Anġlu Farrugia while addressing those present during his opening address at the Parliamentary Diabetes Global Network (PDGN) Forum held at the Parliament of Malta.

In his intervention, the Speaker highlighted the rapid escalation of diabetes worldwide and the alarming rise of both Type 1 and Type 2 cases recorded in Malta over a short period. He underscored that the data is clear, the consequences are real, and the obligation to respond is immediate, before this phenomenon becomes a crisis . While reaffirming that early detection and education remain fundamental, he stressed that these must be accompanied by stronger regulation, safer workplaces, and accountability when negligence contributes to illness.

Speaker Farrugia also mentioned that combating diabetes requires a dual strategy of universal screening and comprehensive education paired with the mandatory overhaul of the systemic infrastructure that promotes disease through unhealthy food, workplace stress, and industries that profit from societal suffering.

Following opening remarks by the Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Diabetes Global Network Sir Michael Hurst, a keynote address was also delivered by the Rt Hon The Baroness May of Maidenhead, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom who shared her journey in diabetes, followed by a question and answer session with those present.

The Forum was also addressed by Romilda Zarb, MP, Chairperson of the Standing Committee of Health in the Parliament of Malta, and Stephen Spiteri MP, Shadow Minister for Health. They spoke about the Diabetes Policy in Malta and progress made in Malta. The forum was also attended by a number of MPs from both sides of the House.

Earlier in the day, the Rt Hon the Baroness May of Maidenhead paid a courtesy call upon the Speaker of the House of Representatives Anġlu Farrugia.