PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND PUBLIC CLEANLINESS AND THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIAT FOR FISHERIES, AQUACULTURE AND ANIMAL RIGHTS

A new scheme launched to support Local Councils in implementing Dog Parks and Cat Café projects within their communities

From today, Local Councils can apply for a scheme to implement open-space projects that integrate elements dedicated to pets. The scheme was announced by the Minister for the Environment and Energy Miriam Dalli and the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said.

“In the projects we are carrying out, we are continuing to involve people, communities, and various stakeholders. Through this scheme we are encouraging Local Councils to come forward with proposals so that together we can implement environmental projects both in existing spaces that need regeneration and in completely new ones. The aim remains to create different spaces within localities, and to further increase open spaces. In this case, we are looking to create areas where families can spend time with their pets in a safe, accessible environment that is also interesting for the animals. I look forward to seeing Local Councils join us in this vision," said Minister Miriam Dalli.

Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said explained that “through this scheme we are continuing to invest concretely in animal welfare and in our communities. We are giving Local Councils the opportunity to develop open spaces dedicated to a safe and sustainable environment for animals. We will be allocating €50,000 for each project, with a total investment of €750,000 dedicated to this scheme. This investment is also linked to Malta Vision 2050, particularly Pillar 4 and specifically macro measure 93 which focuses on the regeneration of public spaces." She thanked Animal Welfare and Project Green for their collaboration in ensuring the success of this scheme.

Project Green will provide the funds for these dog parks and cat cafés, while Local Councils will be responsible for implementing and maintaining these parks once they are completed. Conditions apply, including that the area must be at least 1,500 square metres in size, with 20% dedicated to animals. The scheme is being administered by the Animal Welfare Directorate, which will accept applications through submission on https://ahwd.gov.mt/en/animal-welfare-directorate/schemes/ until 30 April 2026.