“Is there a bigger role for the private sector in the social field” was the theme of a business breakfast organized by Vassallo Group at the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry in Valletta. This event was one in a string of events organized by the Group to mark its 70th anniversary. The keynote speaker at the business seminar was Dr Andrew Azzopardi, a senior lecturer at the University of Malta who gave an overview of the welfare challenges experienced in Malta. He also described the role of social entrepreneurs as crucial since business people are generally driven by innovation and pro-activity. Vassallo Group Chairman, Nazzareno Vassallo spoke at length about Vassallo Group’s involvement in the social field since the early nineties, particularly through Caremalta. He announced that the Group will be venturing into a new sector through the opening of the first home for persons with disability and the setting up of HILA – Home to Independence and Limitless abilities. The first home, Casa Apap Bologna, will be located in Mosta. Minister for Finance Prof Edward Scicluna, who was present throughout the event remarked that the Government should step in to provide a service only when there is clearly an issue of market failure. However where the private sector is able to provide a more efficient service, the Government can let the private sector provide that service while it acts as a regulator. He also stressed out the importance of tripartite collaboration composed of the private sector, the public sector and NGOs including the Church for the provision of social welfare. A number of representatives from Vassallo Group, government department, the Church, the University of Malta as well as NGOs attended the seminar. Ms Rachel Attard, News Editor of The Malta Independent moderated the event. The Malta Independent is a media partner with Vassallo Group.