Updated 1300
MEA, unions push for flexi-employment option for people who reach 61 years of age: Employers and unions are aligned in their stance on retirement age, advocating for individuals aged 61 to 64 to be permitted to continue working while receiving either a full or partial pension. However, under current regulations, this is not allowed. At present, individuals who turn 61 can opt for an early pension but must cease all gainful employment and have made the required contributions between the ages of 18 and the date of retirement, which varies based on their birth year. The Malta Employers Association, General Workers Union, and UHM-Voice of the Workers emphasised that given the current labour market conditions, individuals who choose to “retire” at the age of 61 should not be denied the opportunity to remain gainfully employed while still receiving a pension. (The Malta independent)
Reverse Osmosis producing two-thirds of tap water: The total water production from Reverse Osmosis (RO) plants has reached a record-breaking 22.8 million cubic meters, averaging 62,000 cubic meters per day. Desalinated water now constitutes 64% of the overall water blend, showing a significant increase from 57% in 2017, while groundwater accounts for 36%, a decrease from 43% in 2017. This was revealed by the Water Services Corporation in its Annual Report. The rise in RO water usage has led to a decrease in the salinity of tap water. In 2022, water salinity was reduced by 17% compared to average levels recorded in 2021. The target for 2023 is to maintain the salinity level at the same levels achieved in 2022. (Maltatoday)
Morning Briefing
PM calls for solution on migration issue in Med
PM Robert Abela highlighted the urgency of finding a resolution to the Mediterranean migration issue, while speaking on ONE Radio on Sunday. His statement comes in the wake of a tragic incident where hundreds of migrants were feared to have drowned off the coast of Greece, as well as Malta’s decision to abstain from the latest EU draft agreement on migrant distribution. Abela stated that the government’s primary objective is to save lives, even though it may resist the arrival of unauthorized immigrants. He expressed concern about the loss of lives at sea, many of which go unreported. Abela stressed that when such incidents are known, the preservation of lives becomes a sacred principle. While there may be resistance to migrant arrivals, the government aims to prioritize the safeguarding of lives to the greatest extent possible. (Times of Malta)
PN leader expresses concern at poverty rates
PN leader Bernard Dr Grech argued that Government priorities neglect the well-being of the people, especially those struggling with the cost of living. He highlighted the exclusion of foreign nationals in surveys, mentioned high poverty thresholds, and expressed concern about declining economic performance. Dr Grech emphasized the need for a Nationalist Government that plans and offers solutions to address these issues. Dr Grech referred to NSO statistics indicating that approximately 90,000 individuals in Malta are on the brink of poverty. He expressed concern that it is unacceptable for people in the country to lack peace of mind and decent living conditions. (TVM)
Leaders should serve other, Bishop insists
Archbishop Charles Scicluna stressed the importance of selfless service, cautioning against serving others for personal gain or vanity. He drew inspiration from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus sends out the apostles, empowering them to heal the sick and drive out impure spirits. Jesus urged them to give freely, just as they had received freely. Reflecting on Jesus’ metaphors, the Archbishop acknowledged the necessity of sending out disciples to serve. Jesus expressed compassion for crowds likened to “sheep without a shepherd” and recognized the abundance of work but the scarcity of workers in the metaphorical harvest. The Archbishop interpreted these metaphors as highlighting the essence of serving others, even in positions of leadership. (Newsbook)
