Doctors to intensify directives after ‘lack of consultation’
The doctors’ union plans to intensify its directives on Wednesday following an unproductive meeting with the government on Friday. The Medical Association of Malta (MAM) has been at odds with the government over the lack of consultation regarding the outsourcing of emergency services to private hospitals. In response, the union recently instructed its members to suspend patient transfers to private hospitals as part of its directives. MAM president Martin Balzan highlighted concerns about understaffed health centres and emergency departments. The union pointed out that, despite a growing population, an increasing number of doctors are leaving the public health service, creating what it described as an “untenable” situation. (Times of Malta)
Cassola launches Momentum Party
Professor Arnold Cassola, an independent election candidate, has been named chairperson of Momentum, a newly established centrist party launched on Friday. During the launch press conference, the party introduced its committee, composed of individuals from diverse professional and personal backgrounds. Members include junior architect and art enthusiast Sumaya Ben Saad, scientist and academic Dr Matthew Agius, secondary school teacher Katya Compagno, experienced primary school educator Natasha Azzopardi, retired banker and party treasurer Carmel Asciak, tech entrepreneur and Secretary General Mark Camilleri Gambin, and Chairperson Professor Cassola. (The Malta Independent)
Vitals trial divided in six proceedings
The case involving Chris Fearne, Edward Scicluna, and 13 others for their alleged involvement in the fraudulent Vitals deal has been divided into six separate proceedings. On Friday, prosecutors requested the separation of cases, a move approved by Magistrate Leonard Caruana. The initial decision to split the arraignment of 24 individuals into just two cases had raised questions last year, as top politicians, civil servants, and companies were charged over the Vitals deal. All the accused have pleaded not guilty to the charges. Chris Fearne and Edward Scicluna will face trial together, while civil servants Alfred Camilleri, Joseph Rapa, and Ronald Mizzi will be tried in a separate case. Meanwhile, DF Advocates employees Kenneth Deguara, Kevin Deguara, Jean Carl Farrugia, and Deborah Anne Chappell, along with their former firm DF Advocates, are defendants in another case. (Maltatoday)
