Updated 1200
One in three would like to live abroad, citing environment, crowds and pay: A Times of Malta poll found that one-third of Maltese want to live abroad, mainly seeking a better environment, less overcrowding, and improved working conditions. However, over half wish to stay, while 7% are undecided. The survey of 600 people (Jan 30 – Feb 12) by Esprimi shows that fewer people want to leave compared to 2023 when over 40% expressed interest in emigrating. Older adults (55+) are more inclined to leave, while most young people prefer staying. Among those wanting to leave, 43% cite environmental concerns, and others mention overcrowding and work opportunities. Politically, Labour voters mostly wish to stay, while PN voters and abstainers are more divided. (Times of Malta)
New health and safety regulations for construction sites, project supervisor requirement introduced: The government has introduced new construction regulations to enhance health and safety, prevent accidents, and establish clear responsibilities. Minister Jonathan Attard emphasised stricter oversight, including mandatory project supervisors for all non-domestic construction projects, selected from the OHSA’s register. These supervisors will have clear authority, including the power to halt unsafe work. Contractors and self-employed workers must provide written risk assessments, while new duties require all involved to follow supervisor instructions. Stronger enforcement measures include administrative penalties for non-compliance, with the OHSA conducting regular inspections. Additionally, a publicly available register of competent persons will outline eligibility requirements and compliance monitoring to ensure higher safety standards in the sector. (The Malta Independent)
Social media trends: Facebook still leads for news: A Eurobarometer youth survey found that 47% of young Maltese (16-30) get most of their political and social news from social media, higher than the EU average of 42%. Facebook remains the dominant platform in Malta, while in much of the EU, Instagram and TikTok are preferred. Only 26% of Maltese youth use Instagram for news, the lowest in the EU, and just 13% rely on TikTok. YouTube is a key source for 36%, while 25% use X (formerly Twitter). The survey also highlights concerns over disinformation, with 59% of young Maltese exposed to misleading content online. The EU has repeatedly warned about foreign influence and propaganda, particularly from Russia, on social media platforms. (Maltatoday)
Morning Briefing
Enough evidence for Schembri, Mizzi, Fenech to face Electrogas trial: court
A court has ruled there is enough evidence for Keith Schembri, Konrad Mizzi, Yorgen Fenech, and others to stand trial over the Electrogas power station project. Magistrate Rachel Montebello confirmed there is prima facie evidence for all the accused to face a bill of indictment. Earlier this month, seven individuals and four companies were charged with serious crimes linked to the project, pleading not guilty. Schembri, Mizzi, and Fenech face charges of corruption, trading in influence, and criminal association, with Mizzi also accused of perjury. Electrogas shareholder Paul Apap Bologna, local agent Mario Pullicino, and accountants Brian Tonna and Karl Cini were also charged. (Times of Malta)
PN to hold protest, says government is failing people ‘every day’
The Nationalist Party will hold a protest on 9 March, lambasting the government for failing the people “every day” in areas such as the cost of living, healthcare, education, and security. Party leader Bernard Grech announced the protest will take place at 3pm in front of the parliament building. He blamed the government’s poor decisions, stubbornness, and focus on self-interest for its failures. Grech also accused the Prime Minister of weakness and pointed to the recent theft of drugs from a supposedly secure facility as another example of government failure, noting that the Minister responsible remains in position despite the blunder. (Maltatoday)
Charles Bonello set to be new PN Sec-Gen
Charles Bonello is set to become the Nationalist Party’s next secretary-general after Liam Sciberras withdrew from the race, leaving him as the sole candidate. Sciberras announced his decision on Facebook after a “productive meeting” with PN leader Bernard Grech, saying he stepped aside in the party’s best interest. His withdrawal follows that of Stefan Caruana, who exited the race a day earlier. Bonello, a former aide to Lawrence Gonzi and currently a councillor in Fgura, now awaits formal approval from the PN executive committee to take up the role. (Newsbook)
