Updated 1300
Gender quota mechanism ‘has failed’, Metsola says: European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has criticised Malta’s gender corrective mechanism, calling it a distortion of democratic representation. Introduced in 2021, the mechanism has faced backlash, including from women who find it patronising. Metsola argued it has become a “smokescreen” that manipulates statistics rather than empowering women. She advocated for reforms like gender-balanced ballot lists, but stressed that parliamentary seats must reflect voters’ will. Metsola also called for broader reforms, including establishing a full-time parliament, improving party financing, and providing MPs with research support. She urged a shift away from Malta’s tribal, partisan political culture, pushing for a more mature, constructive national dialogue.
Government to set up Food Safety and Security Authority: Agriculture Minister Anton Refalo presented a bill to establish the Food Safety and Security Authority in Malta. The new authority will regulate the entire food supply chain, from production to consumption, aiming to improve food safety, streamline responsibilities, and reduce inefficiencies. Currently, food security is fragmented across multiple departments, leading to confusion and extra costs. The authority will centralise efforts, support farmers and businesses, enforce standards, and enhance consumer trust through transparency and science-based decisions. It will also address issues like climate change, water scarcity, and food fraud, while promoting sustainability and resilience. The authority will have legal powers, a dedicated board, and be backed by national policy and strategic planning.
“The majority of dangerous products that MCCAA withdrew from the market were bought from Shein and Temu”: The MCCAA (Consumer’s Authority) monitors products on the market to protect consumers from dangerous items. It tests toys, clothes, machinery, and electronics to ensure safety. Products posing a risk are immediately removed from sale, especially those bought from Chinese websites like Shein and Temu, although low price doesn’t always mean poor quality. MCCAA checks products through random sampling and investigates consumer or competitor complaints. If a product is recalled, the seller must offer a remedy — repair, replacement, or refund. Consumers are encouraged to follow MCCAA updates on social media to stay informed about product recalls and ensure their safety.
Morning Briefing
IPTV subscriptions reach 85k
In the first quarter of 2024, Malta experienced a notable 10.7% year-on-year increase in IPTV subscriptions, totaling 84,955, as reported by the Malta Communications Authority (MCA). This surge reflects a growing preference for digital TV services offering on-demand content and multi-device access. Overall, pay-TV subscriptions rose by 3.3% to 191,221, with 83.2% bundled with other services like broadband or mobile plans. This trend aligns with the broader shift towards integrated digital services, as consumers increasingly favor flexible and comprehensive entertainment options. (Times of Malta)
Malta invests €6M to upgrade maritime safety systems
The Ministry for Transport has announced a €6 million investment to enhance maritime safety in Maltese waters. Funded through Transport Malta, the project includes upgraded radar systems and new hardware and software at two control centres, along with a ten-year maintenance deal. Transport Minister Chris Bonett visited Transport Malta’s Marsa offices to observe the Vehicle Traffic Services (VTS) system, which monitors vessel movements. The VTS plays a key role in ensuring safe navigation and supports Malta’s status as a leading Mediterranean maritime hub, in line with EU and international standards. (The Malta Independent)
Cinema attendance declines further
Cinema attendance in Malta declined in 2024, yet the year saw a noticeable rise in enthusiasm for locally produced films, according to data released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) on Monday. Just under 556,000 admissions were registered—a decrease of 40,000 from the previous year. Still, major titles like Inside Out 2, Gladiator 2, and Despicable Me 4 led the box office, drawing large audiences. Animated films dominated, with five of the top 10 spots taken by titles such as Moana 2, Paddington in Peru, and Mufasa: The Lion King, highlighting the global appeal of family-friendly content. Other popular releases included Deadpool and Wolverine, the musical Wicked, Wonka featuring Timothée Chalamet, and the romantic drama It Ends With Us, based on Colleen Hoover’s best-seller. (Maltatoday)
