Updated 1230
Henley & Partners slams ECJ’s ‘golden passports’ ruling: Henley & Partners, the former concessionaire of Malta’s controversial ‘golden passports’ scheme, criticised a recent European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling declaring the programme illegal under EU law. The London-based firm called the decision “highly politicised” and lacking legal foundation, arguing it undermines national sovereignty and judicial consistency. CEO Juerg Steffen said EU treaties give member states exclusive control over citizenship policies. The company defended citizenship-by-investment schemes as legitimate tools to attract global talent, contrasting the EU’s stance with countries like the UAE and the U.S. Despite respecting the ruling, Henley & Partners said the outcome is a setback for EU principles and warned of the broader consequences for similar programmes across the bloc.
Association to address mental health in school and prison: The Association for the Mental Health of Children and Adolescents (ACAMH) is partnering with schools to promote mental health awareness among children, educators, and parents. ACAMH President Rosemarie Sacco told TVM News that a health literacy project will support teachers in recognising mental health issues in students. The initiative also includes training for prison staff, acknowledging the prevalence of mental health problems among inmates. Vice President Nigel Camilleri emphasised the link between physical and mental well-being, noting that while activities like exercise and music support physical health, mental stability is equally vital. ACAMH, originally based in the UK, expanded to Malta ten years ago as part of its international outreach.
New financial support scheme launched to involve licensed fishermen in collection of marine data: A new financial support scheme has been launched to involve licensed fishermen in marine data collection during their fishing trips. Announced by Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said, the initiative offers registered fishermen around €320 per catch under the EMFAF DC-MAP programme for assisting researchers at sea. The scheme aims to promote sustainable fisheries management by integrating fishermen into the research process. Applications will be accepted from 12–17 May 2025, with support available at ARM offices in Marsaxlokk, St Paul’s Bay, and Mġarr, Gozo. The initiative highlights Malta’s commitment to sustainability, transparency, and the blue economy, while strengthening compliance with EU fisheries policies and supporting the economic well-being of the fishing community.
Morning Briefing
Gaza ship was hit by munition according to military experts
Images and video of an explosion aboard the Gaza-bound aid ship Conscience near Malta suggest it was hit by a loitering munition, according to military experts. These weapons, also called ‘suicide drones,’ hover before striking a target. Two independent security sources told Times of Malta the damage points to a deliberate external attack rather than an accident. “It looks like the blast came from outside, likely meant to disable the ship as a warning—not to harm the crew,” the source said. (Times of Malta)
1,744 new cars on the road in first three months of the year
In the first quarter of 2025, the number of licensed motor vehicles rose by 1,744 compared to the previous quarter, the NSO reported. By the end of March 2025, the total number of licensed vehicles reached 447,455. Of these, 74.0% were passenger cars, 14.3% were commercial and agricultural vehicles, and 11.1% included motorcycles, E-bikes, PA-bikes, E-kick scooters, quadricycles, and ATVs. Buses and minibuses accounted for less than one percent. On average, the vehicle stock grew by 19 units per day during the quarter. (The Malta Independent)
Man caught with €250k worth of drugs
A 53-year-old Portuguese man was arrested at Malta International Airport after arriving from Seville with 11kg of drugs hidden in his luggage. Customs and police officers found 10kg of cannabis worth €100,000 and 1kg of cocaine worth €150,000 during a search prompted by his suspicious behavior. He is being held for further investigation. (Maltatoday)
