Updated 1230
MIDI ‘committed to finding solution’ to return Manoel Island to government: MIDI has signalled its willingness to
negotiate with the Maltese government over returning Manoel Island to public ownership, potentially paving the way
for its transformation into a national park. The shift comes after Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed support for
the park and indicated possible legal action against MIDI. The company, which holds a 99-year concession since
2000, cited recent government policy changes and public pressure, including a 29,000-strong petition, as reasons for
its openness to talks. Activists welcomed the move as a victory after years of campaigning. While MIDI insists it has
met its obligations, it now says it is ready to engage in discussions aligned with national priorities and public
interest. (The Malta Independent)
In Malta, 80% are HPV carriers, however they do not all lead to serious disease risks: Around 80% of Malta’s
population carries some form of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to
cervical cancer. Gynaecologist Dr Mario Refalo explained that while there are 200 types of HPV, not all pose serious
health risks. Abnormalities often appear during smear tests, though only 1 in 15–20 show such signs, and not all
indicate cancer. HPV can remain dormant for years and, in some cases, may be controlled or cleared. Increased
awareness and testing may explain the high detection rate. The government offers HPV vaccines to those born from
2000 onward, providing protection against key virus strains and some cross-protection. Dr Refalo urged continued
vigilance and safe practices.
Morning Briefing
Labour widens electoral lead in latest survey
The Labour Party has widened its lead over the Nationalist Party from 24,000 votes in April to nearly 39,000, according to MaltaToday’s June survey. PL now holds a 53.3% majority—just 1.8 points below its 2022 general election result—while PN is polling two points lower than its election performance. Support for third parties has risen from 3.2% in 2022 to 7%, though it remains split among Momentum, ADPD, and others. Labour’s 14-point lead is driven by a sharp drop in abstention among its supporters, more PN voters shifting to third parties, and weaker voter retention by the Opposition. The survey indicates Labour’s efforts to win back its traditional base have succeeded, with losses to abstention falling from 21.6% in September 2024 to just 6.7%. (Maltatoday)
PM says judicial protest to reclaim Manoel Island on the cards
Prime Minister Robert Abela said he may soon file a judicial protest to reclaim Manoel Island for the public, with the goal of turning it into a public park. Speaking on Sunday, he stressed this move is not populist but part of ongoing legal work aimed at real action. Abela said he wants a resolution, not a decade-long legal battle. He also noted the government is working in the interest of shareholders—mostly pensioners—who won’t profit from their investment but deserve to recover what they paid. (TVM)
Grech says smaller parties help Labour strenghten grip
PN leader Bernard Grech warned that those attacking his party in hopes of seeing more parties in Parliament are only strengthening Labour and Robert Abela’s grip on power. Speaking on NET TV, Grech acknowledged the latest survey showing a widened gap between PL and PN, calling it a reminder of the need for greater effort within the Opposition. While not directly questioned about the poll, he noted it comes a year after the European Parliament elections, where the PN narrowed an expected loss. Grech stressed that surveys are “snapshots,” not final outcomes, and called for unity to present a stronger alternative. He emphasized that weakening the PN ultimately benefits Labour, which continues, in his words, to “run roughshod over everyone.” (The Malta Independent)
