Updated 1220
Most Workplace Safety Inspections Outside Construction Reveal Breaches: Seven in 10 workplace safety inspections outside the construction sector uncover breaches, according to new figures presented by Josianne Cutajar of the Occupational Health and Safety Authority. The authority carried out nearly 24,000 inspections last year, more than double the number in 2024, with around 70% of checks in non-construction sectors identifying non-compliance. In contrast, construction compliance has improved, with 73% of inspected sites meeting legal standards, which Cutajar attributed to tougher enforcement and new rules requiring qualified project supervisors. The watchdog now plans to expand inspections in other sectors, offer free safety training to small businesses and the self-employed, and introduce industry-wide skills cards to improve workplace safety awareness. (Times of Malta)
Real Wages Rebound, But Households Still Feel Cost-of-Living Squeeze: Real wages in Malta have largely recovered from the post-pandemic inflation surge, but many households still feel poorer when paying for everyday essentials, according to research by Abigail Marie Rapa at the Central Bank of Malta. The analysis shows real wages had risen nearly 5% above 2021 levels by late 2025 based on the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices. However, prices for frequent purchases such as groceries and household bills rose faster at the peak of inflation, leaving perceived purchasing power below 2021 levels. The wage squeeze was sharpest between 2021 and 2023 but began easing as inflation slowed and pay increased, with wages projected to rise further by 2028. (Maltatoday)
Morning Briefing
Shareholders Take National Bank Compensation Case to European Court
Shareholders of the former National Bank of Malta have filed a case before the European Court of Human Rights, arguing that compensation awarded by Maltese courts for the bank’s 1973 takeover is “manifestly inadequate”. The move marks the latest step in a 53-year legal battle that began when the government led by Dom Mintoff took control of the bank, which was later replaced by Bank of Valletta. Shareholders are challenging a court ruling that reduced compensation from €111 million to around €71 million. They argue the courts used a flawed valuation method that treated the bank as property rather than a profitable business. Lead campaigner Jeremy Cassar Torregiani described the ECHR application as the “final hurdle” in the decades-long fight. (Maltatoday)
Authorities Warn Public After Dead Whale Washes Up in Comino
A dead whale has been found beached on the island of Comino, prompting authorities to warn the public to keep their distance while assessments are carried out. Environmental NGO Nature Trust Malta said the discovery was reported on Monday after the Environment and Resources Authority alerted relevant officials. The whale is believed to have been dead for several days. Discussions are ongoing between ERA officials, veterinary surgeon Chris Gruppetta and other authorities to determine the safest way to remove the carcass. Officials stressed that whales are mammals and may carry diseases, urging people not to approach or touch the carcass. Work is continuing to coordinate the safe removal while ensuring no risk to the public or the surrounding environment. (Newsbook)
Planning Authority Opens New Phase of Heritage Restoration Scheme
The Planning Authority has opened applications for an additional phase of the popular Irrestawra Darek u l-Villaġġ scheme aimed at restoring scheduled historic buildings outside Urban Conservation Areas. With an extra €2 million allocation, the initiative seeks to support the conservation of Malta’s architectural heritage. Eligible applicants may receive up to €100,000 for Grade 1 properties and up to €50,000 for Grade 2 buildings, while joint owners can receive up to €15,000 each. The scheme covers works such as façade restoration, specialised stone cleaning, structural consolidation and the repair of traditional timber or wrought iron features. The first stage, an expression of interest, opened on 9 March and closes on 16 March, with successful applicants proceeding to submit a detailed funding request. (TVM News)
