Update 1045
Parliament Extends Auditor General Terms Amid Row Over Successor Delay: Parliament unanimously approved a constitutional amendment allowing Auditor General Charles Deguara and deputy Noel Camilleri to remain in office beyond their term if no successors are appointed. Opposition leader Alex Borg criticised the government for failing to initiate discussions on replacements, warning of a repeat of past judicial appointment delays. The amendment ensures continuity at the National Audit Office, though it requires Deguara to postpone retirement. Government denied lack of consultation but did not clarify delays, rejecting claims of political pressure. (Newsbook)
Malta-Sicily REVIVE Project Targets Marine Restoration and Invasive Species: The REVIVE project has launched efforts to restore marine ecosystems between Malta and Sicily, including seabed structures, invasive species control and advanced monitoring of marine litter. Funded under the Interreg Italia-Malta Programme, the €1.2 million initiative brings together partners such as the University of Malta and University of Palermo. Running until 2027, the project aims to restore habitats, boost biodiversity and strengthen environmental protection across the central Mediterranean through scientific collaboration and technology-driven conservation. (TVM News)
BirdLife Calls for Turtle Dove Hunting Ban as EU Data Confirms Decline: BirdLife Malta has urged authorities to reinstate a spring hunting ban on the turtle dove after EU data showed a population drop of over 23% across its migratory route, including Malta. The findings, based on EU Birds Directive reporting from 2019–2024, contradict claims of recovery. CEO Mark Sultana said the data confirms ongoing decline and called for a six-year moratorium and full compliance with EU conservation rules, warning of further legal risks if action is delayed. (Times of Malta)
Morning Briefing
Blockchain.com opens Malta office, strengthening island’s digital asset hub
A global digital assets platform serving around 90 million users worldwide has officially opened new offices in Malta, marking a further step in the country’s efforts to position itself as a centre for fintech and blockchain innovation. Founded in the UK in 2011, Blockchain.com was among the earliest platforms to facilitate Bitcoin transactions. It has since evolved into a major international player offering a range of digital asset services. Its Malta base is expected to focus on governance, compliance and regulatory oversight, reflecting the jurisdiction’s emphasis on structured growth within the sector. The opening highlights Malta’s continued appeal to companies operating in emerging industries, particularly those requiring robust regulatory frameworks. The presence of Blockchain.com is being seen as aligned with broader efforts to develop a knowledge-based economy that supports high-value activity and specialised skills. (TVM News)
Father spiked kids’ food before trying to murder them, court told
Court proceedings have begun against a father accused of attempting to murder his two children. The man, whose identity is protected by court order, faces charges including attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm and illegally detaining the children. Police were alerted after a young girl was found distressed and alone, claiming her father had tried to kill her and her brother. A search operation led officers to White Rocks, where the boy was discovered in critical condition, covered in blood. Investigators told the court the children had been given food allegedly laced with sleeping pills. CCTV footage and items recovered at the scene, including a rope and bloodstains, form part of the evidence. The prosecution argues the offences were aggravated due to the victims’ vulnerability and their relationship to the accused. (Maltatoday)
Waterpolo scandal expected to be one of the biggest in the history of local sport
Malta’s water polo community is facing one of its most serious crises after a report identified 15 individuals, including national team players, in a suspected betting scandal. The findings, compiled by the Malta Gaming Authority and passed to the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport (AIMS), point to betting activity on matches involving Malta, unusual wagering patterns and possible use of insider knowledge. Six national team players are among those named, alongside club-linked individuals and a youth coach. One player is understood to have staked more than €22,000 over four years. The report highlights bets placed on specific markets such as handicaps, total goals and in-play events, including on Malta fixtures. AIMS has called on the Aquatic Sports Association to open disciplinary proceedings. If proven, breaches could result in suspensions ranging from one to four years. (Times of Malta)
