Updated 1215
DBRS confirms Malta ‘A’ rating
DBRS Morningstar, a credit rating agency, has reaffirmed Malta’s A rating with a stable outlook. They noted that energy subsidies have aided in mitigating the effects of the conflict in Ukraine. However, they cautioned that it is essential for Malta to provide clarity regarding the timeline for discontinuing these subsidies. The report also highlighted Malta’s low unemployment but noted that the country’s deficit is among the EU’s highest, even with COVID-19 aid having been phased out. (Times of Malta)
Drier, windier September reported
September proved to be considerably drier than the typical weather patterns, with only 29.6mm of rainfall recorded, according to the Malta International Airport’s Meteorological Office. The month’s highest precipitation, totaling 11.2mm, occurred on the sixth day, during a week of unstable weather. On the same day, the Meteorological Office registered the most powerful wind gust of the month, originating from the north-northeast at 34 knots. With an average wind speed of 8 knots, September displayed a higher level of wind activity than anticipated for this time of the year.
Earlier:
Malta insists on two-state solution for Israel-Palestinian conflict
Prime Minister Robert Abela reiterated Malta’s steadfast support for a two-state solution amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. He stated, “Malta has always maintained a consensus in advocating for a two-state solution, and this remains our position.” The Maltese government has consistently promoted a two-state resolution and remains committed to actively advocating for peace. Furthermore, Abela emphasized Malta’s dedication to condemning all forms of violence and consistently conveying a message of peace. He also reaffirmed the stance of the parliament, which was confirmed in the House earlier this week. (Maltatoday)
Ministry issues call for five new magistrates
The Justice Ministry has issued a call for the appointment of five magistrates, with one of them set to replace an existing magistrate who is being promoted to a judgeship. Anticipating this announcement, Minister Jonathan Attard had mentioned that the Chief Justice would now have the capacity to assign four magistrates to exclusively handle magisterial inquiries. The initiative to establish magistrates exclusively dedicated to inquiries has been a long-standing commitment and is in response to the strain placed on the legal system due to the backlog of unfinished magisterial inquiries. Attard pointed out that as of September, there were 1,723 pending magisterial inquiries, some of which dated back 40 years. (Times of Malta)
Minors get 100 hours of community service after courier assault
Two minors were sentenced to probation after assaulting a food courier who had delivered their order to Marsaxlokk. The 16-year-olds attacked the delivery man with a hammer in a parking area near the football ground and also stole his motorcycle due to dissatisfaction with the delivered food. The victim reported the incident to the police, leading to the minors’ arrest and subsequent guilty pleas in court. Upon the request of their legal representatives, Magistrate Gabriella Vella ordered a social assessment report before sentencing. Subsequently, the court imposed a 3-year probation period and mandated them to complete 100 hours of community service. Additionally, one of the individuals, who struggles with substance abuse, was placed under a treatment order. (TVM)
