Updated 1300
Government and MUT reach MCAST collective agreement after years-long impasse: After over three years of negotiations, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that the government has reached an agreement with the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT) on a new collective agreement for MCAST educators. The deal ends a long-running dispute that disrupted academic life at MCAST since 2021, affecting 9,500 students. Abela praised the efforts of all involved, while the MUT confirmed the agreement will soon be presented to members for a vote. The breakthrough follows years of tension and student protests calling for a resolution. Details of the agreement have not yet been made public, but affected educators will be updated shortly.
eCabs completes €18m white-label ride-hailing platform: Malta-based cab company eCabs has completed an €18 million development programme for a white-label ride-hailing platform, set to launch in Romania, the UK, and Germany. This follows its expansion into Greece in 2023. The platform, funded by eCabs’ founders with support from the Malta Development Bank and BOV, uses AI to boost fleet efficiency and provide real-time business insights. CEO Matthew Bezzina called the project a “major step” for the firm, enabling operators to scale and compete with global giants. With Europe’s ride-hailing market expected to grow significantly, eCabs aims to empower local operators with tech that enhances reliability, efficiency, and customer trust. The company employs 450 people and manages 250,000 rides monthly.
Regeneration of Vittoriosa’s main square inaugurated: The regeneration of Vittoriosa’s main square has been completed following a €3 million investment. Inaugurated on Thursday, the project blends modern infrastructure with the area’s cultural heritage. Red travertine and copper markings outline the former clock tower’s perimeter, preserving its memory. Most of the square has been pedestrianised, with architect Dorianne Cachia leading the design and architect Antoine Zammit from Studjurban overseeing the project. The works faced challenges, including the discovery of damaged wells and cisterns. Carried out by Infrastructure Malta and the Malta Tourism Authority, the project reflects the government’s vision of creating people-friendly public spaces and complements other upgrades in Vittoriosa and Cottonera.
Morning Briefing
Malta’s strong GDP growth masks slowdown in high-value sectors – report
Malta’s economy grew by 6% in 2024, outpacing Europe, but PwC Malta warns of a shift from high-value sectors to lower-productivity industries. Professional services, ICT, and online gambling—once key growth drivers—are slowing or contracting, despite their high productivity (around €100,000 GVA per employee). Meanwhile, construction (6.1%), public sector (6.2%), and wholesale/retail (5.4%) are growing but with much lower productivity (€30,000–€35,000 per worker). PwC highlights a negative correlation between productivity and growth, raising concerns about long-term sustainability. With GDP growth expected to slow to 4% by 2025, the economy is increasingly reliant on tourism, real estate, and public spending rather than innovation-driven sectors. (Newsbook)
Government enhances grants for energy and water efficiency
Maltese households can now benefit from expanded government support for energy-efficient and water-saving solutions. The Energy Ministry and the Regulator for Energy and Water Services (REWS) announced new and improved schemes aimed at promoting sustainable living while reducing household costs. A key update includes a new grant covering 50% of costs (up to €700) for PV panels connected to water heating systems, allowing efficient energy use without affecting the PV meter cap. The heat pump water heater grant has increased to €1,400, while the solar water heater grant now covers 75% of costs (up to €1,400) plus a €500 maintenance grant after five years. Additional grants support cistern restoration, roof insulation, double glazing, and water filtration systems. (The Malta Indepednent)
Relationship issues leads counselling concerns at Richmond Foundation
For the first time in recent years, relationship issues surpassed anxiety as the most common reason for seeking counselling at the Richmond Foundation. In 2024, 28% of clients sought support for relational issues—both romantic and familial—followed by anxiety (16%) and low self-esteem (9%). Head of well-being Lynn Sammut noted a steady rise in relationship-related concerns since 2022, previously second to anxiety. She stressed the need for early emotional education to help children manage mental health challenges before adulthood. Encouragingly, suicidal contacts have declined, with 195 cases in 2024, down from 214 in 2023 and 391 in 2022. (Times of Malta)
