PN, PL clash over population policy and Vision 2050 planning
The Nationalist Party and the Labour Party have exchanged sharp criticism over Malta’s population policy, with both accusing the other of lacking a credible long-term strategy. The PN argued the government has no population plan to support its Vision 2050 strategy, pointing to previous projections by Finance Minister Clyde Caruana that Malta’s population could reach 800,000 by 2040 and contrasting them with more recent comments by Prime Minister Robert Abela. It also highlighted a parliamentary reply stating the government has no estimates for population growth between 2027 and 2030. According to the Opposition, the absence of forecasts undermines long-term planning for major projects, including transport infrastructure. Labour rejected the criticism, insisting the PN’s own proposals would increase the population by making it easier to recruit foreign workers. The PL said its Labour Migration Policy allows third-country nationals only where genuine labour shortages exist and argued recent figures show the policy is delivering lower net growth in foreign workers. (The Malta Independent)
MTA steps up enforcement after uncovering breaches at tourist rentals
The Malta Tourism Authority has intensified enforcement against tourist accommodation operators after inspections in Swieqi uncovered dozens of properties breaching licensing and operational rules. Over two days, MTA officials carried out 252 inspections as part of an ongoing campaign to strengthen compliance across the sector. The authority found 67 properties had breached one or more regulatory requirements, while six were operating without the necessary licence or authorisation. As a result, 14 enforcement notices have already been issued and six properties will be blacklisted under subsidiary legislation governing tourist accommodation. Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela said the findings demonstrate the government’s commitment to stronger governance and fair competition within the industry. He stressed that operators who comply with regulations should not be disadvantaged by those acting illegally. The MTA said inspections will continue in the coming weeks, warning that further enforcement action will be taken wherever additional breaches are identified. (Newsbook)
Red heat warning issued as Malta braces for first 40°C heatwave of summer
The Meteorological Office has issued its highest-level weather warning as Malta prepares for temperatures of up to 40°C over the weekend in the first major heatwave of the summer. A red warning will be in force on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, following orange warnings for Thursday and Friday as temperatures climb from around 37°C. Health authorities are urging the public to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight and limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day between 11am and 4pm. The warning follows several heat-related emergencies reported in recent days. The Malta Red Cross said it had responded to multiple incidents across beaches, public spaces and homes, including a young person who lost consciousness after suffering heatstroke. Residents are being advised to wear light clothing, seek shade whenever possible and regularly drink water as authorities monitor conditions during the expected spell of extreme heat. (Times of Malta)
