New Integration Course Becomes Mandatory for TCNs Seeking Longer Work Permits Third-country nationals will be required to complete a 20-session integration course if they wish to renew their Maltese work permit beyond one year, under the latest phase of the Labour Migration Policy. Delivered by licensed institutions, the 40-hour programme covers Maltese culture, civic participation, legal awareness, personal development and basic English and Maltese language skills. Successful participants may become eligible for multi-year permit renewals of up to three years, depending on their role. A new pre-departure course has also been introduced for all first-time single-permit applicants, who must obtain certification before travelling to Malta. Authorities say the reform aims to improve integration standards and ensure workers arrive with essential cultural and skills-based preparation. (The Malta Independent)
DB gets approval to add another seven floors on massive Pembroke project
The Planning Authority has approved the controversial DB Group tower expansion in Pembroke, increasing Tower A by seven floors and Tower B by six, despite strong opposition from residents and local councils. The board voted overwhelmingly in favour, with only two dissenting votes from Pembroke Mayor Kaylon Zammit and NGO representative Romano Cassar. The modifications will add 54 apartments and six duplex units, bringing the total to 60 new residences. Concerns were raised over visual impact, traffic management, and the strain on local infrastructure, with residents calling the project “their worst nightmare.” Chairman Emanuel Camilleri stated that all objections were considered and addressed, and a planning gain of €369,375 will be imposed for the additional 14,775 square metres of residential space. The decision marks a significant moment in a long-standing and highly contested development. (Newsbook)
Government’s Financial Mismanagement Driving Malta Toward EU Action – PN The Nationalist Party has accused the Government of leading Malta into a fiscal “dead end”, after the European Commission warned it may take further action unless spending is brought under control. The PN said Labour has ignored repeated calls to rein in expenditure, resulting in soaring debt levels and repeated breaches of its own budgetary targets. Government debt, which stood at €5 billion when Robert Abela became Prime Minister, is projected to reach €11.6 billion by year-end and may exceed €14 billion within three years. The party said rising deficits, reduced capital investment and missed forecasts expose the fragility behind the Government’s economic claims. It warned that unless discipline is restored, Malta risks deeper EU scrutiny under the Excessive Deficit Procedure. (Times of Malta)
