Updated 1100
Carlo Gavazzi to Close Malta Factory Putting 230 Jobs at Risk: Swiss manufacturing firm Carlo Gavazzi will close its Malta operations after nearly 40 years, affecting 230 workers. The company said a restructuring will gradually phase out production on the island, with operations shifting mainly to Mexico and China. No timeline for the exit was provided. Based in Bulebel, Carlo Gavazzi produces electronic and electro-mechanical control components for automation. The firm first set up in Malta in 1988 and expanded in 1996, but has faced challenges, including reduced demand after the 2008 financial crisis, when staff were placed on a four-day work week. (Times of Malta)
Notarial Council Sounds Alarm Over Agricultural Land Reform, Warns of Constitutional Breach: The Notarial Council has condemned Malta’s new Protection of Agricultural Land Regulations as a “grave” and “disproportionate” breach of property rights. Introduced under Malta Vision 2050, the law requires all agricultural land to be registered within six months, with non-compliance risking temporary state possession. Landowners must also farm their land annually and submit crop plans, while non-agricultural use is banned. Government argues the measures protect food security and curb speculation amid soaring land prices, but the council warns the rules grant excessive discretionary powers, undermine autonomy, and could amount to expropriation. It called for immediate suspension, stakeholder consultation, and safeguards to ensure constitutional and human rights are upheld. (Newsbook)
One of Final Msida Creek Flyover Structures Installed: A key milestone was reached in the Msida Creek flyover project as one of its final connecting structures was installed late yesterday, less than 10 months after work began. Transport Minister Chris Bonett said construction is advancing rapidly, with efforts to limit disruption for residents and commuters. The government stressed its commitment to transparency and reducing inconvenience throughout the process. Once complete, the flyover is expected to ease congestion and improve traffic flow at one of Malta’s busiest junctions, with authorities calling it an “ambitious and much-needed project” for the country. (Maltatoday)
Morning Briefing
6,000 young people take up gym incentive
Over 6,000 young people have taken up the government’s offer of a free six-month gym membership under the Youth Fitness Support Scheme. Launched last May by Prime Minister Robert Abela and Education Minister Clifton Grima, the €2 million initiative targets youths born between 2005 and 2007, aiming to promote healthier lifestyles. The launch featured international fitness personalities Alex Eubank and Greg Doucette. With around 12,000 eligible, half have already applied, an Education Ministry spokesperson confirmed. The scheme, which involves 64 participating gyms, remains open for registrations. (The Malta Independent)
Greens want high energy users to pay for consumption
The Green Party has argued that reckless electricity users should bear the cost of their consumption, while responsible households continue to benefit from affordable rates. The statement follows ARMS Ltd’s recent letter to households, highlighting “savings” from government subsidies since June 2021. Party chairperson Sandra Gauci dismissed these as illusory, warning that they are funded through rising national debt, now exceeding €11 billion, and will eventually lead to cuts in essential services. Secretary General Ralph Cassar noted that government energy subsidies amounted to €472.5 million in 2022, €227 million in 2023, €320 million in 2024, with €152 million budgeted for this year. (Times of Malta)
MHRA calls for better enforcement against substance abuse at work
The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) has urged authorities to provide enforcement tools to help employers tackle substance abuse, describing it as the workplace “elephant in the room.” The association said employers are increasingly left to face the problem alone despite growing health and safety responsibilities. It criticised claims by a cannabis lobby that roadside testing does not necessarily prove impairment, arguing that substance use can still affect colleagues, guests, and the wider community. While stressing the importance of education, MHRA insisted that stronger enforcement support is essential to safeguard workplaces. (Newsbook)
