Updated 1230
1,139 final deeds of sale on residential properties registered in April
In April 2024, the National Statistics Office (NSO) reported that there were 1,139 final deeds of sale and 1,157 promise of sale agreements for residential properties in Malta. Final deeds of sale increased by 22.6% compared to April 2023, totaling €306.6 million, with 91.3% involving individual buyers. The Northern Harbour and Northern districts saw the
highest numbers of final deeds. Notably, St Paul’s Bay, Birkirkara, and Mosta were the top localities for both
final deeds and promise of sale agreements. Apartments and garages comprised the majority of transacted
properties. Promise of sale agreements increased by 9.2%, with individual buyers dominating. The Northern
Harbour district recorded the highest number of promise of sale agreements.
Spanish government notified of synthetic cannabinoid presence in Maltese sweets
The Spanish health authorities alerted the Food Safety and Nutrition Agency about HHC Gummies Strawberry sweets from Malta, containing hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), a cannabis component. These products, highlighted as posing serious health risks, must be removed from distribution channels, as confirmed by the Spanish food agency. Despite
warnings from the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC), these items are legally available in
Malta. ReLeaf Malta advocates for their recall, questioning the delay in ARUC’s promised expert committee
to address the issue. The NGO expresses concern over the export of these products from Malta and questions
who benefits from their sale.
Morning Briefing
People who shun establishment are denigrated – PM
Prime Minister Robert Abela, speaking at a political rally on Sunday, said the Labour Party is proud of Chris Fearne, who resigned last week. He expressed his belief that individuals like former Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne should never be subjected to cruel attacks. He described the past week as emotionally charged, acknowledging moments of personal reflection and conversations with dedicated individuals who prioritise the country’s well-being over political affiliations. The PM said whenever people shunned “the establishment”, they ended up being attacked and denigrated. (Times of Malta)
Malta facing democratic crisis – Bernard Grech
PN leader Bernard Grech said on Sunday that Malta is facing what he termed as “a democratic crisis” due to the Vitals hospitals deal. Speaking to supporters in San Gwann, the PN leader emphasized the severity of the democratic crisis, noting that even the president of the republic had expressed concerns. Grech pointed out that although the prime minister initially dismissed the idea of a crisis, Fearne’s resignation indicated otherwise, highlighting the current turmoil in the country. The Nationalist leader said that Robert Abela is too worriedwith his personal issues to effectively govern and address the needs of Malta’s local communities. According to Grech, the PM’s distractions, isolation, and decision-making have cornered him. (Maltatoday)
President calls for protection of arable land
President Myriam Spiteri Debono highlighting the importance of safeguarding arable land and prioritising the mental and physical well-being of the population over self-centered interests. She made these remarks during the 5th Malta Architecture and Spatial Planning Awards, just before presenting ‘The President’s Award’ to Prof. Richard England for his significant contributions to Malta’s architectural scene. She stressed the critical nature of implementing the recommendations from the Jean Paul Sofia inquiry with utmost seriousness. President Spiteri Debono urged authorities and stakeholders to collaborate in developing laws and regulations that establish a robust system of inspections and controls, ensuring the highest standards and safety measures are met. (The Malta Independent)
