PM says budget will set strategic direction for country
The government is setting a strategic direction for the economy through Viżjoni Malta 2050, Prime Minister Robert Abela said during a discussion on the theme “An Economy that Works for the People.” He emphasized that the focus should not be on increasing third-country workers, but on investing in high-value sectors and companies that create quality jobs. Dr Abela highlighted that every Budget measure will align with this long-term economic strategy. Speaking at the Inspire complex in Marsascala, he noted that the vision will cover every sector, with targets set for 2035, addressing energy, the social sector, employment, and investment in renewable energy. The Prime Minister also stressed the need for a strong economy to enable progress and pointed out that many European economies are struggling due to fiscal measures impacting families and businesses.
Vidal Zammit to draft PN’s manifesto
Politics lecturer George Vital Zammit has been appointed to draft the Nationalist Party’s electoral manifesto, PN leader Bernard Grech announced on Sunday. Vital Zammit, a senior lecturer at the University of Malta, emphasised that the process of writing the electoral programme would be inclusive. Speaking with Grech in Birkirkara, he said the PN would seek input from a wide range of people and encouraged anyone with ideas to come forward. Zammit noted that many people have lost faith in politics. “We will restore hope by demonstrating our love and ambition for Malta,” he said, adding that the PN is ready to prove its competence as a government-in-waiting. Grech also highlighted that the public is now looking to the PN as a viable alternative to govern the country. (Times of Malta)
Trapping season to reopen despite ECJ’s concerns
The Maltese government is set to once again derogate from the EU’s ban on bird trapping, just a month after the European Court ruled that its “research derogation” for trapping seven finch species was illegal. This decision comes after a recommendation from the Ornis Committee—a consultative body comprising hunters and conservationists—and the government’s Wild Birds Regulation Unit to open the trapping season. Despite the fact that bird trapping is prohibited under the EU Birds Directive, Malta has twice been ordered by the European Court to stop using Article 9 derogations, which were deemed invalid.
