Widespread condemnation after attack on police officers
There was widespread condemnation following an attack on two police officers in Ħamrun on Saturday night, leading to the arrest of five individuals. The incident occurred as officers issued a fine for illegal parking, sparking a violent confrontation. Video footage showed the officers being physically assaulted, with one suffering serious injuries. Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri and the Nationalist Party both condemned the attack, calling for greater respect for law enforcement and investment in police resources. An emergency court hearing is scheduled as investigations continue. The Malta Police Union expressed its solidarity with the officers involved and wished them a full and speedy recovery. It said it expects an appropriate punishment by the law courts and said it will maintain its fight for stricter sentences against those who assault police officers. (Maltatoday)
Self-employed to get paternity leave extension – PM
Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that paternity leave will be extended to self-employed fathers or second parents, with the government covering the cost. Speaking in St Paul’s Bay, Abela said this will be at the same rate as maternity leave for self-employed women. He also highlighted a new measure granting 100 hours of paid leave for self-employed parents undergoing IVF treatment, complementing a €6 million investment in private IVF services. Abela emphasised the government’s commitment to social justice, mentioning pension increases and tax band adjustments to support the middle class in the upcoming budget. (TVM)
PN offers plan for stability as Labour faces internal struggles – Grech
PN leader Bernard Grech highlighted that while the Labour Party is distracted by internal turmoil, the Nationalist Party is ready to prioritise people over the economy. Grech criticised Prime Minister Robert Abela for losing control of his party and caving to pressure after recent internal elections. He accused the government of neglecting vulnerable groups and focusing solely on economic growth, labelling them “champagne socialists.” Grech also dismissed the government’s recent biodiversity strategy as ineffective, claiming such plans are often ignored. He said that the majority of fines issued by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) for breaking laws were imposed on the government or its agencies. (Times of Malta)
