Government to decrease deficit 0.5% annually, PM pledges
Prime Minister Robert Abela said that the government will not phase out subsidies on energy and fuel as recommended by the European Commission. During an interview on One Radio, Abela said the government would engage with the European Commission to explain Malta’s unique challenges in the energy sector. He affirmed that there would be no change in policy regarding energy support for individuals and businesses. Abela also noted that the government’s plan to reduce the deficit by 0.5% annually, as agreed with the Commission, is on track, and emphasized the importance of appreciating the current level of support. (Maltatoday)
PN leader says energy subsidies could remain if corruption eliminated
PN leader Bernard Grech said that the government could continue subsidising energy costs if Prime Minister Robert Abela stopped subsidising corruption. His comments came after the European Commission’s call for Malta to reduce emergency energy support measures. During an interview on NET with PBS journalist Mario Xuereb, Grech said a PN government would continue to support people without misusing public funds. He criticised the Labour government for wasting public and EU funds due to corruption and a lack of planning. He said a PN government would not have such a large number of individuals hired as “persons of trust” nor would they receive such large salaries as is the case now. (Times of Malta)
Chamber calls for major reform in public procurement
Reports published by the NAO, decisions handed down by the appeals board and court judgements are repeatedly confirming that our public procurement system is not functioning transparently and equitably, resulting in abuse, amateurism and irresponsible handling of public funds, the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry said. The Chamber said it has been insisting on this reform since 2021 in its “Report on Public Procurement Reform – mapping out a comprehensive reform with over 40 recommendations for better governance. Despite the fact that, since then, the Malta Chamber said it has persistently followed this up with government, including various entities and departments, the Opposition and MCESD nothing tangible has been done. (The Malta Independent)
