Opposition Leader Alex Borg has unveiled his first shadow cabinet, with notable changes in key portfolios. Former PN leader Bernard Grech has been tasked with shadowing capital projects and infrastructure, while Adrian Delia will now lead the finance portfolio. Delia’s former health brief has been passed to Stephen Spiteri, and justice, previously handled by Karol Aquilina, has been taken over by Joe Giglio. Toni Bezzina has been entrusted with the challenging transport portfolio, retaining agriculture and fisheries, while Graham Bencini has moved from finance to social security and EU funds. Chris Said regains responsibility for Gozo. The reshuffle was confirmed over 24 hours after Borg began consultations with MPs to reassign party roles. (Times of Malta)
PM Abela promises budget to address low birth rate
Prime Minister Robert Abela has pledged that the upcoming Budget will include “unprecedented investment” in measures to address Malta’s low birth rate. Speaking on ONE TV, Abela said the government is determined to place families at the heart of policy, ensuring financial barriers do not deter couples from having children. “A strong family means a strong society,” he said, insisting that the State must support families to achieve their goals. The Prime Minister ruled out introducing abortion, arguing the government lacks a mandate, but criticised a recent suspended sentence handed to a woman who terminated her pregnancy, saying it “crossed the line.” Abela also confirmed that the legislature will run until March 2027. (The Malta Independent)
Second interconnector to be completed by end 2026
Malta’s second electricity interconnector with Sicily has reached a major milestone, with 65% of the land cable manufacturing completed. The €200 million project, co-financed through the EU’s 2021-2027 European Regional Development Fund, will double Malta’s connection capacity to the European grid. Stretching 122 kilometres from Ragusa to Magħtab, the high-voltage AC cable will deliver up to 225 megawatts—almost one-third of Malta’s peak summer demand. Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said the project underlines government’s commitment to a more sustainable and resilient energy sector. Italian contractors SELT have completed 15% of land works, while marine cables are being produced by Nexans in the United States. Completion is expected by the end of next year. (Maltatoday)
