Deficit slightly down, but debt approaches €10bn – NSO
The Government’s Consolidated Fund reported a deficit of €82.3 million in January, €38.7 million lower than in the same month last year, according to data published by the National Statistics Office. At the end of January, central government debt stood at €9,759.4 million, an increase of €856.9 million when compared to 2023.The interest component of the public debt servicing costs totalled €19.8 million, an increase of €5.3 million when compared to the previous year.
Boat capsizes during rescue operation, five dead
Tragedy struck on Friday when a boat capsized during a rescue operation, resulting in the unfortunate death of at least five individuals and numerous injuries. The boat, transporting over 30 migrants on their journey to Europe, had sought assistance. Responding to the distress call, an Armed Forces of Malta patrol boat was dispatched for the rescue, but sadly, the vessel capsized during the operation. (Maltatoday)
Over 95% still speak Maltese at home
A survey conducted among Maltese citizens aged 16 and above revealed that nearly 95% of respondents communicate in Maltese with their relatives. In the North Harbour area, around 19.8% of residents use English when conversing with family members. When it comes to interactions with friends, over 95.8% of participants reported using Maltese, while 14.3% indicated using English. In the North Harbour area, approximately 19.3% of residents speak English with their friends. In the workplace, a majority (79.7%) communicate in Maltese with their colleagues. However, more than half of the participants (53.2%) also reported using English in professional settings. (TVM)
