Updated 1130
Land reclamation back on the cards: Malta plans to pursue land reclamation as part of its 2050 vision to better manage limited land resources. While details remain undisclosed, reports suggest reclaimed land may host industrial activity, freeing up space on the mainland for public use. The vision highlights land reclamation as a tool to enhance the environment and add national value. It cites limited land availability as a key reason for such projects, with one confirmed plan being a new terminal at the Birżebbuġa freeport—Malta’s second recent reclamation project at the site. Over a decade ago, the newly-elected Labour government had launched an international call for expressions of interest in land reclamation projects, but none of the 21 proposals received ever got off the ground. (Times of Malta)
Blanket energy subsidies are not the way to go – Chamber President
Newly elected Chamber of Commerce president William Spiteri Bailey criticized blanket energy subsidies, saying they encourage waste and hide true costs. He called for targeted support for those in real need and urged a gradual, transparent phase-out of subsidies. The chamber also backs energy market liberalisation after 2027, which Spiteri Bailey believes would boost infrastructure, distribution, and innovation. He stressed the need for major investment in the energy network and a long-term resilience plan to support a diverse renewable energy mix. Spiteri Bailey also warned that Malta’s ageing, overstretched energy grid is a barrier to sustainability, efficiency, and business growth. (The Malta Independent)
Windier, wetter March reported: March was warmer, wetter, and windier than usual, with 81 mm of rain—41.3 mm above average. The wettest day was March 25, when 34.4 mm of blood rain fell, accompanied by heavy Saharan dust that darkened skies and blocked sunlight. Average temperature stood at 15.7°C, 1.6°C above normal. The highest temperature, 25.5°C, was recorded on March 11, while the coldest night, at 9°C, was on March 21. Winds averaged 11.3 knots, stronger than the norm, with the strongest gust—40 knots—on March 24. (Newsbook)
Morning Briefing
Metro ideal but likely unaffordable for Malta – Transport Minister
Transport Minister Chris Bonett says a metro remains the best mass transport option for Malta due to its speed and efficiency, but the country may not be able to afford it. Speaking on Times Talk, Bonett described the long-term goal as a hybrid, integrated system combining underground or rail options with ferries, rapid transit, and possibly dedicated bus lanes. While discussions are ongoing, no decisions have been finalised pending cabinet review. (Times of Malta)
Labour Defends Gender Quota System
The Labour Party has defended the gender quota mechanism, saying it does not diminish the value of elected women. The system, introduced before the last general election, adds up to 12 seats if one gender is underrepresented. Critics, including EP President Roberta Metsola and PN MP Claudette Buttigieg, say the system has failed and tokenises women. Labour responded that the mechanism has made Parliament more representative and was a necessary step towards a fairer, more equal society. (The Malta Independent)
PN unveils Workers’ Day Theme: “Work. Life. Quality.”
The Nationalist Party has announced its theme for this year’s Workers’ Day: Work. Life. Quality. PN Secretary General Charles Bonello said the theme reflects the party’s commitment to better jobs and improved quality of life. ‘Work’ focuses on job creation, ‘life’ addresses living standards and rising costs, while ‘quality’ highlights support for workers and families. he party added that leader Bernard Grech is visiting workplaces to share these ideas. PN officials emphasized that the country’s progress is owed to the efforts of the Maltese people, whose dedication has shaped the nation. “We invite everyone to join in honoring the workers of yesterday, today, and tomorrow,” they concluded. (Maltatoday)
