Prime Minister Defends Galdes Amid Property Deal Scrutiny Prime Minister Robert Abela said there was no reason to dismiss Housing Minister Roderick Galdes, insisting that information provided to him about the minister’s property dealings raised no concerns about the source of funds. Abela confirmed that a police investigation will nonetheless proceed, following a request by former PN MP Jason Azzopardi. Galdes has come under scrutiny over multiple property acquisitions, including deals involving contractors linked to his ministry. Abela said some properties were bought before Galdes became minister and stressed that the explanations given were satisfactory. He also rejected claims of unease among MPs, saying Galdes continued to enjoy their support while police carry out their inquiries. (The Times of Malta)
Msida Creek Flyover Opens as €35m Project Reaches Milestone Prime Minister Robert Abela has inaugurated the new flyover forming part of the €35 million Msida Creek infrastructure project, with the carriageway opening to traffic at midnight. The flyover allows traffic from Pietà to head directly towards the Msida skatepark, while vehicles from the skatepark can connect straight to the Pietà waterfront and Valletta. Speaking at the inauguration, Abela described the opening as a major step towards completing one of Malta’s most strategic road projects. He said the government chose to go beyond traffic management by integrating public open spaces, adding that Msida residents would benefit from a new public square and improved community areas. (The Malta Independent)
Malta Inflation Steady but Above EU Average in November Malta’s annual inflation rate stood at 2.5% in November, remaining unchanged from October and slightly above the EU average, which fell to 2.4%, according to Eurostat figures. Inflation in the euro area was lower at 2.1%. While Malta’s rate exceeds the bloc’s average, it remains among the lower levels in the EU, ranking 18th out of 27 member states. Lower inflation in large economies such as France and Italy helped pull down the EU average. National Statistics Office data show that higher restaurant prices were the main driver of Malta’s inflation, followed by rising food costs, particularly meat, and increases in cultural services. (Newsbook)
