Updated 1010
Parliament approves “living wills” law granting patients right to refuse future treatment
Parliament has approved legislation introducing “living wills”, giving citizens the legal right to set out in advance which medical treatments they would refuse should they face serious illness in the future. The reform, piloted by Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg, was adopted after extensive consultation and broad parliamentary support. It places a stronger emphasis on patient autonomy, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about end-of-life care in advance, in consultation with medical professionals and formalised before a notary. Buttigieg said the law would also ease pressure on relatives and provide legal clarity for doctors when patients are unable to express their wishes. The directives will apply only in defined medical circumstances and will be subject to strict registration and procedural safeguards. The legislation will come into force after a transitional period during which regulatory frameworks are finalised.
Men still underrepresented in mental health support as suicide gap persists
More than four in every five suicides are men, highlighting a persistent gap in mental health support and engagement. Between January 2015 and June 2021, 131 of the 162 suicides recorded involved men, yet only 19.2% of those who died had ever been in contact with mental health services. The data suggests that many cases reach crisis point before any professional intervention occurs. At community level, services show a continued gender imbalance in uptake. In 2025, the Richmond Foundation supported 1,324 clients, of whom 791 were women and 467 were men. Advocates say cultural expectations around masculinity, stigma, and delayed help-seeking behaviour continue to keep men away from early support. Many only seek assistance after prompting from family or partners, often when symptoms have already escalated, underscoring calls for earlier outreach and targeted awareness efforts.
Planning Authority proposes new rules for temporary rural sports events
The Planning Authority has launched a public consultation on new planning guidelines regulating temporary outdoor sporting events and facilities in rural areas. The proposed framework seeks to provide clearer rules for assessing applications, following a rise in requests for activities such as obstacle course racing and other outdoor sports. Officials say the policy recognises that certain recreational uses may be appropriate where they are reversible, environmentally responsible and compatible with rural landscapes. Planning Authority Executive Chair Johann Buttigieg said temporary structures must be fully removed after events, ensuring land is restored to its original use. He added that the aim is to balance promotion of active lifestyles with protection of the countryside. Minister for Planning Clint Camilleri said it responds to increasing demand and would establish a consistent assessment framework. Submissions are open until 12 May via the consultation portal.
Morning Briefing
Malta Records Lowest-Ever Early School Leaving Rate
Malta has achieved its lowest recorded early school leaving rate, with new Eurostat figures placing the country below the European Union average for the first time. The latest data shows Malta at 8.6%, compared with the EU average of 9.1%. The Education Ministry described the result as a major step forward, saying Malta has reached its national target almost five years ahead of schedule. It pointed to reforms in school-based assessment systems, allowing teachers to better identify and support students facing difficulties. (Times of Malta)
Mass Transport Costs Excluded from Malta Surplus Forecast
Finance Minister Clyde Caruana has confirmed that projections showing Malta returning to surplus in 2029 and 2030 do not include the cost of a proposed mass transport system. Speaking during a press conference on Malta’s 2025 financial performance, Caruana said the project remains at feasibility stage and is unlikely to begin before the end of 2026. Asked directly whether the expenditure was included in current forecasts, he replied that it was not. Caruana also warned of the scale of the investment involved, stressing the importance of getting such a project right given the significant financial commitment required. (Maltatoday)
PN Says Malta’s Debt Reaches Record €11.4 Billion
The Nationalist Party has said Malta’s national debt reached a record €11.4 billion in 2025, using the latest figures to warn about the sustainability of government finances. The Opposition argued that rising debt levels should concern both businesses and households, particularly at a time when public spending continues to increase. PN representatives said government must ensure borrowing is directed towards productive investment rather than recurring expenditure. The party also questioned whether current economic growth alone can justify the pace of debt accumulation, warning that future generations may carry the burden if discipline is not maintained. Government has repeatedly defended its fiscal strategy, insisting debt remains manageable and that spending has supported economic expansion, energy subsidies and social measures. (The Malta Independent)
