Updated 1125
Government introduces paid IVF leave for self-employed prospective parents
Self-employed prospective parents undergoing IVF treatment will now receive 100 hours of paid leave per treatment cycle—60 hours for the mother and 40 for the partner—at the National Minimum Wage rate. Announced by the Social Policy Ministry, this measure extends government support already available to employed individuals. Applications open this week. The government also plans to introduce paternity leave for the self-employed and is consulting on Miscarriage Leave. Social Policy Minister Michael Falzon emphasised IVF’s emotional toll, pledging continued psychological and academic support. Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul described the initiative as part of broader efforts to improve work-life balance. Public figure Martina Zammit praised the move, highlighting its value for inclusive and supportive workplaces. (The Malta Independent)
Tax revenue drop in February was caused by major early payment in December
Finance Minister Clyde Caruana clarified that February’s €180 million drop in income tax revenue was due to a large early payment made in December, which had boosted revenue that month to €617 million. This shift did not impact government targets. In fact, overall revenue for the year is expected to exceed projections, with the deficit and national debt both falling. The deficit is forecast to drop below 3% by next year, and national debt could fall to around 50% of GDP, with a long-term target of 40%. Caruana said the strong economy allows the government to maintain power subsidies and aid, while still adhering to the EU’s Economic Governance Framework. (Times of Malta)
Bernard Grech urges government to take ‘strong stand’ on US tariffs
Opposition leader Bernard Grech urged the government to take a firm stance against the harsh tariffs announced by the US. The measures include a 20% tariff on EU goods, 34% on Chinese products, and 24% on Japanese imports. Grech emphasised the need to protect consumers and local industries, calling the tariffs a setback for all, harming businesses and citizens alike. He expressed solidarity with EU partners, supporting a united front that prioritises dialogue but remains prepared for swift retaliation if necessary. (Times of Malta)
Morning Briefing
Controversial magisterial inquiry gets Parliament’s approval
Parliament passed the controversial magisterial inquiry reform bill on Wednesday, with 37 MPs in favor and 30 against. The Nationalist Party opposed it. The bill has been widely criticized for removing citizens’ right to directly request a magisterial inquiry. Instead, they must first file a police report and wait six months before seeking court intervention. Justice Minister Jonathan Attard defended the reform as a move toward a more responsible process. Meanwhile, various NGOs protested outside parliament, arguing the bill strips citizens of a key legal right. (The Malta Independent)
Muscat’s iPhone reset before raid, Court report reveals
Joseph Muscat’s iPhone was reset weeks before police raided his home, court hears. Expert Keith Cutajar revealed that Muscat had searched online for ways to erase iPhone data and delete WhatsApp backups. Data shows his phone was reset on December 28, 2021, and his family home in Burmarrad was searched on January 19. Muscat faces money laundering, corruption, and bribery charges related to a fraudulent hospitals deal, and he has pleaded not guilty. During the raid, he handed investigators a file of documents and admitted he was only “half surprised” by the search, having refused to disclose his phone password. (Maltatoday)
Spring hunting season likely to reopen – reports
This year’s spring hunting season is likely to reopen, after a court on Wednesday turned down a request by Birdlife to stop the Ornis Committee from discussing and voting on the matter. In its request for a prohibitory injunction, Birdlife argued that the spring hunting season breaches the EU’s Bird Directive and local conservation laws, placing the vulnerable turtle dove further at risk. Birdlife claimed that Malta’s spring hunting derogation was invalid, given that the season contributed to turtle doves’ declining population. The NGO said that its arguments were backed by new data published by the Wild Birds Regulation Unit, which shows that the turtle dove population is dropping from one year to the next.
