Updated 1240
Opposition takes State Advocate to court over inaction on Vitals deal
On Tuesday, the Oppositionbrought the State Advocate to court, contending that he must recover the embezzled funds from thedefunct hospitals’ deal in the public interest. PN Leader Bernard Grech and MP Adrian Delia argued inthe First Hall, Civil Court that the State Advocate, as “the last man standing in our constitutionalsystem,” has the authority and obligation to take legal action against current and past governmentofficials involved in the transaction. Grech, speaking outside the court, emphasised that the PN isseeking a declaration from the court stating that the State Advocate should not be dependent on theprime minister to initiate proceedings for fund recovery.
Car insurance premiums shoot up
Motorists are facing significant spikes in car insurance premiums,with some experiencing up to a 40% increase within a year. The extent of the rise varies amonginsurance providers and vehicle types, influenced by factors like the car model and coverage level.Insurers report premiums surging by seven to 15%, while some have seen a uniform 25% increase. Theupswing is attributed to a surge in claims and escalating costs of vehicle parts. Car and businessowners express concern over the potentially crippling impact of these hikes. A car rental companyreveals that the spike in premiums for its fleet translates to an almost €100,000 surge in insurance expenses. (Times of MAlta)
146 new and upgraded substations across Malta and Gozo in two years:
In the past two years,Enemalta has invested in 146 new or upgraded substations, gearing up for further enhancements tothe electricity distribution network in 2024. The Energy Ministry announced this initiative,emphasizing Enemalta’s commitment to improving electricity services in Malta and Gozo. During avisit to the ongoing upgrade of a substation in Dingli, Minister Miriam Dalli discussed theimplementation of this plan with Enemalta management and staff. The project involves doubling thecapacity of a key substation in Dingli by installing a new transformer, thereby enhancing networkcapacity and flexibility in the area.
Morning Briefing
Court says journalist should be able to film in prison
A landmark ruling will permit journalists to conduct interviews, capture photos, and record videos within prisons, potentially enhancing public oversight of activities behind bars. Emphasizing that the law should not hinder journalists’ access to the public sphere, the court upheld blogger Manuel Delia’s claim of violated rights due to denied entry to prisons and detention centers. Delia initiated legal action in September 2020 following his request to visit Corradino prison and detention facilities, prompted by Times of Malta’s report on alleged mistreatment of detainees by prison staff, including being treated inhumanely. (Times of Malta)
Rent law reform debate kicks off in Parliament
Housing Minister Roderick Galdea introduced initial amendments to the rent law, aimed at addressing overcrowding issues perpetrated by certain landlords. These changes will limit the number of non-related tenants in a unit to six, aligning the rent law with planning regulations. Galdea highlighted a recent case where 40 individuals were discovered living in poor conditions within a single Sliema apartment, emphasizing the government’s stance against such exploitation. He also condemned steep rent increases, citing instances where apartments previously rented for €900 now demand €3,000 monthly, deeming these inflated rates intolerable. (Maltatoday)
PN wants changes to Proceeds of Crimes Act
The PN announced its intention to suggest changes to the bill that modifies the Proceeds of Crime Act, specifically aiming to exempt corruption offenses from its scope. PN’s Justice spokesperson, Karol Aquilina, emphasized the necessity for robust laws and institutions in combating crime, accusing the government of persistently undermining this effort through the proposed amendments to the Proceeds of Crime Act. He said that the newly proposed Bill 76, which was debated in the House on Monday afternoon, seeks to further weaken the country’s crime-fighting measures. (The Malta Independent)
