Updated 1330
Maltese spend on private healthcare is more than double that of other Europeans
A recent OECD report on healthcare in the EU reveals that Maltese citizens are twice as likely as other Europeans to pay for health services out-of-pocket. High-income earners prefer private doctors, driving this trend. Although out-of-pocket spending dropped from 34.3% to 30% of total health spending in 2020, it remains significantly higher than the EU average of 14%. Factors include long public healthcare wait times and cultural preferences for private care among the affluent. While private spending on medicines is high (86%), spending on therapeutic appliances and long-term care is comparatively lower. Despite increased healthcare spending, Malta lags in preventive care investment. (MaltatodaY)
‘We want to fill the gap’ – new airline to fly to six destinations from Malta
Universal Air, a Malta-based aviation newcomer, shifts focus from charter services to the commercial passenger market. CEO Simon Cook anticipates offering a “premium economy service with low-cost prices,” aiming to fill the gap between budget and upscale airlines. Initial routes include Athens, Corfu, Ibiza, Munich, Palermo, and Pécs. With upgraded Dash 8-400 turboprop planes, the company seeks to compete with rivals like Ryanair and Malta Air. Turboprops offer quicker loading and ascent, cruising at 320 knots. Cook attributes the shift to new management and fleet upgrades in 2021, rather than operational issues. Maiden flight scheduled for March 26. (The Times of Malta)
Parents’ association concerned with union directives to LSEs
The National Parents Society for Persons with Disability (NPSD) expressed concern about recent directives from the Union of Professional Educators (UPE) amid ongoing trade disputes. One directive halts replacements for sick or absent Learning Support Educators (LSEs), causing disruptions for students with disabilities. Parents face indefinite leaves from work to care for their children, causing stress and anxiety. While NPSD supports educators’ rights, they emphasise children’s right to education, calling on UPE to reconsider. They urge authorities to prioritise solutions ensuring uninterrupted education for students with disabilities during negotiations. (The Malta Independent)
Morning Briefing
New ward for acute mental health issues at Mater Dei
Minister of Health Jo Etienne Abela announced the development of a spacious ward at Mater Dei Hospital, aimed at providing advanced treatment for patients facing acute mental health issues through the utilisation of the latest technology and modern methods. uring his address in Parliament on Monday evening, Minister Abela provided updates on the ongoing initiatives to introduce new healthcare services and establish additional health centers and clinics across various locations in Malta and Gozo. He also announced discussions with Harvard Medical School, focusing on expanding treatment capacities in Malta, particularly in the realms of DNA and genetics-based therapies. (Times of Malta)
Premier League Club official investigated on suspicion of corruption – reports
A member of Premier League club is currently under joint investigation by the police and the MFA for suspected corruption. According to media reports, the alleged corruption is linked to a single club and occurred during the current season. Recordings related to the corruption have been submitted as part of the investigation. Reports indicate that allegedly, a person from the technical staff of a club approached a player from another team with a bribe, prompting the player to report the incident to his club, who then filed a report to the police. Herman Mula, head of the Malta Football Association’s Integrity Unit, confirmed the ongoing joint investigation by the MFA and the police, refuting claims of separate investigations. (Maltatoday)
PN says timing of Film Festival report release is disgusting
The Nationalist Party has criticised the “disgusting” timing of the release of a report detailing the spending and potential economic impact of the Mediterranean Film Festival. The PN emphasized that the report, sought since July 2023, was conveniently published on the same day as the Public Inquiry report on the death of Jean Paul Sofia, accusing the government of attempting to divert attention. The PN expressed concern over the lack of transparency and accountability in the festival’s €3.8 million expenditure, demanding clear accounts for a thorough discussion on the spending. (Malta Independent)
