Opposition walks out of Parliament after Labour leads motion to censure PN MP
The Opposition walked out of parliament on Monday as the government moved to censure Nationalist MP Karol Aquilina for his conduct during a heated exchange with Speaker Anġlu Farrugia last week. The Labour government’s motion accused Aquilina of using offensive language and breaching parliamentary rules. Opposition leader Bernard Grech condemned the move as a politically motivated attempt to silence dissent. Last week, the Nationalist Party had criticised Farrugia, calling for an impartial Speaker. The motion expressed solidarity with Farrugia, commending his integrity while condemning Aquilina’s actions, which included calling the Speaker “mindless” and accusing him of acting like a government MP. It also noted that during a session where he was found guilty of a breach of privilege, Aquilina challenged the Speaker to call the police to remove him. The motion urged the Opposition leader to take action to prevent further disorder. (Times of Malta)
60% of Maltese clients use online banking – study
Over 60% of Maltese clients use mobile or internet banking, according to an MFSA study. The study found a rise in digital banking, particularly via mobile apps, while in-branch transactions for cash services and payments declined between 2022 and 2023—a shift accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The MFSA conducted the study to assess how local banks are adapting to digitalisation and whether their services meet customer needs. By analysing transaction trends and bank websites, it examined mobile and internet banking adoption, chatbot use, ATM and branch visits, card payments, and other online services. While digital banking continues to grow, the MFSA noted that some customers still prefer in-person interactions, particularly for complex financial matters. (Maltatoday)
Cabs lobby accuses transport of authorities of ignoring abuse
The Light Passenger Operators Association (LPOA) has filed a judicial protest against Transport Malta and the Transport Ministry, accusing them of ignoring abuses that have led to market oversaturation. The cab lobby claims years of lax enforcement have allowed irregular operators to outgrow law-abiding ones. It cites the 2019 “PSG Reform” as a turning point, noting that since 2020, the sector has “exploded” due to unchecked violations. The protest highlights issues such as false garage address declarations and irregular Y-plate distribution, blaming authorities for failing to enforce regulations. (The Malta Independent)
