Malta News Briefing – Tuesday 22 October 2024

Morning Briefing

Infrastructure Malta to proceed with building of flyover at Msida Creek

Infrastructure Malta will proceed with the construction of a flyover at Msida Creek, despite opposition from the local council. During a press briefing on Monday, IM CEO Steve Ellul acknowledged the council’s request to revise the plans but confirmed that works are set to begin as planned in the first weeks of November. The first phase of the €38.5 million project is expected to take approximately a year, with the entire project slated for completion by 2027. When questioned by Times of Malta about whether this decision is final, Ellul stressed that halting the project would be unwise, as it could expose IM to potential claims from other bidders. (Times of Malta)

TM official’s signature was forged in social benefits racket, court hears

Two Transport Malta officials testified in the ongoing social benefits racket case, revealing forged signatures and raising doubts about the legitimacy of certain social benefits. The case, involving Silvio Grixti, Dustin Caruana, Manuel Spagnol, Luke Saliba, and Roger Agius, includes charges of money laundering, fraud, and involvement in a criminal organisation. Deputy Chief Officer of the Land Transport Directorate, Gilbert Aguis, confirmed that his signature had been forged on a document presented by the prosecution. The document was allegedly used by Luke Saliba to obtain medical assistance. (Maltatoday)

Mandatory union membership, continuation of energy subsidies top GWU budget proposals

The General Workers’ Union (GWU) has submitted its proposals for the 2025 Budget, aimed at promoting a comprehensive national vision and strategy for Malta. Focusing on improving citizens’ quality of life, the proposals address various areas, including employment, governance, education, health, the environment, social issues, infrastructure, inclusion and equality. One key proposal is the automatic enrolment of workers into a trade union of their choice. The GWU also called for more prudent public spending to ensure wealth creation benefits the most vulnerable and is distributed fairly. The union supports continuing subsidies on energy and fuel, along with food price stability mechanisms. It also advocated for updates to labour laws to better protect remote and flexible workers, and for double pay on Sundays and public holidays. (The Malta Independent)

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