PM outlines seven new laws as government sets legislative agenda
Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced that seven new laws will be introduced during the current legislature, outlining reforms that span healthcare, planning, civil rights and the voluntary sector. Speaking during a Labour Party activity, Abela said one of the government’s first priorities would be changes to Malta’s IVF framework, including widening preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M) to screen for a broader range of inherited conditions. The reform is also intended to provide greater support for couples who still need to travel abroad for treatment. Among the proposed measures is the reintroduction of a planning reform that would require construction works to stop while development permits are under appeal. The proposal was previously withdrawn following public criticism. Abela also pledged further civil rights reforms aimed at restoring Malta to the top of ILGA-Europe’s rankings, while promising additional support for voluntary organisations. He said Budget 2027 would continue the government’s expansionary approach, focusing on families, businesses, pensioners and first-time buyers. (Maltatoday)
Second Malta interconnector ready for installation after manufacturing milestone
Malta’s second electricity interconnector has reached a major milestone after the 103-kilometre subsea cable was completed and tested ahead of installation later this year. The Energy Ministry said the cable, manufactured over the past year at Nexans’ facility in the United States, is now ready to be loaded onto a specialist cable-laying vessel. Preparations follow the successful clearance of the marine route, allowing installation works to proceed safely. Energy Minister Miriam Dalli described the development as a significant step in strengthening Malta’s energy infrastructure and improving the country’s electricity connection with mainland Europe. She said the project would increase the resilience of the national grid while supporting the integration of renewable energy sources. Interconnect Malta Divisional Manager Joseph Vassallo said the completion of the marine route clearance campaign provides confidence ahead of the installation phase. The €300 million project has secured €261 million in European Regional Development Fund financing, making it one of Malta’s largest energy infrastructure investments. (The Malta Independent)
Heatwave to peak at feels-like 37°C before cooler weather arrives
Malta is set to remain in the grip of intense summer heat until midweek, with temperatures expected to feel as high as 37°C by Wednesday. A yellow weather warning issued by the Meteorological Office remains in force as daytime temperatures continue to climb, reaching around 34°C before easing later in the week. The combination of high temperatures, light winds and strong sunshine is expected to make conditions particularly uncomfortable. Gentle breezes will offer little relief during the first half of the week, although winds are forecast to strengthen by Wednesday, bringing a noticeable drop in temperatures from Thursday. The UV index is also expected to remain at a very high level of 10 until Wednesday before falling slightly as cloudier conditions move in. The forecast comes as much of southern Europe experiences an intense heatwave, with several countries recording extreme temperatures and battling wildfires. Climate experts have previously warned that Malta is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves as the Mediterranean continues to warm. (Times of Malta)
