Opposition leader says current economic model forces workers to sacrifice family time
Opposition leader Alex Borg accused the government of promoting an unjust economic model that forces workers to sacrifice family time and well-being for long hours and multiple jobs. He said that while work is available, it does not support family life, adding that this model increases traffic, damages the environment, and worsens mental health. Addressing his first reply to the Budget, Borg criticised the government for widening inequality, noting that political appointees earn tens of thousands while ordinary workers struggle to make ends meet. He said the recent COLA increase gave pensioners less than promised and that tax cuts failed to benefit all. Borg also highlighted young people’s growing struggle to buy property and called the government’s budget “out of touch” with citizens’ realities. On the environment, Borg criticised Project Green as ineffective, saying most funds were being wasted on marketing rather than real projects. He promised that under a Nationalist government, environmental protection, open spaces, and ecological restoration would become genuine national priorities. (Newsbook)
Global Report Praises Malta’s Climate Efforts but Notes Gaps
Malta has been recognised as a model of best practice for its climate strategy, though a global report warned that its plans do not adequately account for the country’s recent population surge. The report commended Malta for setting up the Climate Action Authority, the first dedicated body of its kind in Europe, responsible for coordinating and enforcing the national response to climate change. The findings were published in the Global Climate Adaptation Audits for a Resilient Future, tabled in Parliament by Auditor General Charles Deguara. Compiled by 54 audit institutions worldwide, the study highlights areas where Malta has excelled, while also recommending updates to reflect demographic realities and the growing pressure on resources and infrastructure. (Times of Malta)
ICC Tribunal Upholds Government’s Termination of Steward Deal
An international arbitration tribunal has confirmed that the Maltese government acted lawfully in terminating its hospitals concession agreement with Steward Healthcare. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) tribunal rejected Steward’s €148 million claim and found that no damages were owed to either side. The decision recognised that both parties had received fair value for services and payments made under the concession. According to the ruling, Malta’s total benefits amounted to around €889 million, compared to €884 million for Steward, leaving a shortfall of €4.78 million owed to the company. The government said the decision validates its position that the contract had been terminated on legitimate grounds, marking a significant step in resolving the long-running dispute. (Maltatoday)
