Prison Cellmate Claims Bomb Diagram Linked to Labour HQ Suspect A court has heard that the man accused of placing an explosive device outside the Labour Party headquarters allegedly drew a bomb diagram while in prison. David Brincat, 20, was charged in 2024 with terrorism-related offences after an explosive detonated inside a bin outside the PL headquarters in May 2023. No injuries were reported, though residents later had to be evacuated from a Ħamrun garage where TATP was discovered. During the latest sitting, inmate Mario Testa testified that he found a paper containing what appeared to be a bomb recipe and diagram on his bunk bed. Testa said he believed it belonged to Brincat, claiming the accused had previously spoken about chemistry, though he insisted he had no involvement. (Times of Malta)
€37m Temporary Power Plant Has Never Been Used, Minister Confirms The 60MW temporary emergency power plant installed by Enemalta in Delimara last year has never been activated, Energy Minister Miriam Dalli has confirmed. The facility, built by UNEC, part of Bonnici Brothers, cost €37 million and was introduced following widespread power cuts during the 2023 summer heatwave. A parliamentary question by Shadow Energy Minister Mark Anthony Sammut sought detailed records of its use, including dates and reasons for activation. However, the response clarified that usage stands at zero. Dalli said Enemalta operates under the “N+1” principle, guaranteeing independent backup capacity even when demand peaks. Despite reaching nearly 650MW this year, the plant was not required. It will remain in place until Malta completes its second interconnector with Sicily. (Newsbook)
Post-Doctoral Fellowship Scheme Reopens to Boost Research Careers Malta’s Post-Doctoral Fellowship Scheme has reopened, offering fresh support for researchers aiming to advance their academic careers. Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti said the scheme will strengthen applied research, particularly through collaboration between the University of Malta and the Chamber of Commerce. This aligns with the increased research tax credit, which rose from 100% to 175% in the latest Budget. University Rector Alfred Vella noted that 77 individuals earned research doctorates last March, all eligible for the funding, and highlighted growing international interest in Malta’s research environment. Chamber Deputy President Mark Bajada added that each Post-Doc project contributes significant value to Malta’s ambition of becoming a knowledge-based economy. (The Malta Independent)
