Updated 1100
EU approves Malta’s fiscal plan: The Council of the European Union approved Malta’s medium-term fiscal-structural plan, noting that the proposed net expenditure path would reduce general government debt from 49.2% of GDP in 2024 to 48.8% in 2028, and further to 42.3% by 2038, staying below the EU’s 60% debt threshold. The Council deemed the plan’s assumptions sound and aligned with regulatory requirements. It highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement and considered risks such as geopolitical pressures. While welcoming Malta’s efforts toward sustainable and inclusive growth, the Council urged readiness to adapt strategies as needed. Malta’s government welcomed the approval as a sign of confidence in its fiscal management.
UPE says professional capabilities should not be overshadowed by personal identities: The Union of Professional Educators (UPE) expressed disappointment over professional capabilities being overshadowed by personal identities. Reacting to reports of parents withdrawing children from St Clare College Primary due to their teacher’s sexual orientation, the UPE emphasised that a teacher’s qualifications, competence, and dedication—not their sexual orientation—should matter. The union condemned the discriminatory act, reaffirming its commitment to supporting affected staff and promoting inclusivity. The UPE urged parents, students, and educators to oppose discrimination and embrace acceptance, aiming to foster a school culture that reflects societal diversity, promotes academic excellence, and nurtures compassionate citizens. The union pledged continued support for educators facing challenges due to prejudice.
Electronic tagging Bill gets unanimous parliamentary approval: Parliament unanimously approved a bill introducing electronic tagging for certain offenders, excluding crimes with penalties of two or more years, domestic violence, gender-based violence, child abuse, and family disputes. However, tagging may apply in domestic violence cases with temporary protection orders, allowing victims to opt for an electronic tag that alerts if the aggressor approaches. An amendment allows specialised devices for victims, providing immediate alerts if the aggressor is nearby. Minister Camilleri stressed that tagging enhances victim protection and supports offender rehabilitation, though it is not flawless. He noted mixed results internationally and acknowledged the opposition’s support for exempted offences. The reform prioritises victim safety while complementing existing tools.
Morning Briefing
Budget marketing campaign cost taxpayers €280,000
Prime Minister Robert Abela revealed that the government spent €280,000 on advertising related to the 2025 Budget in response to a parliamentary question. Nationalist MP Jerome Caruana Cilia had requested a detailed account of the government’s advertising and publicity expenditure following the Budget speech on October 28, specifically asking about costs for “advertising and propaganda.” In his reply, the PM rejected allegations of propaganda, arguing that the government had conducted an information campaign to highlight how the Budget measures would benefit the public. Abela disclosed that the campaign cost €280,047 and utilised social media channels alongside traditional media platforms such as newspapers, television and radio to communicate these measures. (Times of Malta)
Employment increases by 4.6% – NSO
According to the National Statistics Office (NSO), the number of full-time employees in August surpassed 288,000, representing a 4.6% rise compared to the same month last year. The NSO also reported that individuals with part-time work as their primary job totalled 37,785, an increase of 5.5% year-on-year. Full-time employment in the private sector grew by 5.2%, while the public sector saw a 2.3% increase. Employment among men rose by 4.3%, while women in full-time roles experienced a 5.1% increase. (TVM)
26-year-old charged with stabbing elderly man
A 26-year-old man, Marcus Slaine Azzopardi, pleaded not guilty when arraigned on Tuesday afternoon. Appearing before Magistrate Caroline Farrugia Frendo, Azzopardi was charged with causing grievous injuries to a 64-year-old man during an incident on Triq Manuel Magri in Ħamrun. He was also accused of carrying a flick knife without a licence, resisting arrest, and assaulting two police constables. The charges were further aggravated due to the alleged offences being committed against an elderly individual. Additionally, he was charged with breaching public peace. During the court proceedings, Azzopardi revealed that he currently lives in a field after being kicked out of his father’s house. (Newsbook)
