Updated 1245
Land Reclamation Plans Omitted from Budget as Project Feasibility Remains Unclear: Despite being a Labour Party commitment in 2022, land reclamation received no mention in the latest budget, with only €10,000 allocated for continued studies. This follows a steady decrease from previous budgets, where €500,000 was set aside in 2023 but only €9,500 spent. Since 2019, the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has explored potential sites, with a report identifying areas suitable for various scales of reclamation. Past studies, however, indicate that such projects are economically viable only if linked to real estate development. The Finance Ministry and Transport and Infrastructure Ministry have not confirmed whether land reclamation remains on the government’s agenda.
Mental health helpline receives 17,000 calls in two years: Malta’s 24-hour mental health hotline, active since November 2022, has received 17,000 calls, providing free emotional support for those in distress. Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela, in announcing community-focused mental health initiatives, detailed a €4.5 million investment to benefit 90,000 people. New measures include “mental health first aid courses” for group awareness, one-on-one sessions with mental health professionals, and a collaborative “call out service” to proactively support at-risk individuals. These initiatives, supported by local councils, aim to enhance accessibility to mental health care. The 1579 hotline saw 7,000 calls last year, primarily from those experiencing loneliness, depression, relationship issues, and anxiety.
Over 3,300 individuals deported from Malta in five years: Malta’s 24-hour mental health hotline, active since November 2022, has received 17,000 calls, providing free emotional support for those in distress. Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela, in announcing community-focused mental health initiatives, detailed a €4.5 million investment to benefit 90,000 people. New measures include “mental health first aid courses” for group awareness, one-on-one sessions with mental health professionals, and a collaborative “call out service” to proactively support at-risk individuals. These initiatives, supported by local councils, aim to enhance accessibility to mental health care. The 1579 hotline saw 7,000 calls last year, primarily from those experiencing loneliness, depression, relationship issues, and anxiety.
Morning Briefing
PM says budget was result of economic competence and responsibility
PM Robert Abela said that Government had reduced tax despite increasing government revenue, adding that this was the definition of economic competence and responsibility in governance. In his reply to the budget speech and the Opposition’s response, said that tax evasion was being addressed to ensure that businesses paid their dues in the same manner that workers had their fiscal contribution taken off directly from their salaries. He also took the Opposition to task for not publishing its pre-budget proposals, and said that a PN government would stop handouts and increase taxes.
New flyover project in Msida begins
Concrete barriers have been installed in Msida as work begins on a large-scale roadworks project at the busy junction. The Msida Creek project aims to replace the existing intersection with a flyover, new quay, roads, and cycling lanes. Scheduled to continue until 2027, the project is being undertaken by EPE JV, a consortium led by Polidano Brothers, which secured the contract with a bid of €35 million. Barriers now line the marina, and workers were seen on-site on Tuesday morning. The initial phase, which focuses on building a new quay and laying the foundation for a future road connecting Ta’ Xbiex to Valletta, is not expected to disrupt traffic. (Times of Malta)
Church launches new child safeguarding policy
The Church in Malta and Gozo has released a new safeguarding policy aimed at protecting minors and vulnerable adults. The updated guidelines set higher standards for handling cases and emphasize a victim-centred approach, prioritising responsibility, accountability, and transparency. Head of Safeguarding Mark Pellicano stated that the policy is designed to create a safer environment and support victims. It includes clear standards for boundaries, online interactions, one-to-one encounters, and physical contact, outlining best practices to ensure protection and accountability. (The Malta Independent)
