Updated 1230
Employers with high TCN turnover will be blocked from hiring foreign workers: The Maltese government will block employers with high turnover rates from hiring new foreign workers under a new labour migration policy launching Wednesday. Companies with high termination rates in the past year will face restrictions, aiming to improve labour market stability and safeguard workers’ rights. The policy targets employers prioritising quantity over quality and failing to invest in skills or working conditions. Prime Minister Robert Abela emphasised addressing turnover as a key priority, with Employment Minister Byron Camilleri previously pledging reforms. Following its launch, the policy will undergo public consultation, encouraging employers to focus on retention through better training, development, and conditions while curbing unfair competition in the labour market.
Housing Authority acts on rentals in buyer scheme only after third-party reports – NAO: An audit of Malta’s First-Time Buyers grant scheme revealed the Housing Authority failed to check the rental register to confirm properties were used as primary residences, violating scheme terms. The €10,000 grant, paid over 10 years, requires properties to be owner-occupied and financed through bank loans. In 2023, €2.6 million was disbursed across 2,763 contracts, with 136 applications rejected. The NAO found documentation was generally in order but highlighted insufficient checks on whether properties were rented out. Investigations only occurred following third-party reports. Recommendations included annual crosschecks with the Property Rents Section and Malta Tourism Authority, improved database integration, and prioritising reported violations. The Housing Authority acknowledged challenges but committed to exploring better database integration.
Morning Briefing
Environmentalists, PN express anger at reappointment of former Planning Authority CEO
Environmental activists and the Opposition have criticised the reappointment of former Planning Authority CEO Johann Buttigieg, calling it a step backward for conservation efforts and describing him as returning “from the skip of history.” Developers and architects, however, urged Buttigieg to lead “much-needed reforms” in planning policies and processes. The decision to bring Buttigieg back, six years after his controversial departure, was reportedly made to address a growing backlog of planning applications. During his previous tenure, Buttigieg faced allegations of conflicts of interest and questions over his remuneration. Activists have pointed to these controversies as evidence of his unsuitability for the role. Notably, he once arranged a private jet to bring a PA board member to Malta for a vote on a mega-development and declared his willingness to “do business” with businessman Yorgen Fenech. (Times of Malta)
Government commits to 41% reduction in gas emissions by 2030
The government has submitted its updated National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) to the European Commission, the Energy Ministry announced on Tuesday. It reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change while fostering sustainable economic growth, ensuring that citizens are not unduly burdened in achieving these goals. The plan aims for a 41% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, despite significant growth in economic activity since then and further expected expansion. Key reforms are being implemented in the energy, waste management, industry, and transport sectors, the ministry added. (The Malta Independent)
Teen gets suspended sentence after driving into crowd in Paceville
An 18-year-old was handed a one-year suspended jail sentence after admitting to driving into a small crowd in Paceville following a Boxing Day argument. Magistrate Gabriella Vella delivered the sentence after Leon Cremona Adly pleaded guilty during an earlier court sitting. The incident occurred in Triq San Ġorġ, where Cremona Adly drove a car without the owner’s permission, aiming it at pedestrians after a dispute. He also admitted to attempting to injure them, driving without a licence or insurance, and being under the influence of alcohol. He will be placed under probation and monitored for two years.
