Health, safety, economy, financial services and EU funds make it on the Editorial pages of today’s print media.
It is The Times of Malta‘s turn to condemn the Floriana FC supporters for throwing social distancing rules to the wind, reminding readers of the efforts made by many to ensure their own and other people’s safety. However, the Editor argues that those who flouted the rules could have been highly influenced by the signals and attitudes of the people they look up to and trust. In this context, the Times argues that a prime minister who turns the need for continued caution on its head and frames it in terms of fear – “our biggest enemy” – is sending out the wrong message. The same goes for members of cabinet who post photos blatantly flaunting social distancing guidelines.
The Independent also tackles the issue of economy above safety, and refers to recent relaxation of rules which ensured that restaurants and cafeterias more platforms, tables and chairs have appeared on pavements overnight. The Editor argues that the authorities made an existing problem many times worse, and argues that this a case where measures are being introduced without proper consultation and foresight.
Business Today looks into the massive recovery plan proposed by the European Commission, which is recommending 750 billion euro to be allocated between Member States through grants and loans. It also refers to the Minister of Finance’s concerns on this funding. The Editor argues that the answer to this must be a balanced deal that sees the stronger EU countries shoulder a bigger burden, while insisting on expenditure transparency to ensure utilised funds are invested well. It must also include sensible ways of financing the huge bill without putting disproportionate burdens on small countries like Malta and others on the periphery of the continent.
L-Orizzont describes as unfortunate the recent spate of criticism towards the teaching community, as many online commentators alleged that members of this category are getting paid “for nothing”. The Editor argues that this is a long-standing problem that should be addressed by authorities.
In-Nazzjon discusses the recent tribulations of the financial services sector, and looks at recent damning reports which highlighted Malta’s downward reputation in this sector. The Editor argues that a successful niche of the Maltese economy has now been tarnished by corruption and money-laundering, and a robust effort needs to be undertaken to ensure that Malta’s reputation in this field is restored.
