After an exhilarating six-week journey on Love Island Malta Season 3, winner Matthew returned to work to a truly wholesome and heartfelt welcome. As he walked through the doors, he was greeted by a banner showcasing some of his special moments from the villa, bringing back memories of his time on the show.
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Matthew and Eve then posed for a photo alongside his colleagues, commemorating the special occasion and celebrating his incredible journey.
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In a press conference presenting a reform concerning public officials and those in public entities, Prime Minister Robert Abela emphasised that this change represents an important step forward in continuing to support workers and officials within the public administration those who diligently perform their duties with a sense of responsibility and loyalty towards their country and the Maltese and Gozitan people.
He added that this reform is not merely a legal matter, but also one of justice and respect for those who serve the nation.
The Government intends for the Act on civil liability of persons occupying public office and public entities to pass through all parliamentary stages before the summer recess.
The proposed law covers public officials, members of the Public Service, members of disciplined corps, as well as those holding constitutionally established positions, where civil judgments and damages relate to the discharge of their duties in the capacity of the public office they hold.
Prime Minister Robert Abela stated that the public has a right to an efficient and serene public administration. Therefore, the Government wants to reassure those who serve, so they can perform their duties without fear of facing unwanted legal claims.
Prime Minister also highlighted that this reform is part of a broader vision to strengthen the Public Service, a vision consistently implemented over recent months and years. He recalled that just a few months ago, a collective agreement was signed, providing pay increases and laying the foundation for improvements in job security and working conditions for 33,000 employees.
This comes alongside ongoing investments in Civil Service employees, including a €4 million investment with Microsoft in a new artificial intelligence system called Co-Pilot, enabling officials to perform their duties more efficiently and offer the best possible services to citizens.
Dr Abela also referenced 11 agreements signed over the past two months that improved wages and conditions for around 1,100 Civil Service workers. He emphasised that the Government will continue to be the workers’ advocate, not only by improving and strengthening working conditions and salaries but also by providing legal and institutional support to Civil Service employees.
Justice Minister and Minister for Reform in the Construction Sector Jonathan Attard said, “This law offers protection with responsibility and reflects a mature legal system that understands the complexity of public administration. It is a law encouraging responsible decision-making while curbing abuse of power and safeguarding citizens’ legal rights. This law recognises that those performing public functions should be able to discharge their duties without fear of personal liability for genuine mistakes. However, it also makes clear that this protection is not absolute. If failures occur due to gross negligence or criminal intent, they are not shielded by public office protection.”
Head of the Public Service Tony Sultana stated that in a rapidly evolving country, the public administration must become more dynamic to stay close to the people. This means more challenges and work pressure, alongside decisions that must be made swiftly amid increasing complexity. “These decisions are taken by employees at all levels. Therefore, it is unfair to expect such workers to keep pace with rapid demand without offering them the peace of mind they deserve. I believe this reform not only strengthens the Public Service but also the public we serve.
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Chucky Bartolo, the iconic narrator of Love Island Malta since its very first season, has looked back on the conclusion of Season 3.
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Posting on social media, Bartolo shared his thoughts, “ILLEJLA fuq Love Island Malta – flixkun u nofs inbid U GĦADA uġieħ f’dari ħabba l-iżfin 💃 That’s a wrap on Season 3 🌴❤️ My third year as the narrator and voice of treason 📢.”
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Taking to social media, Nationalist MP Darren Carabott addressed the recent controversy involving three LESA officials caught snorting cocaine in a LESA vehicle while on duty, saying, “You’d have to be cut off from people to not notice cocaine has taken over this country.”
He said that at first he was shocked by what he saw, but then remembered that people often abuse the drug during baptisms, communions, weddings, and almost any excuse for a celebration.
“This footage is the ugly reality in our country, and points to the state of our country’s enforcement,” he said.
“How can someone enforce the law on how I drive when that official is high on cocaine?” he asked rhetorically.
Agreeing with the immediate dismissal of the officials, he also said they should be given all the support needed to overcome their addiction. He made three further appeals:
To the “influencer politicians,” whom he accused of using social media for likes or playing the victim while doing little to address such issues. To the Maltese public, urging them not to tarnish the reputation of all LESA officials because of the actions of three individuals.
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And to the government and LESA, he called for stronger discipline and transparency. “Dismissal is not the only solution, and LESA should explain what other steps will be taken.”
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