Malta Urges EU Action on Rising Energy Prices

Oct 16 2024

Malta has intensified its calls for action on surging energy prices during a meeting of the EU Energy Ministers’ Council. Citing the Draghi report on European competitiveness, Malta emphasized that stable energy prices are essential for maintaining the region’s economic edge.

Environment and Energy Minister Miriam Dalli highlighted the vulnerability of southern EU countries, which are particularly impacted by rising energy costs. She noted that Malta is keeping prices stable to protect families and businesses, stressing the need for broader EU support to ensure a properly functioning energy market.

Minister Dalli also pointed out that high energy costs put European nations at a disadvantage compared to non-EU countries, undermining global competitiveness. She called for increased investment in energy interconnections and flexible technologies like large-scale battery storage, along with more support for renewable energy projects, especially in the Mediterranean region.

The topic was further discussed at a Friends of Renewables meeting, co-chaired by Minister Dalli and her Danish counterpart. This group, consisting of 15 countries, urged the European Commission to prioritize renewable energy ahead of the incoming Commission’s term.

#MaltaDaily

Over 107,000 Women Working Full Time In Malta As Of April

Oct 16 2024

According to statistics tabled in parliament, as of April 2024, there were 107,609 women working full time in Malta.

69,081 of said women were Maltese, whereas 38,528 were foreigners. The services and sales workers had the highest amount of women working full time at 26,103.

Meanwhile, 4,513 in total worked with reduced hours, with 3,925 of these being Maltese women and 588 being foreign women.

When it came to part-time workers, 18,861 were women – with 15,686 being Maltese and 3,175 being foreigners.

In total, 130,983 women were employed as of April 2024. Of these, 88,692 were Maltese and 42,291 were foreigners.

Meanwhile, 13,158 women were self-employed, with this being their primary full time or part time job. Of these 9,859 were Maltese whereas 3,299 were foreigners.

The questions were tabled by PN MP Graziella Attard Previ, and the data provided by Minister Byron Camilleri.

#MaltaDaily

Borg Bonello, Cassola Call Out New 25 Diesel Buses

Oct 16 2024

Taking to social media, Nationalist MP Eve Borg Bonello and independent politician Arnold Cassola critiqued the acquisition of 25 new diesel buses set to hit Maltese roads.

‘It is deeply concerning that the government decided to introduce new DIESEL buses, going against all promises of electrifying the bus fleet and instead returning to one of the worst pollutants. This comes just a week after launching the climate change authority, highlighting a lack of commitment to real environmental action’, wrote Eve Borg Bonello.

‘Instead of investing in electric or hybrid buses, the government continues to make short-sighted choices that undermine Malta’s climate goals and credibility.’

On his part, Cassola said that he had breathed a sign of relief when he heard Transport Minister Chris Bonett announce an investment into 120 electric buses by the end of 2025.

‘Yesterday we learnt that Twenty-five new buses will hit the roads. But….they all run on diesel. To move forward, the government has to deliver what was promised.’

In response, Malta Public Transport said that ‘the current bus charging infrastructure in Malta can accommodate 30 electric buses to charge simultaneously.’

’It is not as simple as buying an electric car, since high capacity charging infrastructure is required for any additional buses. These diesel buses have EURO 6 engines, which is the cleanest diesel technology on the market and many other countries are still investing in diesel buses as the transition is ongoing and not overnight.’

‘The 25 buses cost around 6 million, an investment made by MPT to improve customer experience for passengers in Malta. The buses were purchased for a project that was delayed in another European country, and they have never been used, so they are brand new, so we decided to bring them to Malta once the demand has increased this year.’

#MaltaDaily

Deputy PM Ian Borg Urges EU to Keep Migration Challenges a Top Priority

Oct 16 2024

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs, Ian Borg, has urged the EU to maintain its focus on addressing migration challenges. Speaking at the EU General Affairs Council in Luxembourg on Tuesday, he stressed the need for continued momentum in supporting member states and securing the EU’s external borders.

Borg welcomed the growing prioritization of migration issues, particularly as Malta has long been at the forefront of these challenges. He called for productive discussions during the upcoming European Council meeting in Brussels, set to take place later this week. Borg emphasized the importance of addressing the external aspects of migration while advancing the Pact on Migration and Asylum.

EU leaders are expected to discuss efforts to strengthen cooperation with countries of origin and transit, combat human trafficking, and prevent irregular migration. The Council will also address the ongoing war in Ukraine and the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Borg reiterated Malta’s support for Ukraine while safeguarding its national security policies. He also called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, stressing the need to support UN efforts in the region.

#MaltaDaily