Ministry for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme has announced a €6 million investment in sustainable transport for local councils, as part of Malta’s Climate Social Fund (CSF) strategy.

Speaking at a public consultation session with local councils, Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi highlighted the vital role of local councils in ensuring that investments reach communities in need and provide meaningful social support.

“Local councils play a crucial role in ensuring targeted investment reaches where it’s most needed and offers social benefits to many.” said Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi during the event.

The session formed part of the EU-wide consultation process linked to the Climate Social Fund. Present at the meeting were representatives from both local and regional councils, along with Jonathan Vassallo, Permanent Secretary for European Funds.

The Minister stressed the importance of such sessions to raise awareness of EU funding programmes and to give local councils the opportunity to contribute ideas and suggestions. He also commended all participants for their commitment to shaping a realistic and sustainable national plan.

Debbie Cachia, Chief Officer for Strategic Coordination and Planning for European Funds, presented key elements of the plan, with a particular focus on the transport sector. She introduced an initiative that will support the provision of local community transport services for vulnerable groups.

The initiative includes the deployment of electric vehicles and the necessary charging infrastructure, funded through an investment of approximately €6 million. In addition, an awareness campaign will be launched to promote the service within localities.

This initiative forms part of Malta’s broader commitment to a just green transition and comes under a total CSF allocation of €60.5 million for Malta for the period 2026–2032.

The public consultation remains open until 25 June 2025 at noon, and the public is invited to submit comments through publicconsultation.gov.mt or fondi.eu.

#MaltaDaily

Yesterday at around 4:30 pm, an electric bike was engulfed in flames in Sliema.

Footage by nearby residents shows the vehicle covered in smoke and flames.

The Civil Protection Department responded promptly and extinguished the blaze.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

#MaltaDaily

Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, Chris Bonett, has overseen the signing of an agreement between Transport Malta and Environment Malta aimed at ensuring that landscaping and beautification works around road infrastructure take place during off-peak hours.

This agreement forms part of a series of measures over an 18-month period designed to mitigate traffic challenges, reduce congestion, and increase efficiency. “This agreement is another step in our plan to make better use of existing roads and infrastructure. It clearly demonstrates the Government’s commitment to implementing practical solutions that improve mobility and quality of life. It allows Environment Malta to carry out vital works without causing unnecessary congestion.” Minister Bonett said.

According to the agreement, beautification and landscaping works should be conducted outside of peak hours, defined as between 6:00 am and 9:00 am and between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm on weekdays, and between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm on Saturdays.

This does not apply where works do not affect traffic flow.

The agreement also includes the creation of a coordination structure between the two entities, with designated officials responsible for planning and monitoring activities. Environment Malta will also be responsible for ensuring all work complies with health and safety regulations, including the use of signage and traffic management measures when necessary.

The agreement was signed by Kurt Farrugia, Chief Executive Officer of Transport Malta, and Herman Galea, Director General of Environment Malta.

#MaltaDaily