Tista’ taqra bil-
Malti.
Prime Minister Robert Abela has reaffirmed Malta’s dedication to the European Union, labelling any suggestion for the nation to exit the bloc as “madness.”
In light of recent developments, a statement has been issued addressing a proposal put forth by Stefano Mallia, the President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), advocating for the inclusion of Malta’s EU membership within the Constitution.
Mallia’s proposal seeks to enshrine in the constitution a provision that would render it impossible for Malta to withdraw from the EU, similar to the existing protections surrounding the nation’s neutrality.
In response to Mallia’s proposal, Abela expressed firm opposition, highlighting the substantial benefits Malta has reaped from its EU membership while noting the limited downsides.
Abela rejected the necessity for constitutional measures to protect Malta’s EU membership, expressing scepticism about the reasoning for implementing such a provision. “Who in their right mind would think about exiting the EU?” he commented.
This represents a notable change for the Labour Party, which has traditionally been against Malta’s membership in the European Union.
In the 2003 referendum, the party actively opposed the idea of joining the EU. Since Malta’s accession in 2004, the Labour Party has progressively adopted a pro-European Union position.
Malta’s financial commitment to the European Union has reached nearly €2 billion since its accession to the bloc. Nonetheless, the financial support that Malta has received far surpasses this amount.
Ian Borg’s expanded portfolio
In a significant move, Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg has assumed the tourism portfolio while continuing to fulfil his duties as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The recent decision comes in the wake of the resignation of former Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo. Prime Minister Abela has chosen to distribute the responsibilities of the tourism portfolio among three ministers, instead of designating it to a backbencher.
In response to concerns regarding backbenchers, Abela firmly rejected any notion of distrust, emphasising Borg’s substantial contributions to the economy of Malta and its representation on the global stage.
Borg’s dual role emerges during a period of significant international visibility for Malta, as the nation wraps up its leadership term with the OSCE and continues to play an active part in the UN Security Council. Malta is preparing to welcome a significant ministerial meeting next month, which will bring together 57 foreign affairs ministers under the coordination of Borg.
MCAST Dispute: No resolution yet in ongoing negotiations
Abela also spoke about the current industrial dispute at MCAST, which has put students in a state of uncertainty due to directives from the Malta Union of Teachers (MUT). The recent directives, arising from disputes regarding a new collective agreement for MCAST educators, have resulted in a postponement of the students’ results release.
The Prime Minister conveyed understanding towards both students and educators, emphasising the importance of establishing a practical collective agreement that would ensure sustainability for future administrations.
Amid ongoing discussions, Abela chose to withhold specific comments, saying that the negotiations remain in a critical phase.
A large number of MCAST students recently took to the streets to point out the consequences of the ongoing unresolved dispute.
