Updated 1400
Arrests made after cannabis heist
Police have arrested several individuals in connection with the theft of 200kg of cannabis resin from a container stored at the Safi barracks, an army facility. Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri confirmed that an unspecified number of suspects were in custody. He also revealed that some of the stolen cannabis resin had been recovered.(Times of Malta)
Updated 1210
Ian Borg to axe Airbnb neighbour approval policy: Tourism Minister Ian Borg announced the government will abandon a proposed rule requiring Airbnb owners to obtain condominium neighbours’ approval before operating. Instead, regulations will focus on ensuring respectful behavior, addressing noise and waste issues, with strict enforcement promised. Borg deemed the approval measure unfair, given the government previously encouraged property investment for tourism. However, he emphasised the need to balance tourism growth with residents’ quality of life. Additionally, Borg warned unlicensed operators to comply as platforms like Airbnb must share data with authorities. On hotel development, he questioned the sustainability of policies allowing extra floors for hotels, suggesting the need to manage growth without excessive expansion. (Times of Malta)
Medicine formulary to be revised to widen mental health treatment access: The Health Ministry is revising the government’s formulary to expand access to mental health treatments and enhance prescription rights for specialists and family doctors. Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela emphasised the importance of sustainable mental health for overall well-being, aligning with the Mental Health Strategy for Malta 2020-2030. The update will provide access to the latest evidence-based treatments and allow specialists and GPs to apply for medication entitlements for various mental health conditions. Additionally, they will gain improved access to specialised services within community clinics and mental health facilities. The initiative aims to simplify treatment access, ensuring timely, community-based care and fostering a more integrated and holistic healthcare system. (Maltatoday)
Cancer research funding to nearly double as €1 million grant set for March: The government will allocate €1 million for cancer research projects in March, nearly doubling last year’s €600,000 grant. Research junior minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti announced that the Cancer Research Foundation, led by Professor Christian Scerri, will evaluate proposals and distribute funds to successful applicants. The foundation also promotes collaboration with international research institutes and supports local professionals in networking with global experts. Established in April, the foundation aims to raise public awareness about cancer prevention, including outreach through a mobile unit that visits towns across Malta. The total budget for cancer research has increased to €1.6 million, up from €800,000.
Morning Briefing
Stolen drugs had value of €600,000
Around 200kg of cannabis resin, stolen from an army base on Saturday night, is estimated to be worth €600,000. The drugs were part of a 4.3-tonne, €13 million haul seized by customs last year. Reports suggest that the stolen resin came from a shipment intercepted at the Freeport in June. Customs officials had discovered the drugs hidden inside induction ovens shipped from Morocco to Libya after scans revealed inconsistencies. The concealment method was described as “ingenious.” (Times of Malta)
New renewable energy schemes launched
A €10 million fund has been launched to support renewable energy projects, reducing the financial burden on applicants. Unlike previous schemes, discounts will be applied directly rather than through refunds. Energy Minister Miriam Dalli announced the initiative, which covers homes, businesses, and community organisations. Administered by REWS, the scheme offers four options: standard inverter panels and hybrid inverters receive 50% funding (up to €2,500 and €3,000, respectively). For hybrid inverters with storage, the Government covers 80% of battery costs (up to €7,200) and inverter costs (up to €1,800). Electricity storage alone qualifies for 80% funding, also up to €7,200.
NGO coalition shares concern with EU institutions over inquiry reform
A coalition of NGOs has raised concerns over Bill 125, which they argue will weaken democratic accountability and shield officials from scrutiny. In letters to the Council of Europe and EU institutions, they warn that the proposed law places an unreasonable burden on private citizens seeking magisterial inquiries. The bill, being fast-tracked through Parliament, would require individuals to file a police report, identify a suspect, specify the offense, and provide evidence before an inquiry can begin. The NGOs argue this could turn the police into a political gatekeeper, blocking investigations into high-level corruption. They highlight that past inquiries—such as those into the Electrogas deal and the Vitals hospital agreement—were triggered by private citizens. The NGOs, which include Moviment Graffiti, Repubblika and the Falcone Foundation among others, are urging international bodies to intervene. (Maltatoday)