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Major study warns on devastating impact of climate change on Malta
Extreme heat driven by climate change could have devastating effects on Malta, with temperature-related deaths projected to rise by 269 per 100,000 people by the end of the century, according to a new study published in Nature Medicine. The study highlights the Mediterranean as a “climate hotspot,” warming faster than the global average. While northern Europe, like Ireland, is expected to see fewer temperature-related deaths due to milder winters, southern regions like Malta face soaring heat-related fatalities. Without significant cuts to carbon emissions and better adaptation measures—such as widespread air conditioning and cooling centres—Malta could see a dramatic rise in heat-related deaths, underscoring the urgent need for climate action. (The Malta Independent)
Data shows men shy away from parental leave
Fewer than 100 men took parental leave in the past nine years, compared to nearly 4,500 women, according to data detailing parental leave in the public sector. Between 2014 and 2023, only 87 fathers used parental leave, making up less than 2% of the available four-month leave offered to both parents after maternity and paternity leave. In contrast, 4,458 mothers opted for this benefit during the same period. Data from the secretariat for social dialogue highlights that while maternity leave uptake among women remained consistently high, the number of men taking paternity leave has been gradually increasing. Despite this positive trend, a significant disparity persists, with 98% of parental leave being utilized by mothers. Data on parental leave uptake in the private sector remains unavailable. (Times of Malta)
Doctors postpone directives at health centres
The doctors’ union (MAM) announced that it has postponed its directives to Friday, meaning doctors will return to health centres starting today, Tuesday. The decision followed a meeting with Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela and Permanent Secretary Joseph Chetcuti. In a statement, MAM President Martin Balzan said the union is awaiting a draft from the government and will continue discussions on unresolved issues. MAM expressed hope for a consensus leading to an agreement. The dispute revolves around the government’s plan to outsource emergency services to private hospitals and the mounting pressure on doctors in health centres. (Maltatoday)
Morning Briefing
Insurers call on roadside drug testing follow spate of incidents
Insurers are calling on authorities to introduce legal changes that would enable police officers to conduct roadside drug testing. The Insurance Association Malta (IAM) discussed drug driving and road safety during a meeting with the Police Commissioner and senior officials. In a joint statement, both parties emphasized the importance of consistent enforcement of traffic regulations, noting that visible enforcement boosts public compliance and acts as a strong deterrent. IAM pledged support for acquiring drug testing kits and providing necessary training. Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà highlighted that community collaboration is central to the Malta Police’s mission. He added that extensive research into international best practices had been conducted, and a detailed proposal recommending the required legal changes was submitted to the government. (The Times of Malta)
Sharp rise in new properties on green sites
Between 2014 and 2024, 21,951 new dwellings were approved on greenfield sites—nearly matching the total number of dwellings in Birkirkara and Qormi combined, according to the 2021 census.
Greenfield sites are previously undeveloped areas, mostly within designated development zones. However, greenfield development in Malta has been declining, with the percentage of new dwellings approved on such sites dropping from 25% in 2022 to 22% in 2023, and further to 19% in 2024. (Maltatoday)
PA to decide on massive sports complex
A planning application for a massive sports village on the former Flower Power site and surrounding land in Ta’ Qali will be reviewed by the Planning Authority Board on Thursday. The proposal covers 207,000 square metres, including the now-closed Flower Power site and unused open plots currently littered with construction waste. The land, situated in an Outside Development Zone along Triq Durumblat in Attard, is largely idle. If approved, the project will include a multipurpose sports village with facilities such as rugby and football pitches, tennis courts, a sprint track, an indoor sports complex, a sports hotel, a rehabilitation clinic, commercial areas, parking, and extensive landscaping. (The Malta Independent)