Five Talking Points from Abela and Borg’s Xtra Debate

Malta’s political scene was abuzz last night as Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech faced off in the first of three televised debates ahead of the upcoming general election. Held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, the debate was a chance for the two leaders to outline their visions for Malta’s future. Here are five key talking points from the evening.

Economic Recovery and COVID-19 Response

The pandemic’s impact on Malta’s economy was a hot topic, with both leaders presenting their plans for recovery. Abela, who has led the country since January 2020, defended his government’s handling of the crisis, pointing to the successful rollout of vaccines and the swift implementation of support measures for businesses and individuals. Grech, however, criticized the government’s response, arguing that the economic recovery plan lacks a clear roadmap and that businesses need more targeted support.

“We’ve shown that we can protect lives and livelihoods,” Abela stated, while Grech countered, “The government has been reactive, not proactive. We need a plan for growth, not just survival.”

Corruption and Governance

Corruption and governance were also high on the agenda, with Grech pressing Abela on the ongoing investigation into the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia and allegations of corruption within the government. Abela maintained that his administration is committed to cleaning up Malta’s reputation, pointing to the recent appointment of a new police commissioner and the establishment of a new anti-corruption agency.

Grech, however, was not convinced, stating, “Words are not enough. We need action, and we need it now. The people of Malta deserve a government they can trust.”

Environment and Sustainability

The environment and sustainability were also discussed, with both leaders presenting their plans for a greener Malta. Abela highlighted the government’s investment in renewable energy, including the recent tender for a 20MW solar farm in Delimara, while Grech promised a ban on single-use plastics and the introduction of a green tax on polluting vehicles.

“We’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint and protecting our environment for future generations,” Abela said, to which Grech responded, “Our plans go further. We want to make Malta a leader in sustainability, not just a follower.”

Housing and Cost of Living

The cost of living, particularly housing, was another key issue. Abela pointed to the government’s affordable housing schemes, such as the ‘1st Home Scheme’ and the ‘Rent Supplement Scheme’, while Grech criticized the government for not doing enough to tackle the root causes of high housing prices.

“We need to increase the supply of affordable housing and make it easier for young people to get on the property ladder,” Grech argued, while Abela insisted, “We’re delivering results. More people are accessing affordable housing than ever before.”

Education and Work-Life Balance

The final talking point of the evening was education and work-life balance. Both leaders agreed that the pandemic has highlighted the need for better work-life balance, with Abela promising to introduce legislation to protect workers’ rights and Grech pledging to invest in remote working infrastructure and education.

“We need to ensure that our workers have the right to disconnect and that our children have the best possible education,” Grech said, to which Abela responded, “We’re committed to creating a fairer, more balanced society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”