Five Talking Points from Abela and Borg’s Xtra Debate

Last night, Malta’s political scene was abuzz as Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech faced off in the first of three Xtra debates leading up to the 2022 general election. Held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, the debate covered a range of topics, from the economy to the environment. Here are five key talking points that had Maltese viewers glued to their screens.

Economic Recovery and COVID-19 Response

The debate kicked off with a discussion on Malta’s economic recovery post-COVID-19. Both leaders agreed that the pandemic had posed significant challenges, but they differed on how to move forward. Abela highlighted the government’s successful vaccination campaign and the €1.3 billion recovery plan, while Grech criticized the government’s handling of the crisis, pointing to the high debt levels and the impact on businesses.

“We’ve shown that we can protect lives and livelihoods,” Abela argued, “Our recovery plan is creating jobs and stimulating growth.” Grech, however, insisted that “The government has failed to provide a clear roadmap for recovery. We need a plan that puts businesses and jobs first.”

Environmental Concerns and Development

Climate change and environmental degradation were high on the agenda, with both leaders acknowledging the need for urgent action. Abela pointed to the government’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. He also highlighted the recent approval of the Delimara Power Station project, which will see the construction of a new solar farm and battery storage system.

Grech, however, accused the government of prioritizing development over environmental protection. He cited the proposed developments in Marsascala and the controversy surrounding the ODZ developments in Mellieha as examples of the government’s lack of commitment to environmental sustainability. “We need a balance between development and environmental protection,” Grech insisted, “And that’s what we’ll deliver in government.”

Corruption and Good Governance

Corruption and good governance were also hot topics during the debate. Grech accused the government of failing to tackle corruption, pointing to the ongoing investigations into the Electrogas deal and the Keith Schembri case. “The government has failed to deliver on its promises of good governance,” Grech argued, “We need a government that is transparent and accountable to the people.”

Abela, however, defended the government’s record on corruption, pointing to the strengthening of institutions such as the Malta Police Force and the Office of the Attorney General. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations of the Venice Commission. “We’ve taken significant steps to strengthen our institutions and fight corruption,” Abela insisted, “And we’re committed to doing more.”

Immigration and Asylum Seekers

The debate also touched on the contentious issue of immigration and asylum seekers. Abela defended the government’s handling of the situation, pointing to the successful relocation of asylum seekers to other EU countries and the government’s commitment to improving conditions at the Ħaġar Qim open centre.

Grech, however, accused the government of failing to address the root causes of migration and of not doing enough to protect Malta’s borders. “We need a comprehensive policy that addresses the push factors driving migration and strengthens our borders,” Grech argued, “And we need to do more to integrate those who are already here.”

Social Issues and Quality of Life

The final segment of the debate focused on social issues and the quality of life in Malta. Both leaders agreed on the need to address the housing crisis, with Abela highlighting the government’s plans to build 10,000 new affordable homes by 2030. Grech, however, accused the government of failing to address the root causes of the crisis, pointing to the need for a more broad approach to housing policy.

Grech also criticized the government’s handling of the healthcare system, pointing to the ongoing staffing shortages and the need for urgent investment in infrastructure. Abela, however, defended the government’s record on healthcare, pointing to the recent investment in the new St. Luke’s Hospital and the government’s commitment to increasing healthcare spending.

As the debate came to a close, both leaders expressed their confidence in their respective parties’ ability to lead Malta forward. With the election just around the corner, Maltese voters will have plenty to consider as they make their choice at the polls.