Five Talking Points from Abela and Borg’s Xtra Debate

Last night, Malta’s political arena was abuzz as Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech faced off in the first of their pre-election debates, hosted by TVM’s Xtra. The atmosphere was electric, with the studio audience and viewers at home eagerly awaiting the candidates’ stances on the pressing issues of our time. Here are five key talking points that emerged from the heated exchange:

1. Economy and Jobs

The economy and job creation were predictably at the forefront of the debate. Abela, from his Republic Street office, touted the government’s handling of the economy, citing pre-pandemic growth and record low unemployment. Grech, however, was quick to challenge these claims, arguing that the government has failed to address the rising cost of living and the lack of well-paying jobs. He proposed a ‘Jobs Guarantee’ scheme, promising a job to anyone who wants one.

Abela dismissed this as a ‘pipe dream’, insisting that the government’s focus on attracting foreign investment and encouraging entrepreneurship is the way forward. The question remains: will voters prioritize the government’s economic track record or Grech’s promises of immediate job security?

2. Housing Crisis

The housing crisis, a longstanding issue in Malta, was another hot topic. Abela defended the government’s 1,000-developments policy, claiming it will provide much-needed affordable housing. Grech, however, was critical, arguing that the policy has led to overdevelopment and gentrification, particularly in historic areas like Valletta and the Three Cities.

He proposed a ‘Housing Bond’ to help first-time buyers, a plan that Abela dismissed as unaffordable. With housing prices soaring and availability dwindling, voters will be looking for concrete solutions from both sides.

3. Environment and Planning

The environment and planning were also high on the agenda. Grech criticized the government’s handling of the environment, pointing to the controversial developments in ODZ (Outside Development Zone) areas and the lack of progress on the promised ‘Green Malta’ initiative. Abela, however, insisted that the government is committed to sustainability, citing the recent ban on single-use plastics and the planned expansion of public transport.

The debate also touched on the proposed extension of the Marsa racecourse, a contentious issue that has divided environmentalists and horse racing enthusiasts. With environmental concerns growing among Maltese voters, both candidates will need to convince them that their plans for the island’s future are sustainable.

4. Public Health and COVID-19

Given the ongoing pandemic, it was no surprise that public health and the government’s handling of COVID-19 were discussed. Abela praised the government’s response, citing the successful vaccination campaign and the island’s low case numbers. Grech, however, was critical of the government’s handling of the pandemic, arguing that the government was slow to react and that the vaccination campaign could have been better managed.

He also raised concerns about the government’s plans to reopen the economy, suggesting that it may be happening too quickly. With the pandemic still a reality, voters will be looking for reassurance that their health and safety are a priority.

5. Education and Youth

The debate also touched on education and the government’s plans for Malta’s youth. Greach criticized the government’s handling of the education sector, arguing that it has failed to address the needs of students and teachers. He proposed a ‘Youth Guarantee’ scheme, promising a job, education, or training opportunity for every young person in Malta.

Abela, however, insisted that the government is committed to investing in education, citing the recent increase in the education budget. With youth unemployment a pressing issue, both candidates will need to convince voters that they have the best plan for Malta’s future generations.

As the election draws nearer, these talking points will no doubt continue to dominate the political discourse. With both candidates offering starkly different visions for Malta’s future, voters will have a lot to consider as they head to the polls.