Opposition Presents Clear Commitments on Transport Future
The Nationalist Party will present its plans for a new mass transport system in the coming days, Opposition leader Alex Borg announced, signalling a detailed alternative to the government's approach to Malta's transport infrastructure [1][2].
Speaking during an interview on NET TV, Borg vowed that a future PN government would begin work on the system within its first 100 days in office, with the main route expected to be operational within the first five years [1][2]. It's a sharp contrast to the current administration, which Borg argues has been slow to act.
"The Labour Party has been in government since 2013 and is still studying how the system will work," Borg said, pointing to what he sees as a lack of concrete progress under the current government. He added that in the Vision 2050 document, mass transport is only briefly mentioned [1].
Positioning as a Prepared Alternative
The Opposition leader emphasised that unlike the government, the PN is presenting itself as a prepared alternative with clear commitments and timelines. "We have given our word to the people," Borg stated [1]. The party's electoral programme, coordinated by public policy lecturer George Vital Zammit, is close to completion, with detailed plans, timelines, and costings [1].
Child Trust Fund and Tax Relief Proposals
Beyond transport, Borg reiterated a proposal to introduce a Child Trust Fund, first outlined in the PN's 2025 budget plans. Under this scheme, €5,000 would be allocated for every newborn, with the funds becoming accessible when the child turns 18 [1]. According to Borg, the money could be used for purposes such as starting a business, studying abroad, or contributing towards a first home, aimed at helping young people achieve their ambitions [1].
On taxation, Borg referred to the PN's proposal to reduce VAT for catering establishments from 18% to seven percent. He highlighted inconsistencies in the government's position, pointing out that Finance Minister Clyde Caruana had given differing estimates of the cost—€80 million at a business breakfast in October and €143 million in parliament more recently [1].
Borg also questioned why Labour has shifted its stance on VAT reduction for restaurants. "When Labour was in opposition, former leader Joseph Muscat had proposed reducing VAT on restaurants to 5%," he noted, questioning the party's change in position now that it's in government [1]. He added that previous tax reductions for businesses had led to increased government revenue [1].
Making a Contract with the People
Borg emphasised that the PN wants to "make a contract with the people," presenting the party as an alternative government with detailed, costed proposals rather than vague promises [1].