Robert Abela said Manoel Island and White Rocks are entering an “exciting phase” towards their transformation into national parks during an appearance on Xtra.

Opening the interview, he addressed speculation on a possible early election, saying elections are called “when it is the right moment” and stressing the need for voters to be presented with a clear choice. He contrasted this with what he described as uncertainty and fragmentation on the Opposition side, while framing government policy around long-term planning and Vision 2050.

Energy policy and wider economic management featured heavily, with criticism directed at the Opposition for shifting positions on subsidies, which he said had previously been described as unsustainable before later being contradicted. Government investment continues, including a second interconnector, with plans already in motion for a third. He pointed to Malta’s relatively stable inflation and an expected reduction in the deficit as signs of policy effectiveness, alongside a broader focus on investment in people through a progressive economic model.

The discussion then turned to international developments, with the situation in the Middle East described as a major crisis with long-term consequences, particularly for energy markets and diplomatic relations. Malta, he said, has remained prepared and proactive in response to evolving pressures.

Domestically, attention focused on transport and labour market pressures. Traffic was described as one of the country’s most persistent challenges, alongside ongoing labour shortages which continue to require foreign workers despite updated migration policies. Infrastructure projects were presented as part of the response, including the Msida Creek project, which is around 70% complete and expected to ease congestion once completed, alongside other completed works. Around one million passengers have used sea transport, which was cited as part of broader efforts to reduce pressure on road networks.

On environmental and planning policy, government was described as pursuing a balanced approach between developers and voluntary organisations, with discussions ongoing. Longstanding issues such as rooms in fields were referenced in the context of pragmatic regularisation. Manoel Island and White Rocks were highlighted as examples of decisions shaped by public sentiment, including the return of White Rocks to public ownership and contractual obligations in the Manoel Island case, with reforms expected to continue evolving over time.

Healthcare pressures, particularly waiting lists in the public system, were acknowledged. He expressed satisfaction with the launch of the Censu Moran initiative and said increased cooperation with private hospitals has helped ease pressure on services. Work is also underway to reduce A&E waiting times in the coming weeks, alongside investment in expanding emergency capacity and a new mental health facility.

Housing affordability was identified as a key challenge, especially for first-time buyers. Measures include the 10% deposit scheme, equity-sharing initiatives, UCA mechanisms, and tax exemptions, alongside work with the Curia aimed at reducing market prices by around 30%.

On governance and electoral matters, controversial candidate nominations were said to be assessed on the basis of facts presented to the relevant commission rather than speculation, with emphasis placed on clarity and realistic expectations. He also noted that some Opposition figures are not contesting future elections, suggesting signs of internal weakness within the Nationalist Party.

Medicines such as PrEP were also noted as being added to the national formulary.

Addressing disengaged voters, particularly younger people and traditional supporters who may consider not voting, he described the upcoming election as especially significant given unprecedented international pressures. Voting, he said, remains a democratic right that determines both national direction and individual outcomes, with stability and experience presented as key considerations.

He concluded by urging voters to weigh consistency and reliability when making their choice, adding that the decision ultimately comes down to who is best placed to take the country forward.