Opposition Leader Alex Borg has outlined a series of proposals covering housing, education, transport, tourism and the economy in his reply to Budget 2027.Among the measures put forward by the Nationalist Party are refunds on mortgage interest for first-time homebuyers, air conditioning in every classroom, automatic compensation for power cuts and changes to the tourism eco-contribution.Borg also proposed greater support for businesses investing in technology and training, alongside measures aimed at reducing Malta’s economic dependence on population growth.Here’s a breakdown of the key proposals.50% Mortgage Interest Refund For First-Time HomebuyersOne of the PN’s proposals would see first-time homebuyers receive a refund of 50% of the interest paid on their bank loans for their first residence.The refund would apply during the first 10 years of the loan, with payments transferred directly into buyers’ bank accounts every month.The measure is intended to ease the financial burden on people purchasing their first home.Importantly, the proposed refund would cover half the interest paid, rather than half the overall mortgage repayment.Air Conditioning In Every ClassroomBorg also proposed installing air conditioning in every classroom across Malta’s schools.The measure would be accompanied by the installation of solar panels on school rooftops, with the PN arguing that students and educators deserve more comfortable learning and working environments.The proposal aims to address excessive classroom temperatures while encouraging cleaner energy use.A Long-Term National Transport PlanOn transport, the Opposition called for a national agreement on a feasible transport system for Malta.Rather than introducing a plan that could be abandoned following a change in government, Borg proposed an approach that would continue to be implemented across successive administrations.The PN argued that tackling traffic congestion requires long-term investment, clear planning and political continuity.Automatic Compensation For Power CutsAnother proposal concerns compensation for electricity outages.Under the PN’s plan, households and businesses entitled to compensation would receive it automatically, without having to submit unnecessary documentation or chase payments.The Opposition argued that smart meters already provide information about electricity supply, meaning consumers should not have to go through additional procedures to claim compensation owed to them.Changes To The Tourism Eco-ContributionThe Nationalist Party proposed limiting the increased tourism eco-contribution to the period between May and October.The Opposition argued that applying higher charges throughout the year could place additional pressure on tourism businesses during quieter months.Borg also called for the revenue collected through the contribution to be reinvested in the tourism sector.The PN wants greater transparency over how much money is collected, where it is spent and what improvements residents and visitors receive as a result.Changes To Work Permit FeesThe Opposition also outlined a proposal concerning work permit fees for foreign workers.Under the approach described by the PN, a fee would apply when a worker changes employer, rather than when renewing a permit with the same business.The party maintained that workers should remain free to seek better wages and working conditions.The proposal forms part of the PN’s broader argument that Malta needs a more sustainable approach to recruitment and population growth.A Different Vision For Malta’s EconomyTaken together, Borg’s proposals place an emphasis on housing affordability, education, infrastructure and improving economic productivity.The Opposition has repeatedly criticised the government’s reliance on population growth to sustain economic expansion, arguing that Malta needs greater investment in skills, technology and public services.Do you agree with any of these proposals?•