Prime Minister Robert Abela has addressed a range of issues facing Malta, from housing affordability and foreign workers to planning reforms, artificial intelligence and the ongoing controversy surrounding Arts Minister Malcolm Paul Agius Galea.Speaking during an interview with journalists from Lovin Malta, WhosWho.mt and Malta Daily, Abela insisted that Malta’s economic growth must continue translating into a better quality of life for families.The Prime Minister acknowledged concerns about rising property prices but pointed to Malta’s high homeownership rate as an indication of the country’s economic position.According to figures cited by Abela, 85% of Maltese and Gozitan residents own their homes, compared to a European average of 68%.He also claimed that Malta has 122,000 homeowners, with 93,000 having no outstanding loans on their properties.Turning to foreign workers, Abela defended the Government’s approach towards third-country nationals, arguing that those living and working in Malta should contribute towards the public services and benefits they receive.These include healthcare, education and Government subsidies aimed at keeping electricity and fuel prices stable.However, he acknowledged the need to improve the efficiency of Identità when processing long-term residence applications for foreign workers who have completed five years of residence in Malta.Abela also stressed that all workers deserve dignity and respect, regardless of their nationality.On planning, the Prime Minister said the Government was responding to public concerns by introducing changes aimed at preventing development works from starting while appeals against permits remain unresolved.Under the proposed reform, construction covered by a development permit would not be allowed to begin until any appeal against that permit has been decided.Abela also addressed the controversial issue of sanctioning illegal developments, insisting that he would not legitimise illegality while arguing that the matter required a realistic approach.He clarified that industrial developments would not fall within the proposed sanctions framework.The Prime Minister also referred to DC27, a proposed update to planning policies intended to address existing gaps, improve design standards and provide greater protection for Malta’s built heritage.On transport, Abela defended the Government’s Malta in Motion strategy, saying technical studies were being carried out to assess major transport projects, including the feasibility of mass public transport.He also referred to plans concerning maritime transport and the future concession for Malta’s public bus service.Artificial intelligence was another major topic, with Abela highlighting the Government’s AI for Everyone initiative.According to the Prime Minister, an average of 1,000 people are completing the AI training course every week.He argued that Malta should continue investing in artificial intelligence while ensuring that technological progress does not come at the expense of workers and society.The interview also touched on the controversy surrounding Arts Minister Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, whose remarks sparked criticism from members of Malta’s artistic community.Abela described the Minister as a genuine person but acknowledged that trust within the sector had been shaken.He said Agius Galea now had a responsibility to work towards rebuilding that trust and addressing the concerns raised by artists.The Prime Minister was also questioned about possible reforms to Malta’s jury system.He cautioned that the timing of such changes must be carefully considered, particularly while certain cases remain before the courts.Abela argued that the need for reform should not be judged solely on individual verdicts and expressed confidence in the ability of ordinary citizens to serve as jurors.Concluding the interview, the Prime Minister reiterated that the Government’s priority remains ensuring that economic growth benefits Maltese and Gozitan families.He pointed to Budget measures, including tax reductions for working parents, financial bonuses and continued energy subsidies, as examples of the Government’s efforts to support households.Abela maintained that his administration remained committed to delivering its electoral promises despite ongoing international economic challenges. What do you make of this Prime Ministers comments? •