Momentum’s Carmel Asciak has described the 2026 Budget presented by the Labour Government as a generally positive one, but noted that it fails to tackle some of Malta’s most persistent national problems.
“Overall, it’s a positive Budget,” Asciak said in an interview with Malta Daily. “There were many measures that help families, students, and pensioners. These are positive and in line with many of our own policy priorities.”
Among the measures Momentum welcomed were the government’s investment in artificial intelligence research, greater support for students, and initiatives that benefit families and pensioners.
“We were pleased to see more investment in AI and research,” Asciak continued. “These are future-oriented measures that support education and innovation.”
However, he expressed disappointment that environmental infrastructure and protection were once again given little attention in the Budget.
“There should have been more concrete measures to protect the environment,” he said. “We’re seeing growing concern about proposed amendments to environmental regulations — and the Budget did not address these issues at all.”
Asciak also pointed out the lack of financial support for pensioners who retired before age 62 and did not pay full social contributions.
“These are people who are among the most in need,” he explained. “They’re receiving smaller pensions, yet they were left out. Some form of increase or recognition should have been given to them.”
Another major concern for Momentum, Asciak said, is traffic congestion, which remains one of Malta’s most damaging social and environmental problems.
“Traffic is one of the biggest issues we face,” he stated. “I agree with the Minister that a large-scale mass transport system might not be financially viable for Malta — but that doesn’t mean we should do nothing. There are many smaller measures that could reduce the number of cars on our roads and encourage the use of public transport.”
Asciak warned that if no serious steps are taken, traffic will continue to have serious consequences on mental health, productivity, and daily life.
“Traffic is already causing stress, wasting countless hours of people’s time, and affecting mental health,” he said. “We need to start taking decisions — even difficult ones — to change that.”
In conclusion, Asciak said that while the Budget reflects positive intentions, the government must show greater courage and long-term vision to address the root causes of Malta’s environmental, infrastructural, and social challenges.
“The Budget is positive, yes,” he concluded. “But Malta needs bolder, future-focused choices — otherwise, the same problems will keep growing year after year.”
#MaltaDaily
Photo Credit: DOI – Alan Saliba
