Care work under fire: Prime Minister Robert Abela sparked backlash after belittling staff at Dar tal-Providenza, arguing Maltese workers should move from disability care to gaming—prompting a defence of the “noble” 24/7 work done by Sisters of Charity and volunteers. Fertility access update: Government says it’s delivering on an IVF promise by expanding eligibility for Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-M) with 17 new genetic conditions at Mater Dei, aiming to reduce bureaucracy and give more couples peace of mind. Tourism pressure point: The PN warns Malta’s electricity crisis is damaging the tourism brand, citing Valletta incidents where guests were left without power, air conditioning and even functioning room doors. Heritage vs development: NGOs protest the Planning Authority’s sanctioning of illegal padel courts on Manoel Island, calling it a “betrayal” of national park plans and a risk to UNESCO ambitions. Church and identity debate: A Church of England fringe meeting on faith and sexuality drew safeguarding complaints over claims of “conversion practices.” Maritime spotlight: Malta Maritime Summit launches the Malta Maritime Awards 2026, with nominations open from 24 July to 31 August. Public order for visitors: A new legal notice could see non-residents fined €200+ lose permission to stay and be removed before their holiday ends. Culture & myth tourism: National Geographic Traveller spotlights Malta’s folklore—like the “Eye of Horus” on luzzijiet boats—linking coastal life to ancient stories. LGBTQ+ events: WorldPride 2026 in Amsterdam (25 July–8 August) is framed as a peace and unity message amid global conflict.