The Nationalist Party has pledged a jobs guarantee, tax cuts and a renewed focus on Gozo as part of a broader push for “a better future”, as its leader Alex Borg addressed a political event in Victoria.
Addressing a crowd in the island’s capital, Borg said that a future Nationalist government would prioritise quality employment, reduce bureaucracy and ensure that workers are supported consistently throughout the legislature rather than only in the run-up to elections.
He described work as a fundamental right and pledged that under a PN administration, “everyone who wants to work will be given the opportunity to do so”.
Borg criticised the current government over what he claimed was a surge in Gozitans registering for public sector jobs in recent weeks, arguing that such moves were driven by electoral considerations rather than long-term planning. He told those seeking work to continue registering, promising that a PN government would guarantee stable employment and “bread on the table” for families.
Outlining key proposals, Borg said the PN would introduce a tax exemption on the first €10,000 earned from part-time work, invest in improved ferry connectivity between Malta and Gozo, and remove bureaucratic obstacles that, he argued, hinder businesses from expanding and creating jobs. He added that the party’s economic vision would be built on “quality over quantity”, aiming to address concerns such as traffic congestion, rising rents and a perceived decline in quality of life.
The PN leader also turned his attention to Gozo-specific issues, stressing the need for more high-quality jobs on the island so that residents are not forced to relocate to Malta or move abroad. He said a Nationalist government would actively seek international investment opportunities while ensuring that Gozitans benefit directly from economic growth.
Borg accused the government of failing to deliver on a number of pledges made in its 2022 electoral manifesto, including plans for a big data research centre and the construction of a breakwater at Marsalforn. He argued that these unfulfilled commitments highlighted a widening gap between political promises and implementation, particularly in Gozo.
At the same time, Borg acknowledged shortcomings in previous PN administrations, issuing an apology where the party had fallen short. However, he defended the PN’s record in government, pointing to the introduction of financial services, investment in education, tourism growth and the opening of Malta to low-cost airlines as key achievements that helped transform the country’s economy.
Other speakers at the event, including Victoria mayor Brian Azzopardi, framed the gathering as a sign of renewed momentum for the PN in Gozo. They emphasised the island’s strategic importance in the party’s efforts to return to government and called for stronger engagement with local communities.
Borg, who began his political career in Gozo, struck a personal tone as he addressed the audience, highlighting his long-standing connection with the island and its residents. He said he had remained accessible to Gozitans and committed to maintaining close contact with constituents.
Looking ahead to the next general election, Borg urged supporters to “start the wind of change from Gozo”, insisting that the PN aims to rebuild trust through a more people-centred approach focused on listening, understanding and serving with humility.
He concluded by stating that while the PN “was not perfect”, the time had come to bring about change once again, positioning the party as one that seeks to represent all citizens and deliver tangible results from the outset of a new administration.
