ADPD chairperson calls 2027 budget racist

Sandra Gauci, chairperson of ADPD, described the 2027 budget as racist during an RTK103 news program. She stated that government measures regarding third-country nationals could cause long-term harm to Malta by creating an us versus them mentality. Gauci argued that those proposing these changes are not considering the consequences for the economy and society.

Josef Pace, a representative for Caritas, said the budget measures reinforce a mentality of us versus them in Maltese society. He stated that people are being viewed as numbers rather than human beings.

Gauci also criticized a lack of social solidarity in the budget. She noted that some foreign workers in Qawra are being paid in plastic coins and that many migrants fear speaking out or protesting their working conditions. Regarding public transport, Gauci suggested the government should analyze peak demand hours instead of introducing measures without adequate evaluation.