PN says government ‘losing control over public finances’

Despite the government’s continued assurances that public expenditure is under control, recent statistics clearly point to the contrary, the PN said in a statement.

Figures from the National Statistics Office show a 10% increase in the government’s deficits and the PN said that, by increasing public expenditure without balancing it , the government is placing Malta’s financial position at risk.

Between January and June, the payroll for workers in the public sector increased by €25 million, the public sector grew by 1,500 workers when compared to last year. The PN said that these are all costs that are being shouldered by taxpayers and pointed out that the EU already ordered the government to decrease its deficit and debt.

Moreover, the opposition noted that the European Commission could take further necessary steps if the situation is not brought under control.

“The government must inform us what steps it is taking and what steps it is going to take in order to bring the financial situation back under its control,” the PN said.