In the Press: Vella gets environment, maritime and fisheries portfolio | New theatre will cost PBS €5 million

The allocation of the environment, maritime affairs and fisheries portfolio to commissioner designate Karmenu Vella dominates the front pages today. The move by EC President Jean-Claude Junker raised eyebrows due to Malta's controversial stand on hunting.

The Times of Malta

Three of four investigations into the financial management of Mater Dei hospital have revealed nothing untoward, while the fourth is now nearing completion. The Investigations had been ordered by former health minister Godfrey Farrugia after inconsistencies raised suspicion of illegality.

In-Nazzjon

The white paper that drew much criticism is still being studied by a ministry-appointed working group but heads of church schools have reported that they are being asked to pass on student information to the government, apparently on the orders of the education ministry.

L-Orizzont

Plans for a high definition theatre, to be built adjacent to the PBS building in Guardamangia, would cost the broadcaster some €5 million, adding to the €4.5 million debt it already carries. The development was approved the day before the general elections in 2013.

The Malta Independent

The ministry of home affairs has reacted to Alfred Bugeja's claims that he was clean of drugs by presenting two medical certificates showing that he tested positive for opiates. Known as 'Il-Porporina', Bugeja has been on a hunger strike since Tuesday to protest the removal of priviledges, which followed the positive drug tests.