Watch: Robert Abela Dismisses Concerns Malta Has A Brain Drain Problem
Prime Minister Robert Abela has dismissed concerns that Malta is experiencing a brain drain problem.
Interviewed by Reno Bugeja, Abela was told that several skilled Maltese workers are choosing to move overseas.
“Industries with high value who come here won’t find people to employ. We have substantial skills gap, which is a problem,” Bugeja said.
However, Abela played down these concerns by referring to official statistics which show that, while 1,700 Maltese citizens moved out of Malta in 2023, a further 2,200 moved back to the country.
However, he admitted that the government must invest more money in re-skilling and up-skilling workers from all sectors and said the upcoming reopening of a trade school should help in this regard.
Independent Gżira councillor Conrad Borg Manché recently warned that Malta is experiencing a brain drain, and urged the authorities not to stick their heads in the sand.
“Many youths tell you that they are seriously considering emigrating because they cannot see a good future in Malta for themselves, far less for their children,” he said.
“We must take action to stop this brain drain and stop acting as though nothing is happening. Let’s be realistic and address the problems we have.”
“By simply chanting about how well the economy is doing as our quality of life keeps on plummeting, we are taking the people of Malta for a ride.”
Is Malta experiencing a brain drain?
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