The Nationalist Party has criticised the government's Budget 2027, arguing that it failed to provide adequate solutions to security challenges and the difficulties facing Local Councils.

Speaking at a press conference, the PN's Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Security Conrad Borg Manchè and Shadow Minister for Local Government and Public Works Bernice Bonello questioned whether people in Malta and Gozo feel sufficiently safe and whether their quality of life in their localities is improving.

The two speakers said that the increase in security personnel had not kept pace with population growth. They also raised concerns about investment in police infrastructure, arguing that a number of police stations are outdated and require refurbishment, while several stations in localities have closed and remain shut.

They also called for improvements at the prison, including further investment in staff and measures to safeguard their wellbeing and safety.

Turning to Local Councils, the PN said they continue to face significant challenges because of limited financial resources. The party called on the government to provide a clear explanation of how €10 million allocated to Local Councils under the Framework Agreement was spent.

Borg Manchè and Bonello also referred to a pre-election pledge by the government to pass on a share of the eco-contribution to Local Councils, saying this had yet to materialise.

While welcoming the presentation of the government's financial estimates, the speakers said the government must ensure that funds announced in the Budget are ultimately spent where they are most needed.

The PN said that, whether in the areas of security or local government, taxpayers should see tangible benefits from the way public funds are allocated and spent.