Justice & Courts: Justice Minister Clifton Grima outlined ongoing reforms and specialisation in Malta’s judiciary, including new judges Leonard Caruana and Elaine Rizzo and targeted benches for commercial, domestic violence and voluntary jurisdiction cases. Migration Policy: Home Affairs Minister Glenn Bedingfield backed EU “return hubs” and stronger returns under the Migration and Asylum Pact, citing Malta’s sharp fall in irregular arrivals since 2019 and high return rates. EU Asylum Implementation: Colm Brophy said the EU Migration Pact is already delivering more efficient asylum processing, pointing to early identity checks and better document verification. Planning & Heritage: A Planning Authority case officer is recommending approval for 35 flats under Mdina’s bastions despite major visual harm and pending geotechnical requirements, in a case tied to a previous annulled hotel permit. Environment & Wildlife Protection: BirdLife Malta reported a protected Eurasian Hobby shot in school grounds, renewing calls for a no-hunting buffer zone around schools and warning against weakening penalties. Housing & Social Support: Owen Bonnici announced a Kirkop convent conversion into an affordable co-living residence with a night shelter and clinic for up to 15 people. Research & Innovation: Xjenza Malta launched €1.7m in new thematic research funding opportunities aligned with national priorities. Cultural Life: designMT returns to Valletta with its most international edition, running until 3 October.