Exante’s Patrick J O Brien writes that, while the
human and economic costs of the coronavirus pandemic are likely to
be high, the Maltese Government has the fiscal capacity to support
its citizens and workforce during these exceptional
circumstances
More than a decade on from the financial crisis, the coronavirus
pandemic is severely impacting people’s lives. This no doubt
will intensify in the coming days and weeks. The scale, and
therefore impact, of the virus remains hugely uncertain, so
policymaking is difficult. Policies need to be robust to different
eventualities and/or be flexible in the face of change.
While the human impact is central, the economic effects will be
strong and widespread. A cool-headed and balanced response will
help to achieve the best outcomes for everyone and should minimise
the long-term impact.
