The Federation of English Language Teaching Organisations (Feltom) has expressed concern with the way the proposed citizenship scheme and resulting negative feedback has been handled.

"Malta’s success as a recognised regional centre of excellence in the global Teaching of English as a Foreign Language (Tefl) sector, is largely based on the reputation we have managed to build together as a country. Malta is seen as a modern and safe European destination with high standards of English. In addition, Malta’s economic development and success has also contributed to the birth and growth of an English for Specific Purposes sub-sector addressing the global demand for professionals operating in financial services,aviation, medicine, together with other sectors," the federation said.

The federation said the negative publicity the scheme had drawn would impinge negatively on the reputation Malta currently enjoys and has strived so hard to build, whilst also affecting numerous economic sectors Malta has a stake in.

The federation called for talks with a view of achieving consensus.

Separately, concerns were also expressed by the National Council of Women and the European Law Students’ Association (Elsa).