A number of areas in Malta were without an electricity supply yesterday after a number of power cable failures occurred in various localities, Enemalta said.

Households in Msida, Swatar, Ta’ Xbiex, Birkirkara, Santa Venera, Pieta, Gwardamangia and Floriana experienced cuts in their power supply for a number of hours.

Meanwhile the Forum of Maltese Unions yesterday criticised the frequent powers cuts occurring in the country, saying Malta has turned into a third world country.

“This summer will be remembered as one of hardship for the Maltese people, especially for the elderly, the sick and those who own business establishments such as restaurants,” a statement by the forum said.

It said thousands of families have been forced to throw away food, while many others have had problems sleeping because of the tremendous heat. It added that a number of businesses have had to close and thousands of euros have been lost as a result.

The forum said the power cuts will negatively affect the country’s tourism industry and it expected the minister responsible for energy to assume responsibility for this.