"It now appears, however, that the Government has once again changed its mind on a Northern Hub. The PN said that it naturally welcomes the news that the Government is considering adopting a proposal included by the party in its electoral programme for the last general election. Thirteen years have passed, and Malta is still relying on one hospital to cope with the ever-growing demand for treatment and services. Equally unacceptable are the long waiting times at the Emergency Department and the months-long delays for outpatient appointments and operations. "Patients must receive treatment in a timely manner, particularly in urgent cases involving both physical and mental health.