NOW PLAYING THE SUNDAY PROGRAM
Sunday request program presented by Peter Paul Portelli, Pauline Zahra and George Sammut.
Sunday request program presented by Peter Paul Portelli, Pauline Zahra and George Sammut.
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Sopu Tower by Alessio Sultana
Not only London: Silvio Valletta watched Champions League final with Yorgen Fenech in Kiev
Tuesday, 21 January 2020,
It wasn’t only in London where Silvio Valletta and Yorgen Fenech watched a football game together.
After it was revealed on Sunday that the two had been together at Stamford Bridge to watch a Chelsea game, it is now also confirmed that Valletta and Fenech were together for the final of the Champions League in 2018, which was held in Kiev, Ukraine.
Valletta confirmed to Times of Malta that the two were together, that he had not paid for the tickets, but that he had not known he was doing anything wrong at the time.
Valletta was deputy police commissioner at the time. Yorgen Fenech, last November, was charged with complicity in the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia.
Valletta’s wife Justyne Caruana resigned her post as Minister for Gozo following reports about the two men travelling toghether.
Earlier today, Nationalist MP Jason Azzopardi, who is also representing the Caruana Galizia, asked on Facebook whether Valletta had travelled with Fenech in May 2018 to watch the Champions League final.
“I ask: how did he travel to Kiev? Did he make use of any private jet courtesy of Yorgen Fenech? What communication was there between him and Fenech prior to that day? Who else travelled with him for this game?,” he wrote.
Azzopardi said that by that date, it was well known to the police CID, headed by Mr Valletta, that Mr Fenech was a person of interest in a murder investigation.
Valletta denied that he had ever used a private jet.
The flight to Kiev took place four months before Fenech and Valletta travelled together to London. Valletta retired from the police force in August last year.
In June 2018, Valletta suspended himself from the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder investigation after a constitutional court ordered his removal from the case. The Court of Appeal had upheld the original judgment in October that year.
Tuesday, 21 January 2020,
It wasn’t only in London where Silvio Valletta and Yorgen Fenech watched a football game together.
After it was revealed on Sunday that the two had been together at Stamford Bridge to watch a Chelsea game, it is now also confirmed that Valletta and Fenech were together for the final of the Champions League in 2018, which was held in Kiev, Ukraine.
Valletta confirmed to Times of Malta that the two were together, that he had not paid for the tickets, but that he had not known he was doing anything wrong at the time.
Valletta was deputy police commissioner at the time. Yorgen Fenech, last November, was charged with complicity in the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia.
Valletta’s wife Justyne Caruana resigned her post as Minister for Gozo following reports about the two men travelling toghether.
Earlier today, Nationalist MP Jason Azzopardi, who is also representing the Caruana Galizia, asked on Facebook whether Valletta had travelled with Fenech in May 2018 to watch the Champions League final.
“I ask: how did he travel to Kiev? Did he make use of any private jet courtesy of Yorgen Fenech? What communication was there between him and Fenech prior to that day? Who else travelled with him for this game?,” he wrote.
Azzopardi said that by that date, it was well known to the police CID, headed by Mr Valletta, that Mr Fenech was a person of interest in a murder investigation.
Valletta denied that he had ever used a private jet.
The flight to Kiev took place four months before Fenech and Valletta travelled together to London. Valletta retired from the police force in August last year.
In June 2018, Valletta suspended himself from the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder investigation after a constitutional court ordered his removal from the case. The Court of Appeal had upheld the original judgment in October that year.
Watch: New process for Police Commissioner appointment announced
By Monique Agius
January 21, 2020
Watch the film here: https://newsbook.com.mt/fil-hin-li-gej-se-jkun-zvelat-kif-se-jintghazel-kummissarju-gdid/
Prime Minister Robert Abela has unveiled a new process by which the next Police Commissioner will be chosen.
In a press conference on Monday afternoon, Abela, who was flanked by Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri and Justice Minister Edward Zammit Lewis, described the new method as a “transparent” one and that it would break off with the method used in the past. The Public Service Commission will be issuing a public call for the new Police Commissioner. Abela explained that the public call is in line with the recommendation made by the Venice Commission in its report on Malta.
Prime Minister Abela said that the method will be discussed in parliament when asked whether the proposal was discussed with the Opposition. He noted that the proposal put forward by the government includes a public call which was missing from the proposal put forward by the Opposition.
The selection process will be in the hands of the Public Service Commission, an entity which is composed of two government and two opposition representatives and chaired by an individual which is agreed upon by both parties. The Commission will issue the public call.
The Public Service Commission will be in charge of drawing up the call and setting the criteria for eligibility.
The Commission will evaluate the applications and shortlist two candidates who are most eligible for the post. Following the shortlisting, the Prime Minister will then choose the police commissioner. Abela added that in its recommendations the Venice Commission made allowance for a ‘veto’ which would allow the prime minister choose someone else. He explained that he was ready to give up such veto so as not to be at odds with the Public Service Commission.
The prime minister’s choice of candidate will not be final. The candidate will have to face a grilling before the Public Appointments Committee. Abela noted that the Opposition will have the opportunity to put forward any questions to the candidate. A vote in the House of Representatives will be taken on the police commissioner.
During the press conference, Abela said that another aspect was that he was giving his word. ‘I want a police commissioner with integrity who fulfills his duties and carries out their work without any external interference,’ Abela told the press.
PM wants to keep choosing the Police Commissioner alone – PN
Partit Nazjonalista claimed that Prime Minister Robert Abela would like to continue choosing the police commissioner himself, like his predecessor. Reacting to the new method which was unveiled earlier by the Prime Minister during a press conference, the Opposition said that there will not be consensus on the method proposed.
The Opposition noted that the Government holds a majority on both the Commission and the Committee which means that both are under Abela’s control.
Partit Nazzjonalista said that the government chose to ignore the Opposition’s proposal which should be discussed immediately.
Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Abela said that the proposal will be made public in a press conference. A cabinet meeting was held in the morning during which the proposal was discussed.
By Monique Agius
January 21, 2020
Watch the film here: https://newsbook.com.mt/fil-hin-li-gej-se-jkun-zvelat-kif-se-jintghazel-kummissarju-gdid/
Prime Minister Robert Abela has unveiled a new process by which the next Police Commissioner will be chosen.
In a press conference on Monday afternoon, Abela, who was flanked by Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri and Justice Minister Edward Zammit Lewis, described the new method as a “transparent” one and that it would break off with the method used in the past. The Public Service Commission will be issuing a public call for the new Police Commissioner. Abela explained that the public call is in line with the recommendation made by the Venice Commission in its report on Malta.
Prime Minister Abela said that the method will be discussed in parliament when asked whether the proposal was discussed with the Opposition. He noted that the proposal put forward by the government includes a public call which was missing from the proposal put forward by the Opposition.
The selection process will be in the hands of the Public Service Commission, an entity which is composed of two government and two opposition representatives and chaired by an individual which is agreed upon by both parties. The Commission will issue the public call.
The Public Service Commission will be in charge of drawing up the call and setting the criteria for eligibility.
The Commission will evaluate the applications and shortlist two candidates who are most eligible for the post. Following the shortlisting, the Prime Minister will then choose the police commissioner. Abela added that in its recommendations the Venice Commission made allowance for a ‘veto’ which would allow the prime minister choose someone else. He explained that he was ready to give up such veto so as not to be at odds with the Public Service Commission.
The prime minister’s choice of candidate will not be final. The candidate will have to face a grilling before the Public Appointments Committee. Abela noted that the Opposition will have the opportunity to put forward any questions to the candidate. A vote in the House of Representatives will be taken on the police commissioner.
During the press conference, Abela said that another aspect was that he was giving his word. ‘I want a police commissioner with integrity who fulfills his duties and carries out their work without any external interference,’ Abela told the press.
PM wants to keep choosing the Police Commissioner alone – PN
Partit Nazjonalista claimed that Prime Minister Robert Abela would like to continue choosing the police commissioner himself, like his predecessor. Reacting to the new method which was unveiled earlier by the Prime Minister during a press conference, the Opposition said that there will not be consensus on the method proposed.
The Opposition noted that the Government holds a majority on both the Commission and the Committee which means that both are under Abela’s control.
Partit Nazzjonalista said that the government chose to ignore the Opposition’s proposal which should be discussed immediately.
Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Abela said that the proposal will be made public in a press conference. A cabinet meeting was held in the morning during which the proposal was discussed.
Speaker finds Jason Azzopardi guilty of breach of privilege
Nationalist MP had refused to retract comment and challenged Cardona to sue
By Keith Micallef
Photo: Jason Azzopardi, left, and Chris Cardona.
Opposition MP Jason Azzopardi has been found guilty of a breach of privilege.
The breach was through the upload of a Facebook post in which Dr Azzopardi called Labour deputy leader for party affairs Chris Cardona “liar and corrupt”, Speaker Anglu Farrugia ruled on Tuesday.
Dr Cardona filed a complaint and requested a ruling on Monday.
Dr Azzopardi made his remarks on January 5. He uploaded footage of a political activity held that morning in Tarxien and made the remarks about Dr Cardona.
In his ruling, the Speaker said that considering that Dr Azzopardi's conduct amounted to a breach of privilege. Dr Azzopardi had not only refused to retract the comment but challenged Dr Cardona to sue him in court.
Dr Farrugia called on MPs to respect one another, saying their conduct reflected their respect towards the House of Representatives.
Nationalist MP had refused to retract comment and challenged Cardona to sue
By Keith Micallef
Photo: Jason Azzopardi, left, and Chris Cardona.
Opposition MP Jason Azzopardi has been found guilty of a breach of privilege.
The breach was through the upload of a Facebook post in which Dr Azzopardi called Labour deputy leader for party affairs Chris Cardona “liar and corrupt”, Speaker Anglu Farrugia ruled on Tuesday.
Dr Cardona filed a complaint and requested a ruling on Monday.
Dr Azzopardi made his remarks on January 5. He uploaded footage of a political activity held that morning in Tarxien and made the remarks about Dr Cardona.
In his ruling, the Speaker said that considering that Dr Azzopardi's conduct amounted to a breach of privilege. Dr Azzopardi had not only refused to retract the comment but challenged Dr Cardona to sue him in court.
Dr Farrugia called on MPs to respect one another, saying their conduct reflected their respect towards the House of Representatives.
Clint Camilleri replaces Caruana as Gozo Minister
Anton Refalo to be Minister for Agriculture
Monday, 20 January 2020,
Clint Camilleri will be appointed Gozo Minister, replacing Justyne Caruana, who resigned in the wake of reports linking her former policeman husband to Yorgen Fenech.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Robert Abela on Monday evening.
Abela also announced that Anton Refalo has been appointed Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, taking over the portfolio that had been given to Camilleri last week.
Anton Refalo to be Minister for Agriculture
Monday, 20 January 2020,
Clint Camilleri will be appointed Gozo Minister, replacing Justyne Caruana, who resigned in the wake of reports linking her former policeman husband to Yorgen Fenech.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Robert Abela on Monday evening.
Abela also announced that Anton Refalo has been appointed Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, taking over the portfolio that had been given to Camilleri last week.
Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana resigns after husband linked to Daphne murder suspect
Monday, 20 January 2020, Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana has resigned on Monday after reports linked her husband to the man accused with complicity in the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia. Sources told The Malta Independent that the minister had been requested to resign on Sunday. Her husband, former deputy police commissioner Silvio Valletta, was also being investigated for possible ethical breaches after going on holiday with Yorgen Fenech, the man suspected to be behind the murder. The visit, to watch a football match, had taken place during the course of the investigation into the murder. Valletta had been investigating the case. Valletta gave a statement to investigators at police headquarters in Floriana on Sunday. On September 29, 2018, Valletta and Fenech flew business class to London to watch a football match at Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge stadium. This morning, Times of Malta also reported about a video that was taken by Fenech, showing Valletta "fooling around" as he pretended to be the owner of a luxurious car owned by Fenech. The Malta Independent is informed that Caruana informed her staff about the decision to resign this morning. She is likely to be replaced by Anton Refalo, who served as Gozo Minister between 2013 and 2017. He was also parliamentary secretary for Gozo in the Alfred Sant government between 1996 and 1998. Justyne Caruana was reappointed Minister for Gozo last week. She had already served as Gozo Minister under the Joseph Muscat administration. As news of Caruana's resignation spread across Malta and Gozo, Refalo uploaded the post below on Facebook, wishing everyone a good week. |
Keith Schembri travels to TunisFormer OPM chief of staff is person of interest in Daphne Caruana Galizia probe
By Keith Schembri
The prime minister's former chief of staff Keith Schembri.Joseph Muscat’s former top aide, Keith Schembri, who is considered to be a person of interest in journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia’s murder, has travelled to Tunis.
A source familiar with Mr Schembri’s travel arrangements told Times of Malta that the former chief of staff’s close associate Neville Gafa, and another former OPM staffer were also in Tunisia.
The purpose of the trip is unknown.
Mr Schembri is believed to have business interests in nearby Libya, but troubles in the region make it unlikely he will be travelling there.
Police have so far declined to take any further action against Mr Schembri after detaining him for 48 hours last November.
Murder suspect, Yorgen Fenech has named the former chief of staff as a co-conspirator in the plot to blow up Ms Caruana Galizia in October 2017.
Mr Schembri has frustrated investigators by claiming to have lost his phone, preventing them from gaining access to his private conversations.
Analysis of Mr Fenech’s own phone has shown how Mr Schembri was one of the last persons he contacted on the morning of his dramatic escape attempt from Portomaso.
According to both Mr Fenech and his GP Adrian Vella, Mr Schembri passed on a note with a narrative for the business magnate about how to pin the murder on former economy minister Chris Cardona.
Police claim the note has changed hands too many times to yield any useful forensic data.
Since his release from police custody, Mr Schembri has holidayed in Italy over the Christmas period with his family.
Prime minister Robert Abela, then an adviser to former prime minister Joseph Muscat, had expressed his frustration during a November Cabinet meeting about the lack of proper investigations into Mr Schembri.
Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar resigned days after Dr Abela was sworn in as prime minister in January.
By Keith Schembri
The prime minister's former chief of staff Keith Schembri.Joseph Muscat’s former top aide, Keith Schembri, who is considered to be a person of interest in journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia’s murder, has travelled to Tunis.
A source familiar with Mr Schembri’s travel arrangements told Times of Malta that the former chief of staff’s close associate Neville Gafa, and another former OPM staffer were also in Tunisia.
The purpose of the trip is unknown.
Mr Schembri is believed to have business interests in nearby Libya, but troubles in the region make it unlikely he will be travelling there.
Police have so far declined to take any further action against Mr Schembri after detaining him for 48 hours last November.
Murder suspect, Yorgen Fenech has named the former chief of staff as a co-conspirator in the plot to blow up Ms Caruana Galizia in October 2017.
Mr Schembri has frustrated investigators by claiming to have lost his phone, preventing them from gaining access to his private conversations.
Analysis of Mr Fenech’s own phone has shown how Mr Schembri was one of the last persons he contacted on the morning of his dramatic escape attempt from Portomaso.
According to both Mr Fenech and his GP Adrian Vella, Mr Schembri passed on a note with a narrative for the business magnate about how to pin the murder on former economy minister Chris Cardona.
Police claim the note has changed hands too many times to yield any useful forensic data.
Since his release from police custody, Mr Schembri has holidayed in Italy over the Christmas period with his family.
Prime minister Robert Abela, then an adviser to former prime minister Joseph Muscat, had expressed his frustration during a November Cabinet meeting about the lack of proper investigations into Mr Schembri.
Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar resigned days after Dr Abela was sworn in as prime minister in January.
Updated: Silvio Valletta says he didn't know of Fenech's suspected involvement in Daphne murder
Sunday, 19 January 2020,
Former Deputy Police Commissioner Silvio Valletta has said that he would have never travelled abroad with someone who he knew or thought was being investigated, and also said that he never knew of Fenech's involvement in this case.
Valletta made the statement after it was uncovered that he had travelled abroad with Yorgen Fenech, a man accused in connection with the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia, when the latter was already a person of interest in the case. The trip occurred just months after Valletta had been removed from the investigation.
The Times of Malta said that Valletta had, on 29 September 2018, travelled to London with Fenech to watch a football match (Liverpool vs Chelsea).
Valletta used to be part of the team of investigators into the case of Caruana Galizia, but was removed from the role before this trip. Valletta admitted to The Times of Malta that he had travelled with Fenech, but said that he paid for his own flights and that he had not been working on the Caruana Galizia case since June 2018, the newspaper reports.
The newspaper states that a witness on the flight heard Fenech telling his children to hold 'uncle Silvio's hand'.
Valletta's withdrawal from the investigation came after a court case was filed by the Caruana Galizia family. The Constitutional Court had upheld a judgment ruling that the involvement of Deputy Commissioner of Police Silvio Valletta in the investigation into the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia breached her family's fundamental human rights. Valletta is married to cabinet minister Justyne Caruana. Valletta had himself been the subject of Caruana Galizia's writings in his role as a member of the FIAU.
On 2 August 2019, the government made the announcement on the Government Gazette that Deputy police commissioner Silvio Valletta had retired from the corps and as a consequence no longer sat on the board of the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit as the police representative.
The Times of Malta reported that when Valletta travelled abroad with Fenech, the FIAU had just handed over to the police an intelligence report about how Fenech was the owner of 17 Black.
Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri told sections of the press that what was reported ‘is not on’, and stressed the importance of a reform in the police force. He said he understands that there will be an investigation and that decisions would be taken after.
Reacting to the report, the former deputy police commissioner said that he would have never travelled abroad with someone who he knew or thought was being investigated.
Deputy Police Commissioner Valletta has said that when he was on the board of the FIAU, he was not privy to the reports or who they were about.
He stressed that after the 13 June 2018 Constitutional Court judgement, he informed the Police Force that he was going to step aside in the investigation into the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder, which he did.
Valletta said that he decided to stop serving in the police due to the criticism levelled against his wife (Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana). He said that he and his wife did not speak about work and that they have a ‘professional relationship.’
Sunday, 19 January 2020,
Former Deputy Police Commissioner Silvio Valletta has said that he would have never travelled abroad with someone who he knew or thought was being investigated, and also said that he never knew of Fenech's involvement in this case.
Valletta made the statement after it was uncovered that he had travelled abroad with Yorgen Fenech, a man accused in connection with the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia, when the latter was already a person of interest in the case. The trip occurred just months after Valletta had been removed from the investigation.
The Times of Malta said that Valletta had, on 29 September 2018, travelled to London with Fenech to watch a football match (Liverpool vs Chelsea).
Valletta used to be part of the team of investigators into the case of Caruana Galizia, but was removed from the role before this trip. Valletta admitted to The Times of Malta that he had travelled with Fenech, but said that he paid for his own flights and that he had not been working on the Caruana Galizia case since June 2018, the newspaper reports.
The newspaper states that a witness on the flight heard Fenech telling his children to hold 'uncle Silvio's hand'.
Valletta's withdrawal from the investigation came after a court case was filed by the Caruana Galizia family. The Constitutional Court had upheld a judgment ruling that the involvement of Deputy Commissioner of Police Silvio Valletta in the investigation into the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia breached her family's fundamental human rights. Valletta is married to cabinet minister Justyne Caruana. Valletta had himself been the subject of Caruana Galizia's writings in his role as a member of the FIAU.
On 2 August 2019, the government made the announcement on the Government Gazette that Deputy police commissioner Silvio Valletta had retired from the corps and as a consequence no longer sat on the board of the Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit as the police representative.
The Times of Malta reported that when Valletta travelled abroad with Fenech, the FIAU had just handed over to the police an intelligence report about how Fenech was the owner of 17 Black.
Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri told sections of the press that what was reported ‘is not on’, and stressed the importance of a reform in the police force. He said he understands that there will be an investigation and that decisions would be taken after.
Reacting to the report, the former deputy police commissioner said that he would have never travelled abroad with someone who he knew or thought was being investigated.
Deputy Police Commissioner Valletta has said that when he was on the board of the FIAU, he was not privy to the reports or who they were about.
He stressed that after the 13 June 2018 Constitutional Court judgement, he informed the Police Force that he was going to step aside in the investigation into the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder, which he did.
Valletta said that he decided to stop serving in the police due to the criticism levelled against his wife (Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana). He said that he and his wife did not speak about work and that they have a ‘professional relationship.’
Gozitan AFM soldier dies in diving incident off Mġarr ix-Xini
Saturday, 18 January, 2020
35-year-old Christine Gauci 'was sincere, energetic and adventurous'
Christine Gauci was a keen scuba diver. Photos: FacebookA 35-year-old woman died on Saturday after finding herself in trouble while diving, the police said.
Christine Gauci was an Armed Forces of Malta member with a passion for scuba diving. She was underwater at Mġarr ix-Xini on Saturday morning.
The alarm was sounded by a diving companion when she failed to resurface following the dive.
Emergency services as well as Armed Forces officials were called to the site at around 10.30am and Ms Gauci was found and lifted to shore.
Paramedics administered first aid but she was pronounced dead at the scene, a police spokesperson said.
Magistrate Bridget Sultana will lead an inquiry into the case.
Saturday, 18 January, 2020
35-year-old Christine Gauci 'was sincere, energetic and adventurous'
Christine Gauci was a keen scuba diver. Photos: FacebookA 35-year-old woman died on Saturday after finding herself in trouble while diving, the police said.
Christine Gauci was an Armed Forces of Malta member with a passion for scuba diving. She was underwater at Mġarr ix-Xini on Saturday morning.
The alarm was sounded by a diving companion when she failed to resurface following the dive.
Emergency services as well as Armed Forces officials were called to the site at around 10.30am and Ms Gauci was found and lifted to shore.
Paramedics administered first aid but she was pronounced dead at the scene, a police spokesperson said.
Magistrate Bridget Sultana will lead an inquiry into the case.
PM Abela in Gozo
Watch: ‘We’re bringing normality back’ – Abela
By Monique Agius
January 18, 2020
Watch film here: https://newsbook.com.mt/en/live-pl-leader-meets-supporters-on-gozo/
Watch film here: https://newsbook.com.mt/en/live-pl-leader-meets-supporters-on-gozo/#t=0:02
‘We’re bringing everything back to normal,’ newly elected Partit Laburista leader Robert Abela told supporters on Gozo during his first visit since he was sworn in as a prime minister on Saturday morning.
Abela met with supporters along the way before proceeding to address those who gathered at Independence Square in Victoria. Addressing the crowd, Abela said that there were difficult decisions which had to be taken. He added that as soon as he was sworn in as a prime minister he started to work to restore normality. ‘This can be felt,’ he told the crowd.
Abela acknowledged “the difficult moments”, adding that “better times were coming and were already here”.
On the newly sworn in cabinet, Abela said that he was “proud” of his cabinet. He remarked that there was a lot of work to do which requires courage. He added that there are decisions to be taken, too.
Speaking about the Partit Laburista leadership race, he remarked that the party united behind the newly elected leader once the results were out. “We’ve come out stronger following the leadership race. This was thanks to all of you,” Abela affirmed.
‘When I was here last, you asked me not to forget about Gozo, and here I am today keeping my word,’ Abela told the party supporters. He added that he loved the island very much and was on top of his priority list.
Abela said that he believes that more foreign investment is needed in Gozo.
Partit LaburistaOn Friday evening, Abela announced that he intends on contesting the next general election on the second district which includes Vittoriosa, Cospicua, Senglea, Kalkara, Żabbar, Xgħajra and Fgura and is known to be a Labour stronghold. Abela was interviewed on popular prime time TV show Xarabank along with his wife and daughter.
Former Prime Minister and Partit Laburista leader Joseph Muscat had contested the second district in the 2013 general election and 2017 snap election. He resigned earlier this week after announcing his imminent resignation back in December in the wake of new revelations in Daphne Caruana Galizia murder investigation.
Party activists have complained that no MP elected from the second district has been appointed in the new Cabinet.
Watch: ‘We’re bringing normality back’ – Abela
By Monique Agius
January 18, 2020
Watch film here: https://newsbook.com.mt/en/live-pl-leader-meets-supporters-on-gozo/
Watch film here: https://newsbook.com.mt/en/live-pl-leader-meets-supporters-on-gozo/#t=0:02
‘We’re bringing everything back to normal,’ newly elected Partit Laburista leader Robert Abela told supporters on Gozo during his first visit since he was sworn in as a prime minister on Saturday morning.
Abela met with supporters along the way before proceeding to address those who gathered at Independence Square in Victoria. Addressing the crowd, Abela said that there were difficult decisions which had to be taken. He added that as soon as he was sworn in as a prime minister he started to work to restore normality. ‘This can be felt,’ he told the crowd.
Abela acknowledged “the difficult moments”, adding that “better times were coming and were already here”.
On the newly sworn in cabinet, Abela said that he was “proud” of his cabinet. He remarked that there was a lot of work to do which requires courage. He added that there are decisions to be taken, too.
Speaking about the Partit Laburista leadership race, he remarked that the party united behind the newly elected leader once the results were out. “We’ve come out stronger following the leadership race. This was thanks to all of you,” Abela affirmed.
‘When I was here last, you asked me not to forget about Gozo, and here I am today keeping my word,’ Abela told the party supporters. He added that he loved the island very much and was on top of his priority list.
Abela said that he believes that more foreign investment is needed in Gozo.
Partit LaburistaOn Friday evening, Abela announced that he intends on contesting the next general election on the second district which includes Vittoriosa, Cospicua, Senglea, Kalkara, Żabbar, Xgħajra and Fgura and is known to be a Labour stronghold. Abela was interviewed on popular prime time TV show Xarabank along with his wife and daughter.
Former Prime Minister and Partit Laburista leader Joseph Muscat had contested the second district in the 2013 general election and 2017 snap election. He resigned earlier this week after announcing his imminent resignation back in December in the wake of new revelations in Daphne Caruana Galizia murder investigation.
Party activists have complained that no MP elected from the second district has been appointed in the new Cabinet.
|
Police commissioner Lawrence Cutajar resigns, interim chief appointed
Friday, 17 January 2020,
Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar has resigned, Prime Minister Robert Abela said today.
The resignation has been accepted, he said at a press conference in Castille.
He will be temporarily replaced by Carmelo Magri (below), the most senior police officer.
Cutajar has been under fire for months, in particular by civil society, for his failure to investigate allegations of corruption. He had been appointed by former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.
Abela said that new Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri had informed him this morning that he had received Cutajar's letter of resignation, which had been accepted. In his letter, Cutajar said that the appointment of a new PM brought about changes that will lead to a reform of the police corps.
The PM thanked Cutajar for his services and also for what he said were good results achieved by the police force under his tenure.
He said that police investigations into the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia led them to arrest and arraign four men charged with the crime. The police had worked hand in hand with Europol and FBI to reach the desired results.
But the police had achieved success not only in this case, but in others. Hard work led to the solution of various cases of serious criminal activities, Abela said.
It is natural that from time to time changes are needed, and he saw Cutajar's resignation as an opportunity to start afresh and go for a reform of the police corps.
The Cabinet, Abela said, will be discussing a new way of how a police commissioner is appointed. He said he will be making a proposal to the Cabinet in the next meeting on Tuesday.
Abela would not go into details as the subject is still to be discussed.
He said that the resignation of the police commissioner does not necessarily mean that it will be followed by that of the Attorney General.
He said that he finds no reason why the AG should resign or be dismissed.
Friday, 17 January 2020,
Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar has resigned, Prime Minister Robert Abela said today.
The resignation has been accepted, he said at a press conference in Castille.
He will be temporarily replaced by Carmelo Magri (below), the most senior police officer.
Cutajar has been under fire for months, in particular by civil society, for his failure to investigate allegations of corruption. He had been appointed by former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.
Abela said that new Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri had informed him this morning that he had received Cutajar's letter of resignation, which had been accepted. In his letter, Cutajar said that the appointment of a new PM brought about changes that will lead to a reform of the police corps.
The PM thanked Cutajar for his services and also for what he said were good results achieved by the police force under his tenure.
He said that police investigations into the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia led them to arrest and arraign four men charged with the crime. The police had worked hand in hand with Europol and FBI to reach the desired results.
But the police had achieved success not only in this case, but in others. Hard work led to the solution of various cases of serious criminal activities, Abela said.
It is natural that from time to time changes are needed, and he saw Cutajar's resignation as an opportunity to start afresh and go for a reform of the police corps.
The Cabinet, Abela said, will be discussing a new way of how a police commissioner is appointed. He said he will be making a proposal to the Cabinet in the next meeting on Tuesday.
Abela would not go into details as the subject is still to be discussed.
He said that the resignation of the police commissioner does not necessarily mean that it will be followed by that of the Attorney General.
He said that he finds no reason why the AG should resign or be dismissed.
Carmelo Magri the most senior police officer
‘Police Commissioner’s resignation is two years late’ – Beppe Fenech Adami
By Karl Azzopardi
Friday, 17 January 2020,
The resignation of police commssioner Lawrence Cutajar comes two years late, the PN's spokesman on home affairs Beppe Fenech Adami said.
Minutes after Cutajar's resignation was announced by Prime Minister Robert Abela, Fenech Adami told The Malta Independent that the Oppostion had been calling for his resignation for two years – since the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia - “as it became evident from the first moment that the investigations were not being conducted in a professional manner.”
The police had also failed to take action on serious cases of alleged corruption regarding Keith Schembri, Konrad Mizzi and Joseph Muscat.
"Our first reaction is that this resignation is 2 years late, 2 years during which the country deteriorated to the state we are in today.”
Fenech Adami believes that this has led the public to distrust the police force led by Cutajar as the police were being selective on who to prosecute or not, even if the persons in question completely destroyed Malta’s reputation abroad.
He pointed out that “this is the 6th commissioner in six years that the police force will have, which gives an indication of how turbulent the past six years of Labour government have been.”
When asked by this newsroom on Abela’s declaration that he will be more transparent in the appointment of a new Police Commissioner, Fenech Adami said that the PN have been at the forefront on a new way of appointing the police commissioner.
“Our party’s proposal is that, with regards to the appointment of the Police Commissioner and other important posts, such positions should be occupied by people who have the trust and support of at least two thirds of parliament.”
By Karl Azzopardi
Friday, 17 January 2020,
The resignation of police commssioner Lawrence Cutajar comes two years late, the PN's spokesman on home affairs Beppe Fenech Adami said.
Minutes after Cutajar's resignation was announced by Prime Minister Robert Abela, Fenech Adami told The Malta Independent that the Oppostion had been calling for his resignation for two years – since the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia - “as it became evident from the first moment that the investigations were not being conducted in a professional manner.”
The police had also failed to take action on serious cases of alleged corruption regarding Keith Schembri, Konrad Mizzi and Joseph Muscat.
"Our first reaction is that this resignation is 2 years late, 2 years during which the country deteriorated to the state we are in today.”
Fenech Adami believes that this has led the public to distrust the police force led by Cutajar as the police were being selective on who to prosecute or not, even if the persons in question completely destroyed Malta’s reputation abroad.
He pointed out that “this is the 6th commissioner in six years that the police force will have, which gives an indication of how turbulent the past six years of Labour government have been.”
When asked by this newsroom on Abela’s declaration that he will be more transparent in the appointment of a new Police Commissioner, Fenech Adami said that the PN have been at the forefront on a new way of appointing the police commissioner.
“Our party’s proposal is that, with regards to the appointment of the Police Commissioner and other important posts, such positions should be occupied by people who have the trust and support of at least two thirds of parliament.”
THE NEW CABINET OF THE MALTESE GOVERNMENT
By Sarah Cassar Dymond
15 ta' Jannar 2020
Courtesy of Newsbook
Watch film here: https://youtu.be/HqabIizyPCk
By Sarah Cassar Dymond
15 ta' Jannar 2020
Courtesy of Newsbook
Watch film here: https://youtu.be/HqabIizyPCk
Official: New Cabinet appointed – huge overhaul as only five ministers keep placesWednesday, 15 January 2020,
A huge overhaul has been announced by Prime Minister Robert Abela as only five ministers got to keep the places they held under the previous Muscat administration.
They are Chris Fearne, Ian Borg, Justyne Caruana, Michael Falzon and Edward Scicluna.
In all, there are now 17 ministers (excluding Abela) and eight parliamentary secretaries, as against the 14 ministers and 10 parliamentary secretaries under Joseph Muscat, who resigned on Monday after his office was linked with the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia.
At 26 members on the Cabinet, it is the largest in history.
Five parliamentary secretaries obtained a promotion to minister, while whip Byron Camilleri also joins the ministerial line-up.
Four parliamentary secretaries retain their position, not necessarily their responsibilities, and another four MPs are promoted from the backbench to a parliamentary secretariat.
The swearing-in ceremony of all ministers will be held at the Palace in Valletta, on Wednesday afternoon.
As anticipated on our portal, Economy Minister Chris Cardona lost the economy portfolio and has not been given a ministry. Joe Mizzi, former energy minister, has not been re-appointed in any position either. Konrad Mizzi, who resigned in November, remains out of the Cabinet too. The only parliamentary secretary not to retain a position or be promoted was Anthony Agius Decelis.
Fearne retains the Health Ministry, Ian Borg the Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Ministry, Caruana remains as Gozo Minister, Falzon keeps the Family and Social Affairs Ministry, and Scicluna remains responsible for Finance, with financial services added to his duties.
Evarist Bartolo moves from the Education Ministry to Foreign Affairs, replacing Carmelo Abela, who is now a Minister without portfolio under the OPM, and is responsible for sustainable development, social dialogue and the implementation of the electoral manifesto.
Michael Farrugia moves from Home Affairs to Energy and Water Management (instead of Joe Mizzi). Farrugia is replaced by newcomer Byron Camilleri, who was the government whip under the Muscat administration.
Owen Bonnici loses the Justice Ministry and moves to Education and Employment, replacing Bartolo. Bonnici is himself substituted by Edward Zammit Lewis, who recently moved in instead of Helena Dalli in the Equality Ministry. Apart from justice, Zammit Lewis is also responsible for equality and governance.
Jose Herrera moves from environment to Minister of National Heritage, Arts and Local Government, while Roderick Galdes moves a ste up to Minister of Social Accommodation. Another promotion was given to Silvio Schembri, who becomes Economy, Investment and Small Businesses Minister.
Julia Farrugia Portelli is promoted from parliamentary secretary for reforms to Tourism Minister, while another jump forward is that of Aaron Farrugia, named Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Planning.
Clint Camilleri retains agriculture and fisheries, but moves up from parliamentary secretary to minister.
Apart from Cardona, Joe Mizzi, Konrad Mizzi and Agius Decelis, the other MPs who remain as backbenchers are Anton Refalo, Manuel Mallia, Silvio Grixti, Etienne Grech, Glenn Bedingfield, Jean Claude Micallef and, of course, Joseph Muscat.
This is the full list
Chris Fearne
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health
Evarist Bartolo
Foreign and European Affairs Minister
Edward Scicluna
Finance and Financial Services Minister
Michael Farrugia
Minister of Energy and Water Management
Owen Bonnici
Minister of Education and Employment
José Herrera
Minister of National Heritage, Arts and Local Government
Carmelo Abela
Minister in the OPM (responsible for sustainable development, social dialogue and the implementation of the electoral manifesto)
Ian Borg
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects
Justyne Caruana
Minister for Gozo
Michael Falzon
Minister of the Family, Children's Rights and Social Solidarity
Edward Zammit Lewis
Minister of Justice, Equality and Governance
Roderick Galdes
Minister of Social Accommodation
Silvio Schembri
Minister of the Economy, Investment and Small Businesses
Julia Farrugia Portelli
Minister of Tourism
Aaron Farrugia
Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Planning
Clint Camilleri
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Animal Rights and Consumer Protection
Byron Camilleri
Minister of Home Affairs, National Security and Law Enforcement
Parliamentary Secretaries
Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi
Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds in the Foreign Ministry
Clayton Bartolo
Parliamentary Secretary for financial services and digital economy in the Finance Ministry
Clifton Grima
Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Sport and Voluntary Organisations in the Education Ministry
Chris Agius
Parliamentary Secretary for Lands and Construction in the Infrastructure Ministry
Silvio Parnis
Parliamentary Secretary for Acting Ageing and Disabled Persons within the Family Ministry
Rosianne Cutajar
Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms within Justice Ministry
Deo Debattista
Parliamentary Secretary for Consumer Protection and Public Cleanliness within Agriculture Ministry
Alex Muscat
Parliamentary Secretary for Citizenship and Communities within Home Ministry
A huge overhaul has been announced by Prime Minister Robert Abela as only five ministers got to keep the places they held under the previous Muscat administration.
They are Chris Fearne, Ian Borg, Justyne Caruana, Michael Falzon and Edward Scicluna.
In all, there are now 17 ministers (excluding Abela) and eight parliamentary secretaries, as against the 14 ministers and 10 parliamentary secretaries under Joseph Muscat, who resigned on Monday after his office was linked with the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia.
At 26 members on the Cabinet, it is the largest in history.
Five parliamentary secretaries obtained a promotion to minister, while whip Byron Camilleri also joins the ministerial line-up.
Four parliamentary secretaries retain their position, not necessarily their responsibilities, and another four MPs are promoted from the backbench to a parliamentary secretariat.
The swearing-in ceremony of all ministers will be held at the Palace in Valletta, on Wednesday afternoon.
As anticipated on our portal, Economy Minister Chris Cardona lost the economy portfolio and has not been given a ministry. Joe Mizzi, former energy minister, has not been re-appointed in any position either. Konrad Mizzi, who resigned in November, remains out of the Cabinet too. The only parliamentary secretary not to retain a position or be promoted was Anthony Agius Decelis.
Fearne retains the Health Ministry, Ian Borg the Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Ministry, Caruana remains as Gozo Minister, Falzon keeps the Family and Social Affairs Ministry, and Scicluna remains responsible for Finance, with financial services added to his duties.
Evarist Bartolo moves from the Education Ministry to Foreign Affairs, replacing Carmelo Abela, who is now a Minister without portfolio under the OPM, and is responsible for sustainable development, social dialogue and the implementation of the electoral manifesto.
Michael Farrugia moves from Home Affairs to Energy and Water Management (instead of Joe Mizzi). Farrugia is replaced by newcomer Byron Camilleri, who was the government whip under the Muscat administration.
Owen Bonnici loses the Justice Ministry and moves to Education and Employment, replacing Bartolo. Bonnici is himself substituted by Edward Zammit Lewis, who recently moved in instead of Helena Dalli in the Equality Ministry. Apart from justice, Zammit Lewis is also responsible for equality and governance.
Jose Herrera moves from environment to Minister of National Heritage, Arts and Local Government, while Roderick Galdes moves a ste up to Minister of Social Accommodation. Another promotion was given to Silvio Schembri, who becomes Economy, Investment and Small Businesses Minister.
Julia Farrugia Portelli is promoted from parliamentary secretary for reforms to Tourism Minister, while another jump forward is that of Aaron Farrugia, named Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Planning.
Clint Camilleri retains agriculture and fisheries, but moves up from parliamentary secretary to minister.
Apart from Cardona, Joe Mizzi, Konrad Mizzi and Agius Decelis, the other MPs who remain as backbenchers are Anton Refalo, Manuel Mallia, Silvio Grixti, Etienne Grech, Glenn Bedingfield, Jean Claude Micallef and, of course, Joseph Muscat.
This is the full list
Chris Fearne
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health
Evarist Bartolo
Foreign and European Affairs Minister
Edward Scicluna
Finance and Financial Services Minister
Michael Farrugia
Minister of Energy and Water Management
Owen Bonnici
Minister of Education and Employment
José Herrera
Minister of National Heritage, Arts and Local Government
Carmelo Abela
Minister in the OPM (responsible for sustainable development, social dialogue and the implementation of the electoral manifesto)
Ian Borg
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects
Justyne Caruana
Minister for Gozo
Michael Falzon
Minister of the Family, Children's Rights and Social Solidarity
Edward Zammit Lewis
Minister of Justice, Equality and Governance
Roderick Galdes
Minister of Social Accommodation
Silvio Schembri
Minister of the Economy, Investment and Small Businesses
Julia Farrugia Portelli
Minister of Tourism
Aaron Farrugia
Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Planning
Clint Camilleri
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Animal Rights and Consumer Protection
Byron Camilleri
Minister of Home Affairs, National Security and Law Enforcement
Parliamentary Secretaries
Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi
Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds in the Foreign Ministry
Clayton Bartolo
Parliamentary Secretary for financial services and digital economy in the Finance Ministry
Clifton Grima
Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Sport and Voluntary Organisations in the Education Ministry
Chris Agius
Parliamentary Secretary for Lands and Construction in the Infrastructure Ministry
Silvio Parnis
Parliamentary Secretary for Acting Ageing and Disabled Persons within the Family Ministry
Rosianne Cutajar
Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms within Justice Ministry
Deo Debattista
Parliamentary Secretary for Consumer Protection and Public Cleanliness within Agriculture Ministry
Alex Muscat
Parliamentary Secretary for Citizenship and Communities within Home Ministry
Simon Busuttil to take up top Brussels post, to step down as MP
Tuesday, 14 January 2020,
PN MP Simon Busuttil will be stepping down as a Member of Parliament in order to take up a top jon in the European People's Party (the EU Parliamentary party that the PN forms part of).
Busuttil will be the EPP's Secretary General as of 1 March.
Opposition Leader Adrian Delia congratulated Busuttil for being appointed to such a prestigious post. “This appointment does not only show the trust in Busuttil, but also the respect the PN has in the EU.”
Through his appointment, the PN said, Malta will again be given a chance to rebuild its reputation that was broken by Joseph Muscat, by corruption, and by the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
“Through this post I will be able to work for our country to regain the respect it lost,” Busuttil said, adding that he will work to ensure that Europe is on the people of Malta’s side to defend the values of justice and the rule of law in the country.
The PN said that Busuttil will be resigning as an MP in the coming weeks so that he can officially take up his new post.
PN MEP David Casa posted the following on Twitter: "@SimonBusuttil is the @EPPGroup's new Secretary General. This prestigious role places Simon at the helm of the largest and strongest political group in @Europarl_EN, and is deserved by Simon who is respected and admired across the board." PN MEP
Roberta Metsola also congratulated him.
Busuttil had become an MP back in 2013, when he was also elected Opposition Leader prior to this, he had been an MEP. He remained in that position until the PN's defeat in the 2017 general elections. The main focus of his campaign was the fight against corruption.
Tuesday, 14 January 2020,
PN MP Simon Busuttil will be stepping down as a Member of Parliament in order to take up a top jon in the European People's Party (the EU Parliamentary party that the PN forms part of).
Busuttil will be the EPP's Secretary General as of 1 March.
Opposition Leader Adrian Delia congratulated Busuttil for being appointed to such a prestigious post. “This appointment does not only show the trust in Busuttil, but also the respect the PN has in the EU.”
Through his appointment, the PN said, Malta will again be given a chance to rebuild its reputation that was broken by Joseph Muscat, by corruption, and by the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
“Through this post I will be able to work for our country to regain the respect it lost,” Busuttil said, adding that he will work to ensure that Europe is on the people of Malta’s side to defend the values of justice and the rule of law in the country.
The PN said that Busuttil will be resigning as an MP in the coming weeks so that he can officially take up his new post.
PN MEP David Casa posted the following on Twitter: "@SimonBusuttil is the @EPPGroup's new Secretary General. This prestigious role places Simon at the helm of the largest and strongest political group in @Europarl_EN, and is deserved by Simon who is respected and admired across the board." PN MEP
Roberta Metsola also congratulated him.
Busuttil had become an MP back in 2013, when he was also elected Opposition Leader prior to this, he had been an MEP. He remained in that position until the PN's defeat in the 2017 general elections. The main focus of his campaign was the fight against corruption.
Simon Busuttil with PN MEP David Casa
WHO IS ROBERT ABELA
Born in Qormi to former President of Malta George Abela and his wife Margaret (née Cauchi).
Robert Abela grew up in the south of Malta, in Għaxaq and Marsaskala together with his sister Marija.
Their mother, Margaret, worked in the administration of the Old University in Valletta and later managed the family's law firm. Robert attended the Sister’s School in Santa Luċija and St Francis primary school in Bormla, to then continue secondary school and sixth form at St Aloysius' College.
In June 2017, he was elected to the Parliament of Malta after contesting for the first time the sixth district, including Siggiewi, Luqa and Qormi. He was elected for the first time at the age of 40
Robert Abela addresses the nation: 'Malta needs to keep moving forward'
In his first ever speech as Prime Minister, Robert Abela says that a strong economy and employment need to be ensured for the implementation of social justice measures
13 January 2020, 9:26pm
by David Hudson
In his first address to the nation as State leader, Robert Abela said that Malta needs to keep moving forward and to keep generating wealth.
"People want stability and peace of mind that the country will keep moving forward," he said in a recorded message broadcast on the national network.
Abela said that he had already started work on seeing how to implement the 2017 electoral manifesto, a manifesto which he describes as the blueprint that would lead Malta to social justice.
"We need to ensure a strong economy and more employment," Abela said, echoing his predecessor Joseph Muscat, who had described a strong economy and employment as the backbone behind a country's success story.
"Everyone should have equal opportunity to reach his or her aspirations. People want unity and we will provide it, this has always won over fear. We should do away with whatever divides us," Abela said.
Chris Fearne present for Labour's first parliamentary group meeting under Abela
Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne stands at the side of the new Prime Minister for the first time since being elected
13 January 2020,
by David Hudson
Robert Abela and Chris Fearne stand shoulder to shoulder a few hours after Abela was sworn in as Malta's 14th Prime Minister
Robert Abela has convened the first parliamentary group meeting, and Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne is amongst the MPs and parliamentary secretaries around Abela in a photo released by the Labour Party.
This is the first time that Fearne can be seen next to Abela since the latter won the Labour leadership race by a landslide, winning 57% of the vote. Fearne was not present when Abela addressed supporters in his first speech as Labour leader inside the Corradino sports complex.
His absence was conspicuous then as it was so on Monday morning when Abela was sworn in as Malta's 14th Prime Minister.
Earlier, Fearne had instructed his driver to pack up his belongings at the health ministry, in what was being interpreted as a sign of his reluctance to continue serving as minister.
Abela told MaltaToday, however, that he had no problem with Fearne and that he was ready to work alongside him. He said that he had been in regular contact with his former adversary in the leadership race and that he would not expect his resignation.
Abela told the parliamentary group after he was sworn in that it was time to get back to work as there was a lot to be done.
MaltaToday is informed that Abela will address the nation later on in the evening.
Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne stands at the side of the new Prime Minister for the first time since being elected
13 January 2020,
by David Hudson
Robert Abela and Chris Fearne stand shoulder to shoulder a few hours after Abela was sworn in as Malta's 14th Prime Minister
Robert Abela has convened the first parliamentary group meeting, and Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne is amongst the MPs and parliamentary secretaries around Abela in a photo released by the Labour Party.
This is the first time that Fearne can be seen next to Abela since the latter won the Labour leadership race by a landslide, winning 57% of the vote. Fearne was not present when Abela addressed supporters in his first speech as Labour leader inside the Corradino sports complex.
His absence was conspicuous then as it was so on Monday morning when Abela was sworn in as Malta's 14th Prime Minister.
Earlier, Fearne had instructed his driver to pack up his belongings at the health ministry, in what was being interpreted as a sign of his reluctance to continue serving as minister.
Abela told MaltaToday, however, that he had no problem with Fearne and that he was ready to work alongside him. He said that he had been in regular contact with his former adversary in the leadership race and that he would not expect his resignation.
Abela told the parliamentary group after he was sworn in that it was time to get back to work as there was a lot to be done.
MaltaToday is informed that Abela will address the nation later on in the evening.
Malta għaddejja minn tibdil soċjali – Mons. Grech
Minn Christoph Schwaiger
12 ta' Jannar 2020
L-Amministratur Appostoliku għal Għawdex Mario Grech qal li s-soċjetà f’Malta għaddejja minn proċess qawwi ta’ tibdil soċjali, kulturali, u reliġjuż.
Mons. Grech qal dan fid-diskors tiegħu tal-awguri għas-sena l-ġdida lill-Kleru lbieraħ.
Qal li matul l-14-il sena li għamel imexxi d-Djoċesi pprova jgħin f’din it-tranżizzjoni.
“Għodda importanti f’din il-missjoni kienu l-kappillani. Minn 15-il kappillan, tnejn biss baqgħu minn dawk nominati mill-predeċessur tiegħi. Fl-għażla tal-kappillani dejjem fittixt l-aħjar elementi fost il-kleru djoċesan. Kemm ilni isqof ippresidejt 22 ċerimonja ta’ pussess ta’ parroċċa,” qal Mons. Grech.
Mons. Grech qal li sab il-maġġoranza tal-kappillani kollaboraturi tajbin, però qal li “hemm individwi u ċirkustanzi fejn stennejt aktar kondiviżjoni fil-viżjoni pastorali u aktar kuraġġ fit-tiġdid tal-komunitajiet parrokkjali.”
Mons. Grech tkellem ukoll dwar is-saċerdoti.
“Għalkemm in-numru tas-saċerdoti huwa għoli (147 inkardinati), l-età medja hija ta’ madwar 60 sena. Is-saċerdoti li huma taħt is-60 sena, b’eċċezzjoni ta’ ftit ħafna, kollha għandhom mandat pastorali. Il-Kunsill Presbiterali jiltaqa’ regolarment. Hemm 16-il saċerdot imsiefer: erbgħa minnhom qed jistudjaw, tnejn jinsabu fis-servizz tas-Santa Sede, u l-oħrajn fidei donum anki f’artijiet tal-missjoni. F’14-il sena għamilt il-funeral ta’ 77 saċerdot, filwaqt li ordnajt 24 saċerdot ġdid. Ilqajt it-talba għall-eskardinazzjoni ta’ seba’ saċerdoti, filwaqt li żewġ saċerdoti Għawdxin li kienu inkardinati barra ġew inkardinati fid-Djoċesi tagħna,” qal Mons. Grech. Żied jgħid li fis-Seminarju Maġġuri hemm 12-il seminarista. Qal li f’diversi parroċċi żdied in-numru tal-abbatini.
“Il-ħajja kkonsagrata hija ‘pulmun’ importanti għall-ħajja ekkleżjali. Fid-Djoċesi hawn preżenza ta’ tnax-il familja reliġjuża. Tajt mandat lil wieħed reliġjuż bħala d-Delegat tiegħi għall-Ħajja Kkonsagrata. Hu jiltaqa’ regolarment ma’ rappreżentanti tar-reliġjużi biex iwettqu programm ta’ formazzjoni.”
Mons. Grech qal li fetaħ monasteru ta’ ħajja kontemplattiva femminili u waqqaf l-Ordni tal-Verġni.
“Għamilt tentattivi biex fid-Djoċesi jkollna fergħa maskili tal-ħajja kontemplattiva, imma s’issa ma tawx frott. Huwa fatt li f’dawn l-aħħar snin rajna djar tar-reliġjużi jingħalqu, għax il-komunitajiet qed jikbru fl-età u jiċkienu fin-numru. Is-sorijiet Franġiskani għalqu l-kunvent tagħhom fil-Qala u kienu diġà telqu mis-Seminarju u waslu biex jagħlqu l-kunvent li hemm in-Nazzarenu (ix-Xagħra). Imma frott l-impenn tagħna u r-rieda tajba tal-Madre Ġenerali tal-Franġiskani, is-Sorijiet ġew lura s-Seminarju u n-Nazzarenu.”
“Xtaqt ħafna li l-Kunsill tas-Superjuri Maġġuri Reliġjużi (KSMR) ikollu relazzjoni mill-qrib mal-Isqof ta’ Għawdex kif għandhom mal-Arċisqof f’Malta – almenu dawk is-Superjuri Maġġuri li għandhom komunitajiet fid-Djoċesi – imma ma nħossx li kien hemm rieda qawwija biżżejjed, għax fuq medda ta’ diversi snin ma ltqajniex aktar minn darbtejn.”
Skont Mons. Grech, il-parteċipazzjoni tal-lajċi hija qawwija kemm fuq livell parrokkjali u kemm fuq livell djoċesan. Fakkar li ħatar Vigarju Episkopali għal-Lajċi.
“Wieħed mid-dispjaċiri tiegħi hu li flimkien mas-Segretarju Pastorali ta’ qabel għamilna diversi tentattivi biex ikollna l-Kunsill Pastorali Djoċesan, imma kull esperjenza li għamilna kienet short lived. Waħda mir-raġunijiet kienet li l-lajċi tagħna huma nieqsa minn formazzjoni ekkleżjali adegwata u għalhekk is-sehem tagħhom ikun limitat. Din il-formazzjoni hija meħtieġa biex isseħħ it-transizzjoni li semmejt aktar ’il fuq.”
“F’dik li hija l-formazzjoni tal-lajċi, minbarra l-għaqdiet tal-appostolat bħalma hija l-Azzjoni Kattolika, il-Leġjun ta’ Marija, il-Mixja Neo-Katekumenali u l-Kariżmatiċi, fil-parroċċi twaqqfu l-‘komunitajiet Ewkaristiċi’ u gruppi ta’ lectio divina. Minn sena ilu, grupp ta’ saċerdoti żgħażagħ qed joffru l-formazzjoni magħrufa bħala I Dieci Comandamenti liż-żgħażagħ. Il-Kummissjoni Djoċesana Żgħażagħ (KDŻG), li reġgħet twaqqfet din is-sena, torganizza laqgħat formattivi għaż-żgħażagħ.”
Mons. Grech qal li l-katekeżi tat-tfal hija organizzata “sewwa ħafna”.
L-Amminstratur Appostoliku qal li tkompliet ir-rifroma fil-liturġija. Hemm liturġija mġedda tal-funerali u taż-żwieġ.
Mons. Grech spjega wkoll li kellu pjan li jibni knisja ġdida f’Marsalforn. Qal ukoll li saru diversi proġetti ta’ restawr bl-għajnuna ta’ fondi mill-UE, mill-Gvern, u mill-komunitajiet parrokkjali.
Tkellem ukoll dwar l-iskejjel tal-Knisja.
“Introduċejna l-kunċett ta’ ‘skola-knisja’. Ħdimna fuq proġett li l-iskejjel tal-Knisja flimkien jiffurmaw ‘kulleġġ’ wieħed biex ikun hemm kontinwità bejn id-diversi gradi tal-iskejjel. Ksibna liċenzja għall-Iskola Sekondarja tal-Konservatorju biex tkun b’direzzjoni awtonoma minn dik Primarja. Waqqafna l-Kunsill tal-Kapijiet tal-Iskejjel tal-Knisja kif ukoll il-Kunsill tall-Assistenti Kapijiet tal-Iskejjel tal-Knisja. Dawn iż-żewġ Kunsilli jiltaqgħu regolarment kull xahar.”
“F’Għawdex hawn preżenza mdaqqsa ta’ Nsara mhux Kattoliċi. Din is-sena tajt permess lill-Ortodossi Serbi biex kull ħmistax jiċċelebraw il-liturġija fil-Kappella tas-Seminarju. Din is-sena wkoll waqqaft il-Kummissjoni Ekumenika bis-sehem ta’ membri mhux Kattoliċi biex jikkordinaw l-atttività ekumenika fid-Djoċesi.”
“Biex ngħinu lill-istudenti Għawdxin li qed jistudjaw Malta, sentejn ilu, f’kollaborazzjoni mal-Patrijiet Agostinjani u s-Sorijiet ta’ St Joseph, inawgurajna żewġ hostels għalihom. Peress li jirriżulta li f’Għawdex it-tfal għandhom problemi serji tas-snien, dħalna fi ftehim mal-Fakultà tad-Dentistrija fl-Università ta’ Malta biex flimkien noffru servizz soċjali f’dan il-qasam.”
Qal ukoll li qed jiġu istruwiti żewġ proċessi ta’ kanonizzazzjoni: dak tal-Qaddej ta’ Alla Dun Mikiel Attard u dak tal-Qaddej ta’ Alla Fra Grazzja Gauci osa. Quddiem il-Kongregazzjoni tal-Qaddisin hemm il-kawża tal-Venerabbli Madre Margerita De Brincat, fundatriċi tas-Sorijiet Franġiskani tal-Qalb ta’ Ġesù.
“Is-Santwarju Nazzjonali Ta’ Pinu huwa l-ġojjell tad-Djoċesi. Huma bla għadd il-pellegrini, lokali u barranin, li jfittxu l-faraġ f’dan is-santwarju. Huma diversi s-saċerdoti addetti għal din il-Bażilika, partikularment il-konfessuri. Bħalissa għaddej xogħol fuq il-bini ta’ ċentru għall-pellegrini. Xtaqt ħafna li jkun hemm opra ta’ karità marbuta ma’ dan is-Santwarju. Marbuta ma’ dan is-Santwarju hemm l-istorja taċ-ċentru Marjan f’Bacchus Marsh, Melbourne, l-Awstralja li huwa mmexxi minn Mons. Beneditt Camilleri, eks Rettur tas-Santwarju Ta’ Pinu. Dwar dan iċ-ċentru hemm diversi issues pendenti li ppruvajt nissetilja, imma ma sibtx il-koperazzjoni meħtieġa. Kollox huwa ddokumentat.”
Mons. Mario Grech żvela wkoll li l-aħħar saċerdot li talbu biex imur il-missjoni kien saċerdot novell, Dun Mario Curmi, li qiegħed il-Gwatemala.
Fil-fehma tiegħi tliet esperjenzi qawwija li għexna bħala Knisja f’Għawdex f’dawn l-aħħar erbatax-il sena kienu:
“Għandna relazzjoni tajba ħafna mal-Arċidjocesi ta’ Malta u fi ħdan il-Konferenza Episkopali hemm spirtu ta’ kollaborazzjoni fraterna sabiħa. Matul l-episkopat tiegħi l-Arċisqof Cremona kien offrieli l-possibbiltà li nagħmel terminu bħala President tal-Konferenza. Fid-dawl ta’ dik l-esperjenza, nirrakkomanda li fil-ġejjieni dan l-uffiċċju jkun alternat bejn iż-żewġ isqfijiet djoċesani.”
“Dawn huma ftit mill-ħidmiet li bl-għajnuna ta’ Alla u ta’ għadd kbir ta’ persuni wettaqna matul dan il-mandat episkopali tiegħi f’din id-Djoċesi. Kif is-soltu jgħid il-Papa, l-importanti huwa li wieħed iqabbad proċess: f’dawn l-erbatax-il sena qabbadna diversi proċessi u għandi tama li f’din il-Knisja, li jien tant inħobb, hawn potenzjal li taħt il-qawwa tal-Ispirtu s-Santu dan il-proċess jibqa’ għaddej,” temm jgħid Mons. Grech.
Minn Christoph Schwaiger
12 ta' Jannar 2020
L-Amministratur Appostoliku għal Għawdex Mario Grech qal li s-soċjetà f’Malta għaddejja minn proċess qawwi ta’ tibdil soċjali, kulturali, u reliġjuż.
Mons. Grech qal dan fid-diskors tiegħu tal-awguri għas-sena l-ġdida lill-Kleru lbieraħ.
Qal li matul l-14-il sena li għamel imexxi d-Djoċesi pprova jgħin f’din it-tranżizzjoni.
“Għodda importanti f’din il-missjoni kienu l-kappillani. Minn 15-il kappillan, tnejn biss baqgħu minn dawk nominati mill-predeċessur tiegħi. Fl-għażla tal-kappillani dejjem fittixt l-aħjar elementi fost il-kleru djoċesan. Kemm ilni isqof ippresidejt 22 ċerimonja ta’ pussess ta’ parroċċa,” qal Mons. Grech.
Mons. Grech qal li sab il-maġġoranza tal-kappillani kollaboraturi tajbin, però qal li “hemm individwi u ċirkustanzi fejn stennejt aktar kondiviżjoni fil-viżjoni pastorali u aktar kuraġġ fit-tiġdid tal-komunitajiet parrokkjali.”
Mons. Grech tkellem ukoll dwar is-saċerdoti.
“Għalkemm in-numru tas-saċerdoti huwa għoli (147 inkardinati), l-età medja hija ta’ madwar 60 sena. Is-saċerdoti li huma taħt is-60 sena, b’eċċezzjoni ta’ ftit ħafna, kollha għandhom mandat pastorali. Il-Kunsill Presbiterali jiltaqa’ regolarment. Hemm 16-il saċerdot imsiefer: erbgħa minnhom qed jistudjaw, tnejn jinsabu fis-servizz tas-Santa Sede, u l-oħrajn fidei donum anki f’artijiet tal-missjoni. F’14-il sena għamilt il-funeral ta’ 77 saċerdot, filwaqt li ordnajt 24 saċerdot ġdid. Ilqajt it-talba għall-eskardinazzjoni ta’ seba’ saċerdoti, filwaqt li żewġ saċerdoti Għawdxin li kienu inkardinati barra ġew inkardinati fid-Djoċesi tagħna,” qal Mons. Grech. Żied jgħid li fis-Seminarju Maġġuri hemm 12-il seminarista. Qal li f’diversi parroċċi żdied in-numru tal-abbatini.
“Il-ħajja kkonsagrata hija ‘pulmun’ importanti għall-ħajja ekkleżjali. Fid-Djoċesi hawn preżenza ta’ tnax-il familja reliġjuża. Tajt mandat lil wieħed reliġjuż bħala d-Delegat tiegħi għall-Ħajja Kkonsagrata. Hu jiltaqa’ regolarment ma’ rappreżentanti tar-reliġjużi biex iwettqu programm ta’ formazzjoni.”
Mons. Grech qal li fetaħ monasteru ta’ ħajja kontemplattiva femminili u waqqaf l-Ordni tal-Verġni.
“Għamilt tentattivi biex fid-Djoċesi jkollna fergħa maskili tal-ħajja kontemplattiva, imma s’issa ma tawx frott. Huwa fatt li f’dawn l-aħħar snin rajna djar tar-reliġjużi jingħalqu, għax il-komunitajiet qed jikbru fl-età u jiċkienu fin-numru. Is-sorijiet Franġiskani għalqu l-kunvent tagħhom fil-Qala u kienu diġà telqu mis-Seminarju u waslu biex jagħlqu l-kunvent li hemm in-Nazzarenu (ix-Xagħra). Imma frott l-impenn tagħna u r-rieda tajba tal-Madre Ġenerali tal-Franġiskani, is-Sorijiet ġew lura s-Seminarju u n-Nazzarenu.”
“Xtaqt ħafna li l-Kunsill tas-Superjuri Maġġuri Reliġjużi (KSMR) ikollu relazzjoni mill-qrib mal-Isqof ta’ Għawdex kif għandhom mal-Arċisqof f’Malta – almenu dawk is-Superjuri Maġġuri li għandhom komunitajiet fid-Djoċesi – imma ma nħossx li kien hemm rieda qawwija biżżejjed, għax fuq medda ta’ diversi snin ma ltqajniex aktar minn darbtejn.”
Skont Mons. Grech, il-parteċipazzjoni tal-lajċi hija qawwija kemm fuq livell parrokkjali u kemm fuq livell djoċesan. Fakkar li ħatar Vigarju Episkopali għal-Lajċi.
“Wieħed mid-dispjaċiri tiegħi hu li flimkien mas-Segretarju Pastorali ta’ qabel għamilna diversi tentattivi biex ikollna l-Kunsill Pastorali Djoċesan, imma kull esperjenza li għamilna kienet short lived. Waħda mir-raġunijiet kienet li l-lajċi tagħna huma nieqsa minn formazzjoni ekkleżjali adegwata u għalhekk is-sehem tagħhom ikun limitat. Din il-formazzjoni hija meħtieġa biex isseħħ it-transizzjoni li semmejt aktar ’il fuq.”
“F’dik li hija l-formazzjoni tal-lajċi, minbarra l-għaqdiet tal-appostolat bħalma hija l-Azzjoni Kattolika, il-Leġjun ta’ Marija, il-Mixja Neo-Katekumenali u l-Kariżmatiċi, fil-parroċċi twaqqfu l-‘komunitajiet Ewkaristiċi’ u gruppi ta’ lectio divina. Minn sena ilu, grupp ta’ saċerdoti żgħażagħ qed joffru l-formazzjoni magħrufa bħala I Dieci Comandamenti liż-żgħażagħ. Il-Kummissjoni Djoċesana Żgħażagħ (KDŻG), li reġgħet twaqqfet din is-sena, torganizza laqgħat formattivi għaż-żgħażagħ.”
Mons. Grech qal li l-katekeżi tat-tfal hija organizzata “sewwa ħafna”.
L-Amminstratur Appostoliku qal li tkompliet ir-rifroma fil-liturġija. Hemm liturġija mġedda tal-funerali u taż-żwieġ.
Mons. Grech spjega wkoll li kellu pjan li jibni knisja ġdida f’Marsalforn. Qal ukoll li saru diversi proġetti ta’ restawr bl-għajnuna ta’ fondi mill-UE, mill-Gvern, u mill-komunitajiet parrokkjali.
Tkellem ukoll dwar l-iskejjel tal-Knisja.
“Introduċejna l-kunċett ta’ ‘skola-knisja’. Ħdimna fuq proġett li l-iskejjel tal-Knisja flimkien jiffurmaw ‘kulleġġ’ wieħed biex ikun hemm kontinwità bejn id-diversi gradi tal-iskejjel. Ksibna liċenzja għall-Iskola Sekondarja tal-Konservatorju biex tkun b’direzzjoni awtonoma minn dik Primarja. Waqqafna l-Kunsill tal-Kapijiet tal-Iskejjel tal-Knisja kif ukoll il-Kunsill tall-Assistenti Kapijiet tal-Iskejjel tal-Knisja. Dawn iż-żewġ Kunsilli jiltaqgħu regolarment kull xahar.”
“F’Għawdex hawn preżenza mdaqqsa ta’ Nsara mhux Kattoliċi. Din is-sena tajt permess lill-Ortodossi Serbi biex kull ħmistax jiċċelebraw il-liturġija fil-Kappella tas-Seminarju. Din is-sena wkoll waqqaft il-Kummissjoni Ekumenika bis-sehem ta’ membri mhux Kattoliċi biex jikkordinaw l-atttività ekumenika fid-Djoċesi.”
“Biex ngħinu lill-istudenti Għawdxin li qed jistudjaw Malta, sentejn ilu, f’kollaborazzjoni mal-Patrijiet Agostinjani u s-Sorijiet ta’ St Joseph, inawgurajna żewġ hostels għalihom. Peress li jirriżulta li f’Għawdex it-tfal għandhom problemi serji tas-snien, dħalna fi ftehim mal-Fakultà tad-Dentistrija fl-Università ta’ Malta biex flimkien noffru servizz soċjali f’dan il-qasam.”
Qal ukoll li qed jiġu istruwiti żewġ proċessi ta’ kanonizzazzjoni: dak tal-Qaddej ta’ Alla Dun Mikiel Attard u dak tal-Qaddej ta’ Alla Fra Grazzja Gauci osa. Quddiem il-Kongregazzjoni tal-Qaddisin hemm il-kawża tal-Venerabbli Madre Margerita De Brincat, fundatriċi tas-Sorijiet Franġiskani tal-Qalb ta’ Ġesù.
“Is-Santwarju Nazzjonali Ta’ Pinu huwa l-ġojjell tad-Djoċesi. Huma bla għadd il-pellegrini, lokali u barranin, li jfittxu l-faraġ f’dan is-santwarju. Huma diversi s-saċerdoti addetti għal din il-Bażilika, partikularment il-konfessuri. Bħalissa għaddej xogħol fuq il-bini ta’ ċentru għall-pellegrini. Xtaqt ħafna li jkun hemm opra ta’ karità marbuta ma’ dan is-Santwarju. Marbuta ma’ dan is-Santwarju hemm l-istorja taċ-ċentru Marjan f’Bacchus Marsh, Melbourne, l-Awstralja li huwa mmexxi minn Mons. Beneditt Camilleri, eks Rettur tas-Santwarju Ta’ Pinu. Dwar dan iċ-ċentru hemm diversi issues pendenti li ppruvajt nissetilja, imma ma sibtx il-koperazzjoni meħtieġa. Kollox huwa ddokumentat.”
Mons. Mario Grech żvela wkoll li l-aħħar saċerdot li talbu biex imur il-missjoni kien saċerdot novell, Dun Mario Curmi, li qiegħed il-Gwatemala.
Fil-fehma tiegħi tliet esperjenzi qawwija li għexna bħala Knisja f’Għawdex f’dawn l-aħħar erbatax-il sena kienu:
- il-Missjoni Djoċesana mifruxa fuq ħmistax u li fiha ħadu sehem madwar 500 ruħ
- il-Viżta Pastorali mifruxa fuq tliet snin
- is-Sena Marjana
“Għandna relazzjoni tajba ħafna mal-Arċidjocesi ta’ Malta u fi ħdan il-Konferenza Episkopali hemm spirtu ta’ kollaborazzjoni fraterna sabiħa. Matul l-episkopat tiegħi l-Arċisqof Cremona kien offrieli l-possibbiltà li nagħmel terminu bħala President tal-Konferenza. Fid-dawl ta’ dik l-esperjenza, nirrakkomanda li fil-ġejjieni dan l-uffiċċju jkun alternat bejn iż-żewġ isqfijiet djoċesani.”
“Dawn huma ftit mill-ħidmiet li bl-għajnuna ta’ Alla u ta’ għadd kbir ta’ persuni wettaqna matul dan il-mandat episkopali tiegħi f’din id-Djoċesi. Kif is-soltu jgħid il-Papa, l-importanti huwa li wieħed iqabbad proċess: f’dawn l-erbatax-il sena qabbadna diversi proċessi u għandi tama li f’din il-Knisja, li jien tant inħobb, hawn potenzjal li taħt il-qawwa tal-Ispirtu s-Santu dan il-proċess jibqa’ għaddej,” temm jgħid Mons. Grech.
Chris Fearne does not attend Robert Abela’s first address as Labour Party leader
Sunday, 12 January 2020,
Deputy prime minister Chris Fearne this afternoon did not attend the Labour Party event during which Robert Abela gave his first address as the newly-election leader.
Fearne was the only other contender for the post, but lost to Abela as 58% of Labour Party members gave their preference to the Qormi lawyer.
Abela was greeted by other members of the Cabinet of Ministers and PL MPs and MEPs as he walked on stage, briefly stopping to hug them all, including those who openly supported Fearne in the race.
But, as the cameras focused on each and every top PL official, Fearne’s absence from the event was quickly became apparent.
Fearne this morning thanked those who voted for him and pledged to support the party, but did not mention Abela.
Sunday, 12 January 2020,
Deputy prime minister Chris Fearne this afternoon did not attend the Labour Party event during which Robert Abela gave his first address as the newly-election leader.
Fearne was the only other contender for the post, but lost to Abela as 58% of Labour Party members gave their preference to the Qormi lawyer.
Abela was greeted by other members of the Cabinet of Ministers and PL MPs and MEPs as he walked on stage, briefly stopping to hug them all, including those who openly supported Fearne in the race.
But, as the cameras focused on each and every top PL official, Fearne’s absence from the event was quickly became apparent.
Fearne this morning thanked those who voted for him and pledged to support the party, but did not mention Abela.
Robert Abela elected new PL leader and PM
Saturday, 11 January 2020,
Robert Abela has been elected Labour Party Leader - and will be sworn in as Malta's Prime Minister - after handsomely beating Chris Fearne.
What was being billed as a close affair turned out to be a much easier victory for the younger Abela, who immediately accumulated a steady lead which he kept all throughout the counting process.
In all, 17,531 Labour Party members were eligible to vote, with 16,216 exercising this right, or 92.5%.
From a back bencher to Prime Minister.
Congratulations Mr. Prime Minister Dr. Robert Abela.
Saturday, 11 January 2020,
Robert Abela has been elected Labour Party Leader - and will be sworn in as Malta's Prime Minister - after handsomely beating Chris Fearne.
What was being billed as a close affair turned out to be a much easier victory for the younger Abela, who immediately accumulated a steady lead which he kept all throughout the counting process.
In all, 17,531 Labour Party members were eligible to vote, with 16,216 exercising this right, or 92.5%.
From a back bencher to Prime Minister.
Congratulations Mr. Prime Minister Dr. Robert Abela.
Match abandoned as assistant referee assaulted during Gozitan football game
Camilleri lashes at official after receiving a red card
By Valhmor Camilleri
Assistant referee Andrea Pavia (centre) leaves the pitch after he was assaulted by Antoine Camilleri. Photo: Anthony CassarA Gozo second division match between Sannat Lions and Oratory Youths was abandoned by referee Massimo Axisa in the 90th minute after assistant referee Andrea Pavia was attacked by Sannat player Antoine Camilleri.
The player had just been sent off for a second yellow card in the final minute of the game when he lashed out at the assistant referee, hitting him a number of times, and forcing the referee to abandon the game.
The match brought against each other two teams who are fighting for promotion to the GFA Division One.
Oratory Youth were leading the match 1-0 after Justin Azzopardi put them ahead after only eight minutes of play.
The Lions thought they had drawn level six minutes from time but the goal was annulled by the referee after assistant referee Pavia flagged for an offside infringement by a Sannat players.
Tension continued to flare for the rest of the match and on 87 minutes Sannat were reduced to 10 men when Daniel Borg was shown a straight red card following a rash challenge on an opponent.
A minute from time, Camilleri was shown a second yellow card by the referee after he was committed a foul and was subsequently dismissed, prompting the violent attack on the assistant referee.
The Malta Football Association condemned the actions of the Sannat player and showed is solidarity with assistant referee Pavia.
“The Malta Football Association deplores today’s incident in the GFA Second Division League match between Sannat Lions and Oratory Youths, where a Match Official was physically attacked,” the local governing body of football said.
“The Association’s thoughts are with the official in question, Mr Andrea Pavia, who was the victim of the deplorable violent act. The entire football family shows solidarity with Mr Pavia as well as the other two Officials, Mr Massimo Axisa and Mr Adrian Caruana.
“There is no place for violence in football. Cowardly attacks such as this one tarnish the game and runs contrary to the very values it fosters such as discipline and unity. The Association trusts its disciplinary bodies will be taking all the necessary sporting measures to ensure that such acts are sanctioned and that everybody carries responsibility for their action.
“It also solicits the Gozo Football Association and the club in question to take appropriate measures to avoid repetition of such acts."
Ryan Callus, the Nationalist Party spokesman for Sport, vehemently condemned the incident.
"As Opposition spokesman for sport I condenm every kind of violence in sport," he said.
"There is no place for violence in sporting events."
This is not the first time that a referee was assaulted in Gozitan football. Last February, referee Joseph Agius was attacked by a player during a second division match between Qala Saints and Oratory Youths.
Camilleri lashes at official after receiving a red card
By Valhmor Camilleri
Assistant referee Andrea Pavia (centre) leaves the pitch after he was assaulted by Antoine Camilleri. Photo: Anthony CassarA Gozo second division match between Sannat Lions and Oratory Youths was abandoned by referee Massimo Axisa in the 90th minute after assistant referee Andrea Pavia was attacked by Sannat player Antoine Camilleri.
The player had just been sent off for a second yellow card in the final minute of the game when he lashed out at the assistant referee, hitting him a number of times, and forcing the referee to abandon the game.
The match brought against each other two teams who are fighting for promotion to the GFA Division One.
Oratory Youth were leading the match 1-0 after Justin Azzopardi put them ahead after only eight minutes of play.
The Lions thought they had drawn level six minutes from time but the goal was annulled by the referee after assistant referee Pavia flagged for an offside infringement by a Sannat players.
Tension continued to flare for the rest of the match and on 87 minutes Sannat were reduced to 10 men when Daniel Borg was shown a straight red card following a rash challenge on an opponent.
A minute from time, Camilleri was shown a second yellow card by the referee after he was committed a foul and was subsequently dismissed, prompting the violent attack on the assistant referee.
The Malta Football Association condemned the actions of the Sannat player and showed is solidarity with assistant referee Pavia.
“The Malta Football Association deplores today’s incident in the GFA Second Division League match between Sannat Lions and Oratory Youths, where a Match Official was physically attacked,” the local governing body of football said.
“The Association’s thoughts are with the official in question, Mr Andrea Pavia, who was the victim of the deplorable violent act. The entire football family shows solidarity with Mr Pavia as well as the other two Officials, Mr Massimo Axisa and Mr Adrian Caruana.
“There is no place for violence in football. Cowardly attacks such as this one tarnish the game and runs contrary to the very values it fosters such as discipline and unity. The Association trusts its disciplinary bodies will be taking all the necessary sporting measures to ensure that such acts are sanctioned and that everybody carries responsibility for their action.
“It also solicits the Gozo Football Association and the club in question to take appropriate measures to avoid repetition of such acts."
Ryan Callus, the Nationalist Party spokesman for Sport, vehemently condemned the incident.
"As Opposition spokesman for sport I condenm every kind of violence in sport," he said.
"There is no place for violence in sporting events."
This is not the first time that a referee was assaulted in Gozitan football. Last February, referee Joseph Agius was attacked by a player during a second division match between Qala Saints and Oratory Youths.
Antoine Camilleri is restrained by his team-mates after he was sent off against Oratory Youths.
Chris Fearne removes his chief of staffCarmen Sammut asked to resign following Times of Malta revelations
By Claire Caruana
https://youtu.be/rs5ul4kDO1E
Carmen Sammut with Chris FearneHealth Minister and Labour leadership hopeful Chris Fearne has removed his chief of staff Carmen Sammut over a conflict of interest that had been flagged by Times of Malta when she first joined his private secretariat in 2018.
In comments on TVM’s Xtra on Thursday, Mr Fearne said he had asked a person who was close to him to move aside because a potential conflict of interest involving her husband had been flagged. He did not say who this person was and what role had been occupied.
Contacted about this and asked whether he was referring to Ms Sammut, Mr Fearne told Times of Malta that in order to emphasise that “not only is good governance ensured but is seen to be ensured”, Ms Sammut had resigned her post early in December.
Mr Fearne hinted at Ms Sammut's sacking at around the 25 minute mark.
At the time, Times of Malta had reported that Mr Fearne had dismissed the suggestion his chief of staff may have a conflict of interest over her commercial links.
When she was appointed Mr Fearne’s chief of staff at the end of 2018, Ms Sammut had also served as a director and shareholder of several commercial companies, including Mall Systems Ltd. The latter IT company has been supplying services to the Health Ministry and its various entities that fall under Mr Fearne’s political remit since Labour was returned to power in 2013.
Most of the government’s procurement from the IT company was done through direct orders, without any competitive call for tenders.
Times of Malta had also reported in 2018 that Ms Sammut’s recruitment had raised eyebrows among government quarters, particularly because of a possible conflict of interest in the provision of current and future IT services to the ministry or entities falling under its umbrella.
Despite this, Mr Fearne, through his spokespersons, had repeatedly dismissed conflict of interest concerns, insisting Ms Sammut no longer served as a director of the IT firms.
In November, just a few weeks before Mr Fearne announced he would be contesting the Labour leadership race, Times of Malta had asked whether Ms Sammut still formed part of his private secretariat. At the time, a Health Ministry spokeswoman had insisted Ms Sammut still served as the minister’s chief of staff.
In his replies yesterday, Mr Fearne also said the contract in question was awarded under [former health minister] Godfrey Farrugia’s watch and therefore “presents no conflict of interest with Ms Sammut’s position”.
By Claire Caruana
https://youtu.be/rs5ul4kDO1E
Carmen Sammut with Chris FearneHealth Minister and Labour leadership hopeful Chris Fearne has removed his chief of staff Carmen Sammut over a conflict of interest that had been flagged by Times of Malta when she first joined his private secretariat in 2018.
In comments on TVM’s Xtra on Thursday, Mr Fearne said he had asked a person who was close to him to move aside because a potential conflict of interest involving her husband had been flagged. He did not say who this person was and what role had been occupied.
Contacted about this and asked whether he was referring to Ms Sammut, Mr Fearne told Times of Malta that in order to emphasise that “not only is good governance ensured but is seen to be ensured”, Ms Sammut had resigned her post early in December.
Mr Fearne hinted at Ms Sammut's sacking at around the 25 minute mark.
At the time, Times of Malta had reported that Mr Fearne had dismissed the suggestion his chief of staff may have a conflict of interest over her commercial links.
When she was appointed Mr Fearne’s chief of staff at the end of 2018, Ms Sammut had also served as a director and shareholder of several commercial companies, including Mall Systems Ltd. The latter IT company has been supplying services to the Health Ministry and its various entities that fall under Mr Fearne’s political remit since Labour was returned to power in 2013.
Most of the government’s procurement from the IT company was done through direct orders, without any competitive call for tenders.
Times of Malta had also reported in 2018 that Ms Sammut’s recruitment had raised eyebrows among government quarters, particularly because of a possible conflict of interest in the provision of current and future IT services to the ministry or entities falling under its umbrella.
Despite this, Mr Fearne, through his spokespersons, had repeatedly dismissed conflict of interest concerns, insisting Ms Sammut no longer served as a director of the IT firms.
In November, just a few weeks before Mr Fearne announced he would be contesting the Labour leadership race, Times of Malta had asked whether Ms Sammut still formed part of his private secretariat. At the time, a Health Ministry spokeswoman had insisted Ms Sammut still served as the minister’s chief of staff.
In his replies yesterday, Mr Fearne also said the contract in question was awarded under [former health minister] Godfrey Farrugia’s watch and therefore “presents no conflict of interest with Ms Sammut’s position”.
Turnout tops 92 per cent as Labour elects new leader
Deputy PM Chris Fearne and MP Robert Abela vying to succeed Joseph Muscat
Malta's next prime minister: Labour Party leadership candidates Chris Fearne (right) and Robert Abela.The Labour Party will this evening elect a new leader to replace the outgoing Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, who announced his intention to resign last month.
Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne and MP Robert Abela are in the running, with around 17,500 Labour Party members eligible to cast their votes.
Around 92.5 per cent cast their votes at 13 party clubs up until 8pm, after which ballot boxes where taken to the party headquarters in Ħamrun for counting.
Deputy PM Chris Fearne and MP Robert Abela vying to succeed Joseph Muscat
Malta's next prime minister: Labour Party leadership candidates Chris Fearne (right) and Robert Abela.The Labour Party will this evening elect a new leader to replace the outgoing Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, who announced his intention to resign last month.
Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne and MP Robert Abela are in the running, with around 17,500 Labour Party members eligible to cast their votes.
Around 92.5 per cent cast their votes at 13 party clubs up until 8pm, after which ballot boxes where taken to the party headquarters in Ħamrun for counting.
Malta-Gozo underwater tunnel to be financed via tolls for motorists to drive through
Minister wants agreement with environment and resources authority on what to do with inert waste excavated for underwater tunnel
9 January 2020, 11:06am
by David Hudson
Infrastructure Malta CEO Frederick Azzopardi
The Malta-Gozo tunnel will be self-financed by toll users, the government has said as the procurement process for the permanent Malta-Gozo link kicked off with a pre-qualification questionnaire for bidders.
Bidders must have annual turnovers of an average annual €500 million as well as a €250 million turnover from a similar project in the last ten years, Infrastructure Malta CEO Fredrick Azzopardi said.
The government will not be providing subsidies or guarantees to any bidders, Azzopardi said, adding that the preferred financing option would be self-financing via a toll system that users of the tunnel will pay when using the link.
Conceptual design preferred by Infrastructure Malta
Asked how this could be guaranteed when no toll has been proposed at this point, Azzopardi told MaltaToday that bidders would have to first submit a design and guarantee financial stability and technical expertise in the pre-qualification questionnaire. The toll would be disclosed in the final stage when a bidder is chosen.
“The procurement process is in three stages. After the pre-qualification questionnaire, we would be choosing the top five bidders who will go to the next stage,” he said, adding that the next stage would be an invitation for the five top-ranked bidders to participate in a dialogue.
It is here that bidders would submit a detailed designed, after which the best and final offer would be chosen in the third stage.
The government has already issued a preferred conceptual design but said that bidders are invited to provide alternatives.
Infrastructure Malta’s conceptual design suggests that the two exits for the tunnel be in Xemxija, in Malta, and Nadur, in Gozo, and that the tunnel be 14 kilometres in length and 14-metres wide. It also suggests that there be access points along the tunnel for every 100 metres, 14 technical rooms and seven turning points for vehicles.
“Whoever bids needs to have the necessary human resources and experienced personnel. We are also asking for accident-free man hours so we would be certain that the bidder has the capability of ensuring safety. An environmental record is also requested to see whether there were any past infringements,” Azzopardi said.
Infrastructure Minister Ian Borg said that most of the material being excavated as part of the tunnel’s construction would be inert and not construction waste.
“This is a resource. It is State material and might be material that is needed by other industries. The Environment and Resources Authority will have to agree with the government on where it will be used or where it would be thrown away,” Borg said.
Borg said the permanent link would target the problem of connectivity for Gozitans, where more than 20,000 people lived permanently on the sister island and had business, work, or other interests in Malta.
Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana said the tunnel was a game-changer and will see Gozitans having an increased quality of life. “Yesterday’s Gozo and today’s Gozo are not the same. Gozo is contributing to our national economy and is actually doing better than Malta. We have seen a 13% economic increase in Gozo alone and Gozo is enjoying a record low in unemployment,” Caruana said.
She added that a government concern regarding Gozo was that the sister island had an ageing population and that the tunnel might encourage repopulation.
Minister wants agreement with environment and resources authority on what to do with inert waste excavated for underwater tunnel
9 January 2020, 11:06am
by David Hudson
Infrastructure Malta CEO Frederick Azzopardi
The Malta-Gozo tunnel will be self-financed by toll users, the government has said as the procurement process for the permanent Malta-Gozo link kicked off with a pre-qualification questionnaire for bidders.
Bidders must have annual turnovers of an average annual €500 million as well as a €250 million turnover from a similar project in the last ten years, Infrastructure Malta CEO Fredrick Azzopardi said.
The government will not be providing subsidies or guarantees to any bidders, Azzopardi said, adding that the preferred financing option would be self-financing via a toll system that users of the tunnel will pay when using the link.
Conceptual design preferred by Infrastructure Malta
Asked how this could be guaranteed when no toll has been proposed at this point, Azzopardi told MaltaToday that bidders would have to first submit a design and guarantee financial stability and technical expertise in the pre-qualification questionnaire. The toll would be disclosed in the final stage when a bidder is chosen.
“The procurement process is in three stages. After the pre-qualification questionnaire, we would be choosing the top five bidders who will go to the next stage,” he said, adding that the next stage would be an invitation for the five top-ranked bidders to participate in a dialogue.
It is here that bidders would submit a detailed designed, after which the best and final offer would be chosen in the third stage.
The government has already issued a preferred conceptual design but said that bidders are invited to provide alternatives.
Infrastructure Malta’s conceptual design suggests that the two exits for the tunnel be in Xemxija, in Malta, and Nadur, in Gozo, and that the tunnel be 14 kilometres in length and 14-metres wide. It also suggests that there be access points along the tunnel for every 100 metres, 14 technical rooms and seven turning points for vehicles.
“Whoever bids needs to have the necessary human resources and experienced personnel. We are also asking for accident-free man hours so we would be certain that the bidder has the capability of ensuring safety. An environmental record is also requested to see whether there were any past infringements,” Azzopardi said.
Infrastructure Minister Ian Borg said that most of the material being excavated as part of the tunnel’s construction would be inert and not construction waste.
“This is a resource. It is State material and might be material that is needed by other industries. The Environment and Resources Authority will have to agree with the government on where it will be used or where it would be thrown away,” Borg said.
Borg said the permanent link would target the problem of connectivity for Gozitans, where more than 20,000 people lived permanently on the sister island and had business, work, or other interests in Malta.
Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana said the tunnel was a game-changer and will see Gozitans having an increased quality of life. “Yesterday’s Gozo and today’s Gozo are not the same. Gozo is contributing to our national economy and is actually doing better than Malta. We have seen a 13% economic increase in Gozo alone and Gozo is enjoying a record low in unemployment,” Caruana said.
She added that a government concern regarding Gozo was that the sister island had an ageing population and that the tunnel might encourage repopulation.
As it happened: No order to stop protecting Daphne, ex-police chief insists
Two former police commissioners testify in Daphne Caruana Galizia inquiryNationalDaphne Caruana Galizia
By Edwina Brincat and Diana Cacciottolo
Former police commissioners Peter Paul Zammit and Michael Cassar to testify at Daphne Caruana Galizia inquiry.The role of the police was scrutinised during Thursday's session of the public inquiry into whether the state could have prevented the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
Former police commissioners Peter Paul Zammit and Michael Cassar gave evidence to the panel about the protection afforded to the journalist, who was murdered outside her home in 2017.
Scroll down to read the evidence, as it happened.
Inquiry continues Monday
4.56pm That's all from the inquiry today, we've been told. It continues on Monday when another ex-police commissioner, Ray Zammit, is scheduled to testify along with Malta Developers Association chief Sandro Chetcuti.
Recap: Why was Daphne not given permanent police protection?
4.33pm Mr Cassar is still continuing his evidence behind closed doors. While we're waiting to find out if we'll hear more, let's recap on what we have heard today.
Remember this inquiry is largely about trying to establish whether the state did enough to prevent Daphne Caruana Galizia from being murdered in 2017.
So far today, we've heard from two former police commissioners about that issue.
Did anyone interfere in your job Mr Cassar?
4.05pm Mr Cassar is asked if his decision to resign had anything to do with the report that highlighted some Politically Exposed Persons in relation to the Schembri-Tonna loan.
"Did anyone interfere in your job, Mr Cassar?" he is asked.
"Not in investigations but administrative-wise it was a different matter," he says.
At this point Mr Cassar is asked by the inquiry board if he would be more comfortable giving details behind closed doors.
"We are after the truth here," inquiry board member Justice Abigail Lofaro says.
Mr Cassar appears to be somewhat hesitant. The Board asks all members of the public, except Daphne’s relatives, to leave the room. Mr Cassar continues his testimony behind closed doors.
'Operation Green'
3.56pm Mr Cassar refers to one of the cases he received about Keith Schembri and Brian Tonna. There were allegations about a €100,000 loan from Mr Schembri to Mr Tonna.
Mr Cassar said that when the allegations emerged, he was "told that the FIAU were working on it".
"The police have to make sure not to overlap and do double work," he says.
Mr Cassar refers to 'Operation Green', which he says was opened in April 8 2016. It is put to him that there are PEPs (Politically Exposed Persons) in this report.
"Did anyone speak to you about it?" he is asked.
"No. I went abroad the next day. It was planned. At the time I was determined to leave. I had taken the decision in December."
We have previously reported that Mr Cassar resigned a day after the FIAU recommended further investigations into the loan.
Authorities 'wouldn't dare' interfere in investigations
3.50pm Mr Cassar is asked whether there was any interference from any authorities into police investigations?
"No, never. They wouldn’t even dare," he responds. He says there was "no interference" into reports from the FIAU, who had "wider and greater powers" that the police to get information.
"Unfortunately, police cannot use material they get from the FIAU," he explains,"so there is double work."
He said that when he was in the role there was a money laundering investigation team, who received 15 - 16 reports annually, including a report about the prime minister's former chief of staff Keith Schembri and Nexia BT's Brian Tonna.
No 'fixed point' protection order
3.43pm Mr Cassar is explaining when Daphne Caruana Galizia had 'fixed point' protection - ie an officer stationed at her home.
He says that this happened at election times and other dates. He adds that he never had any order from the "executive authorities" on the matter.
Speaking as a victim, he says that it was not always "comfortable" for people to have fixed point protection.
Former police chief Michael Cassar testifies
3.41pm Next to take the oath is another former police chief, Michael Cassar, who was commissioner from December 2014 - April 2016.
Again, the first question is around the level of protection afforded to Daphne Caruana Galizia.
"I had asked about it and was told of patrols, frequent patrols. I told them to add greater attention to the residence, not just to drive past," he said.
"It honestly crossed my mind to introduce a fixed point."
He said he was told by his officers that when (previous police commissioner) John Rizzo was planning to introduce a fixed point, Ms Caruana Galizia had refused that level of protection.
Process of handling FIAU reports
3.34pm Mr Zammit is asked whether police investigated FIAU reports during his time in the role.
He said it was "normal practice" for any reports to be "passed on for investigation".
"I would not investigate personally but would order immediate investigation. Most FIAU reports went directly to the economic crimes unit." He said most reports were "suspicious transactions reports" and that other "more serious" reports would go through the commissioner.
"Like Panama Papers?" he is asked.
"It would definitely go on to be investigated," comes the reply.
Are you related to John Dalli?
3.29pm Mr Zammit is asked if he is related to John Dalli, the former EU Commissioner and Nationalist minister.
"Directly no. But he is a third degree cousin of my wife," he replies.
'The matter of John Dalli'
3.21pm During his testimony on Tuesday, ex-police commissioner John Rizzo said he wanted to press charges against former European Union commissioner John Dalli over bribery allegations.
Asked about that, Mr Zammit said he went "through the whole file" but there were "certain shortcomings".
"A report was filed. That report was kept hidden until 2014." He said he sent for Dalli and investigated the allegations "partly alone and partly with (Angelo) Gafa (CEO).
"There was an investigation by (anti-fraud agency) OLAF and another by Rizzo. Rizzo probably wasn’t aware of the report drawn up by the supervisory committee of OLAF. That report remained hidden until 2014. There was a lack of disclosure."
He is asked to assure the inquiry that his appointment had nothing to do with the case.
"I’ll explain further. This case was reopened, facts gone over again, and checked. I did not close Dalli’s case. The news that he would not be arraigned had been published on Dissett.
"Did anyone from Castille, the ministry or executive talk to you about the Dalli case?" he is asked.
"No. I can assure you. There was not enough evidence to prosecute. I reached that conclusion after seeing a report of the supervisory committee that Rizzo had not seen."
He criticised the OLAF investigation as being "lacking even in the gathering of evidence" including allegations of meetings "which actually did not take place".
He said he told OLAF's Director General, Giovanni Kessler that he "expected better of him".
I resigned over 'divergence of opinion'
3.16pm Asked about why he resigned, Mr Zammit said there was a "divergence of opinion" between him and the police minister's former chief of staff Silvio Scerri.
"I wanted more input in education," he said " but the former chief of staff’s word carried weight.
"About six months after my appointment, the divergence of opinion arose. I was opposed to the introduction of a CEO in corps."
Why did you take over as police commissioner?
3.12pm Mr Zammit is asked whether he knows why he was summoned to take over after the previous police commissioner John Rizzo (who testified earlier this week).
"No, I was never told," he says. "I was summoned to OPM (Office of the Prime Minister). I was asked about my thoughts on the police and whether I was interested in assuming the role of commissioner. I spoke on my outlook on the corps and what I would do in the future. The prime minister accepted my proposals."
'Higher risk assessment' in Franco Debono case
3.06pm Mr Zammit says that former MP Franco Debono, was given 'fixed point' protection, meaning an officer is stationed at his home at all time. Mr Debono was given this protection in 2012, when he was an MP. He was regarded as a higher risk than Ms Caruana Galizia at the time.
"There was a higher risk assessment in his case, which was confirmed upon review. So the fixed point remained," Mr Zammit said.
"Is there a record of frequency of patrols?", one of the inquiry board members asks.
"The patrolling officer inputs his report. I can’t tell whether officers abide strictly by these duties."
Security services 'did not flag risk' to Caruana Galizia
2.59pm Mr Zammit says Malta Security Service did not flag any risk to the journalist.
"Weren't the police aware of the journalist's potential risk?" he is asked.
"Daphne Caruana Galizia was a controversial person," Mr Zammit replies. "There were many hotheads especially at election time."
He describes some incidents he was involved in investigating at her home. The first was when her door was set on fire, which was at the same time that Jesuit Refugee Service also suffered an arson attack.
You can read our story on that attack here.
'I did not reverse any order'
2.52pm The ex-police chief is pressed to explain whether he gave any order to revert protection that had been previously given to Daphne Caruana Galizia's family.
He says he gave no order to withdraw protection but left matters as they were before.
"But we were told that protection had stopped. What have you to say about that?" he is asked.
"I did not reverse any order. But frequent patrols were only at time of elections."
Ex-police chief Peter Paul Zammit testifies
2.48pm First up is former police commissioner Peter Paul Zammit. He was appointed to the role from April 2013, shortly after Joseph Muscat's Labour came to power, and resigned a year later, in 2014.
He is asked what measures of protection there were for Daphne Caruana Galizia when he took over.
"There was a fixed point at election time and frequent patrols. I confirmed whether that was all and I left matters as they stood," he said.
Lawrence Cutajar unlikely to appear
2.35pm We're hearing that the current police commissioner, Lawrence Cutajar, will not appear today after all. He was not summoned as a witness.
Daphne's family in court
2.24pm Daphne's parents, Michael and Rose are in court, along with two of her sisters. The family has previously testified about what their daughter endured in her life. Her parents have led many of the anti-corruption protests over the last two months.
The family are being represented in court by solicitors Therese Comodini Cachia and Andrew Borg Cardona are representing the Caruana Galizia family.
Who will the inquiry hear from today?
2.19pm We're expecting to hear from two witnesses today: a former police commissioner and the man who is currently in the role.
They are:
During their tenure the previous policy of having a police officer stationed at the Caruana Galizia house to protect her, stopped.
Two former police commissioners testify in Daphne Caruana Galizia inquiryNationalDaphne Caruana Galizia
By Edwina Brincat and Diana Cacciottolo
Former police commissioners Peter Paul Zammit and Michael Cassar to testify at Daphne Caruana Galizia inquiry.The role of the police was scrutinised during Thursday's session of the public inquiry into whether the state could have prevented the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
Former police commissioners Peter Paul Zammit and Michael Cassar gave evidence to the panel about the protection afforded to the journalist, who was murdered outside her home in 2017.
Scroll down to read the evidence, as it happened.
Inquiry continues Monday
4.56pm That's all from the inquiry today, we've been told. It continues on Monday when another ex-police commissioner, Ray Zammit, is scheduled to testify along with Malta Developers Association chief Sandro Chetcuti.
Recap: Why was Daphne not given permanent police protection?
4.33pm Mr Cassar is still continuing his evidence behind closed doors. While we're waiting to find out if we'll hear more, let's recap on what we have heard today.
Remember this inquiry is largely about trying to establish whether the state did enough to prevent Daphne Caruana Galizia from being murdered in 2017.
So far today, we've heard from two former police commissioners about that issue.
- Ex-police chief Peter Paul Zammit, said he "gave no order" to reduce the police protection for Ms Caruana Galizia and "left matters as they stood".
- Former MP Franco Debono was regarded as a "higher risk" than Ms Caruana Galizia at the time and was given permanent - fixed point - police protection.
- Mr Zammit's successor Michael Cassar, said that Ms Caruana Galizia was given fixed point police protection during elections and other times but not on a permanent basis.
- He said that it "crossed my mind" to introduce permanent fixed point protection but that he was told the journalist had previously refused it.
Did anyone interfere in your job Mr Cassar?
4.05pm Mr Cassar is asked if his decision to resign had anything to do with the report that highlighted some Politically Exposed Persons in relation to the Schembri-Tonna loan.
"Did anyone interfere in your job, Mr Cassar?" he is asked.
"Not in investigations but administrative-wise it was a different matter," he says.
At this point Mr Cassar is asked by the inquiry board if he would be more comfortable giving details behind closed doors.
"We are after the truth here," inquiry board member Justice Abigail Lofaro says.
Mr Cassar appears to be somewhat hesitant. The Board asks all members of the public, except Daphne’s relatives, to leave the room. Mr Cassar continues his testimony behind closed doors.
'Operation Green'
3.56pm Mr Cassar refers to one of the cases he received about Keith Schembri and Brian Tonna. There were allegations about a €100,000 loan from Mr Schembri to Mr Tonna.
Mr Cassar said that when the allegations emerged, he was "told that the FIAU were working on it".
"The police have to make sure not to overlap and do double work," he says.
Mr Cassar refers to 'Operation Green', which he says was opened in April 8 2016. It is put to him that there are PEPs (Politically Exposed Persons) in this report.
"Did anyone speak to you about it?" he is asked.
"No. I went abroad the next day. It was planned. At the time I was determined to leave. I had taken the decision in December."
We have previously reported that Mr Cassar resigned a day after the FIAU recommended further investigations into the loan.
Authorities 'wouldn't dare' interfere in investigations
3.50pm Mr Cassar is asked whether there was any interference from any authorities into police investigations?
"No, never. They wouldn’t even dare," he responds. He says there was "no interference" into reports from the FIAU, who had "wider and greater powers" that the police to get information.
"Unfortunately, police cannot use material they get from the FIAU," he explains,"so there is double work."
He said that when he was in the role there was a money laundering investigation team, who received 15 - 16 reports annually, including a report about the prime minister's former chief of staff Keith Schembri and Nexia BT's Brian Tonna.
No 'fixed point' protection order
3.43pm Mr Cassar is explaining when Daphne Caruana Galizia had 'fixed point' protection - ie an officer stationed at her home.
He says that this happened at election times and other dates. He adds that he never had any order from the "executive authorities" on the matter.
Speaking as a victim, he says that it was not always "comfortable" for people to have fixed point protection.
Former police chief Michael Cassar testifies
3.41pm Next to take the oath is another former police chief, Michael Cassar, who was commissioner from December 2014 - April 2016.
Again, the first question is around the level of protection afforded to Daphne Caruana Galizia.
"I had asked about it and was told of patrols, frequent patrols. I told them to add greater attention to the residence, not just to drive past," he said.
"It honestly crossed my mind to introduce a fixed point."
He said he was told by his officers that when (previous police commissioner) John Rizzo was planning to introduce a fixed point, Ms Caruana Galizia had refused that level of protection.
Process of handling FIAU reports
3.34pm Mr Zammit is asked whether police investigated FIAU reports during his time in the role.
He said it was "normal practice" for any reports to be "passed on for investigation".
"I would not investigate personally but would order immediate investigation. Most FIAU reports went directly to the economic crimes unit." He said most reports were "suspicious transactions reports" and that other "more serious" reports would go through the commissioner.
"Like Panama Papers?" he is asked.
"It would definitely go on to be investigated," comes the reply.
Are you related to John Dalli?
3.29pm Mr Zammit is asked if he is related to John Dalli, the former EU Commissioner and Nationalist minister.
"Directly no. But he is a third degree cousin of my wife," he replies.
'The matter of John Dalli'
3.21pm During his testimony on Tuesday, ex-police commissioner John Rizzo said he wanted to press charges against former European Union commissioner John Dalli over bribery allegations.
Asked about that, Mr Zammit said he went "through the whole file" but there were "certain shortcomings".
"A report was filed. That report was kept hidden until 2014." He said he sent for Dalli and investigated the allegations "partly alone and partly with (Angelo) Gafa (CEO).
"There was an investigation by (anti-fraud agency) OLAF and another by Rizzo. Rizzo probably wasn’t aware of the report drawn up by the supervisory committee of OLAF. That report remained hidden until 2014. There was a lack of disclosure."
He is asked to assure the inquiry that his appointment had nothing to do with the case.
"I’ll explain further. This case was reopened, facts gone over again, and checked. I did not close Dalli’s case. The news that he would not be arraigned had been published on Dissett.
"Did anyone from Castille, the ministry or executive talk to you about the Dalli case?" he is asked.
"No. I can assure you. There was not enough evidence to prosecute. I reached that conclusion after seeing a report of the supervisory committee that Rizzo had not seen."
He criticised the OLAF investigation as being "lacking even in the gathering of evidence" including allegations of meetings "which actually did not take place".
He said he told OLAF's Director General, Giovanni Kessler that he "expected better of him".
I resigned over 'divergence of opinion'
3.16pm Asked about why he resigned, Mr Zammit said there was a "divergence of opinion" between him and the police minister's former chief of staff Silvio Scerri.
"I wanted more input in education," he said " but the former chief of staff’s word carried weight.
"About six months after my appointment, the divergence of opinion arose. I was opposed to the introduction of a CEO in corps."
Why did you take over as police commissioner?
3.12pm Mr Zammit is asked whether he knows why he was summoned to take over after the previous police commissioner John Rizzo (who testified earlier this week).
"No, I was never told," he says. "I was summoned to OPM (Office of the Prime Minister). I was asked about my thoughts on the police and whether I was interested in assuming the role of commissioner. I spoke on my outlook on the corps and what I would do in the future. The prime minister accepted my proposals."
'Higher risk assessment' in Franco Debono case
3.06pm Mr Zammit says that former MP Franco Debono, was given 'fixed point' protection, meaning an officer is stationed at his home at all time. Mr Debono was given this protection in 2012, when he was an MP. He was regarded as a higher risk than Ms Caruana Galizia at the time.
"There was a higher risk assessment in his case, which was confirmed upon review. So the fixed point remained," Mr Zammit said.
"Is there a record of frequency of patrols?", one of the inquiry board members asks.
"The patrolling officer inputs his report. I can’t tell whether officers abide strictly by these duties."
Security services 'did not flag risk' to Caruana Galizia
2.59pm Mr Zammit says Malta Security Service did not flag any risk to the journalist.
"Weren't the police aware of the journalist's potential risk?" he is asked.
"Daphne Caruana Galizia was a controversial person," Mr Zammit replies. "There were many hotheads especially at election time."
He describes some incidents he was involved in investigating at her home. The first was when her door was set on fire, which was at the same time that Jesuit Refugee Service also suffered an arson attack.
You can read our story on that attack here.
'I did not reverse any order'
2.52pm The ex-police chief is pressed to explain whether he gave any order to revert protection that had been previously given to Daphne Caruana Galizia's family.
He says he gave no order to withdraw protection but left matters as they were before.
"But we were told that protection had stopped. What have you to say about that?" he is asked.
"I did not reverse any order. But frequent patrols were only at time of elections."
Ex-police chief Peter Paul Zammit testifies
2.48pm First up is former police commissioner Peter Paul Zammit. He was appointed to the role from April 2013, shortly after Joseph Muscat's Labour came to power, and resigned a year later, in 2014.
He is asked what measures of protection there were for Daphne Caruana Galizia when he took over.
"There was a fixed point at election time and frequent patrols. I confirmed whether that was all and I left matters as they stood," he said.
Lawrence Cutajar unlikely to appear
2.35pm We're hearing that the current police commissioner, Lawrence Cutajar, will not appear today after all. He was not summoned as a witness.
Daphne's family in court
2.24pm Daphne's parents, Michael and Rose are in court, along with two of her sisters. The family has previously testified about what their daughter endured in her life. Her parents have led many of the anti-corruption protests over the last two months.
The family are being represented in court by solicitors Therese Comodini Cachia and Andrew Borg Cardona are representing the Caruana Galizia family.
Who will the inquiry hear from today?
2.19pm We're expecting to hear from two witnesses today: a former police commissioner and the man who is currently in the role.
They are:
- Peter Paul Zammit, who was appointed to the role shortly after the Labour Party was elected into government in 2013.
- Michael Cassar, who resigned from the role in 2016.
- Lawrence Cutajar, current police commissioner (Edit: We have since been told Mr Cutajar was not summoned as a witness. See 2.35pm)
During their tenure the previous policy of having a police officer stationed at the Caruana Galizia house to protect her, stopped.
Konrad Mizzi tells migrants to respect ‘those who feed you
Wednesday, 8 January 2020,
Former Minister Konrad Mizzi this afternoon took a dig at migrants saying that they should learn to respect the Maltese, “those who feed you”.
Mizzi, who resigned in November, said in a post on Facebook that migrants must learn to show respect to “people who saved your life”.
The post was uploaded hours after a fire at the Marsa migrant open centre, which led to the arrest of 20 migrants, and the arraignment of another 22 migrants following an uprising in Safi on Monday.
“You fled your country. We saved you from drowning. We gave you shelter in our home. We dressed you, fed you. But now learn to respect us,” he wrote.
The post drew hundreds of reactions on the social media, with some praising the minister for his stand and others remarking that the minister was given a public from which he resigned in disgrace.
Wednesday, 8 January 2020,
Former Minister Konrad Mizzi this afternoon took a dig at migrants saying that they should learn to respect the Maltese, “those who feed you”.
Mizzi, who resigned in November, said in a post on Facebook that migrants must learn to show respect to “people who saved your life”.
The post was uploaded hours after a fire at the Marsa migrant open centre, which led to the arrest of 20 migrants, and the arraignment of another 22 migrants following an uprising in Safi on Monday.
“You fled your country. We saved you from drowning. We gave you shelter in our home. We dressed you, fed you. But now learn to respect us,” he wrote.
The post drew hundreds of reactions on the social media, with some praising the minister for his stand and others remarking that the minister was given a public from which he resigned in disgrace.
Daphne public inquiry: I never supported Joseph Muscat - Anglu Farrugia
Albert Galea
Tuesday, 7 January 2020,
Speaker Anglu Farrugia said that he never supported Joseph Muscat and did not endorse him when he ran for leader in 2008.
Testifying in the public inquiry into the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia, he said that he never had access to the fabled fourth floor at the PL headquarters, which Farrugia had himself exposed in an interview soon after he was forced to resign as deputy leader in late 2012. It was on the fourth floor that certain decisions were taken, with Farrugia said that he was not privy to.
He said that Keith Schembri had access to that floor, which needed a special code to enter. Farrugia said that whenever he tried to go there, he always found it locked.
Farrugia also said that he was not in the loop on the PL's plans in the energy sector.
Previous sittings before the inquiry, led by retired judge Michael Mallia, saw the testimony of the closest relatives to the journalist, who was killed in a car bomb on 16 October 2017. These included her parents, husband, sons and sisters.
Apart from Judge Mallia, the other two members of the inquiry board are former chief Justice Joseph Said Pullicino and Madam Justice Abigail Lofaro.
Jason Azzopardi and Therese Comodini Cachia are representing the Caruana Galizia family.
The public inquiry resumes on Thursday at 2.20pm.
3.11pm: That concludes Anglu Farrugia's testimony. The three Judges on the board also leave the courtroom. Former Police Comissioner John Rizzo testified after Farrugia. His testimony may be found here
3.10pm: Therese Commodini Cachia asks whether the board thinks that the Speaker would be more comfortable in naming names in a confidential manner. Farrugia replies that this is not necessary - he states that he only mentioned Sandro Chetcuti because he saw him regularly, before noting that if people enter the party headquarters it is not necessarily to meet at the fourth floor. The board reminds the Speaker that if he wishes to give details in confidence he can do so, but the Speaker says that he has no further details to give.
3.08pm: Judge Said Pullicino asks if Farrugia has anything to get off his chest, this was the time to do so. Farrugia states that one must always be careful that in spite of always being correct in how one treats a person, one should not take it for granted that the person will display the same correctness. This was something he had told Chris Cardona recently when he had asked for parliament's protection, Farrugia said.
3.06pm: Azzopardi asks Farrugia about his article in which he spoke of "political murder". "Well, you have a person in a high position in the party who ends up without a role right before the election... it's clear," Farrugia says.
3.05pm: Azzopardi asks whether Farrugia had trusted Keith Schembri, but the question is stopped by the inquiry board.
3.04pm: Azzopardi asks whether Franco Debono, then a PN MP, had been sent to a debate by the Labour Party instead of him. Farrugia confirms this, saying that Joseph Muscat had decided that Debono should go instead of him (Farrugia). Azzopardi asks whether there had been any talk of selling passports, while he was deputy leader. Farrugia states that nobody had ever told him about it. Azzopardi asks Farrugia to confirm that as Deputy Leader he had not been asked to accompany Joseph Muscat to trips in Libya in 2010 and in China. Farrugia states he did not go to Libya out of principle. He notes that Muscat had never asked him to go to Libya. He states that he has never been to China, and questions even whether Muscat had gone himself.
3pm: Azzopardi asks whether Farrugia had been informed or concluded by himself where the money for the electoral campaign was coming from. Farrugia replies that he did not know, and notes that when one leaves a political party they have very few people who remain by their side.
2.58pm: Azzopardi asks whether Farrugia had ever seen people like Neville Gafa and Konrad Mizzi on the fourth floor when he was Deputy Leader. "I saw them at the party HQ. I wouldn't know about the fourth floor, because whenever I reached it, it was locked." Azzopardi asks whether while Farrugia was deputy leader, Keith Schembri had a role in the party and why he had access to the fourth storey. Farrugia replies that Schembri did have access to the fourth floor. Azzopardi asks whether Farrugia thinks that Schembri was "running the show" in relation to the 2013 election. When an election was called it was after he had resigned, Farrugia said. He said that he lived the campaign as an outsider, but realised that Labour had a strong campaign.
2.56pm: Jason Azzopardi asks whether he recalls correctly that Farrugia had been a candidate for the Labour Party in 1996 on condition that the government implements a law wherein an inquiring magistrate could investigate something out of their own will, and which had only reached the first reading stage. This is the "super magistrate" role. Farrugia states that Alfred Sant had been very much in favour, but notes that as far as he knows it had not moved forward because it did not have the backing of the PN - the bill would have required a 2/3s majority to pass.
2.50pm: Judge Said Pullicino asks whether Farrugia was ready to give them any more hard facts, with Judge Lofaro again asking for names. Farrugia does not provide any names. That concludes the questions from the inquiry board, but Jason Azzopardi has a list of questions which he has now passed onto the board.
2.48pm: Judge Mallia asks whether Farrugia had ever seen Yorgen Fenech at the party headquarters. "When I used to go to the fourth floor I would find the door locked", Farrugia replies. He never saw Fenech there.
2.46pm: Judge Said Pullicino speaks of allegations against the government which began "almost from day one" after Labour won the election and questions whether Farrugia ever had the thought that these had been discussed beforehand. Judge Mallia adds to that and asks whether, knowing the details that he knew today, Farrugia had any thoughts of such a possibility. Farrugia notes that he had resigned in 2012 and that this had happened afterwards, and that Konrad Mizzi had emerged as a strong contender and presented his energy plan only after he had resigned, having even taken his place on the fourth district.
2.43pm: Judge Said Pullicino asks whether Farrugia agrees that there were problems within the party which could have led to corruption. Farrugia replies that he believes that when there are people in the party with whom you are not comfortable and who want something from the party, then there is the potential for problems.
2.40pm: "I received threats, even a written letter. John Rizzo, the former commissioner of police knows... You have a hierarchy, a leader and a deputy leader. The deputy leader is supposed to be the long arm of the leader and I wasn't..." Farrugia says.
2.37pm: Farrugia says that he was not involved in discussions between the party and businessmen.
2.36pm: Judge Said Pullicino asks therefore if he knew of projects which had been agreed upon before the election. Farrugia recalls a story from his childhood in 1962 when his father was fined 5 shillings for naming his pharmacy in Maltese, and notes his father telling him to stick to what he believed in. Said Pullicino interjects and asks whether he (Farrugia) did not feel comfortable in those surroundings, to which Farrugia states that this is correct.
2.35pm: Farrugia speaks of how he was never allowed to be involved in discussions on projects. He said that he had never been informed, for instance, precisely how the party's energy plan was going to work. He said that the example is to show that he was un-involved and therefore does not know of individuals with whom the party had spoken to. "One of the incidents that hurt me a lot was related to energy. When I was deputy leader, I was never informed of how the energy plan would be implemented in detail. When I went on Xarabank, a TV programme, before resigning, somebody asked me if we were going to reduce energy bills and I wrongly said no... I was very short on detail."
2.32pm: Asked whether Keith Schembri used to be present at the headquarters at this point, Farrugia replied in the affirmative - with Judge Said Pullicino noting that he too was a big businessman and not politically exposed at the time.
2.30pm: Farrugia says that it was clear that the Labour party had backing in the 2013 election. He says however that the only person whom he can recognise as regularly visiting the party's headquarters was Sandro Chetcuti, while also noting that he had no access to the headquarter's fourth floor.
2.26pm: Farrugia says that he had said what he said and nobody had ever denied it or asked him to withdraw that. He says that he was very clear - he was making what was bothering him very clear. He said that he had been asked to resign and had been asked to do so while he was abroad. He delves into the reasons as to why he had resigned, explaining the context to remarks he had passed on Magistrate Audrey Demicoli.
2.23pm: Judge Said Pullicino interjects, saying that he had spoken of values and how they had changed, noting that there must have been something extremely serious for him to have resigned from the party and adding that one issue he had mentioned was the close ties between the party and the business. He said that he wanted to see the extent of this connection, asking Farrugia again to identify people where possible.
2.18pm: "I never supported Muscat. When he ran for leader I didn't endorse him," Farrugia says before continuing that he did not agree with Muscat's style. “When Muscat became leader, I wasn't his favourite and I was deputy leader. I was concentrating on parliamentary work. I did a lot of work to bring Mintoff's people back into the fold,” Farrugia says. The one time he had met Muscat (before he became leader) was when he was at the European Parliament and dealt with some cases concerning Eddie Fenech Adami. One thing about which he had spoken with Muscat was to see that if the Labour Party was to reach government, all injustices must be addressed.
2.16pm: Judge Said Pullicino tells the Speaker that after his resignation from the party it seemed that he had genuine concerns about how the party was being led. "I was brought up in an environment where money wasn't everything", the Speaker says. He continues by recalling that when he entered the Labour Party the second time after his time in the police force in 1996, that despite certain differences he had with then leader Alfred Sant, there was always continuity with what he believed in within the party.
2.13pm: Farrugia, who was then deputy leader of the PL, says that businessmen would come with €50 and €20 donations "but I would refuse them.”
2.10pm: Farrugia speaks of a time when he was on the Committee for Parliamentary Affairs, and left the office at 11pm. He recalls seeing one person whom he did not know in the headquarters, and said that this person was not someone who is a party delegate or had anything to do with the party.
2.07pm: Pushed to mention names, Farrugia mentions MDA President Sandro Chetcuti. Pushed further as to whether there were any other people of note, Farrugia seems reluctant to mention other people, saying only that these were not delegates and it was unusual to see them at the party's headquarters.
2.06pm: Farrugia notes that a question had been posed as to the values of the Labour Party. He said that he had seen some movement within the party which had bothered him, mentioning how he had seen "certain people" entering the headquarters and met on the "fourth floor". He notes that these were people who he had never seen within the party.
2.04pm: Judge Mallia takes the Speaker back to 2013, recalling a media interview where he had spoken of his (Farrugia's) preoccupation with the Labour Party and their ties with businesses. Mallia states that given what we know today, this declaration is of note and questions the Speaker as to whether he can expand on that remark.
2.01pm: The three judges on the inquiry have entered the courtroom, and court is in session. Speaker Anglu Farrugia will testify first. He is accompanied by law professor Ian Refalo.
1.56pm: The court room has opened and the Caruana Galizia lawyers have walked in.
1.51pm: Former police chief John Rizzo, who is also expected to testify, is also present.
1.50pm: Daphne's parents are waiting for the courtroom to open.
Albert Galea
Tuesday, 7 January 2020,
Speaker Anglu Farrugia said that he never supported Joseph Muscat and did not endorse him when he ran for leader in 2008.
Testifying in the public inquiry into the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia, he said that he never had access to the fabled fourth floor at the PL headquarters, which Farrugia had himself exposed in an interview soon after he was forced to resign as deputy leader in late 2012. It was on the fourth floor that certain decisions were taken, with Farrugia said that he was not privy to.
He said that Keith Schembri had access to that floor, which needed a special code to enter. Farrugia said that whenever he tried to go there, he always found it locked.
Farrugia also said that he was not in the loop on the PL's plans in the energy sector.
Previous sittings before the inquiry, led by retired judge Michael Mallia, saw the testimony of the closest relatives to the journalist, who was killed in a car bomb on 16 October 2017. These included her parents, husband, sons and sisters.
Apart from Judge Mallia, the other two members of the inquiry board are former chief Justice Joseph Said Pullicino and Madam Justice Abigail Lofaro.
Jason Azzopardi and Therese Comodini Cachia are representing the Caruana Galizia family.
The public inquiry resumes on Thursday at 2.20pm.
3.11pm: That concludes Anglu Farrugia's testimony. The three Judges on the board also leave the courtroom. Former Police Comissioner John Rizzo testified after Farrugia. His testimony may be found here
3.10pm: Therese Commodini Cachia asks whether the board thinks that the Speaker would be more comfortable in naming names in a confidential manner. Farrugia replies that this is not necessary - he states that he only mentioned Sandro Chetcuti because he saw him regularly, before noting that if people enter the party headquarters it is not necessarily to meet at the fourth floor. The board reminds the Speaker that if he wishes to give details in confidence he can do so, but the Speaker says that he has no further details to give.
3.08pm: Judge Said Pullicino asks if Farrugia has anything to get off his chest, this was the time to do so. Farrugia states that one must always be careful that in spite of always being correct in how one treats a person, one should not take it for granted that the person will display the same correctness. This was something he had told Chris Cardona recently when he had asked for parliament's protection, Farrugia said.
3.06pm: Azzopardi asks Farrugia about his article in which he spoke of "political murder". "Well, you have a person in a high position in the party who ends up without a role right before the election... it's clear," Farrugia says.
3.05pm: Azzopardi asks whether Farrugia had trusted Keith Schembri, but the question is stopped by the inquiry board.
3.04pm: Azzopardi asks whether Franco Debono, then a PN MP, had been sent to a debate by the Labour Party instead of him. Farrugia confirms this, saying that Joseph Muscat had decided that Debono should go instead of him (Farrugia). Azzopardi asks whether there had been any talk of selling passports, while he was deputy leader. Farrugia states that nobody had ever told him about it. Azzopardi asks Farrugia to confirm that as Deputy Leader he had not been asked to accompany Joseph Muscat to trips in Libya in 2010 and in China. Farrugia states he did not go to Libya out of principle. He notes that Muscat had never asked him to go to Libya. He states that he has never been to China, and questions even whether Muscat had gone himself.
3pm: Azzopardi asks whether Farrugia had been informed or concluded by himself where the money for the electoral campaign was coming from. Farrugia replies that he did not know, and notes that when one leaves a political party they have very few people who remain by their side.
2.58pm: Azzopardi asks whether Farrugia had ever seen people like Neville Gafa and Konrad Mizzi on the fourth floor when he was Deputy Leader. "I saw them at the party HQ. I wouldn't know about the fourth floor, because whenever I reached it, it was locked." Azzopardi asks whether while Farrugia was deputy leader, Keith Schembri had a role in the party and why he had access to the fourth storey. Farrugia replies that Schembri did have access to the fourth floor. Azzopardi asks whether Farrugia thinks that Schembri was "running the show" in relation to the 2013 election. When an election was called it was after he had resigned, Farrugia said. He said that he lived the campaign as an outsider, but realised that Labour had a strong campaign.
2.56pm: Jason Azzopardi asks whether he recalls correctly that Farrugia had been a candidate for the Labour Party in 1996 on condition that the government implements a law wherein an inquiring magistrate could investigate something out of their own will, and which had only reached the first reading stage. This is the "super magistrate" role. Farrugia states that Alfred Sant had been very much in favour, but notes that as far as he knows it had not moved forward because it did not have the backing of the PN - the bill would have required a 2/3s majority to pass.
2.50pm: Judge Said Pullicino asks whether Farrugia was ready to give them any more hard facts, with Judge Lofaro again asking for names. Farrugia does not provide any names. That concludes the questions from the inquiry board, but Jason Azzopardi has a list of questions which he has now passed onto the board.
2.48pm: Judge Mallia asks whether Farrugia had ever seen Yorgen Fenech at the party headquarters. "When I used to go to the fourth floor I would find the door locked", Farrugia replies. He never saw Fenech there.
2.46pm: Judge Said Pullicino speaks of allegations against the government which began "almost from day one" after Labour won the election and questions whether Farrugia ever had the thought that these had been discussed beforehand. Judge Mallia adds to that and asks whether, knowing the details that he knew today, Farrugia had any thoughts of such a possibility. Farrugia notes that he had resigned in 2012 and that this had happened afterwards, and that Konrad Mizzi had emerged as a strong contender and presented his energy plan only after he had resigned, having even taken his place on the fourth district.
2.43pm: Judge Said Pullicino asks whether Farrugia agrees that there were problems within the party which could have led to corruption. Farrugia replies that he believes that when there are people in the party with whom you are not comfortable and who want something from the party, then there is the potential for problems.
2.40pm: "I received threats, even a written letter. John Rizzo, the former commissioner of police knows... You have a hierarchy, a leader and a deputy leader. The deputy leader is supposed to be the long arm of the leader and I wasn't..." Farrugia says.
2.37pm: Farrugia says that he was not involved in discussions between the party and businessmen.
2.36pm: Judge Said Pullicino asks therefore if he knew of projects which had been agreed upon before the election. Farrugia recalls a story from his childhood in 1962 when his father was fined 5 shillings for naming his pharmacy in Maltese, and notes his father telling him to stick to what he believed in. Said Pullicino interjects and asks whether he (Farrugia) did not feel comfortable in those surroundings, to which Farrugia states that this is correct.
2.35pm: Farrugia speaks of how he was never allowed to be involved in discussions on projects. He said that he had never been informed, for instance, precisely how the party's energy plan was going to work. He said that the example is to show that he was un-involved and therefore does not know of individuals with whom the party had spoken to. "One of the incidents that hurt me a lot was related to energy. When I was deputy leader, I was never informed of how the energy plan would be implemented in detail. When I went on Xarabank, a TV programme, before resigning, somebody asked me if we were going to reduce energy bills and I wrongly said no... I was very short on detail."
2.32pm: Asked whether Keith Schembri used to be present at the headquarters at this point, Farrugia replied in the affirmative - with Judge Said Pullicino noting that he too was a big businessman and not politically exposed at the time.
2.30pm: Farrugia says that it was clear that the Labour party had backing in the 2013 election. He says however that the only person whom he can recognise as regularly visiting the party's headquarters was Sandro Chetcuti, while also noting that he had no access to the headquarter's fourth floor.
2.26pm: Farrugia says that he had said what he said and nobody had ever denied it or asked him to withdraw that. He says that he was very clear - he was making what was bothering him very clear. He said that he had been asked to resign and had been asked to do so while he was abroad. He delves into the reasons as to why he had resigned, explaining the context to remarks he had passed on Magistrate Audrey Demicoli.
2.23pm: Judge Said Pullicino interjects, saying that he had spoken of values and how they had changed, noting that there must have been something extremely serious for him to have resigned from the party and adding that one issue he had mentioned was the close ties between the party and the business. He said that he wanted to see the extent of this connection, asking Farrugia again to identify people where possible.
2.18pm: "I never supported Muscat. When he ran for leader I didn't endorse him," Farrugia says before continuing that he did not agree with Muscat's style. “When Muscat became leader, I wasn't his favourite and I was deputy leader. I was concentrating on parliamentary work. I did a lot of work to bring Mintoff's people back into the fold,” Farrugia says. The one time he had met Muscat (before he became leader) was when he was at the European Parliament and dealt with some cases concerning Eddie Fenech Adami. One thing about which he had spoken with Muscat was to see that if the Labour Party was to reach government, all injustices must be addressed.
2.16pm: Judge Said Pullicino tells the Speaker that after his resignation from the party it seemed that he had genuine concerns about how the party was being led. "I was brought up in an environment where money wasn't everything", the Speaker says. He continues by recalling that when he entered the Labour Party the second time after his time in the police force in 1996, that despite certain differences he had with then leader Alfred Sant, there was always continuity with what he believed in within the party.
2.13pm: Farrugia, who was then deputy leader of the PL, says that businessmen would come with €50 and €20 donations "but I would refuse them.”
2.10pm: Farrugia speaks of a time when he was on the Committee for Parliamentary Affairs, and left the office at 11pm. He recalls seeing one person whom he did not know in the headquarters, and said that this person was not someone who is a party delegate or had anything to do with the party.
2.07pm: Pushed to mention names, Farrugia mentions MDA President Sandro Chetcuti. Pushed further as to whether there were any other people of note, Farrugia seems reluctant to mention other people, saying only that these were not delegates and it was unusual to see them at the party's headquarters.
2.06pm: Farrugia notes that a question had been posed as to the values of the Labour Party. He said that he had seen some movement within the party which had bothered him, mentioning how he had seen "certain people" entering the headquarters and met on the "fourth floor". He notes that these were people who he had never seen within the party.
2.04pm: Judge Mallia takes the Speaker back to 2013, recalling a media interview where he had spoken of his (Farrugia's) preoccupation with the Labour Party and their ties with businesses. Mallia states that given what we know today, this declaration is of note and questions the Speaker as to whether he can expand on that remark.
2.01pm: The three judges on the inquiry have entered the courtroom, and court is in session. Speaker Anglu Farrugia will testify first. He is accompanied by law professor Ian Refalo.
1.56pm: The court room has opened and the Caruana Galizia lawyers have walked in.
1.51pm: Former police chief John Rizzo, who is also expected to testify, is also present.
1.50pm: Daphne's parents are waiting for the courtroom to open.
Around 17,000 Labour Party members will be voting in election for new leader
By Giulia Magri
Tuesday, 7 January 2020,
There are around 17,000 eligible PL members who will be voting for the new Labour Party leader and thus Malta's next Prime Minister this weekend.
This information was provided during a general conference at the PL headquarters in Hamrun on Tuesday evening.
The general conference saw the two candidates, Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne and MP Robert Abela mingle with the crowd before the conference started. When outgoing Prime Minister Joseph Muscat took his place among the party executive, the members gave a standing ovation for Muscat. At every mention of Muscat or his work, the crowd would once again clap.
On Saturday voting will start at 8am and end at 8pm.
The Labour Party organised voting stations in each of Malta's 13 electorial districts. The party has also provided transport for voters from centres of towns to the voting stations to ensure each member will be able to vote.
Addressing the general conference Dean Hilli, Chairman of the Labour Party's Electoral Commission ensured that the election will be transparent and fair.
"After Sunday there will be a new leader of the party and the country and we will ensure that this process will be a success."
On Saturday the counting will take place at PL headquarters and will be filmed by the party's media, One News.
PL President Daniel Micallef read out a motion for the election, which was approved unanimously. He thanked Muscat for all his work since he was elected as party leader in 2008. "On Sunday we will see not a win for the two candidates but a win for the party and a new chapter for us."
By Giulia Magri
Tuesday, 7 January 2020,
There are around 17,000 eligible PL members who will be voting for the new Labour Party leader and thus Malta's next Prime Minister this weekend.
This information was provided during a general conference at the PL headquarters in Hamrun on Tuesday evening.
The general conference saw the two candidates, Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne and MP Robert Abela mingle with the crowd before the conference started. When outgoing Prime Minister Joseph Muscat took his place among the party executive, the members gave a standing ovation for Muscat. At every mention of Muscat or his work, the crowd would once again clap.
On Saturday voting will start at 8am and end at 8pm.
The Labour Party organised voting stations in each of Malta's 13 electorial districts. The party has also provided transport for voters from centres of towns to the voting stations to ensure each member will be able to vote.
Addressing the general conference Dean Hilli, Chairman of the Labour Party's Electoral Commission ensured that the election will be transparent and fair.
"After Sunday there will be a new leader of the party and the country and we will ensure that this process will be a success."
On Saturday the counting will take place at PL headquarters and will be filmed by the party's media, One News.
PL President Daniel Micallef read out a motion for the election, which was approved unanimously. He thanked Muscat for all his work since he was elected as party leader in 2008. "On Sunday we will see not a win for the two candidates but a win for the party and a new chapter for us."
Robert Abela files vote tampering complaint ahead of PL election
Labour CEO dismisses allegations and says candidates know how system works
By Ivan Martin
Chris Fearne and Robert Abela: the two men running to become Labour's new leader. Photo: Matthew MirabelliUpdated 11.10am
The Labour Party has received a formal complaint on alleged tampering in the vote to elect a new party leader, calling for a formal investigation.
Party sources told Times of Malta that an incident at the Labour Party headquarters, in Ħamrun, on New Year’s Eve sparked concerns that one of the two candidates in the leadership race was meddling with the official register of those eligible to vote.
However, sources close to the party said the issue was being blown out of proportion and cast doubts on the claims.
On Saturday, thousands of paid-up Labour members will vote for either Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne or Cabinet adviser Robert Abela as the two enter the final stretch of the race to take over from outgoing Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.
The complaintAccording to the complaint filed by Dr Abela on Sunday morning, the door to an office at the party headquarters, where the list of paid-up party members is kept, was locked shut at about 12.50pm on December 31 though the lights inside were on.
Inside the office were three of Mr Fearne’s canvassers, all of whom employed at his ministry in Valletta, who, Dr Abela said, were allegedly inputting details for about 200 party supporters who had fallen behind in their membership fees. This, the complaint noted, would ensure these members would be eligible to vote on Saturday.
The letter raises questions over whether this was an isolated incident since these people had been caught red-handed by chance.
“The logical question that arises is what other similar abuse has taken place in these sensitive days,” the letter adds.
I am disgusted with my own party
“The thousands of genuine party members do not deserve to have their choice of party leader and prime minister go through an electoral process that has been vitiated and manipulated in order to give a perverse result,” it says.
Sources close to Dr Abela said he was insisting that none of the 200 names should be added to the list.
“This was clearly an attempt to compromise the entire electoral process. I am disgusted with my own party,” one source said. The letter calls for a thorough investigation that will include evidence by witnesses and examination of CCTV footage.
Scepticism about claimsSources said both candidates had previously agreed with the party’s electoral commission to present a list of members who had fallen behind on their membership fees. While Mr Fearne had compiled about 200 names, Dr Abela had listed fewer than 20, they said.
“We had agreed on this process beforehand, now someone isn’t happy because they didn’t get as many names – tough luck,” a source said.
A member of the electoral commission cast doubts on the claims that the election was being tampered with but was reluctant to get between the two candidates.
“Don’t get me involved in any of this mess. All I’ll say is this is all nonsense at a time when we should be focusing on what really matters,” he said. Sources said the matter had been discussed by the party executive and the electoral commission over the weekend, adding an “amicable solution” had been reached between representatives of the two candidates.
This solution would see party officials shred the list of 200 members that had been presented by Mr Fearne’s representatives.
These members would then be contacted individually by the party with officials deciding whether to add them to the list of eligible voters or not.
It appears this arrangement did not go down well with Dr Abela who decided to submit a complaint and asked for the matter to be discussed further.
The last time Labour had voted for a leader, a similar complaint of interference had been made by Dr Abela’s father, President Emeritus George Abela.
The former deputy leader had lost out in that race that saw Dr Muscat elected to the helm of the party.
Labour CEO says tampering 'not possible'Labour CEO Randolph Debattista dismissed the vote tampering claims and said that both candidates running for leader knew very well just how robust the party's electoral system was.
"Last year, we invested thousands in a new membership system that's full of checks and balances to prevent anyone from manipulating it," he wrote on Facebook.
Mr Debattista said the allegations were especially concerning because they cast workers at the party's headquarters in a bad light.
"And let's say it as it is," he added, "whoever is elected will have to work with them".
PL spokesman reactsA spokesman for the PL said its electoral commission has always communicated its official positions or replies to the person raising an issue or presenting an official compliant throughout the electoral process.
“The electoral process which will lead to the election of a new leader has numerous checks and balances and is being conducted with close collaboration with the candidates representatives as well as the candidates themselves,” he said.
While a number of issues were tackled along the way, the electoral commission can assure that the process is being conducted in a fair and diligent manner and that all data processing in relation to the eligibility of voters has been handled in line with the party statute and all regulations agreed to by the parties concerned, he added.
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Labour CEO dismisses allegations and says candidates know how system works
By Ivan Martin
Chris Fearne and Robert Abela: the two men running to become Labour's new leader. Photo: Matthew MirabelliUpdated 11.10am
The Labour Party has received a formal complaint on alleged tampering in the vote to elect a new party leader, calling for a formal investigation.
Party sources told Times of Malta that an incident at the Labour Party headquarters, in Ħamrun, on New Year’s Eve sparked concerns that one of the two candidates in the leadership race was meddling with the official register of those eligible to vote.
However, sources close to the party said the issue was being blown out of proportion and cast doubts on the claims.
On Saturday, thousands of paid-up Labour members will vote for either Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne or Cabinet adviser Robert Abela as the two enter the final stretch of the race to take over from outgoing Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.
The complaintAccording to the complaint filed by Dr Abela on Sunday morning, the door to an office at the party headquarters, where the list of paid-up party members is kept, was locked shut at about 12.50pm on December 31 though the lights inside were on.
Inside the office were three of Mr Fearne’s canvassers, all of whom employed at his ministry in Valletta, who, Dr Abela said, were allegedly inputting details for about 200 party supporters who had fallen behind in their membership fees. This, the complaint noted, would ensure these members would be eligible to vote on Saturday.
The letter raises questions over whether this was an isolated incident since these people had been caught red-handed by chance.
“The logical question that arises is what other similar abuse has taken place in these sensitive days,” the letter adds.
I am disgusted with my own party
“The thousands of genuine party members do not deserve to have their choice of party leader and prime minister go through an electoral process that has been vitiated and manipulated in order to give a perverse result,” it says.
Sources close to Dr Abela said he was insisting that none of the 200 names should be added to the list.
“This was clearly an attempt to compromise the entire electoral process. I am disgusted with my own party,” one source said. The letter calls for a thorough investigation that will include evidence by witnesses and examination of CCTV footage.
Scepticism about claimsSources said both candidates had previously agreed with the party’s electoral commission to present a list of members who had fallen behind on their membership fees. While Mr Fearne had compiled about 200 names, Dr Abela had listed fewer than 20, they said.
“We had agreed on this process beforehand, now someone isn’t happy because they didn’t get as many names – tough luck,” a source said.
A member of the electoral commission cast doubts on the claims that the election was being tampered with but was reluctant to get between the two candidates.
“Don’t get me involved in any of this mess. All I’ll say is this is all nonsense at a time when we should be focusing on what really matters,” he said. Sources said the matter had been discussed by the party executive and the electoral commission over the weekend, adding an “amicable solution” had been reached between representatives of the two candidates.
This solution would see party officials shred the list of 200 members that had been presented by Mr Fearne’s representatives.
These members would then be contacted individually by the party with officials deciding whether to add them to the list of eligible voters or not.
It appears this arrangement did not go down well with Dr Abela who decided to submit a complaint and asked for the matter to be discussed further.
The last time Labour had voted for a leader, a similar complaint of interference had been made by Dr Abela’s father, President Emeritus George Abela.
The former deputy leader had lost out in that race that saw Dr Muscat elected to the helm of the party.
Labour CEO says tampering 'not possible'Labour CEO Randolph Debattista dismissed the vote tampering claims and said that both candidates running for leader knew very well just how robust the party's electoral system was.
"Last year, we invested thousands in a new membership system that's full of checks and balances to prevent anyone from manipulating it," he wrote on Facebook.
Mr Debattista said the allegations were especially concerning because they cast workers at the party's headquarters in a bad light.
"And let's say it as it is," he added, "whoever is elected will have to work with them".
PL spokesman reactsA spokesman for the PL said its electoral commission has always communicated its official positions or replies to the person raising an issue or presenting an official compliant throughout the electoral process.
“The electoral process which will lead to the election of a new leader has numerous checks and balances and is being conducted with close collaboration with the candidates representatives as well as the candidates themselves,” he said.
While a number of issues were tackled along the way, the electoral commission can assure that the process is being conducted in a fair and diligent manner and that all data processing in relation to the eligibility of voters has been handled in line with the party statute and all regulations agreed to by the parties concerned, he added.
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Ship survey confirms subsea interconnector was ruptured by an anchor
Enemalta says Sicily-Malta cable was dislodged from its trench and ruptured by anchor that was dragged on the seabed
6 January 2020, 8:32pm
by Kurt Sansone
Engineers from Enemalta and Nexans are now analysing undersea footage to determine the extent of the damage to the interconnector between Sicily and Malta
The electricity cable between Sicily and Malta was ruptured by a ship’s anchorthat was dragged along the seabed, a subsea survey has confirmed, Enemalta said.
The survey was carried out the Polar King, a specialised vessel, which identified the location of the damage on the interconnector.
The cable sustained fatal damage two days before Christmas with sources in Italy having told MaltaToday that the damage was very likely to have been caused by the Singapore-flagged oil tanker Di Matteo, which was sailing westwards along the southern Sicilian coast at the time of the incident.
“Initial indications reasonably confirm Enemalta’s suspicions to date. The footage of the survey conducted provides reasonable evidence that the cable was ruptured by an anchor, with evidence showing how the anchor was dragged, eventually dislodging the cable from the trench on the seabed, and subsequently breaking it,” Enemalta said in a statement on Monday evening.
Engineers from Enemalta and Nexans, the company that supplied the cable, will continue to analyse the footage to establish what actions need to be taken to initiate the repair process.
Enemalta said last week the survey would cost the company €1 million and only after the analysis was concluded could it have an idea how long the repairs would take and the expense involved.
The survey is also expected to provide evidence, which Enemalta could use in legal proceedings against the ship that caused the damage.
Malta is currently depending on its own energy generating sources at Delimara to provide electricity to the grid.
Enemalta says Sicily-Malta cable was dislodged from its trench and ruptured by anchor that was dragged on the seabed
6 January 2020, 8:32pm
by Kurt Sansone
Engineers from Enemalta and Nexans are now analysing undersea footage to determine the extent of the damage to the interconnector between Sicily and Malta
The electricity cable between Sicily and Malta was ruptured by a ship’s anchorthat was dragged along the seabed, a subsea survey has confirmed, Enemalta said.
The survey was carried out the Polar King, a specialised vessel, which identified the location of the damage on the interconnector.
The cable sustained fatal damage two days before Christmas with sources in Italy having told MaltaToday that the damage was very likely to have been caused by the Singapore-flagged oil tanker Di Matteo, which was sailing westwards along the southern Sicilian coast at the time of the incident.
“Initial indications reasonably confirm Enemalta’s suspicions to date. The footage of the survey conducted provides reasonable evidence that the cable was ruptured by an anchor, with evidence showing how the anchor was dragged, eventually dislodging the cable from the trench on the seabed, and subsequently breaking it,” Enemalta said in a statement on Monday evening.
Engineers from Enemalta and Nexans, the company that supplied the cable, will continue to analyse the footage to establish what actions need to be taken to initiate the repair process.
Enemalta said last week the survey would cost the company €1 million and only after the analysis was concluded could it have an idea how long the repairs would take and the expense involved.
The survey is also expected to provide evidence, which Enemalta could use in legal proceedings against the ship that caused the damage.
Malta is currently depending on its own energy generating sources at Delimara to provide electricity to the grid.
Presepji li rajna!
Kav Joe M Attard
Victoria Għawdex
Kienet tassew ideja sabiħa u ta’ min ifaħħarha dik tas-Sezzjoni tal-Kultura fi ħdan il-Ministeru għal Għawdex li torganizza kompetizzjoni għall-isbaħ presepju u b’hekk tgħin finanzjarjament lil dawk li xtaqu jibnu u jesebixxu xi presepju matul il-jiem li għaddew għax b’hekk stajna ngawdu presepji tassew sbieħ imxerrdin ma’ parti kbira mill-gżira tagħna. Dan seta’ jsir ukoll billi l-Uffiċċju tal-Kultura ppubblika lista ta’ dawn il-presepji bil-ħinijiet tal-ftuħ u fejn jinsabu. F’pajjiżna l-petrol mhux irħis u allura ħadd ma jieħu gost joqgħod jinqala’ u mbagħad forsi jsib xi presepju jew tnejn magħluqin! Barra minn hekk mhux dejjem jirnexxilek issib il-Presepju mill-ewwel u allura mportanti li l-parteċipanti kollha jkollhom xi forma ta’ tabella (bil-lejl mixgħula) biex tiggwida lil dak li jkun. Affarijiet żgħar li naħseb il-Kunsill jitlobhom u ma jiswewx wisq biex tagħmilhom. Intant, sa minn meta kont għadni tifel f’dar ommi, jien trabbejt bil-presepju d-dar u kbirt b’din l-imħabba lejn dan il-wirt li nemmen qed ikompli jieħu l-ħajja anke bis-sehem li qed tagħti l-“Għaqda Ħbieb tal-Presepju Għawdex-Malta l985” li fl-4 ta’ Ottubru li għadda għalqet 34 sena minn mindu twaqqfet fir-raħal ta’ San Lawrenz minn tlett sinjuri: Gorġ Borġ, il-Kan Dun Mikiel Borġ u Joe Galea li huwa l-President tal-Għaqda.
Għamilt mezz li ma nitlifx iċ-ċans li mmur inżur dawn il-presepji u veru ma ddispjaċinix. Rajt kif għamilt u ksibt lista tagħhom u ta’ kull fl-għaxija kont naqbad il-karozza u nara xi ftit minnhom għax ngħid is-sewwa ma kenux ftit. Inkitbu għadd ġmielu ta’ presepji bejn statiċi u mekkaniċi. Żgur li kien hemm iżjed imma ppreferew li ma jintrabtux bil-ħin tal-wiri. Wieħed minnhom kien żgur dak tal-presepista bravu Frankie Mizzi li joqgħod fil-bidu tal-Fontana li għandu presepju trid seba’ għajnejn biex tarah, presepju li ddur miegħu dawra mejt waqt li tisma’ wkoll kummentarju bil-Malti, bl-Ingliż jew bit-Taljan. Qrib Pjazza Sant Wistin Salvinu Cremona mhux biss bena l-presepju imma żejjen ukoll il-faċċata ta’ daru li żejnet triq sħiħa u tefgħa ta’ ġebla bogħod dħalt fil-foyer tal-Oratorju Don Bosco biex nara l-presepju tagħhom!
Intant il-presepji li rajt kollha għoġbuni. Bdejt billi rajt dak ta’ Giovann Cassar mhux bogħod mill-Kunvent tal-Kapuċċini Victoria li dejjem jinkludi xi rokna mill-gżejjer Maltin. Mhux bogħod mill-presepju ta’ Giovann mort nara wkoll il-presepju mekkaniku għall-aħħar ta’ Joseph Attard li dis-sena ħareġ b’idejat ġodda u kellu mhux inqas minn wieħed u ħamsin moviment – mhux ċajta - ta’ Triq Sagħtar Victoria. Bieb ma’ bieb il-Knisja ta’ San Franġisk fil-Victoria rajt ukoll presepju mekkaniku ta’ Dumink li għoġobni ħafna wkoll waqt li fil-Qasam tas-Subien tal-Museum fix-Xagħra nsibu presepju armat is-sena kollha li ta’ kultant tiżdiedlu wkoll xi ħaġa ġdida u li qed jagħlaq 50 sena.. Hawnhekk din id-dar tfur bl-attivita’ dawn il-jiem qaddisa li kienu tant għal qalb il-Fundatur Dun Gorg Preca. Jidher li kamra mill-Qasam issa se tkun iddedikata għall-presepji biss u fiha qed tilqa’ għadd ta’ dijorami mill-isbaħ; bla dubju tista’ żżurha s-sena kollha flimkien mal-Presepju tal-Ħamsin li wkoll jieħu kamra sħiħa. Nibqgħu fix-Xagħra u l-Presepju ta’ Victor Agius li rajt minn wara l-ħġieġ tat- tieqa fi Triq it-8 ta’ Settembru ukoll jiġbed l-għajn; dan iż-żagħżugħ artist jagħti daqqa t’id ġmielħa lil għaqda f’raħlu biex tkompli tippromovi l-kultura tal-Presepju, u din is-sena wkoll organizzat tour tal-Presepji fir-raħal. Fix-Xagħra wkoll fil-Knisja Parrokkjali kien hemm għall-wiri għadd ta’ presepji sbieħ fuq l-altari barra t-tiżjin tat-tempju t’Alla, xi ħaġa li rajtha wkoll fil-Knisja Parrokkjali taż-Żebbuġ fejn issa għandhom Arċipriet ġdid u ħabrieki għall-aħħar. Fil-Qala, għoġobni ferm ukoll il-presepju ta’ Clayton Buttiġieġ li għandu sett pasturi ta żagħżugħ mix-Xewkija, Hubert Saliba, li ferm jipprometti, kif ukoll wirja ta’ Presepji fiċ-Ċentru Parrokkjlai tar-raħal Gużeppin. Il-Presepju fil-knisja Arċipretali kien ħelu wkoll. Fix-Xewkija fil-każin tal-football daħħluni nara presepju ħelu; bieb ma’ bieb rajt ukoll dawk taċ-Ċentru Parrokkjali fejn jiltaqgħu ta’ kuljum għadd ta’ żgħażagħ. Fil-Knisja Parrokkjali l-Arċipriet żamm bħas-soltu l-appuntament tiegħu wkoll kif ukoll taħt l-istess knisja.
Għoġobni mmens dak li bena fil-Bażilika ta’ San Gorg iż-żagħżugħ Gorġ Camilleri b’pasturi li nġabu minn Sqallija. Anton Sillato ma naqasx li jagħtina presepju sabiħ li bħalu għamel ieħor fuq wieħed mill-altari tal-Knisja ta’ San Franġisk. Fiċ-Ċenru tal-Vokazzjonijiet fix-Xagħra reġa kien hemm presepju għal wiri flimkien ma’ għadd sabiħ ta’ presepji li jibnu t-tfal. Teddy Caruana mir-Rabat imma jgħix fix-Xagħra daħħalni nara l-presepju li bena fi Triq Vestru kif għamel ukoll Raymond Bonello li ħafna drabi ma jżarmax xogħlu qabel ma tkun daħlet sewwa s-sena l-ġdida bla ma qatt jonqos li jikseb xi xogħol Naplitan li tant jiġbed l-għajn. Qabel taqbad it-Triq għan-Nazzarenu waqaft ukoll nara presepju tal-ġebel mibni mill-ġuvnott Andre’ li jidher li jħobb ħafna l-Milied. Fil-Qasam tas-Subien fin-Nadur li tant ikun imżejjen u armat sabiħ dawn il-jiem mhux biss nifirħilhom għal Presepju kbir li jieħu kamra sħiħa imma wkoll għall-kunċert tal-Milied li għamlu fil-Bażilika tan-Nadur. Taħt il-Knisja Parrokkjali dħalt inżur presepju li tant għoġobni!
Inkomplu għaddejjin b’din il-karellata ta’ presepji. Lejla waħda mort Għajnsielem fejn naħseb li marru wkoll bosta mill-qarrejja biex iżuru l-Presepju ħaj li dis-sena kompla jikber – Betlehem f’Għajnsielem! F’Għajnsielem, il-ħabib tiegħi Herman fil-Pjazza tas-Santwarju mill-ġdid żamm l-appuntament annwali tiegħu. Nifraħlu li dis-sena l-presepju artistiku tiegħu rebaħ l-Ewwel Premju. Fil-Knisja l-qadima tar-raħal Pawlu Stellini ħa ħsieb rema l-Wirja bid-dijorami li bena Claudio Mattei, presepista Taljan imwieled f’Bergamo fis-sena 1954. Fiż-Żebbuġ, fejn ħalla l-karkura x-xitan, fuq ir-riħ tal-Qbajjar, David Xuereb bena għadd ta’ presepji li ma tixbax toqgħod tiflihom bir-reqqa! Fil-pjazza tar-raħal dħalt ukoll f’garage fejn rajt presepju tal-ġebel li fakkarni f’Għawdex tal-imgħoddi meta gżiritna kienet tfur bi presepji ta’ dix-xorta. Fin-Nadur reġa’ ntrema l-Presepju ħaj li fiħ għadd ta’ voluntiera jieħdu sehem b’sagrifiċċju mhux żgħir.
Qabel nagħlaq ninsab ċert li ħafna minnkom sabu ħin imorru jaraw il-Wirja annwali ta’ Presepji li tagħmel l-Għaqda Hbieb tal-Presepju f’Ghawdex li matul Mejju tal-2010 kienet ospitat fostna għadd sabih ta’ Presepisti mill-Italja kollha li tpaxxew bil-presepji tagħna. Dan x’irnexxieli nara jien; żgur li ma rajtx kollox u allura Prosit lil kull min ħa xi inizjattiva biex jissokta jxerred il-ferħ tal-Milied.
Kelllna wkoll diversi msieraħ flimkien ma’ Triq ir-Repubblika Victoria (li kienet tibqa’ sejra sax-Xatt tal-Imġarr) mixgħulin tajjeb kif ukoll xi toroq fl-irħula tagħna; ma’ dawn inżid il-Ġonna Pubbliċi ta’ Villa Rundle; u dan żgur kompla jżid il-ferħ tal-Milied fil-poplu tagħna. Minħabba kwistjoni ta’ tul, ma tkellimtx dwar l-għadd sabiħ ta’ serati mużikali li kellna fil-Victoria u f’diversi rkejjen ta’ gżiritna li bla dubju għalihom niesna saret tiffolla mhux ħażin. Għoġobkom dan il-post mortem!
Kav Joe M Attard
Victoria Għawdex
Kienet tassew ideja sabiħa u ta’ min ifaħħarha dik tas-Sezzjoni tal-Kultura fi ħdan il-Ministeru għal Għawdex li torganizza kompetizzjoni għall-isbaħ presepju u b’hekk tgħin finanzjarjament lil dawk li xtaqu jibnu u jesebixxu xi presepju matul il-jiem li għaddew għax b’hekk stajna ngawdu presepji tassew sbieħ imxerrdin ma’ parti kbira mill-gżira tagħna. Dan seta’ jsir ukoll billi l-Uffiċċju tal-Kultura ppubblika lista ta’ dawn il-presepji bil-ħinijiet tal-ftuħ u fejn jinsabu. F’pajjiżna l-petrol mhux irħis u allura ħadd ma jieħu gost joqgħod jinqala’ u mbagħad forsi jsib xi presepju jew tnejn magħluqin! Barra minn hekk mhux dejjem jirnexxilek issib il-Presepju mill-ewwel u allura mportanti li l-parteċipanti kollha jkollhom xi forma ta’ tabella (bil-lejl mixgħula) biex tiggwida lil dak li jkun. Affarijiet żgħar li naħseb il-Kunsill jitlobhom u ma jiswewx wisq biex tagħmilhom. Intant, sa minn meta kont għadni tifel f’dar ommi, jien trabbejt bil-presepju d-dar u kbirt b’din l-imħabba lejn dan il-wirt li nemmen qed ikompli jieħu l-ħajja anke bis-sehem li qed tagħti l-“Għaqda Ħbieb tal-Presepju Għawdex-Malta l985” li fl-4 ta’ Ottubru li għadda għalqet 34 sena minn mindu twaqqfet fir-raħal ta’ San Lawrenz minn tlett sinjuri: Gorġ Borġ, il-Kan Dun Mikiel Borġ u Joe Galea li huwa l-President tal-Għaqda.
Għamilt mezz li ma nitlifx iċ-ċans li mmur inżur dawn il-presepji u veru ma ddispjaċinix. Rajt kif għamilt u ksibt lista tagħhom u ta’ kull fl-għaxija kont naqbad il-karozza u nara xi ftit minnhom għax ngħid is-sewwa ma kenux ftit. Inkitbu għadd ġmielu ta’ presepji bejn statiċi u mekkaniċi. Żgur li kien hemm iżjed imma ppreferew li ma jintrabtux bil-ħin tal-wiri. Wieħed minnhom kien żgur dak tal-presepista bravu Frankie Mizzi li joqgħod fil-bidu tal-Fontana li għandu presepju trid seba’ għajnejn biex tarah, presepju li ddur miegħu dawra mejt waqt li tisma’ wkoll kummentarju bil-Malti, bl-Ingliż jew bit-Taljan. Qrib Pjazza Sant Wistin Salvinu Cremona mhux biss bena l-presepju imma żejjen ukoll il-faċċata ta’ daru li żejnet triq sħiħa u tefgħa ta’ ġebla bogħod dħalt fil-foyer tal-Oratorju Don Bosco biex nara l-presepju tagħhom!
Intant il-presepji li rajt kollha għoġbuni. Bdejt billi rajt dak ta’ Giovann Cassar mhux bogħod mill-Kunvent tal-Kapuċċini Victoria li dejjem jinkludi xi rokna mill-gżejjer Maltin. Mhux bogħod mill-presepju ta’ Giovann mort nara wkoll il-presepju mekkaniku għall-aħħar ta’ Joseph Attard li dis-sena ħareġ b’idejat ġodda u kellu mhux inqas minn wieħed u ħamsin moviment – mhux ċajta - ta’ Triq Sagħtar Victoria. Bieb ma’ bieb il-Knisja ta’ San Franġisk fil-Victoria rajt ukoll presepju mekkaniku ta’ Dumink li għoġobni ħafna wkoll waqt li fil-Qasam tas-Subien tal-Museum fix-Xagħra nsibu presepju armat is-sena kollha li ta’ kultant tiżdiedlu wkoll xi ħaġa ġdida u li qed jagħlaq 50 sena.. Hawnhekk din id-dar tfur bl-attivita’ dawn il-jiem qaddisa li kienu tant għal qalb il-Fundatur Dun Gorg Preca. Jidher li kamra mill-Qasam issa se tkun iddedikata għall-presepji biss u fiha qed tilqa’ għadd ta’ dijorami mill-isbaħ; bla dubju tista’ żżurha s-sena kollha flimkien mal-Presepju tal-Ħamsin li wkoll jieħu kamra sħiħa. Nibqgħu fix-Xagħra u l-Presepju ta’ Victor Agius li rajt minn wara l-ħġieġ tat- tieqa fi Triq it-8 ta’ Settembru ukoll jiġbed l-għajn; dan iż-żagħżugħ artist jagħti daqqa t’id ġmielħa lil għaqda f’raħlu biex tkompli tippromovi l-kultura tal-Presepju, u din is-sena wkoll organizzat tour tal-Presepji fir-raħal. Fix-Xagħra wkoll fil-Knisja Parrokkjali kien hemm għall-wiri għadd ta’ presepji sbieħ fuq l-altari barra t-tiżjin tat-tempju t’Alla, xi ħaġa li rajtha wkoll fil-Knisja Parrokkjali taż-Żebbuġ fejn issa għandhom Arċipriet ġdid u ħabrieki għall-aħħar. Fil-Qala, għoġobni ferm ukoll il-presepju ta’ Clayton Buttiġieġ li għandu sett pasturi ta żagħżugħ mix-Xewkija, Hubert Saliba, li ferm jipprometti, kif ukoll wirja ta’ Presepji fiċ-Ċentru Parrokkjlai tar-raħal Gużeppin. Il-Presepju fil-knisja Arċipretali kien ħelu wkoll. Fix-Xewkija fil-każin tal-football daħħluni nara presepju ħelu; bieb ma’ bieb rajt ukoll dawk taċ-Ċentru Parrokkjali fejn jiltaqgħu ta’ kuljum għadd ta’ żgħażagħ. Fil-Knisja Parrokkjali l-Arċipriet żamm bħas-soltu l-appuntament tiegħu wkoll kif ukoll taħt l-istess knisja.
Għoġobni mmens dak li bena fil-Bażilika ta’ San Gorg iż-żagħżugħ Gorġ Camilleri b’pasturi li nġabu minn Sqallija. Anton Sillato ma naqasx li jagħtina presepju sabiħ li bħalu għamel ieħor fuq wieħed mill-altari tal-Knisja ta’ San Franġisk. Fiċ-Ċenru tal-Vokazzjonijiet fix-Xagħra reġa kien hemm presepju għal wiri flimkien ma’ għadd sabiħ ta’ presepji li jibnu t-tfal. Teddy Caruana mir-Rabat imma jgħix fix-Xagħra daħħalni nara l-presepju li bena fi Triq Vestru kif għamel ukoll Raymond Bonello li ħafna drabi ma jżarmax xogħlu qabel ma tkun daħlet sewwa s-sena l-ġdida bla ma qatt jonqos li jikseb xi xogħol Naplitan li tant jiġbed l-għajn. Qabel taqbad it-Triq għan-Nazzarenu waqaft ukoll nara presepju tal-ġebel mibni mill-ġuvnott Andre’ li jidher li jħobb ħafna l-Milied. Fil-Qasam tas-Subien fin-Nadur li tant ikun imżejjen u armat sabiħ dawn il-jiem mhux biss nifirħilhom għal Presepju kbir li jieħu kamra sħiħa imma wkoll għall-kunċert tal-Milied li għamlu fil-Bażilika tan-Nadur. Taħt il-Knisja Parrokkjali dħalt inżur presepju li tant għoġobni!
Inkomplu għaddejjin b’din il-karellata ta’ presepji. Lejla waħda mort Għajnsielem fejn naħseb li marru wkoll bosta mill-qarrejja biex iżuru l-Presepju ħaj li dis-sena kompla jikber – Betlehem f’Għajnsielem! F’Għajnsielem, il-ħabib tiegħi Herman fil-Pjazza tas-Santwarju mill-ġdid żamm l-appuntament annwali tiegħu. Nifraħlu li dis-sena l-presepju artistiku tiegħu rebaħ l-Ewwel Premju. Fil-Knisja l-qadima tar-raħal Pawlu Stellini ħa ħsieb rema l-Wirja bid-dijorami li bena Claudio Mattei, presepista Taljan imwieled f’Bergamo fis-sena 1954. Fiż-Żebbuġ, fejn ħalla l-karkura x-xitan, fuq ir-riħ tal-Qbajjar, David Xuereb bena għadd ta’ presepji li ma tixbax toqgħod tiflihom bir-reqqa! Fil-pjazza tar-raħal dħalt ukoll f’garage fejn rajt presepju tal-ġebel li fakkarni f’Għawdex tal-imgħoddi meta gżiritna kienet tfur bi presepji ta’ dix-xorta. Fin-Nadur reġa’ ntrema l-Presepju ħaj li fiħ għadd ta’ voluntiera jieħdu sehem b’sagrifiċċju mhux żgħir.
Qabel nagħlaq ninsab ċert li ħafna minnkom sabu ħin imorru jaraw il-Wirja annwali ta’ Presepji li tagħmel l-Għaqda Hbieb tal-Presepju f’Ghawdex li matul Mejju tal-2010 kienet ospitat fostna għadd sabih ta’ Presepisti mill-Italja kollha li tpaxxew bil-presepji tagħna. Dan x’irnexxieli nara jien; żgur li ma rajtx kollox u allura Prosit lil kull min ħa xi inizjattiva biex jissokta jxerred il-ferħ tal-Milied.
Kelllna wkoll diversi msieraħ flimkien ma’ Triq ir-Repubblika Victoria (li kienet tibqa’ sejra sax-Xatt tal-Imġarr) mixgħulin tajjeb kif ukoll xi toroq fl-irħula tagħna; ma’ dawn inżid il-Ġonna Pubbliċi ta’ Villa Rundle; u dan żgur kompla jżid il-ferħ tal-Milied fil-poplu tagħna. Minħabba kwistjoni ta’ tul, ma tkellimtx dwar l-għadd sabiħ ta’ serati mużikali li kellna fil-Victoria u f’diversi rkejjen ta’ gżiritna li bla dubju għalihom niesna saret tiffolla mhux ħażin. Għoġobkom dan il-post mortem!
Gozo tunnel procurement process to kick-off on Monday
At this stage, companies or consortia interested in bidding for this mega project will be invited to prove they have the necessary technical and financial capability, and an adequate level of experience in similar tunnel projects
5 January 2020, 2:00pm
by Saviour Balzan
The Gozo Tourism Association had insisted that there are other more sustainable options to the tunnel, specifically mentioning their longstanding insistence on the need for a fourth ferry and a fast ferry service.
The Government is expected to issue the pre-qualification questionnaire for the construction and operation of the Malta-Gozo tunnel in the first weeks of the new year.
The pre-qualification questionnaire is one of the initial stages of what is expected to be a long procurement process to select the contractor who will be building, operating and maintaining this permanent underground road link between Malta and Gozo for a pre-defined number of years.
Whilst several studies about this project, including social impact assessment showing an overwhelming public support for this project, have already been published, the pre-qualification questionnaire should include more information about the Government's plans for this tunnel. A highly-anticipated document will surely be the conceptual design of the proposed tunnel structure, which will guide bidders in submitting their proposals for the project.
At this stage, companies or consortia interested in bidding for this mega project will be invited to prove they have the necessary technical and financial capability, and an adequate level of experience in similar tunnel projects. Participants who meet the applicable requirements and pass this stage, will then be invited to proceed to the next phases, where they will submit detailed technical and financial proposals for the project.
The pre-qualification questionnaire will follow a pre-information notice which was published in the European Union's official journal by Infrastructure Malta in December 2018. When asked about the progress of the Malta-Gozo Tunnel, Government sources confirmed that the pre-qualification questionnaire will be published in the same journal "within the next few days".
In a parliamentary session on 8 October, the government announced that a total of four studies, including a geological and geotechnical investigation, had been published.
The project has faced some backlash, including from the Opposition, who said that consensus on the project should not take precedence over careful studies ensuring that such a project is feasible and sustainable.
Support for the tunnel is very strong among 2017 Labour Party voters, with 74.7% agreeing with the project. On the other hand, 48.8% of Nationalist Party voters said they agreed with the tunnel, with 37.9% giving the project the thumbs down.
At this stage, companies or consortia interested in bidding for this mega project will be invited to prove they have the necessary technical and financial capability, and an adequate level of experience in similar tunnel projects
5 January 2020, 2:00pm
by Saviour Balzan
The Gozo Tourism Association had insisted that there are other more sustainable options to the tunnel, specifically mentioning their longstanding insistence on the need for a fourth ferry and a fast ferry service.
The Government is expected to issue the pre-qualification questionnaire for the construction and operation of the Malta-Gozo tunnel in the first weeks of the new year.
The pre-qualification questionnaire is one of the initial stages of what is expected to be a long procurement process to select the contractor who will be building, operating and maintaining this permanent underground road link between Malta and Gozo for a pre-defined number of years.
Whilst several studies about this project, including social impact assessment showing an overwhelming public support for this project, have already been published, the pre-qualification questionnaire should include more information about the Government's plans for this tunnel. A highly-anticipated document will surely be the conceptual design of the proposed tunnel structure, which will guide bidders in submitting their proposals for the project.
At this stage, companies or consortia interested in bidding for this mega project will be invited to prove they have the necessary technical and financial capability, and an adequate level of experience in similar tunnel projects. Participants who meet the applicable requirements and pass this stage, will then be invited to proceed to the next phases, where they will submit detailed technical and financial proposals for the project.
The pre-qualification questionnaire will follow a pre-information notice which was published in the European Union's official journal by Infrastructure Malta in December 2018. When asked about the progress of the Malta-Gozo Tunnel, Government sources confirmed that the pre-qualification questionnaire will be published in the same journal "within the next few days".
In a parliamentary session on 8 October, the government announced that a total of four studies, including a geological and geotechnical investigation, had been published.
The project has faced some backlash, including from the Opposition, who said that consensus on the project should not take precedence over careful studies ensuring that such a project is feasible and sustainable.
Support for the tunnel is very strong among 2017 Labour Party voters, with 74.7% agreeing with the project. On the other hand, 48.8% of Nationalist Party voters said they agreed with the tunnel, with 37.9% giving the project the thumbs down.
Labour leadership debate turns out to be a sterile show of promises and jibes
Chris Fearne and Robert Abela engage in their first and only face-to-face debate of the Labour leadership campaign in the safe environment of One TV
5 January 2020, 10:58pm
by Kurt Sansone
The debate on One Tv was the only face-to-face encounter between Chris Fearne and Robert Abela
Labour leadership hopefuls Chris Fearne and Robert Abela crossed swords in a sterile debate that was not shorn of 'friendly' jibes on the party TV station.
The first and only face-to-face debate between the two candidates was held on One TV with three journalists invited to put recorded questions to the candidates.
Fearne made it a point to stress his 40-year activism in the party and his experience in government, describing himself as “Joseph Muscat’s co-pilot”.
Abela rebutted by insisting the race was not about him but about the people, adding that he wanted party members to make their choice without pressure and without being entertained with promises.
Robert AbelaAbela came across as more decisive when answering a question on development boundaries. “I can guarantee that development zones will not be extended,” Abela replied.
Fearne made no such commitment, opting instead to stress the importance of development that respected rules and the need for better enforcement.
Fearne was left wanting on planning issues, waffling on what he intended to do on the controversial ODZ policy that came into force in 2014.
Abela was more cognizant of planning matters as a result of the legal services he has been offering the Planning Authority, insisting the ODZ policy did a lot of good but became problematic the moment decision makers started interpreting it loosely.
Chris FearneOn good governance, Fearne came across as more decisive, insisting that the authorities must have all the resources to investigate “whoever and whatever” they deem necessary.
Fearne added that the ample resources dedicated to solving the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder should be dedicated to investigating the Karin Grech and Raymond Caruana murders and the 2013 oil scandal.
He reiterated his pledge to organise a national conference on the rule of law to bring together stakeholders to come up with a blueprint for reform.
Abela was not enthused by Fearne’s proposal of a national conference. He also cautioned against the implementation of the Venice Commission report proposals lock stock and barrel.
“I will not be comfortable with that. There are things that make little sense to our country and its systems. But I agree with a proposal to give the president more powers in the appointment of the judiciary,” Abela said.
He added that more public appointments should be subjected to the scrutiny of parliament’s public appointments committee.
When asked whether they agreed with constitutional reform to launch the Second Republic, Fearne delivered a punch below the belt. “The Constitution is everyone’s and does not belong to lawyers,” he said, excusing himself with Abela for the bluntness and poking his finger further in the wound by insisting that he trusted lawyers only so much.
The deputy prime minister insisted that discussions on constitutional change should be open to all of society but sounded less secular when he said that any change should “not stop us from expressing our culture”.
Abela was more matter-of-factly, insisting constitutional reform was promised in the 2017 electoral manifesto and a committee presided over by the President was already meeting.
Asked what space they will offer the losing candidate, Abela hinted Fearne could remain in command of the health ministry. “I trust his capability to deliver on my proposal to have all medicines for pensioners available for free,” Abela said.
Fearne was less specific: “Robert Abela will be offered all the space to be part of my Cabinet.”
Abela responded to an invitation by Fearne to join him for an already booked post-election reception for party members by saying that he had no receptions booked.
Abela’s reply was intended to draw a difference between his rather low-key, simple campaign and Fearne’s well-oiled campaign machine.
Keith Schembri's name never cropped up in the debateAs expected, the safe environment of the debate ensured that Keith Schembri’s name never cropped up and both candidates made sure of praising Joseph Muscat while being coy on the problems that rocked the establishment over the past weeks.
Controversial issues that have dogged the government, such as the Electrogas and VGH deals, did not feature as well.
Both candidates pledged to fulfil the government’s electoral mandate, promising an election on its due date in two-and-a-half years’ time.
Both ended the debate with references to their family roots and how their socialist principles were fostered in childhood experiences.
Fearne spoke of how he and his brother shared their Dinky cars with children from problem families that his mother used to help as a social worker.
Abela reminisced on how it was a Labour government in the 1970s who pulled his grandfather and his family out of poverty by giving them a decent house and living conditions.
PL members choose their next leader and prime minister on Saturday.
READ ALSO: Chris Fearne’s lead eroded by resurgent Abela, MaltaToday survey finds
Chris Fearne and Robert Abela engage in their first and only face-to-face debate of the Labour leadership campaign in the safe environment of One TV
5 January 2020, 10:58pm
by Kurt Sansone
The debate on One Tv was the only face-to-face encounter between Chris Fearne and Robert Abela
Labour leadership hopefuls Chris Fearne and Robert Abela crossed swords in a sterile debate that was not shorn of 'friendly' jibes on the party TV station.
The first and only face-to-face debate between the two candidates was held on One TV with three journalists invited to put recorded questions to the candidates.
Fearne made it a point to stress his 40-year activism in the party and his experience in government, describing himself as “Joseph Muscat’s co-pilot”.
Abela rebutted by insisting the race was not about him but about the people, adding that he wanted party members to make their choice without pressure and without being entertained with promises.
Robert AbelaAbela came across as more decisive when answering a question on development boundaries. “I can guarantee that development zones will not be extended,” Abela replied.
Fearne made no such commitment, opting instead to stress the importance of development that respected rules and the need for better enforcement.
Fearne was left wanting on planning issues, waffling on what he intended to do on the controversial ODZ policy that came into force in 2014.
Abela was more cognizant of planning matters as a result of the legal services he has been offering the Planning Authority, insisting the ODZ policy did a lot of good but became problematic the moment decision makers started interpreting it loosely.
Chris FearneOn good governance, Fearne came across as more decisive, insisting that the authorities must have all the resources to investigate “whoever and whatever” they deem necessary.
Fearne added that the ample resources dedicated to solving the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder should be dedicated to investigating the Karin Grech and Raymond Caruana murders and the 2013 oil scandal.
He reiterated his pledge to organise a national conference on the rule of law to bring together stakeholders to come up with a blueprint for reform.
Abela was not enthused by Fearne’s proposal of a national conference. He also cautioned against the implementation of the Venice Commission report proposals lock stock and barrel.
“I will not be comfortable with that. There are things that make little sense to our country and its systems. But I agree with a proposal to give the president more powers in the appointment of the judiciary,” Abela said.
He added that more public appointments should be subjected to the scrutiny of parliament’s public appointments committee.
When asked whether they agreed with constitutional reform to launch the Second Republic, Fearne delivered a punch below the belt. “The Constitution is everyone’s and does not belong to lawyers,” he said, excusing himself with Abela for the bluntness and poking his finger further in the wound by insisting that he trusted lawyers only so much.
The deputy prime minister insisted that discussions on constitutional change should be open to all of society but sounded less secular when he said that any change should “not stop us from expressing our culture”.
Abela was more matter-of-factly, insisting constitutional reform was promised in the 2017 electoral manifesto and a committee presided over by the President was already meeting.
Asked what space they will offer the losing candidate, Abela hinted Fearne could remain in command of the health ministry. “I trust his capability to deliver on my proposal to have all medicines for pensioners available for free,” Abela said.
Fearne was less specific: “Robert Abela will be offered all the space to be part of my Cabinet.”
Abela responded to an invitation by Fearne to join him for an already booked post-election reception for party members by saying that he had no receptions booked.
Abela’s reply was intended to draw a difference between his rather low-key, simple campaign and Fearne’s well-oiled campaign machine.
Keith Schembri's name never cropped up in the debateAs expected, the safe environment of the debate ensured that Keith Schembri’s name never cropped up and both candidates made sure of praising Joseph Muscat while being coy on the problems that rocked the establishment over the past weeks.
Controversial issues that have dogged the government, such as the Electrogas and VGH deals, did not feature as well.
Both candidates pledged to fulfil the government’s electoral mandate, promising an election on its due date in two-and-a-half years’ time.
Both ended the debate with references to their family roots and how their socialist principles were fostered in childhood experiences.
Fearne spoke of how he and his brother shared their Dinky cars with children from problem families that his mother used to help as a social worker.
Abela reminisced on how it was a Labour government in the 1970s who pulled his grandfather and his family out of poverty by giving them a decent house and living conditions.
PL members choose their next leader and prime minister on Saturday.
READ ALSO: Chris Fearne’s lead eroded by resurgent Abela, MaltaToday survey finds
Panama Papers - Fearne says he would have gotten rid of Schembri, Mizzi
By Kevin Schembri Orland
Sunday, 5 January 2020,
Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne told the Malta Independent on Sunday that he would have gotten rid of Konrad Mizzi and Keith Schembri when the Panama Papers were released.
The Malta Independent on Sunday sent a set of identical questions to both PL leadership contenders – Fearne and PL MP Robert Abela – asking them both about Malta’s energy problem, whether they will launch an inquiry into the Electrogas deal, Malta’s reputation, the centralisation of power and political responsibility.
Fearne replied by the deadline he was given, Friday evening; Abela did not.
The PL leadership election is set to take place on Saturday, and the current Prime Minister – Joseph Muscat – is expected to step down sometime after. Whoever wins the election will become PM.
In 2016, then Energy and Health Minister Konrad Mizzi and then Muscat’s Chief of Staff Keith Schembri had been found to have opened companies in the secretive jurisdiction of Panama. The Panama Papers scandal has been hanging over the government’s head since it originally broke.
It was later discovered that Yorgen Fenech, who is now charged in connection with the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, was the owner of 17 Black. Leaked emails had listed 17 Black as a potential target client of Mizzi and Schembri’s Panama companies. Schembri had said that it never became a client of his, and Mizzi said he had no association with 17 Black.
On Malta’s energy issues, Fearne said that if elected, his government would continue working on the Melita TransGas Pipeline from Delimara (Malta) to Gela (Italy), and also look into different forms of energy storage.
See full interview here
By Kevin Schembri Orland
Sunday, 5 January 2020,
Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne told the Malta Independent on Sunday that he would have gotten rid of Konrad Mizzi and Keith Schembri when the Panama Papers were released.
The Malta Independent on Sunday sent a set of identical questions to both PL leadership contenders – Fearne and PL MP Robert Abela – asking them both about Malta’s energy problem, whether they will launch an inquiry into the Electrogas deal, Malta’s reputation, the centralisation of power and political responsibility.
Fearne replied by the deadline he was given, Friday evening; Abela did not.
The PL leadership election is set to take place on Saturday, and the current Prime Minister – Joseph Muscat – is expected to step down sometime after. Whoever wins the election will become PM.
In 2016, then Energy and Health Minister Konrad Mizzi and then Muscat’s Chief of Staff Keith Schembri had been found to have opened companies in the secretive jurisdiction of Panama. The Panama Papers scandal has been hanging over the government’s head since it originally broke.
It was later discovered that Yorgen Fenech, who is now charged in connection with the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, was the owner of 17 Black. Leaked emails had listed 17 Black as a potential target client of Mizzi and Schembri’s Panama companies. Schembri had said that it never became a client of his, and Mizzi said he had no association with 17 Black.
On Malta’s energy issues, Fearne said that if elected, his government would continue working on the Melita TransGas Pipeline from Delimara (Malta) to Gela (Italy), and also look into different forms of energy storage.
See full interview here
The Two Popes
The movie.
Sir Anthony Hopkins talks about the movie the Two Popes. Anthony Hopkins played the role of Pope Benedict.
Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZNMtCXmgBI&fbclid=IwAR3Z0OIPsOKaSOjaOmbrMqeNw5TU9lIJ4egQNvtuZGcY9p5eBEYUpnGFsn8
The movie.
Sir Anthony Hopkins talks about the movie the Two Popes. Anthony Hopkins played the role of Pope Benedict.
Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZNMtCXmgBI&fbclid=IwAR3Z0OIPsOKaSOjaOmbrMqeNw5TU9lIJ4egQNvtuZGcY9p5eBEYUpnGFsn8
Excavation waste dumped on protected Ta’ Ċenċ garigue
Gozo hotel owner promises debris will be removed in three weeks
NationalGozoSannatConstructionEnvironment
By Jessica Arena
The rubble from a reservoir project in the Ta’ Ċenċ area.Boulders, pieces of cut rock and other excavation waste have been dumped on protected garigue land overlooking Mġarr ix-Xini bay in Sannat.
The waste, which mostly consists of large rocks and some loose soil and debris, was noticed littering the Gozitan countryside in Ta’ Ċenċ earlier this week.
While large swathes of the Ta’ Ċenċ area is privately owned, the garigue land is protected as a Natura 2000 site and a special area of conservation under the Habitats Directive, as well as a designated special protection area under the Wild Birds Directive.
A nearby excavation project a few metres above the dumping site shows an excavation of the land in progress with similar cut boulders and debris all over the area.
The excavation project, which is being carried out on behalf of VJ Borg enterprises, is to construct a water reservoir and a pump room underneath an existing private road.
My hotel is rustic and inspired by nature, I have nothing to gain from leaving rubble out in the countryside
Site owner Victor Borg told Times of Malta that the excavation material was being temporarily stored in a car park area and due to the large nature of the boulders, there was a possibility that some had spilled over to the nearby garigue.
Mr Borg, who owns the Ta Ċenċ hotel, said the rocks were being kept to pave over the finished structure with the natural stone, in keeping with conditions set by the permit to not leave a visible concrete finish on the structure. Any leftover materials would be kept and used to build or repair rubble walls with the same rock from the area.
He told Times of Malta that the excavation waste would remain in place for three weeks at most and he would be ensuring it remained within the boundaries of the car park.
“If I wanted to I could close up Ta Ċenċ tomorrow and no one would be able to enjoy it. But I am Gozitan and I want everyone to enjoy what we have,” Mr Borg said.
“I sold everything I had to buy up Ta Ċenċ, nobody loves it as much as I do. My hotel is rustic and inspired by nature, I have nothing to gain from leaving rubble out in the countryside.”
The Planning Commission’s case officer had recommended the water reservoir project for refusal, saying it was not considered to be a “justified and legitimate development” within a Natura 2000 site. The report also concluded that the proposal was not in line with several objectives of the Strategic Plan for Environment and Development.
In their submissions, the Environmental Resources Authority also raised concerns that the proposed functions and justification of the development were unclear and that the development may have “significant impacts on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site. The ERA said the excavation’s approval would “set a precedent for pressures to construct similar developments within similar Natura 2000 sites”.
“Such pressures would lead to a cumulative impact on Natura 2000 sites which is not considered favourably from an environmental point of view,” the submission reads.
Mr Borg has long proposed development in the area, the most recent being a 15-villa complex as well as the development of a ‘heritage park’.
Gozo hotel owner promises debris will be removed in three weeks
NationalGozoSannatConstructionEnvironment
By Jessica Arena
The rubble from a reservoir project in the Ta’ Ċenċ area.Boulders, pieces of cut rock and other excavation waste have been dumped on protected garigue land overlooking Mġarr ix-Xini bay in Sannat.
The waste, which mostly consists of large rocks and some loose soil and debris, was noticed littering the Gozitan countryside in Ta’ Ċenċ earlier this week.
While large swathes of the Ta’ Ċenċ area is privately owned, the garigue land is protected as a Natura 2000 site and a special area of conservation under the Habitats Directive, as well as a designated special protection area under the Wild Birds Directive.
A nearby excavation project a few metres above the dumping site shows an excavation of the land in progress with similar cut boulders and debris all over the area.
The excavation project, which is being carried out on behalf of VJ Borg enterprises, is to construct a water reservoir and a pump room underneath an existing private road.
My hotel is rustic and inspired by nature, I have nothing to gain from leaving rubble out in the countryside
Site owner Victor Borg told Times of Malta that the excavation material was being temporarily stored in a car park area and due to the large nature of the boulders, there was a possibility that some had spilled over to the nearby garigue.
Mr Borg, who owns the Ta Ċenċ hotel, said the rocks were being kept to pave over the finished structure with the natural stone, in keeping with conditions set by the permit to not leave a visible concrete finish on the structure. Any leftover materials would be kept and used to build or repair rubble walls with the same rock from the area.
He told Times of Malta that the excavation waste would remain in place for three weeks at most and he would be ensuring it remained within the boundaries of the car park.
“If I wanted to I could close up Ta Ċenċ tomorrow and no one would be able to enjoy it. But I am Gozitan and I want everyone to enjoy what we have,” Mr Borg said.
“I sold everything I had to buy up Ta Ċenċ, nobody loves it as much as I do. My hotel is rustic and inspired by nature, I have nothing to gain from leaving rubble out in the countryside.”
The Planning Commission’s case officer had recommended the water reservoir project for refusal, saying it was not considered to be a “justified and legitimate development” within a Natura 2000 site. The report also concluded that the proposal was not in line with several objectives of the Strategic Plan for Environment and Development.
In their submissions, the Environmental Resources Authority also raised concerns that the proposed functions and justification of the development were unclear and that the development may have “significant impacts on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site. The ERA said the excavation’s approval would “set a precedent for pressures to construct similar developments within similar Natura 2000 sites”.
“Such pressures would lead to a cumulative impact on Natura 2000 sites which is not considered favourably from an environmental point of view,” the submission reads.
Mr Borg has long proposed development in the area, the most recent being a 15-villa complex as well as the development of a ‘heritage park’.
Pope Francis presides over Maltese Cardinal Prospero Grech's funeral
Thursday, 2 January 2020,
Pope Francis today took part in the funeral service for Maltese Cardinal Prospero Grech at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Mgr Grech died on Monday. He will be brought to Malta for burial.
The funeral Mass was led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the vice-dean of the College of Cardinals after a Vatican official signed the traditional Rogito - a testament to his life that will be placed inside the coffin just before it is sealed.
Pope Francis presided over the final part of the funeral rites. President George Vella and his wife Miriam attended the service.
“On Christmas Eve he was here with us and concelebrated the Christmas Eve Mass with the Holy Father. On Monday, he was at table with the Augustinian community, conversing with us in his affable character as he did usually. But a few hours later, the Lord called him by his side,” Cardinal Re said during his homily.
The dean of the College of Cardinals traced the existence of Cardinal Grech, for whom the study and teaching of Theology were central, “in full fidelity to the Magisterium of the church”, first in his homeland, Malta, and then at various Roman and British universities. He had also written several articles dedicated to the Holy Scripture.
Born Stanley Grech, Cardinal Grech joined the Augustinian Order in 1943, was ordained to the priesthood at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome in 1950. Nine years later, he was appointed lecturer at the Augustinian Theological College, Rabat. He also served as secretary at the Vatican Vicariate and professor at the Augustine Institute in Rome
Thursday, 2 January 2020,
Pope Francis today took part in the funeral service for Maltese Cardinal Prospero Grech at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Mgr Grech died on Monday. He will be brought to Malta for burial.
The funeral Mass was led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the vice-dean of the College of Cardinals after a Vatican official signed the traditional Rogito - a testament to his life that will be placed inside the coffin just before it is sealed.
Pope Francis presided over the final part of the funeral rites. President George Vella and his wife Miriam attended the service.
“On Christmas Eve he was here with us and concelebrated the Christmas Eve Mass with the Holy Father. On Monday, he was at table with the Augustinian community, conversing with us in his affable character as he did usually. But a few hours later, the Lord called him by his side,” Cardinal Re said during his homily.
The dean of the College of Cardinals traced the existence of Cardinal Grech, for whom the study and teaching of Theology were central, “in full fidelity to the Magisterium of the church”, first in his homeland, Malta, and then at various Roman and British universities. He had also written several articles dedicated to the Holy Scripture.
Born Stanley Grech, Cardinal Grech joined the Augustinian Order in 1943, was ordained to the priesthood at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome in 1950. Nine years later, he was appointed lecturer at the Augustinian Theological College, Rabat. He also served as secretary at the Vatican Vicariate and professor at the Augustine Institute in Rome
HELPING THE BUSH FIRE VICTIMS
Thursday 2 January, 2020.
Today Members of the Supereme Council of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul met with the victims of the bush fire in Lexton, Joe and Samantha Vella and some of their five children to present them with food and money.
The bush fire in Western Victoria burnt the property of the Vella family to the ground. The family are now living with relatives till they find a house to rent.
Special thanks to all those who made all this possible through fund raising and donations.
Joe Vella Thank you guys for everything that you have done for us we really appreciate it and your kindness. May God bless you all and hopefully one day we Can help someone else in need and again thank you very much for the bottom of our hearts thanks from Joe and Samantha Vella
Thursday 2 January, 2020.
Today Members of the Supereme Council of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul met with the victims of the bush fire in Lexton, Joe and Samantha Vella and some of their five children to present them with food and money.
The bush fire in Western Victoria burnt the property of the Vella family to the ground. The family are now living with relatives till they find a house to rent.
Special thanks to all those who made all this possible through fund raising and donations.
Joe Vella Thank you guys for everything that you have done for us we really appreciate it and your kindness. May God bless you all and hopefully one day we Can help someone else in need and again thank you very much for the bottom of our hearts thanks from Joe and Samantha Vella
Watch: Thriving economy; country needs to get back on track – Muscat
By Christoph Schwaiger
December 31, 2019
Ara il film hawn: https://newsbook.com.mt/filmat-hallast-bl-oghla-prezz-bil-kariga-tieghi-il-pm/
In his final New Year’s message as Prime Minister Joseph Muscat says that Malta’s economy is thriving however he also says that the country needs to get back on track.
“The year we are ending together was a year full of challenges,” said Muscat who went on to say all decisions taken must be based on the needs of Maltese families.
“What is politics if not a tool, a means by which we can make a difference to people’s lives? I am proud that, over the past seven years, I led a government that worked to make this difference in people’s lives,” said Muscat.
“Today, we have a thriving economy, one that is not a burden on its people but rather one that is generating wealth for the benefit of our citizens, especially those who need it most. “
After listing a number of initiatives introduced by his Government, Muscat went on to talk about his departure.
“This year, that will soon come to an end, was also marked by my announcement that I will no longer serve as the Prime Minister of the Maltese and Gozitan people.
“This decision was made because it was necessary, and because I had to shoulder responsibility for the actions and decisions which I did not necessarily make. It needed to be done for the good of the country.
“Shortly after the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia, I stated that I would do everything in my power to see that justice was done. Today we have made significant leaps forward, thanks to the work carried out by the police, the security forces and those international institutions which offered their help.
“While at the end of the day, it is the people who will decide when the case is entirely closed, beyond the legal procedures underway in court, I am satisfied that justice is being done.
“Ultimately, I paid the highest price possible since I did not wish to leave my role in this manner. Nevertheless, I am reassured by the fact that I did everything I could have done,” said Muscat.
“In the coming days, we will be selecting a new Prime Minister to lead our country. Whoever is chosen will have a tough job and numerous challenges but I am convinced that he will do a very good job and will continue to deliver results, based on the strong mandate given to this government by the people at the last election.”
Muscat then said that Malta now needs to get back on track.
“From the bottom of my heart, on behalf of my wife Michelle, on behalf of my children and on behalf of the entire Government, I wish a Happy New Year to all Maltese and Gozitans, and I wish you great health, happiness and serenity for years to come.”
Video: OPM
By Christoph Schwaiger
December 31, 2019
Ara il film hawn: https://newsbook.com.mt/filmat-hallast-bl-oghla-prezz-bil-kariga-tieghi-il-pm/
In his final New Year’s message as Prime Minister Joseph Muscat says that Malta’s economy is thriving however he also says that the country needs to get back on track.
“The year we are ending together was a year full of challenges,” said Muscat who went on to say all decisions taken must be based on the needs of Maltese families.
“What is politics if not a tool, a means by which we can make a difference to people’s lives? I am proud that, over the past seven years, I led a government that worked to make this difference in people’s lives,” said Muscat.
“Today, we have a thriving economy, one that is not a burden on its people but rather one that is generating wealth for the benefit of our citizens, especially those who need it most. “
After listing a number of initiatives introduced by his Government, Muscat went on to talk about his departure.
“This year, that will soon come to an end, was also marked by my announcement that I will no longer serve as the Prime Minister of the Maltese and Gozitan people.
“This decision was made because it was necessary, and because I had to shoulder responsibility for the actions and decisions which I did not necessarily make. It needed to be done for the good of the country.
“Shortly after the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia, I stated that I would do everything in my power to see that justice was done. Today we have made significant leaps forward, thanks to the work carried out by the police, the security forces and those international institutions which offered their help.
“While at the end of the day, it is the people who will decide when the case is entirely closed, beyond the legal procedures underway in court, I am satisfied that justice is being done.
“Ultimately, I paid the highest price possible since I did not wish to leave my role in this manner. Nevertheless, I am reassured by the fact that I did everything I could have done,” said Muscat.
“In the coming days, we will be selecting a new Prime Minister to lead our country. Whoever is chosen will have a tough job and numerous challenges but I am convinced that he will do a very good job and will continue to deliver results, based on the strong mandate given to this government by the people at the last election.”
Muscat then said that Malta now needs to get back on track.
“From the bottom of my heart, on behalf of my wife Michelle, on behalf of my children and on behalf of the entire Government, I wish a Happy New Year to all Maltese and Gozitans, and I wish you great health, happiness and serenity for years to come.”
Video: OPM
“Agħti lil Malta sliem mibni fuq il-ġustizzja” – L-Arċisqof
Minn Sephora Francalanza
31 ta' Diċembru 2019 5:30 PM
L-Arċisqof Charles Scicluna qal li l-Maltin iridu jitolbu lil Alla biex jagħti lil Malta sliem mibni fuq il-verità, il-ġustizzja u s-solidarjetà.
Hekk temm l-omelija tiegħu fil-quddiesa ta’ tmiem is-sena l-Arċisqof. L-Arċisqof Charles Scicluna qed jiċċelebra quddiesa ta’ radd il-ħajr fi tmiem is-sena 2019 flimkien mal-Isqof Awżiljarju Joseph Galea-Curmi fil-Konkatidral ta’ San Ġwann fil-Belt Valletta.
Ġimgħa wara t-twelid ta’ Ġesù, qal Mons. Scicluna, illum niċċelebraw l-isem tiegħu bit-tifsira ta’ ‘Alla jsalva’. Dan qalu b’rabta mas-sitwazzjoni f’Malta, li tirrikjedi talb mill-poplu għal iżjed fidi u paċi.
Fl-omelija, l-Arċisqof tkellem ukoll fuq il-ħtieġa li s-soċjetà terġa’ tiskopri lil Alla. Skontu, l-Insara jridu jħarsu lejhom infushom u jistaqsu lilhom infushom jekk verament għandhomx fidi f’Alla. Jekk jitilfu l-kapaċità li jistagħġbu bil-kobor t’Alla, jaqgħu fin-nasba taċ-ċiniżmu, qal l-Arċisqof. Mons. Scicluna ppropona lil dawk preżenti li kull wieħed u waħda minnhom jistaqsu hu jew hi x’jistgħu jagħmlu biex jgħin fil-missjoni t’Alla.
Huwa qal li ħafna llum iqisu r-reliġjon bħala kuntratt, li minnu n-nies jistennew li jieħdu dak li jridu diment li jgħixu tajjeb. Qal li hu żbaljat min jirraġuna hekk u min iħares lejn Alla bħallikieku qiegħed hemm biex jissodisfa x-xewqat frivoli tiegħu. L-Arċisqof qal li Alla jsejjaħ lill-Insara biex iduru lejh u jirrealizzaw li fih hemm il-veru paċi.
Minn Sephora Francalanza
31 ta' Diċembru 2019 5:30 PM
L-Arċisqof Charles Scicluna qal li l-Maltin iridu jitolbu lil Alla biex jagħti lil Malta sliem mibni fuq il-verità, il-ġustizzja u s-solidarjetà.
Hekk temm l-omelija tiegħu fil-quddiesa ta’ tmiem is-sena l-Arċisqof. L-Arċisqof Charles Scicluna qed jiċċelebra quddiesa ta’ radd il-ħajr fi tmiem is-sena 2019 flimkien mal-Isqof Awżiljarju Joseph Galea-Curmi fil-Konkatidral ta’ San Ġwann fil-Belt Valletta.
Ġimgħa wara t-twelid ta’ Ġesù, qal Mons. Scicluna, illum niċċelebraw l-isem tiegħu bit-tifsira ta’ ‘Alla jsalva’. Dan qalu b’rabta mas-sitwazzjoni f’Malta, li tirrikjedi talb mill-poplu għal iżjed fidi u paċi.
Fl-omelija, l-Arċisqof tkellem ukoll fuq il-ħtieġa li s-soċjetà terġa’ tiskopri lil Alla. Skontu, l-Insara jridu jħarsu lejhom infushom u jistaqsu lilhom infushom jekk verament għandhomx fidi f’Alla. Jekk jitilfu l-kapaċità li jistagħġbu bil-kobor t’Alla, jaqgħu fin-nasba taċ-ċiniżmu, qal l-Arċisqof. Mons. Scicluna ppropona lil dawk preżenti li kull wieħed u waħda minnhom jistaqsu hu jew hi x’jistgħu jagħmlu biex jgħin fil-missjoni t’Alla.
Huwa qal li ħafna llum iqisu r-reliġjon bħala kuntratt, li minnu n-nies jistennew li jieħdu dak li jridu diment li jgħixu tajjeb. Qal li hu żbaljat min jirraġuna hekk u min iħares lejn Alla bħallikieku qiegħed hemm biex jissodisfa x-xewqat frivoli tiegħu. L-Arċisqof qal li Alla jsejjaħ lill-Insara biex iduru lejh u jirrealizzaw li fih hemm il-veru paċi.
Cardinal Prospero Grech dies
Monday, 30 December 2019,
Photo: Cardinal Grech on the left with President George Vella.
Malta’s only serving Cardinal Prospero Grech has died, aged 94.
He died in a Rome hospital.
Born on Christmas Eve in 1925 as Stanley Grech, he was ordained as a bishop on 8 February 2012 and was given the title of Titular Archbishop of San Leone in Basilicata, Italy.
A few days later he was ordained cardinal by Pope Benedict. Being over 80 years of age, he did not take part in the conclave to elect his successor, Pope Francis.
He had joined the Augistinian Order in 1943 and given the name of Prospero. He was ordained a priest on 25 March 1950.
He graduated as a doctor of theology in Rome in 1953.
In 1959 he was appointed lecturer at the Augustinian Theological College in Rabat and served as secretary at the Vatican vicarate between 1962 and 1965.
He was given the Gieh ir-Repubblika Award in 2011.
Monday, 30 December 2019,
Photo: Cardinal Grech on the left with President George Vella.
Malta’s only serving Cardinal Prospero Grech has died, aged 94.
He died in a Rome hospital.
Born on Christmas Eve in 1925 as Stanley Grech, he was ordained as a bishop on 8 February 2012 and was given the title of Titular Archbishop of San Leone in Basilicata, Italy.
A few days later he was ordained cardinal by Pope Benedict. Being over 80 years of age, he did not take part in the conclave to elect his successor, Pope Francis.
He had joined the Augistinian Order in 1943 and given the name of Prospero. He was ordained a priest on 25 March 1950.
He graduated as a doctor of theology in Rome in 1953.
In 1959 he was appointed lecturer at the Augustinian Theological College in Rabat and served as secretary at the Vatican vicarate between 1962 and 1965.
He was given the Gieh ir-Repubblika Award in 2011.
Keith Schembri did not request police permission to travel, was not required to
By Rebekah Cilia
Monday, 30 December 2019,
Keith Schembri, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat’s former chief of staff, did not request police permission to travel, but was not required to do so, sources have told The Malta Independent.
Last week, reports emerged that Schembri, who is being investigated in relation to the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, was travelling with his family abroad for a “getaway”. It was also erroneously reported that Schembri received permission from the police for this holiday.
Schembri was, for a time last month, held under arrest in connection with the murder case and interrogated. After 48 hours, however, he was released on police bail and, since then, bail has not been renewed.
In a court, Inspector Keith Arnaud said that Schembri, however, is still under investigation.
The original report relating to Schembri’s travels and request to the police, was made by the Times of Malta, which subsequently amended its article, saying that “a previous version of this article had erroneously stated that Mr Schembri had been granted permission to travel abroad by the police.”
The report now states the police had been contacted by Schembri’s legal team, who informed the corps that the former chief of staff was planning a trip to Italy. It also states that Schembri was seen on Thursday evening at the VIP lounge of Malta International Airport.
The PN, as well as MEP David Casa, attacked the police and police commissioner for having given Schembri permission to travel, even asking for the commissioner’s resignation. It transpires, however, that the law does not provide for any restrictions on Schembri’s movements, since he is not under arrest or under police bail at the moment, sources said.
The law is clear that if a person is still under police bail, he or she would need to request permission from the police to travel. Should someone on police bail not have permission to travel, but is caught doing so, this amounts to a contravention of the law.
While many have expressed their concern about Schembri’s overseas travels, considering he is under investigation, sources have said that legally, he cannot be stopped from travelling.
Testifying in court, Arnaud had said that Schembri had claimed to have lost his phone and that police have so far been unable to locate it. Schembri also refused to give police passwords to his email accounts and iCloud because they contained ‘sensitive government information’.
By Rebekah Cilia
Monday, 30 December 2019,
Keith Schembri, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat’s former chief of staff, did not request police permission to travel, but was not required to do so, sources have told The Malta Independent.
Last week, reports emerged that Schembri, who is being investigated in relation to the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, was travelling with his family abroad for a “getaway”. It was also erroneously reported that Schembri received permission from the police for this holiday.
Schembri was, for a time last month, held under arrest in connection with the murder case and interrogated. After 48 hours, however, he was released on police bail and, since then, bail has not been renewed.
In a court, Inspector Keith Arnaud said that Schembri, however, is still under investigation.
The original report relating to Schembri’s travels and request to the police, was made by the Times of Malta, which subsequently amended its article, saying that “a previous version of this article had erroneously stated that Mr Schembri had been granted permission to travel abroad by the police.”
The report now states the police had been contacted by Schembri’s legal team, who informed the corps that the former chief of staff was planning a trip to Italy. It also states that Schembri was seen on Thursday evening at the VIP lounge of Malta International Airport.
The PN, as well as MEP David Casa, attacked the police and police commissioner for having given Schembri permission to travel, even asking for the commissioner’s resignation. It transpires, however, that the law does not provide for any restrictions on Schembri’s movements, since he is not under arrest or under police bail at the moment, sources said.
The law is clear that if a person is still under police bail, he or she would need to request permission from the police to travel. Should someone on police bail not have permission to travel, but is caught doing so, this amounts to a contravention of the law.
While many have expressed their concern about Schembri’s overseas travels, considering he is under investigation, sources have said that legally, he cannot be stopped from travelling.
Testifying in court, Arnaud had said that Schembri had claimed to have lost his phone and that police have so far been unable to locate it. Schembri also refused to give police passwords to his email accounts and iCloud because they contained ‘sensitive government information’.
This is what makes Nadur who we are
Nadur Garmin 8k 2019
Thanks to the Mayor Cr. Dr. Edward Said and the Municipal Council for such a successful annual event.
Photos by Mario Muscat.
Click on the pictures to enlarge.
Nadur Garmin 8k 2019
Thanks to the Mayor Cr. Dr. Edward Said and the Municipal Council for such a successful annual event.
Photos by Mario Muscat.
Click on the pictures to enlarge.
‘I always returned expensive gifts or left them to the State’, Muscat insists
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat says he always acted correctly whenever he received expensive gifts, by either returning them or depositing them with the State
29 December 2019, 10:32am
by Massimo Costa
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat was speaking during a brief telephone interview on One Radio on Sunday
The Prime Minister has insisted that he acted correctly throughout his leadership whenever he was gifted anything expensive, saying that in each occasion he either returned the gifts or deposited them with them State.
Joseph Muscat said that recent reports about expensive gifts he had received were an attempt to smear him for having done his duty in the past weeks.
Muscat, who is currently on a three-day visit to Dubai with his family, was speaking during a brief telephone interview on One Radio on Sunday morning.
He was reacting to claims that he had in 2014 been gifted a €20,000 Bvlgari watch by suspected Daphne Caruana Galizia murder mastermind and 17 Black owner Yorgen Fenech, and that the same Fenech had given him, during a Girgenti party in 2019, three bottles of Petrus wine worth around €5,800.
“I will keep respecting my function as a Prime Minister, the office which the Maltese and Gozitan people entrusted on me. I will say what I have to say without playing anybody’s games,” Muscat said, “As I said before, I was threatened that if I did my duty and acted on the Attorney General’s and Police Commissioner’s advice, I would become the target of a smear campaign.”
“I did my duty, and this is the result. But I did my duty and will keep doing it,” he emphasised.
Muscat said he had made the decision to not enter into a lot of detail for the moment regarding the gift allegations. “But a lot of things are being said, and some are inventing things and a few others are believing them - for instance, the current fashion of focusing on gifts.”
“I will only say that I always acted correctly - whenever I was given expensive gifts, I sent them back, and when this couldn’t be done, I left [such gifts] to the State,” he underlined.
The Prime Minister said that his predecessors had not left any gifts they had been given behind when they left office. “What I can say is that our predecessors left empty offices and residences. They did not even leave a pencil.”
He said that, after being elected Prime Minister, he had not found any numbered gifts left to the State which had been given to previous prime ministers when Malta joined the EU.
READ ALSO | Muscat claims he followed rules on gifts, but does not say more on Fenech timepiece he accepted
“On the other hand, I acted correctly and time will prove this. I want to set the record straight, but I also won’t play the game of reacting to half-truths,” Muscat added.
People should be optimistic about 2020
Asked by the interviewer whether he was optimistic about what next year would bring for Malta, Muscat said he was “always optimistic.”
He pointed out that, from 1 January, pensioners will be receiving a €7 a week pensions increase. People receiving medical treatment, those over 80, the disabled and others will also receive increases to their entitlements, while there would be no tax rises and workers would be getting an income tax refund, he said.
“So the Maltese people should be optimistic,” Muscat underscored, “And I am sure that with the new prime minister’s leadership, we will keep moving in the right direction.”
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat says he always acted correctly whenever he received expensive gifts, by either returning them or depositing them with the State
29 December 2019, 10:32am
by Massimo Costa
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat was speaking during a brief telephone interview on One Radio on Sunday
The Prime Minister has insisted that he acted correctly throughout his leadership whenever he was gifted anything expensive, saying that in each occasion he either returned the gifts or deposited them with them State.
Joseph Muscat said that recent reports about expensive gifts he had received were an attempt to smear him for having done his duty in the past weeks.
Muscat, who is currently on a three-day visit to Dubai with his family, was speaking during a brief telephone interview on One Radio on Sunday morning.
He was reacting to claims that he had in 2014 been gifted a €20,000 Bvlgari watch by suspected Daphne Caruana Galizia murder mastermind and 17 Black owner Yorgen Fenech, and that the same Fenech had given him, during a Girgenti party in 2019, three bottles of Petrus wine worth around €5,800.
“I will keep respecting my function as a Prime Minister, the office which the Maltese and Gozitan people entrusted on me. I will say what I have to say without playing anybody’s games,” Muscat said, “As I said before, I was threatened that if I did my duty and acted on the Attorney General’s and Police Commissioner’s advice, I would become the target of a smear campaign.”
“I did my duty, and this is the result. But I did my duty and will keep doing it,” he emphasised.
Muscat said he had made the decision to not enter into a lot of detail for the moment regarding the gift allegations. “But a lot of things are being said, and some are inventing things and a few others are believing them - for instance, the current fashion of focusing on gifts.”
“I will only say that I always acted correctly - whenever I was given expensive gifts, I sent them back, and when this couldn’t be done, I left [such gifts] to the State,” he underlined.
The Prime Minister said that his predecessors had not left any gifts they had been given behind when they left office. “What I can say is that our predecessors left empty offices and residences. They did not even leave a pencil.”
He said that, after being elected Prime Minister, he had not found any numbered gifts left to the State which had been given to previous prime ministers when Malta joined the EU.
READ ALSO | Muscat claims he followed rules on gifts, but does not say more on Fenech timepiece he accepted
“On the other hand, I acted correctly and time will prove this. I want to set the record straight, but I also won’t play the game of reacting to half-truths,” Muscat added.
People should be optimistic about 2020
Asked by the interviewer whether he was optimistic about what next year would bring for Malta, Muscat said he was “always optimistic.”
He pointed out that, from 1 January, pensioners will be receiving a €7 a week pensions increase. People receiving medical treatment, those over 80, the disabled and others will also receive increases to their entitlements, while there would be no tax rises and workers would be getting an income tax refund, he said.
“So the Maltese people should be optimistic,” Muscat underscored, “And I am sure that with the new prime minister’s leadership, we will keep moving in the right direction.”
'We just want what we had. That’s all we’re asking'
Victims of building collapse six months ago spend Christmas out of home
NationalAccidentPietàPlanning Authority
By Jessica Arena
The damaged building in Pietà.Janet Walker’s flat came crashing down at the start of summer after months of filing complaints and warnings about the construction site next door. Six months later, as the family spend the festive season in their rented residence, she is as far away from getting answers as she was back then.
No-one has so far taken responsibility for the collapse. And an ongoing magisterial inquiry has left the block’s former residents with scant detail about when they might be able to return to their homes in Pietà.
“You’d never expect something like this to happen,” Ms Walker told Times of Malta.
“I was wearing my oldest pair of shorts. I was going to start on the housework when it happened. My neighbours were evacuated shirtless or in their night gowns,” she recalled.
“I want people to answer my questions and I want to know what the state is doing to protect me and protect others if it happens again”- Janet Walker
“Later, the police called us to come to move our cars elsewhere, but we couldn’t because the keys were still inside.”
Ms Walker and her family were evacuated with only the shirts on their backs. The confusion and trauma that would be enough to make anybody’s head spin was further compounded as days continued to march on and the family found they were lacking some of the most basic items.
“It was a big expense, to start with. The first thing we bought was a walker for my mother because hers had been left in the apartment and we couldn’t get it. Then it was clothes, we had to go shopping looking like we’d left the house in rags. Then it was pots and pans, a kettle. It’s the little things,” Ms Walker said.
Her sister Stephanie said it was the simplest things that they found themselves lacking.
“My daughter developed a fever overnight on one occasion, and we didn’t have a thermometer.
“I had to wait until the shops were open the next day,” she said.
Janet pointed out that they were in a better position than others as they could afford such unexpected expenses.
“We’re fortunate that we don’t live paycheck to paycheck, as some families affected do. I can’t imagine living hand to mouth and being able to make it out of this situation, because this move was hugely expensive for us and it’s not something that you can overcome with relative assurance if you don’t have the means,” she said.
The family has since undergone further physical, mental and emotional strain, as they’ve had to remove what possessions were salvageable from their home to an apartment in Rabat rented for them by the Housing Authority.
With no assurances or deadlines in sight, the family feel like they are living with the sword of Damocles dangling overhead.
“We would have liked to resolve this as quickly as possible,” Ms Walker said.
“The government acted quickly when it shut down construction, and that was all well and good. But there is nothing holding site owners and contractors responsible for the things that they cause. The new laws have shifted responsibility onto a site technical officer, but who do I turn to when things go wrong?” she asked.
RELATED STORIES
“I don’t want to spend 20 years in court, I want to go back home. I want people to answer my questions and I want to know what the state is doing to protect me and protect others if it happens again.”
Referring to other property collapses adjacent to construction sites last year, she said: “The Duke’s Bar is still closed, that was someone’s livelihood, the Gwardamangia Hill families are being taken for a ride by an uncooperative developer, the Mellieħa resident died a few weeks after her home collapsed and my downstairs neighbour’s floor has sunk two inches into the ground and developers are telling us that structurally it is safe to go back in.”
Families who lived in Ms Walker’s block have been told that the building has been made structurally sound but she says it is in no state to live in. Through their lawyers, she and her family have proposed to the developer that they refurbish the block to recoup the property’s lost value and to be reimbursed for expenses incurred from the evacuation and subsequent move from their home.
They have yet to receive an acknowledgment.
“We’ve been robbed of our home and of our routine. We just want to try and get what we had back. That’s all we’re asking.”
Victims of building collapse six months ago spend Christmas out of home
NationalAccidentPietàPlanning Authority
By Jessica Arena
The damaged building in Pietà.Janet Walker’s flat came crashing down at the start of summer after months of filing complaints and warnings about the construction site next door. Six months later, as the family spend the festive season in their rented residence, she is as far away from getting answers as she was back then.
No-one has so far taken responsibility for the collapse. And an ongoing magisterial inquiry has left the block’s former residents with scant detail about when they might be able to return to their homes in Pietà.
“You’d never expect something like this to happen,” Ms Walker told Times of Malta.
“I was wearing my oldest pair of shorts. I was going to start on the housework when it happened. My neighbours were evacuated shirtless or in their night gowns,” she recalled.
“I want people to answer my questions and I want to know what the state is doing to protect me and protect others if it happens again”- Janet Walker
“Later, the police called us to come to move our cars elsewhere, but we couldn’t because the keys were still inside.”
Ms Walker and her family were evacuated with only the shirts on their backs. The confusion and trauma that would be enough to make anybody’s head spin was further compounded as days continued to march on and the family found they were lacking some of the most basic items.
“It was a big expense, to start with. The first thing we bought was a walker for my mother because hers had been left in the apartment and we couldn’t get it. Then it was clothes, we had to go shopping looking like we’d left the house in rags. Then it was pots and pans, a kettle. It’s the little things,” Ms Walker said.
Her sister Stephanie said it was the simplest things that they found themselves lacking.
“My daughter developed a fever overnight on one occasion, and we didn’t have a thermometer.
“I had to wait until the shops were open the next day,” she said.
Janet pointed out that they were in a better position than others as they could afford such unexpected expenses.
“We’re fortunate that we don’t live paycheck to paycheck, as some families affected do. I can’t imagine living hand to mouth and being able to make it out of this situation, because this move was hugely expensive for us and it’s not something that you can overcome with relative assurance if you don’t have the means,” she said.
The family has since undergone further physical, mental and emotional strain, as they’ve had to remove what possessions were salvageable from their home to an apartment in Rabat rented for them by the Housing Authority.
With no assurances or deadlines in sight, the family feel like they are living with the sword of Damocles dangling overhead.
“We would have liked to resolve this as quickly as possible,” Ms Walker said.
“The government acted quickly when it shut down construction, and that was all well and good. But there is nothing holding site owners and contractors responsible for the things that they cause. The new laws have shifted responsibility onto a site technical officer, but who do I turn to when things go wrong?” she asked.
RELATED STORIES
“I don’t want to spend 20 years in court, I want to go back home. I want people to answer my questions and I want to know what the state is doing to protect me and protect others if it happens again.”
Referring to other property collapses adjacent to construction sites last year, she said: “The Duke’s Bar is still closed, that was someone’s livelihood, the Gwardamangia Hill families are being taken for a ride by an uncooperative developer, the Mellieħa resident died a few weeks after her home collapsed and my downstairs neighbour’s floor has sunk two inches into the ground and developers are telling us that structurally it is safe to go back in.”
Families who lived in Ms Walker’s block have been told that the building has been made structurally sound but she says it is in no state to live in. Through their lawyers, she and her family have proposed to the developer that they refurbish the block to recoup the property’s lost value and to be reimbursed for expenses incurred from the evacuation and subsequent move from their home.
They have yet to receive an acknowledgment.
“We’ve been robbed of our home and of our routine. We just want to try and get what we had back. That’s all we’re asking.”
Melbourne Australia
28th December 2019
The late Bishop Joe Grech 10th Anniversary
Remember HIM in your prayers. Amen
Most Rev. Joseph Grech
Bishop Joseph Angelo Grech DD was installed as the sixth Bishop of Sandhurst in a solemn ceremony at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Friday 27 April 2001.
On the 28th of December, 2010 at 62 years of age, the Sandhurst community was shocked with the sudden death of it's much loved Bishop at St Vincent's hospital Melbourne following a brief illness.
Monsignor Marriott, the Vicar General of Sandhurst Diocese, said Bishop Grech would be especially missed by the youth of the dioceses, who would remember him by his famous words. “‘God doesn’t make rubbish.’ There is good in all ourselves and we have to pull up and find it. So famous was this expression that he co-recorded a song with Fr Robert Galea entitled "God does not make rubbish"
Bishop Joseph Angelo Grech DD was installed as the sixth Bishop of Sandhurst in a solemn ceremony at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Friday 27 April 2001.
Born in Balzan, Malta on 10 December 1948, he attended the local schools and the Diocesan Seminary.
He left Malta in 1971 to follow many of his people to Melbourne and continued his studied for the priesthood at Corpus Christi College Glen Waverley and Clayton. He was ordained on the 30 November 1974 in his home town and returned to Melbourne to take up parish appointments in Northcote, Altona North, Maidstone and Moonee Ponds and as Parish Priest in Brunswick East.
The Archbishop of Melbourne sent him to study Spirituality at the Gregorian University, Rome and on his return became full time chaplain to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal and then to Corpus Christi College provincial seminary as spiritual director. Pope John Paul II appointed him Auxiliary Bishop in Melbourne (titular Bishop of Belesasa). Bishop Joe was consecrated at Patrick’s Cathedral on 10 February 1999 and served in the western suburbs of the Archdiocese.
On 8 March 2001 Bishop Joe was appointed Bishop of Sandhurst and installed on 27 April.
At the time of his death Bishop Joseph was a member of the Bishops Commission for Pastoral Life with special oversight for the pastoral care of Migrants and Refugees. He was recently appointed to the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerants. Within the Commission for Pastoral Life Bishop Joe was also responsible on behalf of the Bishops of Australia for Youth Ministry. He was also a member of the Bishops Commission for Mission and Adult Faith Formation with particular responsibilities regarding Catholic Missions. Bishop Joe was also a member of the International Catholic Charismatic Council representing Oceania. He was a much sought after international speaker with particular commitment to the Charismatic Renewal Movement, Priests’ Retreats and to Young People.
Melbourne’s Archbishop Denis Hart, said the bishop’s death was a great loss for the Church. Since his priestly ordination in 1974, he worked with great distinction as a priest in Melbourne and as a Bishop in Melbourne and Sandhurst. “For Bishop Joe, the good news was always light and joy for humanity.”
St Kilian’s parish administrator Rom Hayes also paid tribute to Bishop Grech and said it would bring great shock and deep sadness to those who knew him. “He was known as Bishop Joe and that’s what he liked to be called,’’ he said. “He wasn’t one to stand on ceremony and that says a lot about the sort of man he was. He was thoughtful, outgoing and very concerned for people. He poured himself into his work and never backed off."
He is remembered as warm and caring and passionate about the things he believed in. Bishop Joe was well known across the Diocese, not only in the Catholic community. He was a prominent leader in Bendigo and was also well known in Australian diplomatic circles. He was respected by all with whom he came into contact.
Bishop Joe was proud of his Maltese heritage and equally proud to be an Australian, the wonderful blend of these cultures manifested in the character of this truly great man. He was very close to his sister and brother and Aunty Mary who still live in Malta – he would visit them each year. His Aunt Tess and Uncle Jim who live in Australia were like parents to him – they were at his side when he died.
28th December 2019
The late Bishop Joe Grech 10th Anniversary
Remember HIM in your prayers. Amen
Most Rev. Joseph Grech
Bishop Joseph Angelo Grech DD was installed as the sixth Bishop of Sandhurst in a solemn ceremony at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Friday 27 April 2001.
On the 28th of December, 2010 at 62 years of age, the Sandhurst community was shocked with the sudden death of it's much loved Bishop at St Vincent's hospital Melbourne following a brief illness.
Monsignor Marriott, the Vicar General of Sandhurst Diocese, said Bishop Grech would be especially missed by the youth of the dioceses, who would remember him by his famous words. “‘God doesn’t make rubbish.’ There is good in all ourselves and we have to pull up and find it. So famous was this expression that he co-recorded a song with Fr Robert Galea entitled "God does not make rubbish"
Bishop Joseph Angelo Grech DD was installed as the sixth Bishop of Sandhurst in a solemn ceremony at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Friday 27 April 2001.
Born in Balzan, Malta on 10 December 1948, he attended the local schools and the Diocesan Seminary.
He left Malta in 1971 to follow many of his people to Melbourne and continued his studied for the priesthood at Corpus Christi College Glen Waverley and Clayton. He was ordained on the 30 November 1974 in his home town and returned to Melbourne to take up parish appointments in Northcote, Altona North, Maidstone and Moonee Ponds and as Parish Priest in Brunswick East.
The Archbishop of Melbourne sent him to study Spirituality at the Gregorian University, Rome and on his return became full time chaplain to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal and then to Corpus Christi College provincial seminary as spiritual director. Pope John Paul II appointed him Auxiliary Bishop in Melbourne (titular Bishop of Belesasa). Bishop Joe was consecrated at Patrick’s Cathedral on 10 February 1999 and served in the western suburbs of the Archdiocese.
On 8 March 2001 Bishop Joe was appointed Bishop of Sandhurst and installed on 27 April.
At the time of his death Bishop Joseph was a member of the Bishops Commission for Pastoral Life with special oversight for the pastoral care of Migrants and Refugees. He was recently appointed to the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerants. Within the Commission for Pastoral Life Bishop Joe was also responsible on behalf of the Bishops of Australia for Youth Ministry. He was also a member of the Bishops Commission for Mission and Adult Faith Formation with particular responsibilities regarding Catholic Missions. Bishop Joe was also a member of the International Catholic Charismatic Council representing Oceania. He was a much sought after international speaker with particular commitment to the Charismatic Renewal Movement, Priests’ Retreats and to Young People.
Melbourne’s Archbishop Denis Hart, said the bishop’s death was a great loss for the Church. Since his priestly ordination in 1974, he worked with great distinction as a priest in Melbourne and as a Bishop in Melbourne and Sandhurst. “For Bishop Joe, the good news was always light and joy for humanity.”
St Kilian’s parish administrator Rom Hayes also paid tribute to Bishop Grech and said it would bring great shock and deep sadness to those who knew him. “He was known as Bishop Joe and that’s what he liked to be called,’’ he said. “He wasn’t one to stand on ceremony and that says a lot about the sort of man he was. He was thoughtful, outgoing and very concerned for people. He poured himself into his work and never backed off."
He is remembered as warm and caring and passionate about the things he believed in. Bishop Joe was well known across the Diocese, not only in the Catholic community. He was a prominent leader in Bendigo and was also well known in Australian diplomatic circles. He was respected by all with whom he came into contact.
Bishop Joe was proud of his Maltese heritage and equally proud to be an Australian, the wonderful blend of these cultures manifested in the character of this truly great man. He was very close to his sister and brother and Aunty Mary who still live in Malta – he would visit them each year. His Aunt Tess and Uncle Jim who live in Australia were like parents to him – they were at his side when he died.
Pope marks joyful Christmas Eve after less-than-joyful year
Associated Press Wednesday, 25 December 2019,
Pope Francis assured the faithful on Christmas Eve that God loves everyone — “even the worst of us” — as he celebrated the joyous birth of Christ after a less-than-joyful year of scandals and opposition.
With a choir singing the classic Christmas hymn "The First Noel," Francis processed down the center aisle of St. Peter's Basilica late Tuesday and unveiled a statue of the newborn Jesus lying in a nativity scene at the foot of the altar.
Francis said the birth of Jesus, which Christians commemorate on Christmas Day, was a reminder of God's unconditional love for everyone, “even the worst of us.”
"God does not love you because you think and act the right way," he said. "You may have mistaken ideas, you may have made a complete mess of things, but the Lord continues to love you."
At the same time though, he called for the faithful to allow themselves to be transformed by Jesus' "crazy love" and to stop trying to change others.
"May we not wait for our neighbors to be good before we do good to them, for the church to be perfect before we love her, for others to respect us before we serve them. Let us begin with ourselves," he said.
Francis has frequently emphasized his call for "personal conversion" in his reform-minded papacy, believing that true reform cannot be imposed from on high, but discerned from within. He has similarly denounced the "holier-than-thou" attitude of doctrinal and legal purists, who have chafed at his progressive openings to gays, divorcees and people on the margins.
Those critics have seized on the sexual abuse and financial scandals that have buffeted the papacy of the 83-year-old Jesuit pope.
The scandals are likely to follow Francis into 2020, with developments in a corruption investigation involving hundreds of millions of dollars in donations to the Holy See and the release of a report on what the Vatican knew about ex-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, who was defrocked for sexually abusing adults and minors,
Francis' late-night Mass kicks off a busy few days for the pope, including a Christmas Day speech, noontime prayers, a New Year's Eve vigil and a Jan. 1 Mass.
Associated Press Wednesday, 25 December 2019,
Pope Francis assured the faithful on Christmas Eve that God loves everyone — “even the worst of us” — as he celebrated the joyous birth of Christ after a less-than-joyful year of scandals and opposition.
With a choir singing the classic Christmas hymn "The First Noel," Francis processed down the center aisle of St. Peter's Basilica late Tuesday and unveiled a statue of the newborn Jesus lying in a nativity scene at the foot of the altar.
Francis said the birth of Jesus, which Christians commemorate on Christmas Day, was a reminder of God's unconditional love for everyone, “even the worst of us.”
"God does not love you because you think and act the right way," he said. "You may have mistaken ideas, you may have made a complete mess of things, but the Lord continues to love you."
At the same time though, he called for the faithful to allow themselves to be transformed by Jesus' "crazy love" and to stop trying to change others.
"May we not wait for our neighbors to be good before we do good to them, for the church to be perfect before we love her, for others to respect us before we serve them. Let us begin with ourselves," he said.
Francis has frequently emphasized his call for "personal conversion" in his reform-minded papacy, believing that true reform cannot be imposed from on high, but discerned from within. He has similarly denounced the "holier-than-thou" attitude of doctrinal and legal purists, who have chafed at his progressive openings to gays, divorcees and people on the margins.
Those critics have seized on the sexual abuse and financial scandals that have buffeted the papacy of the 83-year-old Jesuit pope.
The scandals are likely to follow Francis into 2020, with developments in a corruption investigation involving hundreds of millions of dollars in donations to the Holy See and the release of a report on what the Vatican knew about ex-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, who was defrocked for sexually abusing adults and minors,
Francis' late-night Mass kicks off a busy few days for the pope, including a Christmas Day speech, noontime prayers, a New Year's Eve vigil and a Jan. 1 Mass.
7-year-old-boy crushed to death by bulldozer at Ta' Kandja quarry
Thursday, 26 December 2019,
A 7-year-old boy died on Thursday morning after he was crushed by a bulldozer inside a quarry in Ta’ Kandja, limits of Siggiewi.
According to reports, the unmanned vehicle, which was parked on a ramp, started moving downwards, crushing the boy.
The accident happened at around 7am.
Thursday, 26 December 2019,
A 7-year-old boy died on Thursday morning after he was crushed by a bulldozer inside a quarry in Ta’ Kandja, limits of Siggiewi.
According to reports, the unmanned vehicle, which was parked on a ramp, started moving downwards, crushing the boy.
The accident happened at around 7am.
Keith Schembri gets police permission to travel abroad
Former chief of staff is 'person of interest' in Caruana Galizia murder
NationalKeith SchembriDaphne Caruana Galizia
Keith Schembri resigned last month.Keith Schembri is travelling abroad on Thursday after police granted him permission to take his family abroad on "a three-day getaway".
Sources confirmed that the police had been contacted by Mr Schembri’s legal team, who informed the corps that the former chief of staff was planning a trip to Italy.
Mr Schembri is a person of interest in the investigation into the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
He was held under arrest and interrogated last month but was released 48 hours later without charge.
RELATED STORIES
He was seen on Thursday evening at the VIP lounge of Malta International Airport.
Sources close to the murder investigation expressed concerns about Mr Schembri’s travel out of the country at such a delicate stage of the investigation.
However, the sources also pointed out that since Mr Schembri had been released and not placed on police bail, he was free to do as he pleased.
MEP David Casa said in a tweet it was absolutely unbelievable that instead of interrogating Mr Schembri, the police gave him permission to fly out on holiday.
Chief investigator Keith Arnaud told the court in recent days the police have been unable to trace Mr Schembri's phone and that the former chief of staff had refused to give his passwords on grounds that his email accounts contained sensitive government information.
Mr Schembri had also been arrested after giving a statement to the police detailing what he knew about a phantom job given to the alleged middleman in the Caruana Galizia murder plot.
Widely credited as being the brains behind Labour’s seemingly invincible electoral machine and strategy, Mr Schembri resigned last month after it emerged that he was being questioned in connection with the murder case.
Mr Schembri had previously faced accusations of money laundering as well as having opened a secret company linked to 17 Black, which was owned by Yorgen Fenech, the man who now stands charged with the assassination.
Former chief of staff is 'person of interest' in Caruana Galizia murder
NationalKeith SchembriDaphne Caruana Galizia
Keith Schembri resigned last month.Keith Schembri is travelling abroad on Thursday after police granted him permission to take his family abroad on "a three-day getaway".
Sources confirmed that the police had been contacted by Mr Schembri’s legal team, who informed the corps that the former chief of staff was planning a trip to Italy.
Mr Schembri is a person of interest in the investigation into the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
He was held under arrest and interrogated last month but was released 48 hours later without charge.
RELATED STORIES
- Inspector on Schembri's 'lost' phone, Fenech's 'escape'
- Schembri refuses to divulge password, police didn't seal office
He was seen on Thursday evening at the VIP lounge of Malta International Airport.
Sources close to the murder investigation expressed concerns about Mr Schembri’s travel out of the country at such a delicate stage of the investigation.
However, the sources also pointed out that since Mr Schembri had been released and not placed on police bail, he was free to do as he pleased.
MEP David Casa said in a tweet it was absolutely unbelievable that instead of interrogating Mr Schembri, the police gave him permission to fly out on holiday.
Chief investigator Keith Arnaud told the court in recent days the police have been unable to trace Mr Schembri's phone and that the former chief of staff had refused to give his passwords on grounds that his email accounts contained sensitive government information.
Mr Schembri had also been arrested after giving a statement to the police detailing what he knew about a phantom job given to the alleged middleman in the Caruana Galizia murder plot.
Widely credited as being the brains behind Labour’s seemingly invincible electoral machine and strategy, Mr Schembri resigned last month after it emerged that he was being questioned in connection with the murder case.
Mr Schembri had previously faced accusations of money laundering as well as having opened a secret company linked to 17 Black, which was owned by Yorgen Fenech, the man who now stands charged with the assassination.
Nadur Basilica decorated for Christmas
Photo by Mario Muscat
Photo by Mario Muscat
Purcissjoni tal-Milied fin-Nadur
Ritratti minn Mario Muscat
Purcissjoni tal-Milied organizzata mis-Socjeta tal-Musew.
Klikkja fuq ir-ritratti biex tkabbarhom
Ritratti minn Mario Muscat
Purcissjoni tal-Milied organizzata mis-Socjeta tal-Musew.
Klikkja fuq ir-ritratti biex tkabbarhom
Joseph Muscat spends Christmas Eve in Bethlehem
Prime Minister invited to Palestine by president Mahmoud AbbasNationalJoseph MuscatMiddle East
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat spent Christmas Eve in Bethlehem upon the official invitation of Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas.
Dr Muscat, who was accompanied on the official visit by Foreign Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela, attended Christmas midnight mass in the Church of the Nativity together with other dignitaries from across the globe.
During his visit, the prime minister – who is due to step down next month – held separate meetings with president Abbas and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh.
Prime Minister invited to Palestine by president Mahmoud AbbasNationalJoseph MuscatMiddle East
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat spent Christmas Eve in Bethlehem upon the official invitation of Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas.
Dr Muscat, who was accompanied on the official visit by Foreign Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela, attended Christmas midnight mass in the Church of the Nativity together with other dignitaries from across the globe.
During his visit, the prime minister – who is due to step down next month – held separate meetings with president Abbas and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh.
Liquids could soon be allowed in hand luggage at airport
Changes should mean shorter queues, less plastic waste
NationalAviationTravel
By Jennifer Grech
New technology is expected to lead to a relaxation of current rules, which state that passengers can only carry liquids such as toiletries or medicine in individual containers of 100ml or less.Airport security queues should soon become less stressful for passengers since these will be able to keep liquids and laptops in their hand baggage when new 3D scanners are introduced.
Malta International Airport has recently undertaken a significant investment of around €2.5 million in computer tomography (CT) technology for the screening of all hold luggage and is currently in the process of installing the first CT scanning machine.
The CT scanners, used in hospitals to scan patients, produce more detailed images that allow security staff to assess cabin bags with electronic equipment and liquids inside.
The technology is expected to lead to a relaxation of current rules, which state that passengers can only carry liquids such as toiletries or medicine in individual containers of 100ml or less, with the items placed in a separate, clear plastic bag to pass through security.
The changes should mean shorter queuing times as well as reduce plastic waste.
The 100ml liquid limit was introduced after terrorists tried to blow up transatlantic jets with explosives hidden in soft drinks bottles in 2006.
There are hopes that the improved technology could potentially end the liquids ban altogether. However, abolition would likely require the scanners to be installed at all airports, an expensive process that could take several years.
Expansion project will see the terminal occupy a larger footprint
The CT technology is used in some airports in Europe and the US – including Heathrow in London, Amsterdam’s Schipol and JFK in New York. Heathrow became the first UK airport to instal the scanners, which it started testing in 2017.
“This technology will help the airport continue to deliver upon its promise of providing each and every guest with a safe and secure experience, while being compliant with the provisions of the European Commission regulation governing civil aviation security,” Lorna Refalo, Malta International Airport’s communications executive, told Times of Malta.
These provisions stipulate that, by 2020, every European airport should adopt more advanced hold baggage screening capabilities, among which is CT scanning technology.
On the other hand, MIA is still analysing how computer tomography is performing in airports that have already implemented this technology for hand luggage, Ms Refalo noted.
“With service excellence being a core value for the company, the airport is also seeking to get an understanding of whether said technology is contributing to a better passenger experience,” she remarked.
The ultimate aim of this analysis is the eventual integration of CT screening technology into a wider system that is geared at further enhancing the experience of passengers when passing through the security channel at MIA.
This analysis forms part of the company’s feasibility studies for its ambitious terminal expansion project, detailed plans for which are currently being drafted.
The expansion project will see the terminal occupy a larger footprint, which will furnish the airport with more circulation space and increased space for the introduction of additional check-in desks and more gates.
Further details about this project are expected to be released in the new year.
Changes should mean shorter queues, less plastic waste
NationalAviationTravel
By Jennifer Grech
New technology is expected to lead to a relaxation of current rules, which state that passengers can only carry liquids such as toiletries or medicine in individual containers of 100ml or less.Airport security queues should soon become less stressful for passengers since these will be able to keep liquids and laptops in their hand baggage when new 3D scanners are introduced.
Malta International Airport has recently undertaken a significant investment of around €2.5 million in computer tomography (CT) technology for the screening of all hold luggage and is currently in the process of installing the first CT scanning machine.
The CT scanners, used in hospitals to scan patients, produce more detailed images that allow security staff to assess cabin bags with electronic equipment and liquids inside.
The technology is expected to lead to a relaxation of current rules, which state that passengers can only carry liquids such as toiletries or medicine in individual containers of 100ml or less, with the items placed in a separate, clear plastic bag to pass through security.
The changes should mean shorter queuing times as well as reduce plastic waste.
The 100ml liquid limit was introduced after terrorists tried to blow up transatlantic jets with explosives hidden in soft drinks bottles in 2006.
There are hopes that the improved technology could potentially end the liquids ban altogether. However, abolition would likely require the scanners to be installed at all airports, an expensive process that could take several years.
Expansion project will see the terminal occupy a larger footprint
The CT technology is used in some airports in Europe and the US – including Heathrow in London, Amsterdam’s Schipol and JFK in New York. Heathrow became the first UK airport to instal the scanners, which it started testing in 2017.
“This technology will help the airport continue to deliver upon its promise of providing each and every guest with a safe and secure experience, while being compliant with the provisions of the European Commission regulation governing civil aviation security,” Lorna Refalo, Malta International Airport’s communications executive, told Times of Malta.
These provisions stipulate that, by 2020, every European airport should adopt more advanced hold baggage screening capabilities, among which is CT scanning technology.
On the other hand, MIA is still analysing how computer tomography is performing in airports that have already implemented this technology for hand luggage, Ms Refalo noted.
“With service excellence being a core value for the company, the airport is also seeking to get an understanding of whether said technology is contributing to a better passenger experience,” she remarked.
The ultimate aim of this analysis is the eventual integration of CT screening technology into a wider system that is geared at further enhancing the experience of passengers when passing through the security channel at MIA.
This analysis forms part of the company’s feasibility studies for its ambitious terminal expansion project, detailed plans for which are currently being drafted.
The expansion project will see the terminal occupy a larger footprint, which will furnish the airport with more circulation space and increased space for the introduction of additional check-in desks and more gates.
Further details about this project are expected to be released in the new year.
Dun Franklin Vella Kanonku gdid ghal Parrocca tan-Nadur
Nifirhulu
Nifirhulu
Filmat: Is-sitwazzjoni politika m’għandhiex tkisser it-tama għall-batut – Il-President
Minn Nicole Borg
24 ta' Diċembru 2019 9:05 PM
Ara il film hawn: https://newsbook.com.mt/filmat-is-sitwazzjoni-politika-mghandhiex-tkisser-it-tama-ghall-batut-il-president/
Il-President George Vella appella sabiex ma’ dak kollu li ġara u li għaddej fil-pajjiż, ma jeħilx il-marid. Sostna li mhux aċċettabbli li mis-sitwazzjoni politika titkisser ukoll it-tama ta’ għajnuna għal min hu batut.
Dan qalu l-President fl-ewwel messaġġ tiegħu tal-Milied, f’din l-ewwel sena tiegħu tal-Presidenza ta’ Malta. Hu ħass il-bżonn li jindirizza l-aħħar għajtiet li bdew jappellaw sabiex il-pubbliku ma jappoġġjax l-Istrina bħala sinjal ta’ protesta għall-istat kurrenti li spiċċa fih il-pajjiż. Il-President sostna li se jkun qed iserraħ fuq l-għajnuna tal-poplu kollu, b’mod speċjali fis-26 ta’ Diċembru, fl-avveniment annwali tal-Istrina.
“Waqqfu l-Istrina; m’hemmx bżonn reċti u teatrini”
“Dan m’hu żmien faċli għal ħadd”
Il-President sostna li ż-żmien li għaddej minnu l-pajjiż m’hu faċli għal ħadd. Spjega kif il-pubbliku diġà jaf kif iħossu dwar dak li qed iseħħ fil-pajjiż u jaf li ħafna jħossuhom bħalu. Qal li minkejja dan kollu, jixtieq li l-pubbliku jżomm quddiem għajnejh il-valuri li jassoċċjaw mal-festa tal-Milied, u japprezza it-tajjeb kollu li għamlu l-Maltin; il-lealtà lejn il-familja, il-bżulija u l-ġenerożità.
“L-Istrina se ssir għax il-marid m’għandux ġurnata” – il-President
“Nixtieq ngħidilkom grazzi”
Il-President Vella rringrazzja lill-poplu Malti u Għawdxi għas-sostenn li tah matul l-ewwel xhur tal-Presidenza tiegħu, speċjalment fil-mumenti l-aktar diffiċli għalih. Hu rringrazzja lill-poplu wkoll talli jħaddan il-valuri u l-għanijiet li hu ħejja għall-Presidenza: “is-solidarjetà fil-mard, il-ġlieda kontra l-faqar, l-inklużjoni u l-volontarjat.”
Irrimarka li bħala Maltin, l-ewwel ħaġa li tgħaddi minn moħħ ħafna hija l-għożża u l-għaqda tal-familja. Qal li tajjeb ukoll li l-poplu jħares lejn dawk il-membri tal-familja li huma iktar vulnerabbli, u jagħtihom l-attenzjoni kollha li jeħtieġu.
“Inħarsu lejn dak li jgħaqqadna”
Il-President reġa’ appella sabiex il-pubbliku jħares lejn dak li jgħaqqdu u mhux dak li jifirdu. Qal li l-Ispirtu tal-Milied jitlob li titwitta ftit it-tensjoni bejn il-poplu.
Appella sabiex kulħadd idur bil-morda, bl-anzjani u b’min forsi m’għandux il-mezzi li jgawdi daqs membri oħra tal-familja. “Tibqgħux bierda quddiem min jinsab waħdu jew imċaħħad,” qal il-President.
Temm sabiex jistieden lil kulħadd iħares lejn dak li jista’ jagħmel hu stess, fid-djar, fl-iskejjel, fil-postijiet tax-xogħol, sabiex il-pajjiż jerġa’ jiġi fuq saqajh.
Hu rringrazzja wkoll lill-barranin kollha li qed jgħixu u jaħdmu Malta.
Minn Nicole Borg
24 ta' Diċembru 2019 9:05 PM
Ara il film hawn: https://newsbook.com.mt/filmat-is-sitwazzjoni-politika-mghandhiex-tkisser-it-tama-ghall-batut-il-president/
Il-President George Vella appella sabiex ma’ dak kollu li ġara u li għaddej fil-pajjiż, ma jeħilx il-marid. Sostna li mhux aċċettabbli li mis-sitwazzjoni politika titkisser ukoll it-tama ta’ għajnuna għal min hu batut.
Dan qalu l-President fl-ewwel messaġġ tiegħu tal-Milied, f’din l-ewwel sena tiegħu tal-Presidenza ta’ Malta. Hu ħass il-bżonn li jindirizza l-aħħar għajtiet li bdew jappellaw sabiex il-pubbliku ma jappoġġjax l-Istrina bħala sinjal ta’ protesta għall-istat kurrenti li spiċċa fih il-pajjiż. Il-President sostna li se jkun qed iserraħ fuq l-għajnuna tal-poplu kollu, b’mod speċjali fis-26 ta’ Diċembru, fl-avveniment annwali tal-Istrina.
“Waqqfu l-Istrina; m’hemmx bżonn reċti u teatrini”
“Dan m’hu żmien faċli għal ħadd”
Il-President sostna li ż-żmien li għaddej minnu l-pajjiż m’hu faċli għal ħadd. Spjega kif il-pubbliku diġà jaf kif iħossu dwar dak li qed iseħħ fil-pajjiż u jaf li ħafna jħossuhom bħalu. Qal li minkejja dan kollu, jixtieq li l-pubbliku jżomm quddiem għajnejh il-valuri li jassoċċjaw mal-festa tal-Milied, u japprezza it-tajjeb kollu li għamlu l-Maltin; il-lealtà lejn il-familja, il-bżulija u l-ġenerożità.
“L-Istrina se ssir għax il-marid m’għandux ġurnata” – il-President
“Nixtieq ngħidilkom grazzi”
Il-President Vella rringrazzja lill-poplu Malti u Għawdxi għas-sostenn li tah matul l-ewwel xhur tal-Presidenza tiegħu, speċjalment fil-mumenti l-aktar diffiċli għalih. Hu rringrazzja lill-poplu wkoll talli jħaddan il-valuri u l-għanijiet li hu ħejja għall-Presidenza: “is-solidarjetà fil-mard, il-ġlieda kontra l-faqar, l-inklużjoni u l-volontarjat.”
Irrimarka li bħala Maltin, l-ewwel ħaġa li tgħaddi minn moħħ ħafna hija l-għożża u l-għaqda tal-familja. Qal li tajjeb ukoll li l-poplu jħares lejn dawk il-membri tal-familja li huma iktar vulnerabbli, u jagħtihom l-attenzjoni kollha li jeħtieġu.
“Inħarsu lejn dak li jgħaqqadna”
Il-President reġa’ appella sabiex il-pubbliku jħares lejn dak li jgħaqqdu u mhux dak li jifirdu. Qal li l-Ispirtu tal-Milied jitlob li titwitta ftit it-tensjoni bejn il-poplu.
Appella sabiex kulħadd idur bil-morda, bl-anzjani u b’min forsi m’għandux il-mezzi li jgawdi daqs membri oħra tal-familja. “Tibqgħux bierda quddiem min jinsab waħdu jew imċaħħad,” qal il-President.
Temm sabiex jistieden lil kulħadd iħares lejn dak li jista’ jagħmel hu stess, fid-djar, fl-iskejjel, fil-postijiet tax-xogħol, sabiex il-pajjiż jerġa’ jiġi fuq saqajh.
Hu rringrazzja wkoll lill-barranin kollha li qed jgħixu u jaħdmu Malta.
LIVE: L-Arċisqof jiċċelebra l-Quddiesa ta’ Nofsillejl fl-Imdina
Ara il film hawn: https://youtu.be/gHe0G3j8iGc
Minn Nicole Borg
24 ta' Diċembru 2019 10:45 PM
L-Arċisqof Charles Scicluna qed jiċċelebra l-Quddiesa Pontfikali fis-Solennità tat-Twelid ta’ Sidna Ġesù Kristu, fil-Katidral ta’ San Pawl, l-Imdina.
Ara il film hawn: https://youtu.be/gHe0G3j8iGc
Minn Nicole Borg
24 ta' Diċembru 2019 10:45 PM
L-Arċisqof Charles Scicluna qed jiċċelebra l-Quddiesa Pontfikali fis-Solennità tat-Twelid ta’ Sidna Ġesù Kristu, fil-Katidral ta’ San Pawl, l-Imdina.
Fenech ma ħarabx lejn Tuneż għax beża’ għal ħajtuMinn Charmaine Attard
24 ta' Diċembru 2019 10:44 AM
Newsbook.com.mt jinsab infurmat li Yorgen Fenech abbanduna l-pjan li jaħrab lejn Tuneż f’dingi għax beda jibża’ għal ħajtu. Il-pjan kien tfassal f’Għawdex fil-villa tat-tabib ta’ Fenech, Dr Adrian Vella, li huwa wkoll it-tabib tal-eks Chief of Staff tal-Prim Ministru Keith Schembri. Il-pjan kien li minn Tuneż, Fenech jivjaġġa lejn Dubaj.
Rapporti jiżvelaw aktar rabtiet bejn Fenech, Schembri u Muscat
Is-sorsi qalu li Fenech ma kienx qed jibża’ mill-maltemp, imma li seta’ jiġrilu xi ħaġa waqt il-vjaġġ. Dawn iżda ma kkonfermawx l-isem tal-persuni li Fenech kien qed jibża’ minnhom.
Id-dettalji tal-pjan ta’ kif kellu jaħrab Fenech ħarġu fil-midja xi ftit ġimgħat ilu u ġew ikkofermati fil-Qorti mill-Ispettur Keith Arnaud waqt is-seduta tad-19 ta’ Diċembru.
Arnaud tkellem dwar pjanijiet differenti ta’ kif seta’ jaħrab mill-pajjiż.
Filmat: Schembri jirrifjuta li jagħti l-password; l-uffiċċju ssiġġilat bla Pulizija
L-ewwel pjan: Franza
Arnaud qal li l-Pulizija ma kinux qed jippjanaw li jarrestaw lil Fenech sakemm jispiċċaw ikellmu lil Melvin Theuma, is-sensar tal-assassinju li ngħata l-maħfra presidenzjali. Is-sitwazzjoni nbidlet meta l-midja rrappurtat li Theuma ġie arrestat u li kien qed jitlob għall-maħfra.
L-Ispettur rrefera għall-messaġġi li ntbagħtu bejn Yorgen Fenech u zijuh Ray Fenech. Huma ddiskutew l-aħħar żviluppi u l-possibiltà li hu jaħrab minn Malta, probabbilment lejn Franza, mingħajr ma jinqabad. Ray Fenech issuġġerixxa li Yorgen ma jagħmilx użu mill-karti tal-kreditu.
Il-Pulizija saru jafu b’dawn il-messaġġi wara li Yorgen Fenech ġie arrestat.
Yorgen b’rikors dwar investigazzjoni “dilettanteska”
It-tieni pjan: Tuneż
Arnaud ikkonferma fil-Qorti li Dr Adrian Vella kien qal lill-Pulizija li fi tmiem il-ġimgħa ta’ qabel l-arrest ta’ Yorgen Fenech, kien hemm pjan sabiex hu jaħrab minn Malta. Qal iżda li Schembri ma kellux x’jaqsam ma’ dan il-pjan.
Vella qal lill-investigaturi li Fenech kien fi stat ħażin ħafna wara l-arrest ta’ Theuma, is-sensar. Hu stieden lil Fenech fil-villa tiegħu f’Għawdex sabiex ikun jista’ jikkalma. Vella saq lil Fenech lejn Għawdex u t-tnejn li huma baqgħu fil-karozza waqt li kienu fuq il-vapur.
Franco Fenech, ħu Yorgen iltaqa’ magħhom fil-villa ta’ Vella. Hemmhekk kienu ddiskutew ħafna ideat ta’ kif Fenech seta’ jaħrab, bil-pjan preferut ikun dak lejn Tuneż bid-dingi.
Is-sorsi kkonfermaw dan kollu u żiedu jgħidu li Yorgen Fenech beda’ jibża’ għal ħajtu u b’hekk abbanduna l-pjan li jaħrab lejn it-Tuneżija.
24 ta' Diċembru 2019 10:44 AM
Newsbook.com.mt jinsab infurmat li Yorgen Fenech abbanduna l-pjan li jaħrab lejn Tuneż f’dingi għax beda jibża’ għal ħajtu. Il-pjan kien tfassal f’Għawdex fil-villa tat-tabib ta’ Fenech, Dr Adrian Vella, li huwa wkoll it-tabib tal-eks Chief of Staff tal-Prim Ministru Keith Schembri. Il-pjan kien li minn Tuneż, Fenech jivjaġġa lejn Dubaj.
Rapporti jiżvelaw aktar rabtiet bejn Fenech, Schembri u Muscat
Is-sorsi qalu li Fenech ma kienx qed jibża’ mill-maltemp, imma li seta’ jiġrilu xi ħaġa waqt il-vjaġġ. Dawn iżda ma kkonfermawx l-isem tal-persuni li Fenech kien qed jibża’ minnhom.
Id-dettalji tal-pjan ta’ kif kellu jaħrab Fenech ħarġu fil-midja xi ftit ġimgħat ilu u ġew ikkofermati fil-Qorti mill-Ispettur Keith Arnaud waqt is-seduta tad-19 ta’ Diċembru.
Arnaud tkellem dwar pjanijiet differenti ta’ kif seta’ jaħrab mill-pajjiż.
Filmat: Schembri jirrifjuta li jagħti l-password; l-uffiċċju ssiġġilat bla Pulizija
L-ewwel pjan: Franza
Arnaud qal li l-Pulizija ma kinux qed jippjanaw li jarrestaw lil Fenech sakemm jispiċċaw ikellmu lil Melvin Theuma, is-sensar tal-assassinju li ngħata l-maħfra presidenzjali. Is-sitwazzjoni nbidlet meta l-midja rrappurtat li Theuma ġie arrestat u li kien qed jitlob għall-maħfra.
L-Ispettur rrefera għall-messaġġi li ntbagħtu bejn Yorgen Fenech u zijuh Ray Fenech. Huma ddiskutew l-aħħar żviluppi u l-possibiltà li hu jaħrab minn Malta, probabbilment lejn Franza, mingħajr ma jinqabad. Ray Fenech issuġġerixxa li Yorgen ma jagħmilx użu mill-karti tal-kreditu.
Il-Pulizija saru jafu b’dawn il-messaġġi wara li Yorgen Fenech ġie arrestat.
Yorgen b’rikors dwar investigazzjoni “dilettanteska”
It-tieni pjan: Tuneż
Arnaud ikkonferma fil-Qorti li Dr Adrian Vella kien qal lill-Pulizija li fi tmiem il-ġimgħa ta’ qabel l-arrest ta’ Yorgen Fenech, kien hemm pjan sabiex hu jaħrab minn Malta. Qal iżda li Schembri ma kellux x’jaqsam ma’ dan il-pjan.
Vella qal lill-investigaturi li Fenech kien fi stat ħażin ħafna wara l-arrest ta’ Theuma, is-sensar. Hu stieden lil Fenech fil-villa tiegħu f’Għawdex sabiex ikun jista’ jikkalma. Vella saq lil Fenech lejn Għawdex u t-tnejn li huma baqgħu fil-karozza waqt li kienu fuq il-vapur.
Franco Fenech, ħu Yorgen iltaqa’ magħhom fil-villa ta’ Vella. Hemmhekk kienu ddiskutew ħafna ideat ta’ kif Fenech seta’ jaħrab, bil-pjan preferut ikun dak lejn Tuneż bid-dingi.
Is-sorsi kkonfermaw dan kollu u żiedu jgħidu li Yorgen Fenech beda’ jibża’ għal ħajtu u b’hekk abbanduna l-pjan li jaħrab lejn it-Tuneżija.
Filmat: F’sitwazzjoni estrema l-president jista’ jneħħi PM – eks Prim Imħallef
Minn Christoph Schwaiger
23 ta' Diċembru 2019
Ara il film hawn: https://newsbook.com.mt/filmat-fsitwazzjoni-estrema-l-president-jista-jnehhi-pm-eks-prim-imhallef/#t=0:02
F’sitwazzjoni estrema l-president jista’ jneħħi prim ministru skont l-eks Prim Imħallef Vincent De Gaetano.
De Gaetano qal dan waqt li kien qed jiġi intervistat minn Newsbook.com.mt.
Jemmen li l-President għandu ċertu poteri li huma ċari imma li mhumiex neċessarjament relevanti fis-sitwazzjoni preżenti. Qal li l-President għandu poteri impliċiti fil-Kostituzzjoni. Żied jgħid li għandu wkoll awtorità morali.
Skont De Gaetano, id-diskors li għamel il-President f’Jum ir-Repubblika kien wieħed interessanti u importantissimu. Jemmen li d-diskors kien wieħed li nkiteb mill-bidu sal-aħħar mill-President.
F’Jum ir-Repubblika, il-President George Vella talab lil kulħadd sabiex iżomm f’moħħu li r-Repubblika ta’ Malta hija ferm akbar minn “din il-klikka li ġabet dan l-għajb” fuq il-pajjiż.
“Malta akbar mill-klikka li ġabet dan l-għajb” – Il-President
“Forsi l-President jista’ ma jaqbilx li għandu dawn il-poteri impliċiti. Jiena l-mod kif naqra l-Kostituzzjoni huwa li l-Kostituzzjoni tipprovdi għal dak li normalment jiġri,” qal De Gaetano. Kompla jgħid li f’sitwazzjoni li mhix normali l-President għandu poteri impliċiti.
Qal li kieku kien hu, kien jeżerċita dawn il-poteri. Però, De Gaetano ammetta li hu m’għandux esperjenza politika. Saħaq li mhux qed jikkritika direttament lill-President.
“Però qed ngħid ċar u tond li l-President f’każijiet eċċezzjonali ġħandu s-setgħa li jagħmel hekk,” qal De Gaetano.
L-eks Prim Imħallef ġie mistoqsi dwar sitwazzjoni ipotetika fejn ikun hemm evidenza li PM ikun wettaq reat imma ma jkunx tressaq il-Qorti għax ikun hu li jikkontrolla l-Pulizija. De Gaetano qal li jemmen li anke f’każ bħal dan il-President ikollu l-awtorità li jneħħih.
Però, żied jgħid li jista’ jkun li xi ħadd ma jaqbilx mad-deċiżjoni u jiftaħ kawża l-Qorti. “Imma dik hi d-deċiżjoni li l-President irid jieħu,” qal De Gaetano.
Il-Ġimgħa, George Vella qal li huwa m’għandux setgħa jneħħi lill-Prim Ministru Joseph Muscat mill-kariga, ladarba dan igawdi l-appoġġ tal-maġġoranza tal-Membri tal-Kamra tad-Deputati.
Min hu Vincent De Gaetano?
Vincent De Gaetano twieled fl-1952. Sar Imħallef fl-1994 u sar Prim Imħallef fl-2002. Fl-2010 ġie elett biex ikun Imħallef mal-Qorti Ewropea għad-Drittijiet Umani.
Minn Christoph Schwaiger
23 ta' Diċembru 2019
Ara il film hawn: https://newsbook.com.mt/filmat-fsitwazzjoni-estrema-l-president-jista-jnehhi-pm-eks-prim-imhallef/#t=0:02
F’sitwazzjoni estrema l-president jista’ jneħħi prim ministru skont l-eks Prim Imħallef Vincent De Gaetano.
De Gaetano qal dan waqt li kien qed jiġi intervistat minn Newsbook.com.mt.
Jemmen li l-President għandu ċertu poteri li huma ċari imma li mhumiex neċessarjament relevanti fis-sitwazzjoni preżenti. Qal li l-President għandu poteri impliċiti fil-Kostituzzjoni. Żied jgħid li għandu wkoll awtorità morali.
Skont De Gaetano, id-diskors li għamel il-President f’Jum ir-Repubblika kien wieħed interessanti u importantissimu. Jemmen li d-diskors kien wieħed li nkiteb mill-bidu sal-aħħar mill-President.
F’Jum ir-Repubblika, il-President George Vella talab lil kulħadd sabiex iżomm f’moħħu li r-Repubblika ta’ Malta hija ferm akbar minn “din il-klikka li ġabet dan l-għajb” fuq il-pajjiż.
“Malta akbar mill-klikka li ġabet dan l-għajb” – Il-President
“Forsi l-President jista’ ma jaqbilx li għandu dawn il-poteri impliċiti. Jiena l-mod kif naqra l-Kostituzzjoni huwa li l-Kostituzzjoni tipprovdi għal dak li normalment jiġri,” qal De Gaetano. Kompla jgħid li f’sitwazzjoni li mhix normali l-President għandu poteri impliċiti.
Qal li kieku kien hu, kien jeżerċita dawn il-poteri. Però, De Gaetano ammetta li hu m’għandux esperjenza politika. Saħaq li mhux qed jikkritika direttament lill-President.
“Però qed ngħid ċar u tond li l-President f’każijiet eċċezzjonali ġħandu s-setgħa li jagħmel hekk,” qal De Gaetano.
L-eks Prim Imħallef ġie mistoqsi dwar sitwazzjoni ipotetika fejn ikun hemm evidenza li PM ikun wettaq reat imma ma jkunx tressaq il-Qorti għax ikun hu li jikkontrolla l-Pulizija. De Gaetano qal li jemmen li anke f’każ bħal dan il-President ikollu l-awtorità li jneħħih.
Però, żied jgħid li jista’ jkun li xi ħadd ma jaqbilx mad-deċiżjoni u jiftaħ kawża l-Qorti. “Imma dik hi d-deċiżjoni li l-President irid jieħu,” qal De Gaetano.
Il-Ġimgħa, George Vella qal li huwa m’għandux setgħa jneħħi lill-Prim Ministru Joseph Muscat mill-kariga, ladarba dan igawdi l-appoġġ tal-maġġoranza tal-Membri tal-Kamra tad-Deputati.
Min hu Vincent De Gaetano?
Vincent De Gaetano twieled fl-1952. Sar Imħallef fl-1994 u sar Prim Imħallef fl-2002. Fl-2010 ġie elett biex ikun Imħallef mal-Qorti Ewropea għad-Drittijiet Umani.
SIX MONTHS JAIL NADURI CAUGHT WITH DRUGS
A 27-year-old was on Sunday sentenced to six months in jail after admitting to the possession of cocaine in circumstances denoting it was not for his personal use.
The man, Frankie Camilleri, from Nadur, also pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis and relapsing.
He had been arrested with a 26-year-old woman from Xagħra on Friday after the drugs, which were ready for trafficking, were found in their home.
Mr Camilleri appeared before Magistrate Monica Vella. The court was informed that no action will be taken against the woman as she was extraneous to the drug scene.
He was jailed for six months and fined €1,000 which the court allowed him to pay over an 18-month period. The court also issued a three-year treatment order for Mr Camilleri to see to his drug addiction.
Police Inspector Anthony Scerri prosecuted while lawyer Arthur Azzopardi was defence counsel.
10 kilograms of cannabis wash up in Gozo
NationalDrugsPoliceGozo
Photo: Malta Police Force
Some 10 kilograms of cannabis were found on the shore between Mġarr and Xatt l-Aħmar Bay in Gozo on Saturday afternoon.
The police said the drugs were found by two men who noted several suspicious packages while walking in the area.
They immediately informed the police who went on site to investigate.
The police found 80 blocks of the drug in 16 packets. Another three blocks were unpacked. The packages were sealed in plastic bags.
The police said that the possibility that the drugs ended up on the beach as a result of the recent storm was not being excluded.
An inquiry is being held.
The police are investigating.
A 27-year-old was on Sunday sentenced to six months in jail after admitting to the possession of cocaine in circumstances denoting it was not for his personal use.
The man, Frankie Camilleri, from Nadur, also pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis and relapsing.
He had been arrested with a 26-year-old woman from Xagħra on Friday after the drugs, which were ready for trafficking, were found in their home.
Mr Camilleri appeared before Magistrate Monica Vella. The court was informed that no action will be taken against the woman as she was extraneous to the drug scene.
He was jailed for six months and fined €1,000 which the court allowed him to pay over an 18-month period. The court also issued a three-year treatment order for Mr Camilleri to see to his drug addiction.
Police Inspector Anthony Scerri prosecuted while lawyer Arthur Azzopardi was defence counsel.
10 kilograms of cannabis wash up in Gozo
NationalDrugsPoliceGozo
Photo: Malta Police Force
Some 10 kilograms of cannabis were found on the shore between Mġarr and Xatt l-Aħmar Bay in Gozo on Saturday afternoon.
The police said the drugs were found by two men who noted several suspicious packages while walking in the area.
They immediately informed the police who went on site to investigate.
The police found 80 blocks of the drug in 16 packets. Another three blocks were unpacked. The packages were sealed in plastic bags.
The police said that the possibility that the drugs ended up on the beach as a result of the recent storm was not being excluded.
An inquiry is being held.
The police are investigating.
€24,000 Mayo clinic bill Fenech paid for Keith Schembri
Tumas magnate Yorgen Fenech paid two bills for Schembri’s health costs: one costing €10,000, the other €14,000
22 December 2019, 9:35am
by Matthew Vella
Keith Schembri smiles as he makes his way to the law courts to testify in a constitutional case filed by Yorgen Fenech, the alleged mastermind behind the Daphne Caruana Galizia assassination
The Prime Minister’s chief-of-staff Keith Schembri and the Tumas magnate Yorgen Fenech were great friends.
But that friendship ran deeper than most people ever knew. For at the height of Schembri’s most profound life challenge – an eye tumour which required him to seek treatment overseas – it was Fenech that Schembri found by his side, both in terms of moral support as well as financial support.
It was Fenech who footed part of the bill for Schembri at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Minnesota in 2016, this newspaper has learnt; and it was Fenech who stayed by Schembri’s side during part of this stay.
MaltaToday has learnt that Fenech paid two bills for Schembri’s health costs: one costing €10,000, the other €14,000, sources close to the Fenech family said.
Police investigators have seized all computer data and documents in Fenech’s possession, while he is now in jail facing charges of having masterminded the assassination of the journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Keith Schembri, who according to State’s evidence Melvin Theuma, had forewarned Fenech of the police raid on the men accused of carrying out the car bomb execution of Caruana Galizia, is now being investigated for homicide and tampering with evidence.
Schembri’s doctor, who also happens to be Yorgen Fenech’s doctor, has also been said to have accompanied Schembri on visits to the US for cancer treatment.
Keith Schembri’s health became a bone of contention in 2016 when Caruana Galizia then wrote that he had contracted a “fatal illness” as early as 2015.
She had revealed how Schembri had stayed at Casa di Cura Mater Dei, a private hospital in Rome’s Parioli neighbourhood between 22-24 April 2016. This was around the time that the Panama Papers had revealed Schembri to have a secret offshore company.
Caruana Galizia published numerous articles at this stage on the subject of Panama and Schembri’s inoperable eye tumour and how the chief-of-staff “has only been given some months left to live.”
The Nationalist Party newspaper Il-Mument went so far as to follow up this story with one of their own: James Piscopo, the former PL CEO, was set to replace Schembri.
In December of 2016, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat finally broke the silence on his chief of staff’s condition and said that Schembri was “alive and kicking” and that he would return to his office in Castille after a short hiatus. “He is undergoing some treatment but his health is not as has been reported by some sections of the media. I am still waiting for an apology from that section of the media,” he said.
These stories irked Schembri to the point that he talked about them at length during testimonies he made during the Egrant inquiry. Schembri had told magistrate Aaron Bugeja that Caruana Galizia “crossed the limit” when she wrote about his health problems.
“It can be on the record or off the record. You’re asking me about this article writer, I think this person has caused a lot of harm to my personal life and my family life,” Schembri had told the magistrate.
“Everyone knows that I have health problems, and she invented a condition, made my family crazy. I was going to America for treatment and she provided my date of death without even… I am living proof of her lies, you see. I don’t think it’s right, as in the data protection commissioner forced her to delete the claim that I have an inoperable eye tumour from her site or pay €2,500 and €250 a day… and the article is still online, you see.
“It’s not because I want to squabble, I don’t mind, but she has crossed the limit. At the worst time of my life, it wouldn’t even have crossed my mind… I was at a clinic in America, going for a PET scan, I had to wait for half an hour and I saw a comment, ‘make cancer bring him down’. I have no respect… I don’t know how to hate but I have no respect for people like that and I think I am currently responding to a frame-up.
“She’s been lying about me for weeks, a year, a year and a half and I promised myself that I wasn’t going to sue her for libel. However, last week I opened two libel suits against her. It can’t go on like this... When your 13-year-old daughter approaches you and says, ‘Daddy, they said you’re going die at school’ and you don’t know how to respond… I feel hurt that I am here today responding to these allegations.”
Tumas magnate Yorgen Fenech paid two bills for Schembri’s health costs: one costing €10,000, the other €14,000
22 December 2019, 9:35am
by Matthew Vella
Keith Schembri smiles as he makes his way to the law courts to testify in a constitutional case filed by Yorgen Fenech, the alleged mastermind behind the Daphne Caruana Galizia assassination
The Prime Minister’s chief-of-staff Keith Schembri and the Tumas magnate Yorgen Fenech were great friends.
But that friendship ran deeper than most people ever knew. For at the height of Schembri’s most profound life challenge – an eye tumour which required him to seek treatment overseas – it was Fenech that Schembri found by his side, both in terms of moral support as well as financial support.
It was Fenech who footed part of the bill for Schembri at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Minnesota in 2016, this newspaper has learnt; and it was Fenech who stayed by Schembri’s side during part of this stay.
MaltaToday has learnt that Fenech paid two bills for Schembri’s health costs: one costing €10,000, the other €14,000, sources close to the Fenech family said.
Police investigators have seized all computer data and documents in Fenech’s possession, while he is now in jail facing charges of having masterminded the assassination of the journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Keith Schembri, who according to State’s evidence Melvin Theuma, had forewarned Fenech of the police raid on the men accused of carrying out the car bomb execution of Caruana Galizia, is now being investigated for homicide and tampering with evidence.
Schembri’s doctor, who also happens to be Yorgen Fenech’s doctor, has also been said to have accompanied Schembri on visits to the US for cancer treatment.
Keith Schembri’s health became a bone of contention in 2016 when Caruana Galizia then wrote that he had contracted a “fatal illness” as early as 2015.
She had revealed how Schembri had stayed at Casa di Cura Mater Dei, a private hospital in Rome’s Parioli neighbourhood between 22-24 April 2016. This was around the time that the Panama Papers had revealed Schembri to have a secret offshore company.
Caruana Galizia published numerous articles at this stage on the subject of Panama and Schembri’s inoperable eye tumour and how the chief-of-staff “has only been given some months left to live.”
The Nationalist Party newspaper Il-Mument went so far as to follow up this story with one of their own: James Piscopo, the former PL CEO, was set to replace Schembri.
In December of 2016, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat finally broke the silence on his chief of staff’s condition and said that Schembri was “alive and kicking” and that he would return to his office in Castille after a short hiatus. “He is undergoing some treatment but his health is not as has been reported by some sections of the media. I am still waiting for an apology from that section of the media,” he said.
These stories irked Schembri to the point that he talked about them at length during testimonies he made during the Egrant inquiry. Schembri had told magistrate Aaron Bugeja that Caruana Galizia “crossed the limit” when she wrote about his health problems.
“It can be on the record or off the record. You’re asking me about this article writer, I think this person has caused a lot of harm to my personal life and my family life,” Schembri had told the magistrate.
“Everyone knows that I have health problems, and she invented a condition, made my family crazy. I was going to America for treatment and she provided my date of death without even… I am living proof of her lies, you see. I don’t think it’s right, as in the data protection commissioner forced her to delete the claim that I have an inoperable eye tumour from her site or pay €2,500 and €250 a day… and the article is still online, you see.
“It’s not because I want to squabble, I don’t mind, but she has crossed the limit. At the worst time of my life, it wouldn’t even have crossed my mind… I was at a clinic in America, going for a PET scan, I had to wait for half an hour and I saw a comment, ‘make cancer bring him down’. I have no respect… I don’t know how to hate but I have no respect for people like that and I think I am currently responding to a frame-up.
“She’s been lying about me for weeks, a year, a year and a half and I promised myself that I wasn’t going to sue her for libel. However, last week I opened two libel suits against her. It can’t go on like this... When your 13-year-old daughter approaches you and says, ‘Daddy, they said you’re going die at school’ and you don’t know how to respond… I feel hurt that I am here today responding to these allegations.”
Santa Claus is coming to Nadur
Photos by Mario Muscat
Photos by Mario Muscat
Jason Micallef wants Keith Schembri kicked out of Labour Party
Thursday, 19 December 2019,
Former Labour Party secretary general and One Productions CEO Jason Micallef wants Keith Schembri to be kicked out of the party.
Schembri resigned from the post of OPM chief of staff last month as he was mentioned in the investigations on the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia.
The Labour Party, he said on Facebook, is bigger than any individual.
With immediate effect, the PL should kick Schembri out of the party and make a public declaration.
The party is too glorious to remain silent instead of taking a decision that should have been made ages ago.
Thursday, 19 December 2019,
Former Labour Party secretary general and One Productions CEO Jason Micallef wants Keith Schembri to be kicked out of the party.
Schembri resigned from the post of OPM chief of staff last month as he was mentioned in the investigations on the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia.
The Labour Party, he said on Facebook, is bigger than any individual.
With immediate effect, the PL should kick Schembri out of the party and make a public declaration.
The party is too glorious to remain silent instead of taking a decision that should have been made ages ago.
MALTESE CULTURAL ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA INC.
12 December, 2019.
By Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli - President.
Last night the Maltese Cultural Association of Victoria Inc. held the Members Christmas Party at the Centre in Talmage Street, Albion.
Many members attended a night full of fun, plenty of food and entertainment by the DJ. Joe Gatt.
It was nice to see so many members lending a hand during the night and helping afterwards.
The President Peter Paul Portelli presented the Maltese Folk Singers and Guitarists to the members and were given a gift for their contribution to Ghana at the Centre every Thursday night.
The President also recognized the work at the Centre by Mario and Mimma Sabatini.
The cook of the Centre Emmanuel Farrugia did an excellent job in helping servicing the food together with members of the committee. Thank you Emmanuel.
Thank you to Mark Bonello of The Maltese Hub for donating a hamper.
At the end of a fantastic night the President President Peter Paul Portelli presented the new committee which will be endorsed by the members on Sunday at the AGM.
WELL DONE TO ALL AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.
12 December, 2019.
By Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli - President.
Last night the Maltese Cultural Association of Victoria Inc. held the Members Christmas Party at the Centre in Talmage Street, Albion.
Many members attended a night full of fun, plenty of food and entertainment by the DJ. Joe Gatt.
It was nice to see so many members lending a hand during the night and helping afterwards.
The President Peter Paul Portelli presented the Maltese Folk Singers and Guitarists to the members and were given a gift for their contribution to Ghana at the Centre every Thursday night.
The President also recognized the work at the Centre by Mario and Mimma Sabatini.
The cook of the Centre Emmanuel Farrugia did an excellent job in helping servicing the food together with members of the committee. Thank you Emmanuel.
Thank you to Mark Bonello of The Maltese Hub for donating a hamper.
At the end of a fantastic night the President President Peter Paul Portelli presented the new committee which will be endorsed by the members on Sunday at the AGM.
WELL DONE TO ALL AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.
Christmas in Nadur
Photos by Mario Muscat
Crib by Mark Azzopardi
Photos by Mario Muscat
Crib by Mark Azzopardi
Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi receives Gieh in-Nadur
23 November, 2019
Members of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul of the Grand Chapter of Malta, during the presentation of Gieh in Nadur to Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi Deputy Chancellor.
Photo from left: Chevalier Adonai Camilleri Cauchi, Dame Marlene Muscat, Chevalier Carmel Saliba, Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi, Chevalier Chancellor Joseph Louis Meilak, Brother Matthias Mercieca and Dame Veronica Camilleri Cauchi.
23 November, 2019
Members of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul of the Grand Chapter of Malta, during the presentation of Gieh in Nadur to Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi Deputy Chancellor.
Photo from left: Chevalier Adonai Camilleri Cauchi, Dame Marlene Muscat, Chevalier Carmel Saliba, Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi, Chevalier Chancellor Joseph Louis Meilak, Brother Matthias Mercieca and Dame Veronica Camilleri Cauchi.
Message from the Grand Master H.E. Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli
Photo: The Secretary Chevalier Carmel Saliba is reading the message from the Grand Master for the presentation of Gieh in Nadur to Chevalier Deputy Chancellor Michael Camilleri Cauchi.
The Grand Master His Excellency Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli and the Supreme Council of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul is very honoured to have Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi one of its own.
He has been a very dedicated and honourable member of our Confraternity. He is always ready to give advice to help our Confraternity to achieve more.
We are very happy to say that on Tuesday this week, we donated $10,000 to the Royal Women’s Hospital - Newborn Intensive Care Unit. The money was raised from a Fund Raising Lunch we had last month and some donations from individuals and sponsors.
This year we donated others sums of money to the Australian Farmers who were suffering from drought-ravaged part of the State of Victoria and to our missions in Peru.
Our Confraternity is still small but it’s making a big impact to help those in need.
We like to Congratulate Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi, on receiving the honour Gieh in-Nadur 2019.
God bless you.
H.E. Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli
Grand Master
CKSPP
Photo: The Secretary Chevalier Carmel Saliba is reading the message from the Grand Master for the presentation of Gieh in Nadur to Chevalier Deputy Chancellor Michael Camilleri Cauchi.
The Grand Master His Excellency Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli and the Supreme Council of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul is very honoured to have Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi one of its own.
He has been a very dedicated and honourable member of our Confraternity. He is always ready to give advice to help our Confraternity to achieve more.
We are very happy to say that on Tuesday this week, we donated $10,000 to the Royal Women’s Hospital - Newborn Intensive Care Unit. The money was raised from a Fund Raising Lunch we had last month and some donations from individuals and sponsors.
This year we donated others sums of money to the Australian Farmers who were suffering from drought-ravaged part of the State of Victoria and to our missions in Peru.
Our Confraternity is still small but it’s making a big impact to help those in need.
We like to Congratulate Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi, on receiving the honour Gieh in-Nadur 2019.
God bless you.
H.E. Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli
Grand Master
CKSPP
Gozo Channel ship damaged after crashing into pier - MinisterMonday, 25 November 2019,
Gozo Channel is operating with only two ships after one of the ferries was damaged today due to the strong winds and rough seas, Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana told Parliament.
It had already been announced that the MV Nikolaus, which was leased by the company to operate as a fourth vessel, was to undergo repair work that will last till mid-December.
The company was operating with three vessels until this morning when one of the remaining three ships was damaged and needs repair work.
Gozo Channel is operating with only two ships after one of the ferries was damaged today due to the strong winds and rough seas, Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana told Parliament.
It had already been announced that the MV Nikolaus, which was leased by the company to operate as a fourth vessel, was to undergo repair work that will last till mid-December.
The company was operating with three vessels until this morning when one of the remaining three ships was damaged and needs repair work.
Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi receives Gieh in-Nadur
23 November, 2019
Last night the Municipal Council of Nadur presented Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi with the honour Gieh in - Nadur for his life long contribution to arts.
Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi is a poplular artist in Malta and Gozo and his work was also exported overseas including Australia. He was commissioned to make several statues of saints to Maltese and Gozitan associations in Melbourne.
Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi is the Deputy Chancellor of the Grand Chapter of Malta, based in Nadur.
The Grand Master H.E. Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli, the Supreme Council and the Knights and Dames of the most respected Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul extends our Congratulations to Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi, his wife Dame Veronica and son Chevalier Adonai Camilleri Cauchi on this special honour.
God bless you.
Photo from left: Chevalier Carmel Saliba, Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi with the trophy and Chevalier Joseph Louis Meilak.
23 November, 2019
Last night the Municipal Council of Nadur presented Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi with the honour Gieh in - Nadur for his life long contribution to arts.
Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi is a poplular artist in Malta and Gozo and his work was also exported overseas including Australia. He was commissioned to make several statues of saints to Maltese and Gozitan associations in Melbourne.
Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi is the Deputy Chancellor of the Grand Chapter of Malta, based in Nadur.
The Grand Master H.E. Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli, the Supreme Council and the Knights and Dames of the most respected Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul extends our Congratulations to Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi, his wife Dame Veronica and son Chevalier Adonai Camilleri Cauchi on this special honour.
God bless you.
Photo from left: Chevalier Carmel Saliba, Chevalier Michael Camilleri Cauchi with the trophy and Chevalier Joseph Louis Meilak.
CONFRATERNITY OF THE KNIGHTS OF ST. PETER & ST. PAUL
Melbourne. Australia.
By Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli - Grand Master
On Tuesday 19 November, 2019 the Members of the Supreme Council of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul made a generous donation of $10,000 to the Royal Women's Hospital - Newborn Intensive Care Unit.
Every year more than1,600 babies who are born sick or prematurely are cared for by the specialist NICU team at the Women's.
The money was raised from a Lunch organised by theGrand Chapter of Melbourne on the 13 of October, 2019.
The Supreme Council has agreed to donate money to the Royal Melbourne Children's Hospital at the Good Friday Appeal.
Photo from left: Chevalier Saverio Greto, Dame Gail Vas, Dame Carmela Barbaro, Chevalier Vincenzo Galtieri. H.E. Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli - Grand Master presenting the cheque to Sue Jacobs Deputy Clinical Director - Neonatal Paediatrician, Laura Bignell Chief Midwifery and Nursing Officer, Dame Angela Greto and Dame Mimma Sabatini.
Melbourne. Australia.
By Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli - Grand Master
On Tuesday 19 November, 2019 the Members of the Supreme Council of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul made a generous donation of $10,000 to the Royal Women's Hospital - Newborn Intensive Care Unit.
Every year more than1,600 babies who are born sick or prematurely are cared for by the specialist NICU team at the Women's.
The money was raised from a Lunch organised by theGrand Chapter of Melbourne on the 13 of October, 2019.
The Supreme Council has agreed to donate money to the Royal Melbourne Children's Hospital at the Good Friday Appeal.
Photo from left: Chevalier Saverio Greto, Dame Gail Vas, Dame Carmela Barbaro, Chevalier Vincenzo Galtieri. H.E. Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli - Grand Master presenting the cheque to Sue Jacobs Deputy Clinical Director - Neonatal Paediatrician, Laura Bignell Chief Midwifery and Nursing Officer, Dame Angela Greto and Dame Mimma Sabatini.
The Most Respected Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul.
Grand Chapter of Malta.
Address: December 13 Street. Nadur, Gozo.
22 September, 2019
Congratulations to our Members in Malta for doing such a great job in helping the poor in Peru.
Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli
Grand Master
CKSPP
The mission of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul is to help the poor and the sick
Grand Chapter of Malta.
Address: December 13 Street. Nadur, Gozo.
22 September, 2019
Congratulations to our Members in Malta for doing such a great job in helping the poor in Peru.
Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli
Grand Master
CKSPP
The mission of the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter & St. Paul is to help the poor and the sick
HELPING THE POOR IN PERU
Yesterday Bishop Giovanni Cefai a missionary priest in Peru celebrated Mass in the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul in Nadur.
After the Mass the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter and St. Paul donated money to his mission.
Thanks to the Supreme Council of the Confraternity in Melbourne and the Grand Chapter of Nadur for the money.
Thanks also to Mons. Jimmy Xerri Parish Priest of Nadur for his support.
This was the second time that the Confraternity donated money to missions in Peru in the last couple of months.
God bless His Excellency Bishop Giovanni Cefai for his work to help the poor and the sick.
God bless the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter and St. Paul.
Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli
Grand Master
CKSPP
Yesterday Bishop Giovanni Cefai a missionary priest in Peru celebrated Mass in the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul in Nadur.
After the Mass the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter and St. Paul donated money to his mission.
Thanks to the Supreme Council of the Confraternity in Melbourne and the Grand Chapter of Nadur for the money.
Thanks also to Mons. Jimmy Xerri Parish Priest of Nadur for his support.
This was the second time that the Confraternity donated money to missions in Peru in the last couple of months.
God bless His Excellency Bishop Giovanni Cefai for his work to help the poor and the sick.
God bless the Confraternity of the Knights of St. Peter and St. Paul.
Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli
Grand Master
CKSPP
Dahlet Qorrot Bay from Sopu Tower in San Blas Nadur, Gozo. Malta.
Nadur Bailica Church from San Blas
Sopu Tower built in 1667 by the Knights of Malta
Sopu Tower is situated on the cliffs between St. Blas and Dahlet Qorrot bays in Nadur.
Sopu Tower is situated on the cliffs between St. Blas and Dahlet Qorrot bays in Nadur.
Black statue of St. Peter on the throne
I saw this statue while visiting the church of St Anselm and St Cecilia Roman Catholic church in Kingsway, Holborn, London.
Just like the one in Rome and Nadur.
CONFRATERNITY OF THE KNIGHTS OF ST. PETER & ST. PAUL
Nadur. Gozo.
A meeting of the Confraternity was held in the Nadur Council Board Room on Monday 24th June where two newly Knights were appointed by Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli Grand Master CKSPP of the Confraternity of the Knights of St Peter and Paul.
These are Chev Joe M. Attard of Rabat Gozo and Chev Joe Meilaq.
Congratulations.
Photos Copyright Carmel Saliba 24.6.19.
Nadur. Gozo.
A meeting of the Confraternity was held in the Nadur Council Board Room on Monday 24th June where two newly Knights were appointed by Chevalier Peter Paul Portelli Grand Master CKSPP of the Confraternity of the Knights of St Peter and Paul.
These are Chev Joe M. Attard of Rabat Gozo and Chev Joe Meilaq.
Congratulations.
Photos Copyright Carmel Saliba 24.6.19.
After the meeting of the Confraternity of the Knights of St Peter and Paul we attended for the 25th Anniversary Mass of Fr Raymond Portelli at Nadur Basilica.
Donations to Fr Raymond were presented to be used in his mission in Peru.
Congratulations to Fr Raymond.
Photos Copyright Carmel Saliba 24.6.19.
Donations to Fr Raymond were presented to be used in his mission in Peru.
Congratulations to Fr Raymond.
Photos Copyright Carmel Saliba 24.6.19.
