312 Midweek 1st May 2013

Transcription

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WEDNESDAY EDITION
WWW.MALTATODAY.COM.MT
Alan Paris interviewed
Page 4
WEDNESDAY • 1 MAY 2013 • ISSUE 312 • PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY
DALLI ACCUSES EUROPEAN
COMMISSION OF WANTING
TO LIFT SNUS BAN
Former Commissioner says EC and OLAF did not question Swedish Match’s
motivation and conflict of interest in his ‘entrapment’
MATTHEW VELLA
THE former EU commissioner for health,
John Dalli, has declared that the European
Commission’s secretary-general, Catherine
Day, and the EU’s legal services wanted to
water down the Tobacco Products Directive’s
provisions on cigarette packaging and displays
and “remove the ban on smokeless tobacco”.
The claim, made in an interview for German
television channel ZDF, suggests that Dalli’s
resignation in October 2012 was the end re-
sult of an attempt at spiking his revision of EU
tobacco rules, which included a ban on snus,
the smokeless tobacco.
“Nobody questioned Swedish Match’s motivation when they made their report [to the
EC secretariat-general]… It is scandalous that
their allegation was believed outright, when
they had a vast conflict of interest in the matter. And a decision must have been made, and
the process started, for an investigation to
prove the allegation,” Dalli said.
His statement, made before MaltaToday
published a leaked version of OLAF’s inves-
tigative report into allegations that Dalli was
aware of a €60 million bribe request made to
Swedish Match, ties in with allegations of collusion between the tobacco lobby and the European Commission.
The European Commission yesterday confirmed that it was former head of the EU’s legal services Michel Petite, now turned tobacco
lobbyist for Clifford Chance and representing
firms like Philip Morris and Swedish Match,
who informed EC secretary-general Catherine
Day of the bribe allegations.
As revealed in the OLAF report, Swedish
Match general counsel Frederik Peyron informed Petite of a recording made on 29 March
2012 by Inge Delfosse, the secretary-general of
the European Smokeless Tobacco Council, in
which Silvio Zammit asks for €10 million to
broker a meeting, allegedly with John Dalli,
ostensibly to have the ban on snus lifted.
The contact with Day would have been made
sometime after 29 March, and before Swedish
Match officially filed their complaint with her
on 21 May.
CONTINUES ON PAGE 2
EDITORIAL: Your job is not a copy-paste: the failure of
Joseph Muscat to establish a meritocracy in the choice of
appointees on boards and commissions
Newspaper post
PAGE 10
2
News
maltatoday, WEDNESDAY, 1 MAY 2013
The industry was completely against
these (tobacco directive) plans – Dalli
PAGE 1 John Dalli was less clear
about whether it was Commission president José Barroso, who
himself re-appointed Petite to
his ad hoc committee on regulating Commissioners’ contacts with
lobbies, who wanted the Tobacco
Products Directive watered down.
“The industry was completely
against these plans, and there was
a massive lobbying exercise not
just with my services [DG-Sanco]
but also with other commissioners, to persuade them that what
we were doing was against citizens’ freedom and the single market rules,” Dalli said.
He added that Day and the EU’s
legal services wanted to remove
the ban on smokeless tobacco and,
without implicating him directly,
added that “Barroso is the president [and the secretariat-general
and legal services] naturally work
together.”
The end result of the Tobacco
Products Directive, which upheld the ban on Sweden’s chewing tobacco being sold elsewhere
in the single European market,
was “weakened somewhat but sufficiently strong to be effective,”
Dalli commented.
Dalli reiterated his previous denials: that he did not ask for money
or instruct Silvio Zammit, a political canvasser, to ask for money, or
discuss the snus ban with anybody
after his 6 January 2012 meeting
with Gayle Kimberley, a Maltese
lobbyist employed by Swedish
Match for €5,000 to secure access
to the then-commissioner, whom
Dalli claims he did not know before their meeting.
Dalli instead claimed that allegations that he met Kimberley on
10 January at his Portomaso office
and that he was present when Silvio Zammit floated the possibility
of a payment being made to lift
the ban, turned out to be untrue.
“This is a complete lie that was
confirmed as such by OLAF when
they talked to me. And very recently, even by Johan Gabrielsson, who said he was informed
by OLAF that this meeting never took place. But he also said
OLAF told him to [stick to the
wrong version of events] so that
he doesn’t disturb the investigations [carried out by the Maltese
police],” Dalli said, referring to a
recorded conversation held between the Swedish Match public
affairs director and Green MEP
José Bové.
Kimberley was revealed by
the OLAF report to have lied to
Swedish Match about a 10 January meeting in which Zammit
suggested a monetary payment
to lift the ban, and in the course
of the investigations she was revealed to have been a possible
accomplice in the bribe request
Zammit made to Gabrielsson on
13 January in her presence.
But the Maltese police never issued any charges against her.
Dalli instead accused OLAF
and the European Commission
of having targeted him “to show
that there was evidence that I was
involved in these types of things,
so they used this meeting that did
not exist as the basis of allegations, to start this investigation.”
Dalli said that he was forced to
resign by EC president José Barroso and was refused a 24-hour
breathing space to consult his
lawyer.
“He took out a paper which he
read out, saying that OLAF were
saying they didn’t have proof of
my involvement… but that they
believed I knew what had happened and I didn’t stop it,” Dalli
said of OLAF’s main accusation:
that he omitted to report the fact
that Silvio Zammit was trading in
influence by using his familiarity
John Dalli on Day: “Catherine Day called my staff an hour later and
told them they would be reporting to a different commissioner and
that the Tobacco Products Directive was in suspended animation,
which meant no more work on the directive”
with John Dalli.
“He told me I had to leave, ‘either
you resign or I fire you. I have two
press releases, depending on what
you do. I will release it at 5pm,
and I have a phone call booked
with the Prime Minister to tell
him that you are finished,’” Dalli
claimed.
“I replied that this was an invention by OLAF, that I had already
been through all this back in Malta,” he said in a brief reference to
his 2004 resignation over false allegations of kickbacks. “I told Barroso, ‘don’t you realise how grave
this would be to my reputation
and my future? Can’t you understand that this would be a death
sentence as far as I’m concerned?’
“I asked for 24 hours. He looked
at his watch and said ‘I’ll give you
30 minutes’… I don’t think it is
normal to fire someone without
telling them what you have been
[accused of]. I was just like a fly;
they dealt with my career just
like that. They had everything
planned, even a commissioner
ready to take my place.”
The first thing to suffer, Dalli
says, was the Tobacco Products
Directive.
“Catherine Day called my staff
an hour later and told them they
would be reporting to a different
commissioner and that the Tobacco Products Directive was in suspended animation, which meant
no more work on the directive.”
Dalli’s biggest question mark remains the role of Swedish Match
and ESTOC in his resignation,
whose motivations were given
scant if any attention at all by
OLAF in its investigation. As the
OLAF report shows, ESTOC’s
secretary-general Inge Delfosse
was informed by Swedish Match
vice-president Patrik Hildingsson – the chairman of the ESTOC
lobby – that Zammit had asked
the company for €60 million; and
then proceeded to record Zammit when he asked for €10 million
from ESTOC. Swedish Match’s
lawyer, Frederik Peyron, then informed Michel Petite of the recording. He in turn informed EC
secretary-general Catherine Day.
“There is nothing wrong with
people coming with their views,
because it gives you time to gather
intelligence and come to intelligent decisions. Swedish Match
tried to get an appointment with
me to explain their point, and
when they didn’t and saw I was
proceeding towards the ban on
snus, they started an entrapment
process.
“They had their target and wanted to [start] a process to set up
their target. Nobody questioned
Swedish Match’s motivation when
they made their report. It is scandalous that they made this allegation and were believed outright,
when they had a vast conflict of
interest in the matter.”
3
News
Nitrogen oxide
emissions from
BWSC plant
exceeding limits
– Auditor General
JURGEN BALZAN
NITROGEN oxide (NOx) emitted
from Delimara’s BWSC power plant
extension exceeds the limits set by
MEPA and the situation does not
seem to be improving, a report by the
Auditor General said.
The project – shrouded in controversy since its inception¬ – was at
the centre of political controversy at
the end of 2012, during the commissioning phase, when extensive faults
in the plant were alleged by the then
Labour opposition and subsequently
reported in sections of the media.
The delay in the commissioning
of the €158 million plant had led to
Marsa power plant turbines to be
switched on again, which cost the
government €3.6 million per month.
In view of these technical shortcomings, the National Audit Office
(NAO) engaged the services of an
expert adviser to assist in its investigation. The report concluded that
despite the fact that not all shortcomings have been resolved, “all have or
are being dealt with”.
The Auditor General pointed
out that it thoroughly investigated
and reported on every fault which
was brought to its attention, or that
emerged during the investigation.
Among the shortcomings investi-
gated by NAO, the report highlights
the plant’s emissions, which have not
been completely resolved.
While the report makes it clear that
there were no problems with emission levels of dust, Sulpher Dioxide
(SO2) andCarbon Monoxide (CO),
there is a problem with NOx.
The Auditor General explains that
“NOx values exceeded the limit on
several occasions, particularly for
stack B, and the situation does not
seem to be improving. There also
seems to be a discrepancy between
the diurnal and monthly values for
NOx.”
The report also explains that Enemalta, which commissioned the plant
from the Danish company BWSC,
was not in a position to explain these
discrepancies and had contacted
BWSC to clarify the matter.
Atmospheric NOx eventually forms
nitric acid, which contributes to acid
rain and inhalation of such particles
may cause or worsen respiratory diseases.
The report added: “Moreover, contrary to the conditions of the Integrated Pollution Prevention Control
(IPPC) permit, emission data was not
being published online. Following
interventions by NAO, data as from
December 2012 was made available
on EMC’s website. Although outside
the scope of this investigation, NAO
The Auditor General’s report on
Delimara plant concludes that not all
defects were resolved and toxic NOx
emissions are in excess of set limits
questions why MEPA failed to monitor requirements that it itself had
established when issuing the IPPC
permit.”
Moreover, the report said that
neighbouring local councils, who
initially were vociferous about a plant
running on heavy fuel oil, “were also
conspicuously missing in their noninsistence of having emission data
made available to the public”.
Other faults and defects investigated by the NAO include the leakages, which the report says was never
wholly resolved.
“Although BWSC and the original
equipment manufacturer Wartsila
took several measures to identify the
source of, and address the problem
of leakages, this was never wholly
resolved. The latest reports available
at the closing-off of this investigation
suggest that the problem might be
due to manufacturing defects,” the
report noted.
Other problems such as the damage
to the steam turbine due to failure of
the strainer that caused most damage to the plant have been resolved
as the steam turbine was re-built and
re-commissioned and no other problems have since ensued.
Ruptured filter bags in the abatement system led to the redesign of
the system and the problem seemed
to have been addressed until a rise
in emissions was observed and a
number of torn filter bags was discovered.
“To solve this problem BWSC decided to cap these bags, in effect making
them redundant. This did not appear
to affect emission levels since data for
the months of January, February and
March 2013 indicated that emissions
of dust were well within limits.”
The replacement for the dump condenser which developed cracks in its
internal paintwork with clear signs of
corrosion quite early on is expected
to be delivered in June 2013.
The Auditor General said the considerable delay in the replacement of
the damaged dump condenser “seems
unwarranted”.
Failure of the limit switch on silo
The failure of the limit switch on
one of the silos containing sodium
bicarbonate caused the spillage of
a considerable quantity of this substance which, being in powder form,
ended up covering a large area around
the silo. However, no real damage
was caused by the spillage. The limit
switch was since reset in a lower position to prevent similar occurrences.
Last year, the Labour Opposition
had alleged that the damages to various components of the plant, resulting from faults and failures during
the testing phase, would have a long-
lasting effect in that these impinged
negatively on the expected life of the
plant.
However, the NAO report concluded that on the basis of the technical
advice obtained, the claim of a compromised plant lifetime cannot be
substantiated.
The report added that due to the
dynamic environment in which the
investigation was conducted, other
issues emerged.
For this reason, NAO widened the
scope of the investigation and in addition to the Labour Opposition’s
allegations, it investigated the issue
of partial taking over, claims and
counter-claims for delay and liability
charges by Enemalta and BWSC, the
status of the maintenance agreement
and the appointment of Enemalta
consultants DNV KEMA.
“Despite the various shortcomings encountered, the major concern
remains whether or not the BWSC
plant has serious faults that will impinge on its lifetime. On the basis of
the technical advice obtained, NAO
concludes that despite the fact that
not all defects have been resolved, all
have or are being dealt with. Moreover, there does not appear to be
enough evidence to suggest that Enemalta was hasty in the taking over
process,” the report concluded.
Debono’s official car had been in
state of disuse for five years
Ministerial car for Franco Debono once belonged to Carm Mifsud Bonnici, but was garaged
while minister used another executive car
MIRIAM DALLI
FORMER Nationalist MP Franco
Debono has denied knowing that the
government vehicle he was given following his appointment as Law Commissioner had been used by former
Minister Carm Mifsud Bonnici – the
same minister forced to resign after
Debono voted against him in a noconfidence motion.
The Volkswagen Passat was allocated originally to Carm Mifsud Bonnici as a “second car” that the minister
for justice and home affairs could use
in addition to his official government
car, a Citroën C5.
The Passat, owned by the justice
ministry, was garaged in 2008 at the
Civil Protection Department.
Mifsud Bonnici first denied to MaltaToday that he claimed a car allowance for not using this second car,
while availing himself of the ministerial Citroën. “At the end of the week I
was entitled to use a second car, allocated to me by the ministry. I paid tax
on the use of this second car, which
represented a fringe benefit.”
Mifsud Bonnici then said he could
not remember whether he had instead
claimed a financial allowance for not
using the car, which was in an apparent state of disuse. “When my official
duties were over after a day’s work, I
would have my ministerial car parked
and I would not use it for personal
matters,” Mifsud Bonnici said.
MaltaToday could not confirm
claims by a government source that
Mifsud Bonnici was paid a car allowance for not using the second car he
was entitled to.
The ministry for justice and home
affairs, which Mifsud Bonnici occupied until home affairs was removed
from his responsibility in 2011, incurred the cost of the upkeep of both
cars. The home affairs ministry then
passed into the hands of the Office of
the Prime Minister, and with that the
Volkswagen Passat started being utilised for the personal use of Lawrence
Gonzi’s wife Kate.
A government source said that it was
a decision of parliamentary secretary
for justice Owen Bonnici, to have the
VW Passat allocated to Franco Debono. “The last thing the parliamentary
secretary had in mind was that it was
Mifsud Bonnici’s. Instead he utilised
a cost that would be serviced by government employees, and that came
at zero-cost, was in good shape, and
owned by the ministry. It was garaged
Franco Debono
for no reason at all.”
On his part, Debono said the allocation of the car was “pure coincidence.
I had no idea the car was the same one
which Mifsud Bonnici used. I only got
to know now.”
In its report published yesterday, the
Times of Malta said that Debono was
now making use of a Volkswagen Passat previously used to chauffeur Mif-
sud Bonnici.
“I had no say in the choice of car...
had I known, I would have opted for
a different one,” Debono said. “The
public is not interested in these ‘petty’
issues, anyway,” Debono said.
The former MP, whose vote against
the 2013 budget forced the sitting PN
to call an immediate election, said
he still expected his former party to
“apologise” for the “cruelty” he endured when his proposed reforms to
the justice and home affairs portfolio found no favour with the government.
His opposition to former minister
Mifsud Bonnici soon became a bone
of contention. “I was condemned for
his shortcomings when all along I was
right. What is being reported by the
new minister shows that my criticism
was correct,” he said, referring to a
recent surprise visit at the Corradino
prisons that revealed eight warders
were away without leave on a regular
basis.
Taking umbrage at the Times’s report, Debono argued that he was being unfairly singled out by the newspaper. “Because of this continuous
incitement, which has been going on
for years, I still have police officers
stationed outside my door,” he said,
adding that the “character assassination” has been ongoing since the 2008
elections.
Debono, now Law Commissioner
and entrusted with coordinating a
forthcoming constitutional convention, said the country “needs a national reconciliation and to focus on
the work that must be carried out in
the country’s interest.”
4
News
Multitudes live within us
She was a transvestite who miraculously survived both
the Nazi and the Stasi regimes. Now, local actor Alan
Paris, under the direction of Nanette Brimmer, will
bring to life the extraordinary true story of Charlotte
von Mahlsdorf… and 36 other characters, in a oneman show
TEODOR RELJIC
IT sure sounds like a challenge.
That’s the one thing that comes to
mind at the mere mention of I Am
My Own Wife, a one-man play by
Doug Wright to be staged by Exit
Stage Right over two weekends ¬–
starting with the next one.
Encompassing the extraordinary
life of German transvestite Charlotte von Mahlsdorf (born Lothar
Berfelde; 1928-2002), the play requires a single actor to take on 37
different characters, acting out a
kind of schizophrenic monologue
for an hour and a half. Veteran local
actor Alan Paris, working under the
direction of Nanette Brimmer, has
stepped up to the plate of this particular challenge.
But as both Paris and Brimmer explain, the project has so far proven
to be less of a laborious slog… and
more of a labour of love.
Brimmer was attracted to the play
ever since she watched it at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival some years
ago, and had pitched it to Paris soon
after.
“At the very moment I got it into
my head to stage this play, the
thought furthest
from my mind was that it was one
actor performing 37 characters,” she
says. “Alan and I have had the script
for five years. Occasionally, over this
period of time, we each picked it up
and glanced through it as we did
with Charlotte von Mahlsdorf’s autobiography. By the time we eventually found the time to produce it, we
were fairly familiar with the characters and the flow of the script.
From the word go, each of us could
have reversed roles because the two
parallel lines merged with such ease
that we were coming up with the
same ideas simultaneously. Alan fulfilled every image I had of Charlotte
and the people entwined in her stories, so rehearsals progressed easily
and as each character developed, so
did the excitement.”
But who was Charlotte von Mahlsdorf?
Born to Max, a member of the Nazi
party in 20s Germany and Gretchen
Gaupp, Charlotte – or rather, Lothar
– betrayed a predilection towards
‘girlish’ things since a very young
age, collecting female clothing and
even helping a second-hand clothes
owner. Never getting along with
her father – who pushed her to join
the Hitler Youth against her will –
Lothar ended up killing him in selfdefence during an argument.
Spending some time in a psychiatric institution before being finally
incarcerated as an anti-juvenile delinquent, Lothar would reinvent
himself as ‘Charlotte’ after the fall
of the Third Reich – becoming a famous cult figure in Germany chiefly for her efforts in antiquarianism,
as she opened a museum of curios
and artefacts from German history,
which would go on to become the
legendary Grunderzheit.
“What I like about her is that she’s
not your cliché, flamboyant, camp
transvestite. She was literally a man
who lived as a woman, very humbly, and that is what is so endearing
about her. People respected her for
it.”
If she was humble, she must also
have been resilient, because her life-
Alan Paris and Nanette Brimmer
style made her a walking target under both the Nazi and Stasi regimes.
Paris is hesitant to betray too much
about how Charlotte went about
manoeuvring through these particularly dangerous obstacles.
“During the times of the Stasi, gay
life was banned in Berlin, and she
rescued the full contents of a gay
bar, moved them into her basement,
and ran a secret gay bar from there,
‘under the watchful eye of the Stasi’.
How exactly she managed this remains something of a mystery…”
All in all, she sounds like an irresistible character to play, for any actor. But embodying 37 different roles
in one play – among them Charlotte’s
repugnant father – brings with it a
whole new set of challenges.
“When I read this I was incredibly
excited and I thought: ‘I definitely
have to do this’. Now that I’m actually doing it, it’s more of a matter of,
‘what the hell have I done!?,” Paris
confesses.
“You don’t realise how huge something like this is until you get into
it… and under it. It’s a real ‘actor’s
piece’ – it’s more like choreography
really, rather than just standard theatre blocking. Don’t get me wrong,
I’m loving it. This is the first time
I’m doing a one-man show and I really look forward to seeing what it’s
like.”
The gender-ambiguity of the play
begs the question: what mind-frame
did Paris get into while embodying
the character of Charlotte in particular?
“In my head, I’m playing a woman. That’s how she lived. She never
made an effort to live like a woman,
she just did. She couldn’t have felt
any other way.”
Joking that the biggest advantage
of directing a one-man show was
that she didn’t have the headache
of negotiating separate schedules
for actors, Brimmer affirms that, in
the end, the most resonant element
of the play is Charlotte’s resilience
to just be herself, even when under
extreme duress.
“The message Charlotte delivers is
that everyone ought to be able to live
their lives according to their choice,
and that people who are regarded as
being different from the rest of society, or shunned by it, can also be
valuable members and contributors
to that same society.”
I Am My Own Wife will be playing at Vault No. 2, Valletta Waterfront over 3-5 and 10-12 May. Tickets at €15 can be purchased from
St James Cavalier (bookings@sjcav.
org, 21 223200, http://tinyurl.com/
cjrmsdm). The play is rated 16
YOUR FIRST CLICK OF THE DAY
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... THE SALE
FROM 2nd MAY
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Experience Counts
137, Antoine De Paule Square, Paola Tel: 2169 2382, 2166 1122
web: www.vdemajo.com.mt email: [email protected]
5
PN Leadership
Simon Busuttil: “Though I’ve always
been loyal to Lawrence Gonzi, I
don’t think I am Lawrence Gonzi…
I’ve disagreed with him in the past”
Francis Zammit Dimech: “The PN’s
headquarters must once again become a
hub of political activity”
Raymond Bugeja: “I am a
conservative with a liberal heart and
a capitalist with a social heart”
IF THE PN WANTS BACK
IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT...
Jam
James
Debono
Deb
WITH few differences in ideology
to contend with, councillors will
be weighing de Marco’s appeal
among floating voters as an agent
of discontinuity after a landslide
defeat and Simon Busuttil’s drive
and personal ambition, which in
many ways mirror Joseph Muscat’s
ascent to power.
For, despite the contribution of
Francis Zammit Dimech through
his deeper sense of history and the
spice added by the candidature of
a complete outsider, entrepreneur
Raymond Bugeja, two clear frontrunners have emerged, namely
former Tourism Minister Mario
de Marco and incumbent deputy
leader Simon Busuttil.
Continuity or change?
Compared to Busuttil, de Marco
seems to represent a greater element of discontinuity as someone detached from the party’s
establishment, even if he served
in Gonzi’s cabinet first as Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of
the Prime Minister, where he was
also responsible for reforming the
Malta Environment and Planning
Authority, and finally as Tourism
PN councillors will be asking themselves an obvious question: who is the
most electable of the four candidates?
Minister in the last year of the
Gonzi administration.
The perception that he was not
the anointed one for the leadership puts him in a better position
to mend fences with the switchers,
who rejected Gonzi-Busuttil in the
last general election.
This is confirmed by surveys
showing de Marco as the preferred
candidate of those former PN voters who switched to Labour.
De Marco’s success as the minister responsible for growth in
tourism and restoring some environmental sanity in MEPA, albeit
at the cost of upsetting the developers’ lobby, adds the spice of political experience to his outsider’s
bid, something which the other
outsider, Ray Bugeja, lacks. Moreover, compared to veteran Francis
Zammit Dimech, de Marco is still
considered new, despite his cabinet experience.
De Marco would have a clear advantage if he’s elected to the top
post: he’ll be able to reach those
disillusioned with the GonziPN
formula.
For, despite his attempts to distance himself from the Gonzi
government, of which he was not
a part, Busuttil was himself the
beneficiary of an elaborate political chess move. It first saw him appointed as Gonzi’s civil-society
envoy and then as the replacement
for Tonio Borg as party deputy
leader after Borg replaced John
Dalli as EU Commissioner, following the latter’s controversial resignation.
In fact, Busuttil has made an ef-
fort to distance himself from the
Gonzi legacy, refusing the label
of Gonzi protégé. “Though I’ve
always been loyal to Lawrence
Gonzi, I don’t think I am Lawrence
Gonzi. I’ve disagreed with him in
the past: the bus fares, the departure tax, maternity leave and the
service pension issue. Where I felt
needed to say no, I did so,” Busuttil
said in an interview with the Sunday Times of Malta.
None has stood up for
traditional or conservative
values. All seem to recognise
that the party cannot win
without appealing to the
liberal voter – but that
the PN majority remains
conservative
Busuttil has also emphasised the
fact that back in December, when
he contested against Tonio Fenech
for the post of deputy leader, he
was opposed by most of Gonzi’s
cabinet.
Countering the perception that
he was himself part of the clique,
Busuttil now argues that the party
needs to shake off the long-held
image, whether accurate or not,
that it is run exclusively by a small
group of people. “Much as this
image may be denied, there is no
doubt that it is perceived as reality,” he says, adding that the new
leadership must make sure there is
no place for cliques or exclusivity.
But the greatest obstacle for Busuttil in his present bid is his failure to save the party’s fortunes in
the last general election, with the
party having lost dramatically after a campaign in which Busuttil
started off as the star who knocked
out Labour’s deputy leader Anglu Farrugia, but ended up heavily
bruised by a series of his own mistakes and gaffes.
Busuttil has not shied away from
self-criticism, displaying a rare
CONTINUES ON PAGE 6
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAY ATTARD
Mario de Marco: “People want
less politics in their everyday
lives but a more effective form
of doing politics”
6
PN Leadership
CONTINUES FROM PAGE 5
quality in Maltese politics and
readily admitting that his infamous “face of a nationalist” remark
was a bad choice of words.
“I could have been more careful
in how I phrased the ‘wicc ta’ Nazzjonalist’ comment... but Labour
also took it out of context and distorted the message.”
Busuttil is also associated with
the PN’s largely negative campaigning, which has been criticised by de Marco.
“I did not like the painted faces
billboard. Neither did I like the
‘blokka silg’ billboards, which were
left in place until just a few days
before the election.”
But despite these not-too-distant
unhappy memories, Busuttil stands
out as the most focused of all four
candidates and the most savvy in
conveying his political message.
Busuttil now
argues that
the party
needs to shake
off the longheld image,
whether
accurate or
not, that it is
run exclusively
by a small
group of
people
A question of experience?
Weighing in Busuttil’s favour is
his experience and standing in the
European Parliament and European People’s Party.
His political achievements include leading the EPP in the Civil
Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee, which deals with
sensitive issues like immigration
and gay rights.
Busuttil’s rise to the top echelons
of a European parliamentary body
is testimony to the ambition of the
young MEP, which puts him in
the same league as Labour leader
Joseph Muscat, who also distinguished himself in the parallel
Party of European Socialists. Echoing PES President Martin Shulz’s
endorsement of Muscat in 2008,
EPP President Joseph Daul has now
endorsed Busuttil.
Busuttil boasts of his role in convincing his colleagues in the EPP
to vote in favour of a resolution
condemning homophobia.
“It was the first time the conservatives have supported this kind of
motion,” Busuttil recalled in an
interview with Raphael Vassallo in
MaltaToday.
In fact Busuttil’s strongest card is
his track record in policy-making,
and one of his most interesting
commitments is to ensure that the
party proposes alternative policies
while in opposition.
While de Marco has been frank
in admitting his reluctance to contest, constantly referring to his initial hesitation and his wife’s vital
role in convincing him at the very
last moment, Busuttil showed little signs of hesitation in contesting
for the PN’s top post.
In an interview with the Times,
de Marco admitted that just hours
before submitting his candidature he was convinced it would
be a mistake for his family, but “at
9pm my wife told me to go for it
because I would not live with my
conscience if I did not.”
In some ways, de Marco’s reluctance to contest and concern about
the impact of his political choices
on his family make him appear
more human and less of a calculating politician.
But Busuttil’s shrewd determination and personal ambition could
make him better prepared for the
trying times ahead.
Facing the third campaign in
row, that for the deputy leadership
in December, the general election
in March and the leadership campaign, Busuttil can rely on his own
proven organisational machine.
For, despite his gaffes, Busuttil
still managed to earn 58 per cent
of the PN vote in the 11th district
and more than 50 per cent on the
ninth, raking in a total of 14,440
votes, the highest number of firstpreference votes after the party
leaders.
Busuttil was the first contender
to come out with a detailed political programme, outlining both his
political vision of a “people’s party” and his plan to reorganise the
party’s fortunes.
The family factor
For his part, de Marco stands out
as the only one of the four candidates who has a wife and children
on his side, something which was
used to full effect by both Gonzi
and Muscat in the 2008 and 2013
elections, but which could become
less effective as discerning voters
start getting irked by the corniness
of this sort of emotional propaganda. In fact , it may well go against
de Marco’s sense of propriety.
De Marco has been careful only
to refer to his family in underlining
the human cost of politics: “I am
the father of two young children,
and my duty is to them first and
foremost. Public life often comes
at a price, and that price is most
often borne by politicians’ immediate families. But I have their
backing, and I feel I can contribute
to the party,” he said.
On the other hand, with Busuttil as leader, the party could be in a
better position to reach out to separated persons and single parents,
categories which were completely
alienated by the party during the
divorce campaign.
Leadership styles
De Marco has also signalled his
aversion to any leadership cult. He
even steers away from his father’s
reputation for seeking the limelight.
“I resemble my mother, not my
father ... My father was an extrovert. I am not. He had a tendency
of taking on things and then seeing
how to handle them, whereas I like
to weigh out the options and take
in the full scenario before deciding,” he said.
De Marco’s sober approach to
leadership augurs for an interesting contrast with Muscat’s highly
flamboyant and personalized leadership style.
Busuttil’s style would probably
be more similar to Muscat’s highoctane ways, even if the PN contender insists that he would make a
distinction between being popular
and being populist.
The challenge for de Marco will
be reaching out to the average Maltese voter, who might find his aristocratic demeanour off-putting.
While as an ex-MEP and party
deputy leader, Busuttil demonstrates greater organisational skill,
de Marco makes up for this with
eloquence and political gravitas,
which is resonant in his highly distinctive voice. It is also extremely
reminiscent of his father’s, even
if he avoids certain of his father’
antics, like greeting passersby or
acquaintances and lifelong friends
Bugeja might capture
the imagination of those
inclined to think that
business acumen is the key
to restoring the party’s
fortunes, but for most, he
suddenly descended from
nowhere
with the same enthusiasm.
While Busuttil comes across as
more structured in setting the
tasks in front of him, de Marco
comes across as a natural in the art
of political persuasion.
The perception that de Marco
is more of a grassroots politician,
while Busuttil is a high-powered
career suit, is also grounded in
the different paths taken by the
two politicians in their political
careers.
While Busuttil owes his rise
to his highly visible role as the
technocratic, albeit friendly,
face of the government’s publicinformation unit before the EU
referendum, de Marco had to
fight his way up at constituency
level, even if his task was facilitated by being the son of a party
patriarch.
No sharp distinctions have
emerged in the political vision of
the four contenders for the post,
though there are notable differences in style and personal political history.
The two outsiders
As the complete outsider in
the race, entrepreneur Raymond
Bugeja has made it spicier, given
his appeal as a businessman who
moves well in politics. He might
capture the imagination of those
inclined to think that business
acumen is the key to restoring
the party’s fortunes, but for most
of the public, he remains an unknown character who suddenly
descended from nowhere to the
political stage. Though recovering from a sound beating, clearly
the PN has not reached the point
where it wants to shake hands
with a Maltese Berlusconi, a
comparison which Bugeja himself was quick to dismiss.
Surely veteran Francis Zammit Dimech has elevated the
discussion with his insights and
understanding of modern politics and communication strategies. Zammit Dimech is also the
best placed to rekindle memories
of days gone by, when the party
headquarters was a hub of activism. One of the central platforms
of his campaign is that the PN’s
headquarters “must once again
7
PN Leadership
become a hub of political activity”
alongside reinvigorated sectional
committees. Surely this has struck
a chord with rank and file activists
who constantly lament the loss of
the Stamperija as a second home.
By contesting, he has also challenged ageist stereotypes which
seem to write off people over 60
from holding positions of leadership.
But being an ex-minister from
the 1990s, he hardly comes across
as the candidate who can represent
change for a new generation of voters.
By now it is clear that two frontrunners have emerged in the race,
namely former Tourism Minister
Mario de Marco and Deputy Leader Simon Busuttil.
Liberal or conservative?
When it comes to political vision, de Marco, Busuttil and Zammit Dimech – the three candidates
who have published a political programme – stand for a social market economy where a liberalised
economy coexists with social solidarity, and all three project themselves to be more socially liberal
than Gonzi and Fenech Adami.
Although during the campaign
de Marco has stressed his party’s
economic liberalism, in the past
he underlined the centre-left credentials of his party, adhering to
Alcide de Gasperi’s definition of
Christian democracy as being of
the centre and looking towards
the left (the definition shared by
his father). Simon Busuttil and
Francis Zammit Dimech are of the
same ilk.
Yet despite paying lip service
to liberal sentiment, at no stage
have any of the candidates articulated how far they will be going in
this direction on issues like civil
unions, same sex marriage and
immigration. Surely none of the
contenders has stood up for traditional or conservative values. It
seems that all recognise that the
party cannot win without appealing to the liberal voter, but they are
also aware that the majority of PN
voters remain conservative.
Perhaps the most imaginative
re-definition of party identity was
made by Raymond Bugeja, who described himself as a “conservative
with a liberal heart” and a “capitalist with a social heart.” In so doing, he was the only one of the four
candidates to fit the right-wing,
yet compassionate label.
Neither did any of the candidates
express themselves on how far the
state should meddle in the economy, even if they identify with the
party’s historical role in liberalising it. The general impression is
that they are all capable of shifting from left to right according to
political exigencies, something in
which Fenech Adami excelled.
Yet with Labour moving towards
the centre ground occupied by the
Nationalist Party, pressure could
mount to reposition the PN on the
centre-right as a way to underline
its identity. But as happened before, the PN could be tempted to
shift to the left if Muscat’s government veers too much to the right.
All in all, it is this ideological flexibility which turned the PN in to
a formidable machine when in opposition, outflanking both old Labour in the 1980s and Alfred Sant
in the late 1990s.
The perception
that de Marco
was not the
anointed
one for the
leadership
puts him in a
better position
to mend fences
with the
switchers, who
rejected GonziBusuttil in the
last general
election
Putting the house in order
So far the candidates have been
most forthcoming in their proposals on reforming internal structures.
All four candidates stand for organisational reform of the party,
making members count more in
party structures, and they tend to
be more socially liberal than both
Lawrence Gonzi and Eddie Fenech
Adami.
De Marco has presented an 18point programme, which includes
a proposal to have a section dedicated to the organisational aspect
of elections, a revamp of sectional
committees, a review of their roles
to keep the party in touch with
society and a reform of the party
media, with the aim of appealing
to floating voters rather than hard
liners. Echoing Zammit Dimech,
de Marco also speaks of the need
of reclaiming the PN headquarters
to be “a hub of political activity
and not represent exclusion as was
the case in recent years.”
Zammit Dimech has proposed
that party candidates should undergo training: “Training would
involve the basics of political
thought, communication, economics and handling different forms
of media, with special emphasis
placed on strategy and being close
to the people – which is more fundamental than anything else.”
Not surprisingly, it is entrepreneur Raymond Bugeja who
presents the most radical solutions
to the party’s dire financial problems, advocating a sort of privatization of its clubs.
“Let’s take the kazini (party
clubhouses) as an example. Does
the PN really need to own its
clubhouses? Would it make more
sense to sell off properties which
it doesn’t need to actually own and
then lease them off the new owners?”
The more policy-oriented Busuttil has proposed the creation of a
commission to review the statute
and structures of the party.
Party headquarters, he said,
needed to be open and attractive
to people, and better use ade of the
party’s properties.
Busuttil has also advocated a
stronger say in decision-making
by party members, proposing the
establishment of two new party
institutions: a conciliation committee to reconcile different views
with the party and an annual
convention every year to give the
membership the opportunity, over
several days, to discuss and draft
policy.
While Busuttil’s most innovative proposal is his emphasis on
involving members in party policy,
de Marco’s most interesting pitch
is his promise to make the party
less partisan in its communication
strategy.
“This is the party that invented
political dialogue – we need to see
less stage-managed events,” he said
referring to Taħt it-Tinda, where
questions to politicians were prepared in advance.
“That is not real dialogue. They’re
good to boost the morale of the
supporters.”
He could also be more in synch
with voters who are less likely to
be bound by rigid partisan allegiance.
“People want less politics in their
everyday lives but a more effective
form of doing politics.”
Crucially, he also targets the
younger generations, acknowledging that it is “no longer cool to be
a Nationalist.” Actually, reaching
out the apathetic segment of the
electorate, which is more easily
Zammit Dimech is also the
best placed to rekindle
memories of days gone by,
when the party headquarters
was a hub of activism
swayed by both sound bites and
effective, small-scale management
of matters directly affecting daily
life, could be one of the greatest
challenges for a party which fared
badly on both fronts in the past
five years.
What the polls are saying
A MaltaToday survey of 500 respondents indicates that while
Simon Busuttil enjoys a clear majority among current PN voters,
Mario de Marco is better placed
to reach out to both Labour voters
and voters who deserted the PN in
the last election. The survey shows
that the other two contenders for
the post, namely former Minister
Francis Zammit Dimech and entrepreneur Raymond Bugeja, do
not enjoy a wide following.
The former Minister for Tourism
Mario de Marco is the preferred
choice of the 500 respondents for
the post of PN leader. He enjoys
a clear 15-point lead over present
PN Deputy Leader Simon Busuttil.
But among Nationalist voters in
the March general election, Busuttil enjoys a strong 9-point lead over
de Marco. Busuttil also enjoys a
slight, 2-point lead over de Marco
among PN voters in the 2008 general election.
De Marco’s overall 15-point lead
over Busuttil is explained by the
latter’s unpopularity among Labour voters and de Marco’s greater
appeal among switchers and voters
who refused to divulge how they
voted in the last general election.
Significantly, de Marco is more
appealing to the electorally strategic category of switchers, who
voted PN in 2008 but switched to
Labour or AD in 2013.
In this category, 57% prefer de
Marco, and only 27% prefer Busuttil.
Not surprisingly, Busuttil registers the lowest levels of support
among Labour voters. Only 7% of
Labour voters would prefer Busuttil as PN leader, and 40% would
prefer de Marco.
CONTINUES ON PAGE 8
8
PN Leadership
CONTINUES FROM PAGE 7
Why did the PN lose the 2013 election?
Francis Zammit Dimech:
“On one level we lost contact, in various
ways, with the people. In parallel, the Labour
Party spent four whole years changing its image and ended up presenting itself as what I
like to describe as ‘PN version 2.0.’” (MaltaToday interview, 31 March)
Ray Bugeja:
“I believe we conducted a campaign that
was too negative... Joseph Muscat, on the
other hand, brought a more positive message
to the campaign: a very Obama-like message, if you ask me. But even without that
difference, the Labour campaign was well
organised and well presented. And bear in
mind that many voters were newcomers to
the political scene, who had no connection
whatsoever to our political past.” (MaltaToday interview, 2 April)
Mario de Marco:
Simon Busuttil:
“The negativity in its billboards and the
fact that it allowed itself to be taken over
by Labour. I totally detested the billboard
portraying Lawrence Gonzi with a blue
face and Joseph Muscat with a red face,
especially when Dr Gonzi was the Prime
Minister of Malta, not just PN leader.”
(Sunday Times interview, 28 April)
“The reasons for what went wrong readily
come to mind: internal divisions, the handling
of water and electricity bills and the honoraria
issue, but also the stream of complaints about
MEPA and the perceived disconnect between
the government and voters. But surely there is
more than meets the eye and there are other
reasons which need to be determined and understood.” (Times article, 13 March)
On their personal role in defeat
Mario de Marco:
“If people say we lost because MEPA
did not issue 36,000 permits, then there
is something wrong with this country. I
have no doubt that MEPA is a contentious
authority and will remain so because its
work cuts both ways. It is always a case
of applicants against objectors, and you
cannot please them both. If the application is accepted, the objectors will lambast MEPA; if it is not, then the contractors lambast MEPA. Needless to say, it is
the disappointed party that is the most
vociferous.” (Malta Independent inter-
view, 28April)
Simon Busuttil:
“I assumed responsibility for my part
in the campaign. I made mistakes, and
I have no problem admitting that. But
at the same time I don’t think it’s a fair
assessment that I should be blamed for
everything that went wrong... bear in
mind that I was not the party leader but
only the deputy: the number two. You
can’t expect to judge me as if I were the
number one...” (MaltaToday interview, 13
April)
On party identity
Francis Zammit Dimech:
“We are inspired by Christian values, yes, but what has always made
the party strong is that it is open
to a multiplicity of different views.”
(MaltaToday interview, 2 April)
Ray Bugeja:
“I am a conservative with a liberal
heart and a capitalist with a social
heart.” (Times interview, 28 March)
Mario de Marco:
“We did not only liberalise the
economy. We also liberalised
thought… it would be a fundamental
mistake for the PN not to recognise
these changes and continue being
a party that was more conservative
than the British Conservative Party,
On Franco Debono
and Jeffrey
Pullicino Orlando
Mario de Marco:
“I think they crossed the line and sometimes there are certain
lines which are too hard to cross back. Rather than talking about
individuals, I would much rather talk about the factions of society we lost… At this point I rule them out because the wounds
are too fresh.” (Times interview, 28 April)
Simon Busuttil:
“Those are closed chapters for the party. They’re pretty much
Labour Party activists now, so there’s no point reaching out to
them. We should focus on where the energy needs to be channelled.” (Times interview, 28 April)
because it would end up representing a minority.” (press conference,
18 April)
Simon Busuttil:
“The PN must reaffirm itself as
a popular party or a people’s party
that is closer to the people. But it
must certainly not become a populist party. Popularity must be sought
in the substance of its message and
not in exploiting people’s concerns
or in promising everything to everyone. Secondly, the party must remain loyal to its roots, because otherwise it would lose its identity. But
likewise, it should also stay in touch
with the ever-changing realities of
modern society.” (Sunday Times article, 4 April)
9
News
Disappointed BirdLife: Galdes should
be called ‘hunting secretary’
HOURS after this year’s spring
hunting season came to an end,
environmental NGO BirdLife
Malta estimates there has been an
increase in illegalities when compared to previous years.
BirdLife staff and Spring Watch
volunteers recorded a total of 895
incidents of illegal hunting in
Malta alone. This includes 53 incidents of protected birds being shot
at or shot down by illegal hunters
and 636 incidents of hunting outside legal hours.
BirdLife Malta, disappointed at
the low number of enforcement
officers out to monitor this year’s
9,500 licenced hunters, also said
Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Rights Roderick Galdes should
have his role renamed ‘Parliamentary Secretary for Hunting’.
“We need the minister to be more
involved in the issue. We found it
difficult to sit on the spring hunting derogation board when at the
same time FKNK was not implementing its zero-tolerance policy,”
said BirdLife executive director
Steve Micklewright.
Addressing a press conference,
Mickelwright said it was unacceptable of Galdes to accuse certain
organisations of ‘sensationalism’.
He also disputed Galdes’s statement that “only 18 birds” had been
shot. According to Micklewright,
the junior minister should know
that these numbers only reflected
birds rescued either by individuals
walking in the countryside or by
the NGO.
“Moreover, by allowing trapping,
the government is not taking a
balanced approach,” Micklewright
said, referring to Galdes’s announcement that the government
would be applying a derogation to
BirdLife Malta’s 40
volunteers during this year’s
spring hunt encountered 53
protected birds being shot
at or shot down, 11 trapping
incidents and 41 protected
birds being shot at
allow bird trapping in autumn.
Condemning the idea, Micklewright said trapping affected the
wild population of birds, though
the NGO was more concerned
about spring hunting.
“We understand that the government has made its own arrangements and agreements with the
hunters and trappers. But it’s time
for the minister to intervene and
reconsider such agreements.”
Micklewright argued that FKNK
was not keeping up its end. “When
it failed to take immediate action
against one of its officials caught
hunting at the Bird Sanctuary,
FKNK showed they are tolerating
illegalities,” he said.
Edwin Vella, the official mentioned, has now resigned.
Information gathered by BirdLife
Malta’s 40 volunteers during this
year’s spring hunt encountered 53
protected birds being shot at or
shot down, 11 trapping incidents
and 41 protected birds being shot
at.
The numbers of (shot) injured
and dead protected birds recovered by BirdLife Malta this year
amounted to 20, compared to 12
in 2012 and 21 in 2011.
On Sundays, BirdLife registered
more than 600 incidents of illegal
hunting.
The 2013 hunt saw the participation of 9,500 licensed hunters,
thanks to the abolition of the €50
fee. According to BirdLife, this allowed the number of hunters to
double.
Every hunter this year was allowed a maximum quota of four
SAYING IT AS IT IS SAVIOUR BALZAN
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Roderick Galdes
birds. Micklewright said BirdLife
was still waiting to analyse the
intensity of hunting it reported
as compared to that reported by
hunters.
BirdLife’s conservation manager, Nicholas Barbara, noted that
this year’s migration of birds over
Malta appears to have been better than in the past, adding that it
was, however, too early to say.
BirdLife volunteers also reported
having only observed 19 enforcement officials (excluding army
personnel, called in for the last
days), compared to the 66 officials
which should have been patrolling
the countryside.
Micklewright also announced
that the team was working relentlessly to prepare a report on the
season and send it to the European
Commission as quickly as possible.
BirdLife also intends to continue
talks with the European Union
in order to see how enforcement
could be ensured.
While criticising FKNK for having driven a wedge between the
two organisations, Micklewright
said he looked forward to sitting
once again with the hunters and
finding common ground on which
to work together to safeguard protected birds.
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Website: www.maltatoday.com.mt E-mail: [email protected]
Editorial
Your job is not a copy-paste
That the new government says it
needs trustworthy people is fine.
That does not mean the people
given this trust should be blind
political supporters unwilling to
question their master’s orders.
But what has happened so far is
not encouraging.
This newspaper was not
surprised with the change that
took place in March, but it does
not agree that the appointments
made so far all point in the right
direction. There are way too many
thank-you appointments and
ones that could have been avoided
altogether.
The appointment of former PN
maverick Franco Debono and
former PN mayor Robert Musumeci are cases in point.
But there are others.
That change brings a breath of
fresh air is understood, but that
merit plays no part in most of the
choices is sad, to say the least.
We at MaltaToday believe in
meritocracy, not as a slogan but
as a solution to this country’s
endemic political mediocrity.
That the rhetoric of blue and red
means nothing – yet means so
much among the criteria of board
appointments is distressing.
Joseph Muscat should have
ensured that many of the board
appointments were transitory, before the establishment of a proper
structure, such that the boards
were comprised, ultimately, of experienced people who have something substantial to contribute.
It is also disheartening to note
that those PN dissidents who
broke ranks were the first to be
recognised for their contributions.
It was very much welcomed that
the old faces that dominated the
boards, committees and entities
were asked to leave and replaced
with new faces.
But change in itself is not
enough.
This newspaper understands
that in positions of trust and positions wherein abuse was rampant,
there was no point in keeping the
same old faces. Fear of removing
certain individuals because of the
golden handshakes that happened
before the election should be
contested in a court of law – most
especially in those cases where
appointments were made without
a call for applications.
But our real concern is that the
whole exercise of change has been
scuttled, since the raison d’être
of appointments was basically a
copy-paste of the previous administration’s.
It will only be a matter of time
before boards that are dominated
by party cronies get involved in
the wrong decisions and, more
significantly, in gatekeeping
exercises.
The talk of meritocracy that was
such an eloquent bit of Labour
marketing in the run-up to the
election has turned out to be a
false dream.
It is clearly very easy to talk
meritocracy but a completely
different matter to walk it:
implementation is another beast
entirely.
It gets worse when it becomes
apparent that the appointees are
in so many ways far from competent and have been selected only
because of their allegiance and
their support for the government
in power.
A meritocracy does not come
about by erecting billboards with
pretty faces and praising the ideal.
It comes about through reform
and putting your money where
your mouth is.
When former PN Secretary General Joe Saliba – who simply disappeared upon the announcement
of the 2013 PN defeat – proposed
in the 2008 electoral manifesto
that board appointments should
be followed by a call for applications, his suggestion was welcomed with amusement.
It was never implemented
because it was impractical. But in
reality the proposal was a reaction
to public outcry – that is, the assertion that boards, consultancies
and other appointments must be
based on ability and merit rather
than political affiliation.
The model underpinning
Maltese political life is that many
enter politics because they want
something in return.
We wonder if Muscat’s institutional reform also includes a
change in mentality respecting
appointments. Our hunch is that
he has missed the boat.
And we can’t help but think that
all he has done is copy and paste
the faults of the previous administration.
11
Opinion
Barroso’s EU legacy is one of
failure and bullying small states
José Manuel Barroso’s administration is arguably a bully among small Member States and a
wallflower among the big boys, reports PublicServiceEurope.com, as we assess the European
Commission president’s last two mandates
JUSTIN STARES
W
ould European Health
Commissioner John
Dalli have been forced
to resign if he were Germany’s
man in Brussels, rather than
Malta’s? Most definitely not.
Dalli was bundled out of the
Berlaymont building following
a meeting of the European
Commission equivalent of the
medieval English star chamber,
presided over by commission
president José Manuel Barroso.
He was given no time to consider
his position and much of the
evidence leveled against him –
he stands accused of corruption
– has since been revealed to be
circumstantial. His manhandling
was, however, not unusual; tiny
Malta and its representatives
have been regularly beaten up
since Barroso took charge.
Other European Union
minnows such as Cyprus and
Greece have also been on the
receiving end of what one MEP
recently called neo-colonial
behaviour. As the only political
body in the Troika – which
also includes the International
Monetary Fund and the European
Central Bank – the commission
was ideally placed to speak up
in defence of small Cypriot
depositors against the heartless
technocrats who rule the IMF
and ECB. But not a squeak
was heard. The Greek people,
meanwhile, were threatened with
expulsion from the eurozone if
they dared to vote the wrong way
in national elections. As Athens
has few votes in the Council of
Ministers, it was no surprise to
see Barroso on Italian television
putting the boot in.
But arguably like the most
cowardly bully strutting around
the school playground, Barroso’s
administration transforms
into a wallflower as soon as
someone of greater political
stature appears on the scene. Big
Member States under his double
mandate have been able to do as
they please. Not only have they
gone unpunished for repeatedly
breaking the EU’s stability
and growth pact, the big two
– France and Germany – have
been given a free hand to kill off
laws considered too sensitive
for domestic business lobbies.
Those in Brussels who watch
copyright issues say Paris has
been instrumental in ensuring no
fundamental reform has hit the
statute books. Berlin has forced
Barroso to drop legislation on
collective redress for victims of
cartels.
In return for this blind
obedience, the major powers have
given Barroso absolutely nothing
other than a seat at their table.
They have, in fact, collectively
ignored him since they day of his
designation. Cast your mind back
far enough and you might recall
that Barroso asked governments
to nominate three commissioners
each, so he could choose from a
shortlist. They all sent just one
name.
This pre-match warm up went
badly and the new commission
president’s first foray in the
premier league soon came to a
humiliating end. He tried to ram
through acceptance of his team
of commissioners which included
Italy’s Rocco Buttiglione, the
man who reportedly believed
homosexuality to be a sin. Just
hours before the vote, Barroso
realised he was about to go down
in history as head of the first
Brussels executive to be rejected
by its long-time ally – the
European Parliament. He chose
to save his skin and ordered a
retreat.
The former Portuguese prime
minister was soon put through
the mangle once more following
revelations that he and his family
had holidayed on the yacht of a
Greek shipping tycoon shortly
before Brussels approved a multimillion euro grant to one of the
tycoon’s businesses. Accusations
of cronyism were of course
“nonsense”, his press team rushed
to stress. But some of the mud
stuck. A motion of no confidence
moved by Nigel Farage of UKIP
– a largely unknown politician at
the time – received support from
around 80 MEPs and was duly
tabled; forcing the EU’s top dog
into a humiliating defence in the
assembly – while Eurosceptics
gloated from the public gallery.
But the low point in Barroso’s
Brussels career was surely
the failure of the European
Constitution. Not only did this
treaty-to-end-all-treaties go
belly up on his watch, he had to
intervene to prevent the EU elite
from suffering the ignominy of
witnessing a majority of Europe’s
peoples give them the thumbs
down at the ballot box. After the
His manhandling was,
however, not unusual;
tiny Malta and its
representatives have
been regularly beaten
up since Barroso took
charge
Jose Manuel Barroso
Dutch and the French said ‘no’
– Barroso called for remaining
votes to be cancelled. There was
a danger, he said, of “contagion”.
A statement more worthy of a
dictator than a democrat.
Under his leadership, the
Brussels executive has gone from
protector of small Member States
to their persecutor. In the past,
the commission was unafraid
to shine a light on the future
path of Europe. It has now sunk
to become the proponent of the
lowest common denominator.
Anything for an easy life. If
his actions in the political
arena will not distinguish him,
Barroso’s contribution to the
academic debate – his vision of a
“federation of nation states” – is
unlikely to have a more lasting
effect either. After initially
passing the phrase off as his own,
he has now begun to attribute it
to Jacques Delors – the former
commission president. But no
one is yet quite sure what it
means.
With only a year of Barroso’s
mandate left to suffer, all eyes
are in search of a successor. If the
upcoming EP elections provide a
centre-left majority, the current
parliament president Martin
Schulz – a German Socialist
– could become a favourite.
Luxembourg’s Viviane Reding
– European Commissioner for
Justice, Fundamental Rights and
Citizenship – has been throwing
her weight around conspicuously
of late and is also in with a shout.
Reding’s recent target has been
Budapest and Hungarian attacks
on the rule of law, although
she was not afraid to take on
the French government over
its expulsions of Roma people.
But can anyone salvage the
commission’s reputation now
that it has sunk so low? It will
take someone with great clarity
of vision and strong leadership.
Skill sets that some might argue
have been lacking under the
incumbent president.
Read more: http://tinyurl.com/
cd8s4p5
VACANCIES IN THE
MEDIA INDUSTRY
Journalist
MediaToday is seeking the services of a full-time
journalist. The ideal applicant must be fluent in both
in Maltese and English and have very good writing
skills in both languages. The applicant must be
willing to work weekends and holidays and on shifts.
The candidate for this job must be outgoing and
willing to work under pressure.
Experienced Sales & Marketing Executive
MediaToday is seeking the services of an
experienced sales and marketing executive to
work full-time. Applicants must be willing to work
in a team. They must be in a possession of a valid
driving licence and a car, and be fluent in both
English and Maltese.
All applicants must send in a CV together with any valid
testimonials and/or references to:
The Managing Editor
MediaToday, Vjal ir-Rihan, San Gwann,
SGN 9016, Malta
12
BUSINESS & FINANCE
Public notices
NEUTRON FUND SICAV PLC
SURRENDERS LICENCE
Neutron Fund SICAV plc (the Scheme)
has surrendered its licence granted by
the Malta Financial Services Authority
with effect from 26 April 2013. The
surrender was voluntary in nature and
does not arise as a result of any action
taken by the MFSA.
CONFERENCES, SEMINARS AND
EVENTS
5 – 6 June 2013 – ICC Malta
International Financial Crime Forum
Examining financial fraud, due diligence
and financial intelligence
Description: The forum presents
delegates with the latest in fraud
trends and developments and assists
in dealing with financial crime, money
laundering and counter terrorism
financing issues. Best practice ideas
will be shared with an aim to influence
anti-fraud and money laundering
initiatives with government officials
and financial sector decision-makers.
It is aimed at individuals from financial
sector institutions, international banks,
financial institutions, regulators and
law enforcement agencies.
Location: Hilton Malta, St Julian’s
Price: 900 (includes tuition,
documentation, lunches, coffee, breaks
and Forum dinner
Individuals representing companies
located in Malta and regulated by the
MFSA will be charged a discounted
price of €500
Closing date: 6 May 2013
Web: www.icc-ccs.org/malta2013
Tel: +44 (0)2074236960
Email: [email protected]
24 – 27 June 2013 – Islamic Finance
Workshop
Understanding Islamic securitisation,
Sukuk structures and documentation,
restructuring of sukuk and post default
scenario
Description: Islamic Finance represents
the way of conducting financial
transactions that comply with Sharia
(Islamic law). This industry is one fo the
fastest growing segments within the
financial services industry, attracting
condiserable interets and participation
from governments and major financial
institutions from both the Islamic world
and beyond. The aim of the workshop
is to develop the essential knowledge
and skills required to understand Sukuk
structures, Islamic securitization and
the underlying documentation along
with restructuring options relevant
to Sukuk. The workshop is aimed at
conventional bankers wishing to learn
about Sukuk, Islamic bankers and
consultants, corporate governance
compliance officers, lawyers involved in
the documentation of Islamic financing
transactions and anyone else seeking
a better understanding of Islamic
Finance.
Location: Malta Financial Services
Authority (MFSA), Mriehel
Email: Sarah Suda on ssuda@
maltamanagement.com, Ilona Cristauro
on [email protected]
Air Malta’s restructuring programme
begins to bear fruit
In an article on www.flightglobal.
com, a news site for the airline industry, Air Malta CEO, Peter Davies reported that despite difficulties,
the restructuring programme of the
airline has begun to bear to fruit.
Old model carriers have been slow
to adapt to the changing market place
brought about by low cost carriers,
resulting in companies earning huge
losses. Cyprus’ national air carrier
has shown similar problems, as a
government-owned
“destination
airline” that thrives on leisure
passengers, falling behind as low
cost carriers take over the market.
Though Malta and Cyprus bear
some similarities, Cyprus has been
searching for foreign
investors
and
needs
government
assistance
to keep it flying through
the summer while the
Maltese model has bitten
the bullet and taken on a
painful restructuring
programme.
Davies said that
when he joined Air Malta
in 2011 he found “a bad
business with all sorts of problems
that needed fixing.” However he
insists that these sorts of businesses
can still have a role to play.
He justifies the existence of flag
carriers as they keep the country,
that is heavily reliant on tourism,
from becoming vulnerable to low
cost airlines.
“The values of Air Malta are
Malta. The vales of Ryanair are
Ryanair, and there is a big difference
between the two,” he said. “The low
cost airlines can move their aircraft
around. So strategically you could
be vulnerable, and if there is no
competitive element, fares would
rise and passengers could have
to pay more to fly on a low cost
airline than on an airline like Air
Malta.”
Davies expects a significant
reduction in losses for the year ended
March 2013. Losses are expected to
reach €15 million as opposed to
the projected operation loss in the
adjusted budget of Air Malta two
years ago of €55 million.
National airline Air Malta
registered a €30 million operating
loss at the end of its financial year
in March 2012, registering an
improvement of €4.3 million over
2011.
Air Malta’s CEO was the guest
speaker at the European Regional
Airline Association (ERA) annual
conference in Edinburgh this
week. This conference, attended
by around 200 delegates from
various European airlines, centred
on the core issues affecting today’s
aviation in Europe.
During the conference’s first
session entitled, ‘Facing today’s
challenges to achieve a more stable
future’, Davies addressed the issue
of how the European regional
aviation industry is facing up to
today’s challenges that include the
Eurozone crisis, unpredictable fuel
costs, consumer behaviour and EU
aviation policy decisions.
Eurozone jobless rate hits 12.1%
The unemployment rate in the Eurozone has reached a record high of
12.1% causing a decline in the value
of the Euro against all of its major
peers, raising speculation that the
European Central Bank will cut interest rates as soon as this week.
The Eurostat figure for March 2013
increased to the seasonally adjusted
12.1% in line with expectations and
up from the February figure of 12%.
This unemployment rate is the
highest ever recorded since the
Eurozone’s creation and the highest
since Eurostat began to monitor
jobless levels in 1995 at 19.2 million
people.
The highest levels of joblessness
were recorded in Greece, Spain
and Portugal with declines also
being reported in France and even
in Germany. Spain in particular
continues to be of concern as data
released on Tuesday showed that the
nations GDP fell by 0.5% compared
with the previous quarter. Malta’s
unemployment rate for April 2013
was registered at 6.5%.
On an annual basis, Spain’s
economy shrank 2% in the quarter –
the worst fall since the end of 2011.
Last week Spain’s government cut
its forecast for 2013, saying it now
expected the economy to shrink
by 1.3%. Almost 60% of people
aged under-25 is out of work. The
jobless number is the highest since
at least 1976, the year after Dictator
Francisco Franco’s death heralded
Spain’s transition to democracy.
The Euro could weaken further
over the course of the day as Cyprus
gets ready to vote whether it will
accept the terms of a bailout imposed
by its EU partners. It is likely to be
approved by a thin margin but any
surprises will likely send the singlecurrency downwards against the
safe-haven US Dollar.
The rate of inflation has also
shown a record decrease of 1.2%
in April 2013 compared with 1.7%
in March, the highest monthly
reduction recorded in more than
four years, highlighting the state of
the economy as it falls deeper into
recession.
Looking at the main components
of euro area inflation, food, alcohol
& tobacco is expected to have the
highest annual rate in April, 2.9%
compared with 2.7% in March,
followed by services 1.1% compared
with 1.8% in March, non-energy
industrial goods, 0.8% compared
with 1.0% in March and energy,
-0.4% compared with 1.7% in
March.
13
BUSINESS & FINANCE
Money Market Report for the week ending
19 April 2013
ECB Monetary Operations
On Monday, 15 April, the European
Central Bank (ECB) announced its
weekly main refinancing operation
(MRO). The auction was conducted
on Tuesday, 16 April, and attracted
bids from euro area eligible
counterparties of €116.37 billion,
€2.98 billion lower than the bid
amount in the previous week. The
amount was allotted in full at a fixed
rate equivalent to the prevailing
MRO rate of 0.75%, in accordance
with current ECB policy.
On Tuesday, 16 April, the ECB
conducted an auction for a sevenday fixed-term deposit intended
to absorb €206.0 billion. This
operation was designed to sterilise
the effect of purchases made under
the Securities Markets Programme
that were settled but had not yet
matured by the previous Friday, 12
April. The auction was carried out
at a variable rate, with euro area
eligible counterparties allowed to
place up to four bids at a maximum
Regular market closed - 30/4/2012
Symbol Code
Volume Traded Value Traded Trades
High Price Low Price
Open Price
Close Price
Change
Twap
▼
BOV
13849
31742.770
5
2.300
2.286
2.300
2.299
-0.001
2.292
●
FIM
16795
16795.000
1
1.000
1.000
1.000
1.000
0.000
1.000
▲
GO
5000
7939.500
4
1.590
1.587
1.587
1.590
0.005
1.588
▲
HSB
57401
149964.260
21
2.670
2.600
2.665
2.670
0.070
2.613
▲
IHG
8000
4800.000
1
0.600
0.600
0.600
0.600
0.050
0.600
▲
IHI
9000
7310.000
2
0.830
0.790
0.790
0.830
0.040
0.812
●
LOM
4500
8775.000
1
1.950
1.950
1.950
1.950
0.000
1.950
▼
G13A
13977
14413.080
1
103.120
103.120
103.120
103.120
-0.050
103.120
▲
G17C
82000
89757.200
2
109.460
109.460
109.460
109.460
0.120
109.460
▲
G19CA
375600
384655.260
2
102.440
102.410
102.440
102.410
0.140
102.410
▲
G20B
10000
11167.000
1
111.670
111.670
111.670
111.670
0.030
111.670
▲
G21A
86422
98659.360
5
114.160
114.160
114.160
114.160
0.100
114.160
▲
G22B
530800
574503.680
7
108.260
108.230
108.260
108.260
0.160
108.230
▲
G28A
82100
86927.480
6
105.880
105.880
105.880
105.880
0.020
105.880
●
G28B
516800
528517.560
24
102.270
102.250
102.270
102.250
0.000
102.270
▲
G29A
10000
10976.000
1
109.760
109.760
109.760
109.760
0.150
109.760
▲
G30A
260700
288073.500
7
110.500
110.500
110.500
110.500
0.170
110.500
▲
G31A
62800
68106.600
2
108.450
108.450
108.450
108.450
0.190
108.450
●
FB13A
39000
39000.000
3
100.000
100.000
100.000
100.000
0.000
100.000
▼
FB19A
28400
28687.500
5
101.500
100.000
101.500
100.000
-1.500
101.010
▲
GH20A
9500
9804.950
1
103.210
103.210
103.210
103.210
0.160
103.210
●
IH19A
50000
51500.000
2
103.000
103.000
103.000
103.000
0.000
103.000
●
MC16A
50000
51880.000
4
103.760
103.760
103.760
103.760
0.000
103.760
●
MI17A
4800
4991.900
2
104.000
103.990
103.990
104.000
0.000
104.000
▲
MO19A
30000
31503.000
1
105.010
105.010
105.010
105.010
0.010
105.010
●
TI16A
20000
20600.000
1
103.000
103.000
103.000
103.000
0.000
103.000
rate of 0.75%. It attracted bids
amounting to €264.42 billion, with
the ECB allotting €206.0 billion or
77.91% of the total bid amount. The
marginal rate on the auction was set
at 0.05%, with the weighted average
rate at 0.04%.
On Wednesday, April 17, the
ECB conducted a seven-day US
dollar funding operation through
collateralised lending in conjunction
with the US Federal Reserve. This
operation was carried out at a
fixed rate of 0.64% and attracted
no bids from euro area eligible
counterparties.
Domestic Treasury Bill Market
In the domestic primary market
for Treasury bills, the Treasury
invited tenders for 91-day and 182day bills maturing on 19 July and 18
October, 2013, respectively. Bids of
€26.5 million were submitted for
the 91-day bills, with the Treasury
accepting €20.7 million, while bids
The rates quoted above are against the EURO.
of €20.0 million were submitted
for the 182-day bills, with the
Treasury accepting €8.0 million.
Since €20.0 million worth of
bills matured during the week, the
outstanding balance of Treasury
bills increased by €8.7 million, to
stand at €293.30 million.
The yield from the 91-day bill
auction was 0.699%, i.e. 0.3 basis
point lower than on bills with a
similar tenor issued on 12 April
2013, representing a bid price of
99.8236 per 100 nominal. The
yield from the 182-day bill auction
was 0.860%, i.e. 0.3 basis point
higher than on bills with a similar
tenor issued on 12 April 2013,
representing a bid price of 99.5671
per 100 nominal.
During the week under review,
there was no trading on the Malta
Stock Exchange.
On Tuesday, the Treasury invited
tenders for 182-day bills maturing
on 25 October 2013.
14
BUSINESS & FINANCE
Empowering girls for ICT
James Abela and Matthew Sammut, directors of the Institute of Computer Education, speak to NESTOR LAIVIERA about
Malta’s part of a global initative towards gender balance in ICT
What is Girls in ICT Day?
Why is important to celebrate or
commemorate it?
International Girls in ICT day is
an initiative hosted locally by the
Institute of Computer Education,
Malta, with the support of the
International Telecommunications
Union (ITU) as well as the European
Parliament. The aim of the event
celebrated extensively all over the
world is to empower and encourage
girls and young women to consider
careers in the growing field of
information and communication
technology. As one of the island’s
leading ICT institutes with an aim
to continue to ensure that students
achieve worldwide certifications
we believe that apart from our
being organizers of this annual
celebration, Malta must also design
events during the year leading to
this special day – events which
leave their mark on the international
Girls in ICT Day calendar and bring
together leading ICT professionals to
truly position our island’s as an ICT
hub of excellence whilst encourage
more females to embark on a career
in ICT.
ICE Malta was chosen as the
venue for this year’s International
Girls in ICT initiative. What does
this mean for Malta as a country and
for its female ICT professionals?
Admittedly we were surprised
and rather disappointed when we
were told by the project coordinator
of Girls in ICT Day that almost 90
countries took part in last year’s
event and Malta was not on the
list. We immediately embarked on
making the 2013 event one of our
main priorities and scheduled it in our
calendar, as we feel that it is essential
to have a more gender-balanced ICT
sector in the island. We recognize
that as ambassadors for Girls in ICT
Day, this event was not just for the
students attending our institute but
should be celebrated by all ICT
institutes and entities and therefore
decided to reach out to private and
public offices for their accreditation
and support. We were pleased to
find the encouragement of many
high profile females who accepted
our invitation and recognized the
importance of this event. Although
time constraints were the biggest
challenge,
we
extended
our
invitation to students from other
institutes such as MCAST to truly
live up to our title of Girls in ICT
ambassadors and to inspire females
studying ICT. Being the founders
of what will hopefully become an
annual celebration will definitely be
looked upon as one of our ICE Malta
milestones. We have marked the
importance of this event and have
recognized why it is significant for
our islands to make extreme efforts
to ensure that female participation in
the ICT sector continues to increase.
The networking celebration was
invigorating and ended up being
part celebration part brainstorming
between top ICT entrepreneurs,
enthusiasts and key female ICT
creatives, discussing plans for next
year and how we can make this
event even more beneficial truly,
showing that when we do give space
for networking and sharing ideas
we create even more opportunities
for our islands. One would say
that Malta’s first official Girls in
ICT celebration was highlighted
by the female ability to multi-task
– celebrating and organizing at the
same time!
What was the interest from local
ICT employers with regard to
Girls in ICT Day? Did many come
forward to participate?
ICE Malta welcomed some of the
island’s top high-profile females
working in the ICT industry for the
first ever celebration of Girls in ICT
Day. As ambassadors for this global
celebration, the ICE Malta team
invited women who were clearly
extremely significant in positioning
the Maltese islands on the ICT
world map, to share their stories,
discuss career challenges and
aspirations and of course to meet
budding young female students who
dream of being part of this exciting
industry. Females from MITA,
MCA, SmartCity Malta, Malta
Enterprise, Connexo, University of
Malta, The Foundation of Female
Entrepreneurs, TRC and 6pm,
among others immediately accepted
our invitation. We were particularly
pleased with the enthusiasm shown
by the marketing team of TRC
who not only invited a number of
their local and foreign female staff
to share their ideas and join in the
celebration but also embarked on
a PR campaign to create as much
awareness as possible. TRC’s
involvement in this celebration was
truly the cherry on the cake, as apart
from bringing together females from
various ICT sectors we also shared
stories, ambitions and aspirations of
females who have worked in the ICT
James Abela and Matthew Sammut, directors of ICE Malta
industry in some of the world’s most
prestigious media and ICT networks
and organizations internationally,
now based in the Maltese islands.
All guest profiles may be found on
www.icemalta.com
What is ICE Malta’s take on the
current situation regarding the
level of female employment in the
ICT industry?
Globally it is estimated that
the world shortfall in skilled
ICT professionals exceeds two
million. Locally, our challenge is
even greater than this. Apart from
encouraging students, both male
and female to embark on a career
in ICT knowledge we must ensure
that our ICT work force is as gender
balanced as possible. While the
number of female students continues
to increase semester after semester,
we feel that initiatives such as
Girls in ICT day should be in the
educational calendar as well as
given the necessary support by the
media.
What are the leading obstacles
that women find either when
they are trying to pursue an ICT
education trying to get into the ICT
industry or trying to advance once
in the ICT industry?
First of all we believe that as a
nation we must recognize that this
is not merely a challenge but an
opportunity. All over the world we
Karen Cuschieri (6PM), Anna Genovese (Malta Enterprise), Fabienne Ruggier (MITA), Helga Pizzuto (MCA), Angele Giuliano
(Foundation of Female Entrepreneurs)
have acknowledged that we must
encourage more female participation
– this means that we are accepting
that the ICT industry is a sector
which can be the foundation of an
extremely successful industry on our
islands. This should therefore excite
every talented, ambitious woman out
there, as this industry is giving them
a chance to make the most of their
potential. The perception in most
countries including Malta is that
the ICT sector is a male-dominated
industry still persists, yet from
our local events we have clearly
established that females have key
positions in a number of key ICT
companies on our islands. These
success stories must be shared and
these females should be recognized
as role models. Parents, teachers,
career guidance counsellors and
recruiters need to shift their own
mindsets to acknowledge that ICT
careers are an important and viable
opportunity for girls. And in order
to secure initial gains made, women
already active in the ICT sector
need to take time to engage with
community initiatives to mentor girls
and young women and participate in
virtual and face-to-face communities
of practice. This should be the root
of it all.
Is the ICT industry still perceived
to be a ‘man’s world?’ Why does ICE
think this is the case? What can be
done to counter that perception?
‘Perceived’ is the key word in this
question as perception implies that
this is what it seems to be rather
than what it truly is. Perception also
assumes that the real picture is not
being given the importance it deserves
and is not being communicated
well or is not being communicated
to its full potential. Furthermore,
using the world perception, opens
a window of opportunity giving
light to the fact that if all industry
players join forces this so called
‘perception’ can be conquered and
the perception will change into
what the industry truly is and needs.
Bottom line, engaging women and
girls in ICT sector work is smart
business. Gender diversity in high
value ICT jobs in both management
and on companies’ boards is good
for business performance. More
diverse teams make better informed
decisions, leading to less risk-taking
and more successful outcomes for
companies. Over time, therefore,
a nation’s ICT competitiveness
depends significantly on whether
and how it educates and utilizes its
female skills.
What is the best way to address
them and facilitate the education,
entry, and advancement, of female
ICT professionals in the local and
global ICT industry?
As
EU
Digital
Agenda
Commissioner
Nellie
Kroes
commented, “We want our young
people to be exposed to ICT in
school from the very beginning and
we want teachers who are confident
to share their knowledge.” The
Maltese islands has made substantial
investment in ICT in schools over the
last few years, more than doubling
the number of computers in its
classrooms between 2006 and 2012,
according to the survey carried out
by the European Commission Malta
was surpassed only by Ireland. This
means that we’re on the right track
but it does not mean that our job
is done – it’s just the beginning.
Governments need to continue to
give priority to promoting ICT skills
in primary, secondary and higher
education. The curricula need to
reinforce each other at different
levels, from computer camps for pre
secondary schools to specific ICT
classes right through to mentoring
and internships.
Malta is constantly being
rebranded as an ICT hub of
excellence. Are we doing enough
to nurture and develop our female
human potential in this regard?
What more can be done?
Stating that we are doing enough
is far from reality but on the other
hand we must celebrate the work and
success that has been accomplished
– this should be recognized as it
will drive us continue to embrace
opportunities and achieve further
success and milestones which will
form part of a great ICT history
for the Maltese islands. With the
constant branding of Malta as an
ICT hub of excellence and constant
referral to our islands as ‘SMART
islands’, we feel that is of utmost
importance to ensure that our
workforce has the necessary ICT
skills and world wide recognized
certifications to ensure that locally
we are exceptional contenders for
careers in the ICT industry all over
the world. We must acknowledge the
relevance of the titles we have given
ourselves and do our best to live up
to our own titles so that we continue
to inspire and achieve constant
success.
15
BUSINESS & FINANCE
No to austerity… yes to
business stimulus
Marilyn Mifsud
Overall, the March incentive-based
legal notices favour the tax-payer.
However, one needs to take in the
whole picture which includes certain
niceties that are relevant to the overall
feasibility and utility of the aforementioned.
Looking at Legal Notice 101 of
2013, the Micro-Loan Guarantees
regulations target enterprises facing
difficulties in obtaining a conventional
bank loan. Typically, this would
catch within its grasp those startup enterprises that would be facing
such a financing difficulty owing to
them translating into high-risk in loan
terms. The incentive offered here is in
the form of a guarantee and not the
provision of credit per se, as Malta
Enterprise takes upon itself to act as
a (partial) guarantor in view of those
enterprises carrying out a ‘qualifying
activity’ as defined in the rules.
At the off-set this clarifies the point
that this incentive is not meant to
act as the Hercules to those damselin-distress enterprises encountering
financial distress but rather as a
support system to allow new ventures
to breathe a breath of fresh air into the
market.
An up-side of this incentive is that it
applies equally to incorporated entities
and to self-employed individuals,
provided the latter employ not more
than 20 persons and provided the
latter have an annual turnover which
does not exceed €4 million.
A contained anti-abuse provision
reminds that linked enterprises do
not qualify as eligible enterprises,
thus forestalling the likelihood of
the overall same persons receiving
the assisted loan guarantee benefit
multiple times. Such a provision is
common to many of our laws which
seek to prevent the fabrication of
circumstances which have the aim of
avoiding the spirit of the law. Thus,
just as within taxation an enterprise
cannot divide a project into multiple
short contracts given to related
companies in order to avoid qualifying
as a permanent establishment whose
income would be taxable, similarly,
an enterprise here cannot artificially
segregate ties with related companies
to create an artificial entitlement to a
benefit claim multiple times.
Among the niceties of eligibility lies
a capping of €100,000 which the loan
cannot exceed. In response to this, if
upon consideration Malta Enterprise
deems it fit to act as guarantor, Malta
Enterprise can employ its exposure
capped to a maximum of 80%, that is
€80,000.
A criticism that has been launched
at this incentive has been the ‘pricetag’ on such partial loan guarantee,
which in comprising a 2% interest
payable by way of premium, would
effectively raise total interest payable
to around 9% (where a risky loan is
assumed to trigger an interest rate of
around 7%), thus rendering somewhat
questionable the ‘affordability’ of the
incentive in practical terms. While
in isolation the 2% interest ‘fee’ has
been deemed a just consideration,
it becomes food for thought in the
context of the foregoing.
In the Assistance to Small and
Medium
Sized
Undertakings
Regulations, LN 102 of 2013
annotates ‘the economic development
of Malta’ in view of which it
incentivises the obtaining of ISO
certification in various forms by
granting an extra deduction of
150% of eligible expenditure where
a qualifying activity is sufficiently
proven to exist. The intention behind
these regulations has been suggested
to have been driven by Malta’s
still young development in the
certification field, the betterment of
which would undoubtedly place the
country in a more advantageous place
on the map where such certifications
are the order of the day overseas.
The spirit of the law is stretched
a little for the better good of the
Maltese economy under the Merger
and Divisions regulations in LN
104 of 2013. In something of a
contradiction, here the rules warn
away the avoidance of liability or duty
to tax, while exempting the accepted
applications of the anti-avoidance
provision in the law which disregards
artificial or fictitious schemes as
normally assessable.
Basically, the exemption here
envisages a company in a negative
financial climate which is, for
instance, occasioned by genuine
internal strife and where the expense
of duty on documents has genuinely
barred a division occurring prior.
The exemption hinges however on
the important criteria of ‘bona fide
commercial reasons’ which need
be satisfied at the Commissioner’s
discretion, which is absolute. This
incentive bears a €1,000 application
fee which is non-refundable and does
not in any way improve the chances
of an application being successful.
The exemption
here envisages
a company in a
negative financial
climate which is, for
instance, occasioned
by genuine internal
strife and where
the expense of duty
on documents has
genuinely barred a
division occurring
prior
Additionally, the absolute discretion
of the CIR makes anticipation of
success or otherwise nearly impossible
since identical circumstances in
various cases do not imply identical
treatment.
The new Capital Gains rules in
Legal Notice 105 of 2013 have been
deemed overall beneficial to the taxpayer. First off these rules widen the
ambit of what constitutes ‘controlling
interest’ through the introduction of
a new ground: where a shareholder
is entitled to 25% or more of rights
to profits. Secondly, these rules
rectify by elimination the taxation of
the ‘phantom gain’ which had been
taxable for the last two decades. This
is achieved through the introduction
of a new formula which ensures
that the total amount taxable never
exceeds 100%.
LN 111 of 2013 entitled the
‘Repatriation of Persons established
in the field of Excellence’ and LN
106 of 2013 entitled ‘Qualifying
Employment in Innovation and
Creativity’ bear intrinsic similarities
that transcend their common effective
date of 1 January 2013. Both sets
of regulations target persons not
domiciled in Malta and in both cases
where an eligible person or office is
respectively identified and the latter
so elects, a flat rate of 15% is applied
to the first part of such person’s
income. While in relation to LN 106
the minimum income is €45,000 and
needs to relate to the development
of innovative and creative digital
products, in LN 111 the minimum
income is €75,000 and needs to
relate to an ex-Maltese domiciled
individual whose expertise lies in the
sectors of manufacturing, research
and development.
While in practice ordinary residence
emerges to subsist after a person
has resided in Malta for around
three years, the latter regulations
extendedly prescribe the concerned
person to have not been ordinarily
resident in Malta for a period of 10
consecutive years preceding date of
return. LN 111 applies to persons who
were initially ordinarily resident in
Malta for 20 years, thereby indicating
its application to Maltese expats who
were born and formally educated in
Malta.
The tests which need to be satisfied
for the qualification of a beneficiary
also overlap, where in both one finds
the necessities to prove the capacity in
which such person purports to act, to
be recognised as an employee under
Maltese law, and to fully disclose
income for tax purposes. The antiabuse provisions mirror each other to
the extent that artificial arrangements
nullify benefits given, but LN 106
contains more austere measures which
also comprise an additional tax of
seven per cent per month owing from
when the benefits are received. In both
sets of regulations the beneficiary
is obliged to furnish such further
information as may be requested of
him by the Commissioner where in
both cases, failure to do so would
leave pertaining income out of the
ambit of such contemplated benefit.
From an author’s perspective, it is
easy to comment upon the legislator’s
work where it always follows that
‘there is nothing to it when you don’t
have to do it’, however the job of the
legislator is a daunting one indeed
that needs to move with the times and
at once help those whom it seeks to
regulate.
Thus as the new regulations unravel
into practice and together with the
benefits perhaps further lacunae or
impracticalities are identified, then
perhaps it would be optimal to adopt
the view that where the law was wellintended we either win or learn, but
we never lose.
Marilyn Mifsud is a lawyer in PKF
Malta an audit and business advisory
firm
[email protected]
16
BUSINESS & FINANCE
Master Scholarships budget
increased by €700,000
Miriam Dalli
Education Minister Evarist Bartolo
and Parliamentary Secretary for EU
Ian Borg yesterday morning launched
a new scheme of Master Scholarships,
which budget has been increased to €2
million.
The funds, increased by €700,000, are
financed through the European Social
Fund 2007-2013.
“We hope that as many individuals
as possible apply for the scholarships,”
Bartolo said, adding that the funds will
be lost for good unless they are taken
up.
Bartolo said the new scholarship
scheme ‘Master It’ will empower the
labour market to increase their level
of skills and provide quality jobs for
employers. “The budget allocation for
Masters Scholarships has been increased
to a minimum of €2 million, which is at
least €700,000 more than the previous
year,” the minister said.
Nine key sectors were identified
within our economy and opportunities
to improve the skill-set of workers.
“Students in these areas will not only
provide the foundation for a better
career for the people but also provide an
improved skill-set for the business and
the economy,” Bartolo said.
He added that the government also
needed to carry out an analysis of the
demands of the economy and fill in the
gaps that exist in the job market. The
Tigne Mall plc
announces
share
allocation
Tigne Mall plc is pleased to announce the allocation of the Combined Offering of 56.4 million Ordinary Shares of €0.50c each which
was open for subscription by institutional investors and the general public between Friday 12 and Friday 19
April 2013.
The company received 386
applications for the Combined
Offering and all applications
received have been allocated in full
with a portion being taken up by the
Underwriter. The company will be
issuing allotment letters by Friday 3
May 2013.
The Board of Directors of Tigne
Mall plc would like to thank
institutional investors as well as the
investing public for their support
in this IPO and looks forward to its
future as a listed company.
government has also opened up the
scholarship scheme to individuals who
do not have a doctoral degree or who are
not in possession of an undergraduate
degree, provided that a recognised
University is accepting the applicant to
register for a course.
“There are universities who accept
maturities and approve their application
based on the applicant’s experience,”
Bartolo said. “We do not wish to hinder
these people from pursuing their studies
and achieve a Masters degree should the
recognised University be satisfied with
its entrance criteria.”
The nine areas identified for these
degrees are high-end manufacturing, life
sciences, educational services, financial
services, transportation and advanced
logistics, higher quality tourism, creative
industries, environment and ICT.
Those applying on a full-time basis can
receive up to €8,000 per annum which
includes a maintenance grant of €2,500
per annum. Those studying abroad can
benefit from up to €2,500 per annum
while Gozitan students studying at the
University of Malta may receive up to
€1,050 per annum.
Parents who apply for scholarship
schemes will receive €1,070 every year
for the first child and €700 per annum
for any additional child under 15 years
of age. For those studying at distance
learning or part-time, government will
give them €3,000 every year.
A selection board will be appointed to
Education minister Evarist Bartolo
(left) with parliamentary secretary
for EU funds Ian Borg
evaluate the applications and award the
scholarships. An appeals board will be
appointed as well. The conditions if the
scheme will be published next week on
www.myscholarship.gov.mt. Closing
date is 14 June 2013. An information
meeting will be held at the UoM on 8
May while another one is planned in
Gozo on 31 May.
The Europa Series – the second
series of euro banknotes
On 2 May 2013, the European Central Bank launched a new €5 banknote which forms part of a new
second series of euro banknotes
known as the ‘Europa’ series. The
name ‘Europa’ is derived from the
portrait of a female figure in Greek
mythology with a clear association
with the European continent. This
figure is incorporated in the watermark and hologram strip of each
banknote.
The Europa series has the same
“ages and styles” design and
dominant colours as the first
series. Besides the watermark
and hologram, the Europa series
includes
enhanced
security
features, such as the portrait of
Europa and the “emerald number”,
which changes colour from emerald
green to deep blue and displays an
effect of the light that moves up and
down. Furthermore, short raised
lines on the left and right edges
of the banknote make it easier to
identify the banknote, especially
for visually impaired people. The
banknotes will be coated in thin
layer of plastic to make them more
durable. The banknotes can be
easily checked using the ‘FEEL,
LOOK, TILT’ method.
They will be introduced gradually
over several years, in ascending
order, starting with the €5 banknote
on 2 May 2013. The denominations
remain unchanged: €5, €10, €20,
€50, €100, €200 and €500. The
current €5 banknote will remain
legal tender and will continue
to circulate alongside the new
banknotes, but will gradually be
withdrawn from circulation.
The Central Bank of Malta has had
various meetings with the banking,
business and retail sectors to inform
them about the introduction of
the new euro banknotes. Training
sessions have also been organised
for employees within these sectors.
Further
information
is
available
from
the
website
www.newfaceoftheeuro.eu
and
from the Bank’s website www.
centralbankmalta.org
17
BUSINESS & FINANCE
MIDI make €2.5 million loss in 2012
The MIDI Group reported a pre-tax loss
of €2.5 million for the year ending December 2012 compared to a profit of €3
million in the previous financial year.
Apartment sales amounted to €0.8
million (2011: €31.9 million). This drop
in revenue resulted from the fact that
MIDI sold most of its stock of residential
units by the end of 2011 and therefore
it had only limited residential stock for
sale last year.
Development works last year were
limited to the finalisation of the Pjazza
APS Bank group
registers €9.9
million profit
before tax
APS Bank registered pre-tax profits
of €9.9 million, up from €8.4 million in 2011, in what was another year
of record earnings, chairman Emanuel
Delia told investors and shareholders at
the bank’s AGM.
Total assets rose to €910.2 million,
up from €814.3 million in 2011, with
both customers’ deposits and loans
registering increases. Total deposits
reached €743.1 million, representing a
net gain of €55.5 million, while lending
expanded by an additional €38.3
million, reaching €520.9 million.
During 2012, the Bank’s subsidiaries,
APS Funds SICAV plc and APS
Consult Limited, also contributed
to the implementation of the bank’s
underlying philosophy of being
“socially conscious while striving all
the time to be efficient in the delivery
of services”.
It was an important year for APS
Funds SICAV plc as it launched the
first local retail investment product
that sought to combine financial goals
with concerns for social, environmental
and ethical values – the APS Regular
Income Ethical Fund. In addition, APS
Consult successfully supported several
projects undertaken by its clients.
The bank continued with projects
that facilitated the identification of
local talent in several artistic areas and
also supported various educational
and cultural activities. On the musical
scene, the Bank held its 11th Annual
Concert in collaboration with the
Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, entitled
Tenebrae. The concert presented works
scored by three nineteenth century
Maltese composers for the Liturgy of
Holy Week.
In addition, the bank organised its
second music competition for Maltese
composers, which gave rise to nine
new works, four of which selected to
be performed during the next annual
concerts. On the artistic front, the bank
supported various initiatives including
a photography competition as well as
its second annual art exhibition. As part
of its educational and cultural activities,
the bank sponsored various publications
including ‘Il-Parlament Malti – Kif
Beda, X’inhu u X’Jagħmel’, ‘L-Istorja
tal-Koperattivi f’Malta’, and a further
occasional paper – ‘Introducing Ethical
Investment in a Dynamic Society’.
Furthermore, the Bank sponsored
the setting up of the Malta Migration
Museum, with library and archives, a
project led by the Migrants’Commission
of the Archdiocese of Malta.
During the AGM, Delia thanked
the shareholders, whose trust in this
institution has never wavered, the Board
of Directors, whose counsel makes the
Bank’s objectives realisable and the
Bank’s staff members, who commit
themselves to the Bank’s objectives and
the success recorded in 2012. Above all,
Delia thanked APS Bank’s customers
who seek the Bank’s services as fund
owners or as borrowers.
The Annual Report and Financial
Statements for 2012 can be downloaded
from the Bank’s website www.apsbank.
com.mt.
apartments. Only six of the 22 apartments
have remained unsold.
After substantial delays, full permits
have been issued for a new residential
block and an office block (T17 and
T14) in Tigne’ North and the group
concentrated its efforts on project
planning for them.
Revenue from property rental and
management activities rose from €5.1
million in 2011 to €5.7 million in 2012,
mostly due to an improvement seen at
The Point shopping complex and retail
and catering establishments at Pjazza
Tigne’.
The group added that the sale of The
Point will release some €20 million
back to the group and strengthen its
financial capabilities to enable it to fulfil
its current plans.
MIDI will be reducing its aggregate
borrowings in order to be in a position
to raise additional finance for the
development of T17.
18
BUSINESS & FINANCE
New Companies
www.creditinfo.com.mt
Companyname
Mjs Trading & Consultancy Ltd
I-Digitalgaming Holding Limited
St Corporate And Advisory Services Ltd
Windthoughts Yachting Ltd
Al Virtus Limited
WinDsor T Limited
White Bridge Limited
Kicktech Limited
Feel So Good (Shipping) Limited
Capaldi Marketing Ltd
AlkLand Properties Limited
Gst Co. Ltd
Behindbarz Events Limited
Lord Nelson Cruising Ltd.
Global Queen Ventures Ltd.
Wetas InternaTional Limited
Finance House P.L.C.
Premium Luxury Resorts Limited
Financial Workflows Holding Limited
Infotech Enterprises Ltd.
Vivs Investment Ltd.
L.V.D. Limited
Medwaters Limited
G.O.L. Energy Limited
Ninon Navigation Limited
Balance Energy Limited
Kgc Trading LimIted
Natural Pharma Limited
Aden Properties Limited
Ballut Blocks Holdings Limited
Offcentre Building Services & Co
Whitecliff InvestmeNt Management (Malta) Limited
Eolos Yachting Limited
True Value Fund Management Limited
Resonor Gold Ltd
Leading Edge (Malta) Ltd
New Concept Developers Ltd
Special Interest Travel Limited
Fw Limited
Maintenance Specialists Malta Limited
Trihills Heavy Industries Ltd
H. Vassallo & Associates Ltd
Industrial Advisor Group Ltd
Mediterranean Trade Service Limited
Horizon Technology Solutions Ltd
Mch Holdings Limited
Psg Management Limited
Aurelius Sicav Plc
Blacksweet Limited
Kiowa Marine Limited
Merit Malta Limited
General Optic Ltd
ArtIsan Foods Company Limited
Cas Holding Ltd
Coffee Life Limited
5 1/4 Games
Star Sports Ltd
Dsg Trading Import And Export Ltd
Steff Limited
Xm Consulting Limited
Royal Tara Ltd
Acts - Arts, Consultancy, Tourism And Services Limited
Solar Mobile Technologies Limited
Rasied Scientific Ltd
Map Holdings Ltd
Map Trading Ltd
Premium Fuel Ltd
Ibint Limited
Blue DIamond Overseas Ltd
Baudelaire’s Horse Limited
Vh Marketing Limited
Ti23 Limited
E Travel Solutions Limited
Berjo Limited
Plintel Company Limited
Sea Breeze Navigation Limited
Etirya Limited
Shortletsmalta Limited
Yaiah Limited
Cs & Isi LimIted
Discovery Holdings Ltd
Worldwide Technical Assistance Limited
Pesciolina Ltd
Rt Inspiration Limited
Rt Sensation Limited
The DoKhan Company Limited
Infolab Limited
Patin Holdings Limited
Security Solutions Holding Limited
Kodo Digital Limited
Suite Ii Limited
Sainte Augustine Limited
Omikron Holding Limited
Marketing Blah Blah Limited
Kk Trading Limited
Eco Bio EnErgy Limited
Garnar Vehicle Appearance Co. Ltd.
Dudy International Ltd
Medical Equipment Malta Limited
Hpnc Limited
Candlewood Limited
Rocky Mountain Mobile Ltd
Obs Management Ltd.
Spx General Holding Malta Ltd
Spx General Trading Malta Ltd
Company ID
C 58788
C 58853
C 58854
C 58855
C 58857
C 58858
C 58859
C 58860
C 58861
C 58862
C 58863
C 58864
C 58865
C 58866
C 58867
C 58868
C 58869
C 58870
C 58871
C 58872
C 58873
C 58874
C 58875
C 58876
C 58877
C 58878
C 58879
C 58880
C 58881
C 58882
P 1439
C 58883
C 58884
C 58885
C 58886
C 58887
C 58888
C 58889
C 58890
C 58891
C 58892
C 58893
C 58894
C 58895
C 58896
C 58897
C 58898
Sv 254
C 58899
C 58900
C 58901
C 58903
C 58904
C 58905
C 58906
P 1440
C 58907
C 58908
C 58910
C 58911
C 58912
C 58913
C 58914
C 58915
C 58916
C 58917
C 58918
C 58919
C 58920
C 58921
C 58922
C 58923
C 58924
C 58925
C 58926
C 58927
C 58928
C 58929
C 58930
C 58932
C 58933
C 58934
C 58935
C 58936
C 58937
C 58938
C 58939
C 58940
C 58941
C 58942
C 58947
C 58948
C 58909
C 58931
C 58944
C 58945
C 58946
C 58949
C 58950
C 58951
C 58952
C 58953
C 58954
C 58955
C 58956
Registration
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Company Address
60, Suite 6, G Cali Street, Ta’ Xbiex Xbx 1424
Il Piazzetta A, Suite 21, Tower Road Sliema
82, Triq Iz-Zragen, Attard Atd2951
18/2, South Street, Valletta Vlt 1102
San Juan’ 116/8, St. George’s Road, St. Julians Stj3203
54, St Christopher Street, Valletta
Flat 5, Savoy Living, Viani Street Sliema
Level 1, Suite No.5, Tower Business Centre, Tower Street, Swatar, Birkirkara Bkr4013
Valletta Buildings, 4th Floor, Suite 20, South Street, Valletta
Level 1, Suite 5, Tower Business Centre, Tower Street, Swatar Birkirkara Bkr4013
Vincenti Buildings, 28/19 (Suite 1284), Strait Street, Valletta Vlt1432
Office 7, Leopardi Buildings, Tal-Balal Street San Gwann Sgn 9016
31, ‘Dimora’, Triq L-Insolja, Attard Atd 2652
36/3, Manol Mansion, De Paule Avenue, Balzan Bzn9022
San Juan, 116/8, St. George’s Road, St. Julians Stj 3203
5/2 Merchants Street, Valletta Vlt 1171
Aries House, Triq Tal-Hlas Zebbug
Vault 14, Level 2, Valletta Waterfront, Floriana Frn 1914
Leicester Court, Suite 2, Edgar Bernard Street, Gzira Gzr 1702
Infotech Supplies And Services, Maria Bambina Street, Xaghra (Gozo) Xra2112
1/43 St.Francis Str, Balzan
Central Business Centre, Room 1, Level 1 - Suite 2, Mdina Road, Zebbug Zbg9015
Valdor Buildings, Triq Is-Sebh, Qormi Qrm 9055
7a, Sir Luigi Camilleri Street, Sliema Slm 1843
192, Old Bakery Street, Valletta
7a, Sir Luigi Camilleri Street, Sliema Slm 1843
‘Dslr Notaries’ (Suite 731), Ftieh Street, Birkirkara Bypass, Birkirkara Bkr 2940
55/1 Vincenza Court, Giuseppe Cali Street, Ta’ Xbiex
26, Ghar Id-Dud Street, Sliema Slm1573
Ballut Blocks Holdings Limited, Triq Wied Filep, Maghtab, Naxxar Nxr 6713
St. Joseph Yard, Triq Il-Qadi Naxxar
St. Helena’s Building’, Tumas Fenech Street, Birkirkara Bkr2526
Strand Towers, Floor 2, 36, The Strand, Sliema Slm 1022
Strand Towers, Floor 2, 36, The Strand, Sliema Slm 1022
Strand Towers, Floor 2, 36, The Strand, Sliema Slm1022
76, Triq L-Ghenieqed, Attard Atd2661
Villa Gauci, Mdina Road, Balzan Bzn 9031
Demajo House’, 103 Archbishop Street Valletta
Esperance, Lord Byron Street, Naxxar
Suite 9, Cresta Apartments, No. 30, Imradd Street, Ta’ Xbiex Xbx 1150
Trihills’, Triq Tal-Barrani, Ghaxaq Gxq 9022
53, Old Theatre StReet, Valletta Vlt1427
45/1, Triq L-Isqof F.S. Caruana, Msida Msd 1412
Suite 3, 64/1, Agiton Buildings, St. Anthony Street, San Gwann
Skyparks Business Centre, Level 3, Malta International Airport, Luqa Lqa 4000
Level 6 - Suite 1, The Plaza Commercial Centre, Bisazza Street, Sliema Slm 1640
171, Old Bakery Street, Valletta Vlt 1455
120, St. Ursula Street, Valletta Vlt 1236
30, Kenilworth/1, Sir Augustus Bartolo Street, Ta’ Xbiex
Skyway Offices, Suite 8, Block C, 179, Marina Seafront, Pieta’ Pta 9042
Factory A, Xewkija Industrial Estate, Xewkija (Gozo)
60/2, Melita Street, Valletta Vlt 1122
Hard Rocks Industrial Park, Triq Il-Burmarrad, Naxxar Nxr6345
Business House, Suite 4, Archbishop P Pace Street, Victoria (Gozo) Vct2504
5, Birbal Street Balzan Bzn 9019
Flat 12, Triq It-Torri Tal-Arlogg, Binja Buqana, Mtarfa
San Juan, 116/8, St. George’s Road, St. Julians Stj 3203
66, Mediterranea, Triq Dun Amabile Sisner, Pembroke Pbk 1168
Atlantis, Triq Il-Haddiem, Mriehel Birkirkara
93, Mill Street, Qormi
Sea Breeze, G. Cali Street, Ta’ Xbiex
Level 6, Suite 6-1, Plaza Commercial Centre, Bisazza Street, Sliema Slm 1640
30, Kenilworth/1, Sir AugustuS Bartolo Street, Ta’ Xbiex
15, Grognet Street, Mosta Mst 3613
Tower Gate Place, Tal-Qroqq Street Msida Msd 1703
15, Grognet Street, Mosta Mst 3613
Vincenti Buildings, 28/19, (Suite 1219), Strait Street, Valletta Vlt1432
Ivy, Giacinto Tua Street, Gzira
Suite 3, Tower Business Centre, Tower Street, Swatar Birkirkara
8, Triq San Pawl, San Gwann Sgn2333
157, Archbishop Street Valletta Vlt 1440
Domestica Building, Fourth Floor, Msida Valley Road, Msida Msd 9020
40, Villa Fairholme, Sir Augustus Bartolo Street, Ta’ Xbiex Xbx1095
Office 6, Leopardi Buildings, Tal-Balal Road, San Gwann
Flat 2, 101, Spinola Road, St. Julians
32 Scots House, South Street Valletta Vlt 1100
Flat 1, Del Borgo Apartments, Ugo Carbonaro Street, San Gwann Sgn 1135
36/3, Manol Mansion, De Paule Avenue Balzan Bzn 9022
23, Msida Road, Gzira Gzr 1401
23, Msida Road Gzira Gzr 1401
Forth Mansions B14, Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, Ta’ Xbiex Xbx1027
Dolphin Court, First Floor Suite B, Embassy Way, Ta’ Xbiex Xbx 1071
The Cornerstone Complex, Level 3 Suite 3, 16 September Square, Mosta Mst 1180
21, Misrah Il-Parrocca, Mellieha Mlh1070
Penthouse 29, Block A, Depiro Point, Triq Depiro Sliema Slm 2033
Vincenti Buildings, 28/19, Strait Street, Valletta Vlt 1432
Vincenti Buildings, 28/19, (Sutie 1279), Strait Street, Valletta Vlt 1432
1/43 St.Francis Str., Balzan
No.12, Office 2/1, Tigne Place, Tigne Street, Sliema Slm 3173
Suite 3, Tower Business Centre, Tower Street, Swatar, Birkirkara
5/1, Merchants Street, Valletta Vlt 1171
8, Triq Cappa Docia, Qormi
5, Salvatore Psaila Street, Victoria (Gozo) Vct 1332
The Penthouse, Carolina Court, Triq Giuseppe Cali, Ta’ Xbiex
The Penthouse, Carolina Court, Giuseppe Cali Street, Ta’ Xbiex
7a, Sir Luigi CamilLeri Street, Sliema Slm 1843
Apt 12, Level 3, 31, Charles Court, St. Luke’s Road, G’mangia, Pieta’ Pta 1027
7, St. Trophimus Street Sliema Slm 1119
23, South House, Triq Hompesch, Fgura Fgr2010
23, ‘South House’, Hompesch Road, Fgura Fgr 2010
19
THIS WEEK
WHAT’S ON
Written in the
stars… or is it?
Something of a ‘tender epic’ of a play, Nick Payne’s
two-hander about a couple falling in and out of love
and back again will be debuting on the Maltese stage
courtesy of WhatsTheirNames Theatre at the Splendid,
Strait Street, Valletta over May 3, 4, 5 and 10, 11, 12.
TEODOR RELJIC speaks to Philip Leone-Ganado, who
directs Nathan Brimmer and Maria Pia Meli in this
ambitious (and brand new) drama
Nick Payne’s play is both intimate and cosmic. What attracted
you to this seemingly ambitious
script?
The moment I read the synopsis I
knew this was something I wanted
to know more about. When I read
the script and passed it on to some
people I trust to get an opinion we
all had similar reactions: it’s the sort
of play you put down at the end and
just stare into space, trying to digest
what you’ve experienced. ‘Beautiful’ was the only word that came to
mind. It’s a play that asks us to confront the big question: what does it
mean to live in a universe without
god, without meaning? What do we
cling to? But it does it in a disarmingly human, simple way, by presenting us with an average couple in
an average relationship, finding love
and losing it and finding it again.
In a nutshell: it’s the sort of story I
love, and so the sort I want to share
with others.
On a related note, how did you
then go about selecting the right
actors: it is of course a delicate
balance, especially considering we’re with them for the entire
play...
Yes, it was tricky. I wanted two
actors who were strong enough in
their own right to handle the demands of a two-hander, and one
that asks quite a bit of its actors.
Then they needed to have good onstage chemistry and obviously be
well-suited to the roles they were
playing. After several (!) rounds of
auditions I’m pretty sure I’ve found
what I was looking for with Nathan
and Maria Pia. I’ve directed Nathan
a couple of times before, and though
I’ve worked with MP once (as an actor), she brings a fresh perspective
to the process, which I think is really important. Both have done some
great work getting to the heart of
the characters and the story, and
have found things that I never saw
coming, which is always nice.
What are some of the key challenges of maintaining a ‘fringe’
theatre group like WhatsTheirNames Theatre within the local
context?
I’d say the biggest problem is simply finding time to work. It’s a reality that the people you want to work
with will often be caught up working for other companies, and even
when you get everyone together,
THEATRE
you’re working round everyone’s
day jobs – we don’t have the production support that comes with
working for a big company like the
MADC or Masquerade, so we have
to do everything ourselves, which
is hugely rewarding but unbelievably stressful. Of course even the
fact that you’re a bunch of clueless
twenty-somethings working alone
means that often you’re throwing
shit at the wall to see what sticks,
not only artistically but even from
a production aspect – getting the
technical side down, finding the
money and getting the word of our
existence out there. But it’s part of
the fun for me. I never get quite the
same thrill working for someone
else as going it alone with a few people I trust.
Society with various activities.
Spirit of Piano
EXHIBITIONS
MAY 3-5; 10-12
I Am My Own Wife
Exit Stage Right production of
Doug Wright’s play: ‘a one-woman
show performed by a man’ at Vault
2, Valletta Waterfront, 20:00.
Directed by Nanette Brimmer and
performed by Alan Paris, the play is
based on the life of real-life tale of
German transvestite Charlotte Von
Mahsldorf – born Lothar Berfelde –
who lived openly as a cross-dresser
for almost her entire life under two
of the most conformist regimes
of the 20th century – Nazism and
Communism. Tickets at €15 can be
booked from St James Cavalier: 21
223200, http://tinyurl.com/cjrmsdm
MAY 10, 11, 12
Blood Wedding
Maria Pia Meli and Nathan Brimmer
UNTIL 5 MAY
Music and Visual Arts
Workshops by WOMAD
Foundation
Secret Bridesmaids’ Business
Secret Bridesmaids’ Business
Production of Federico Garcia
Lorca’s classic of dangerous passion
at the Manoel Theatre, Valletta,
20:00. Directed by Simone Spiteri.
Cast includes Anthea Xuereb,
Chantelle Micallef Grimaud, Charles
Sammut, Chris Galea, Christine
Tong, David Persiva, Joseph Zammit,
Josette Ciappara, Karl Cassar, Lizzie
Eldridge, Marie Keiser-Nielsen,
Marta Vella, Ninette Micallef, Pia
Zammit, Ruth Borg, Toni Attard
and Vee Stivala. Tickets are at €15,
€12 and €10. Bookings: bookings@
teatrumanoel.com.mt, 21 246389.
MADC production of Elizabeth
Coleman’s wedding comedy at St
James Cavalier, Valletta, 20:00.
Directed by Chiara Hyzler and
starring Cathy Lawlor, Vanessa
McDonald, Kate Decesare, Nicola
Abela Garrett, Elektra Anastasi,
David Ellul and Antonella Mifsud.
Tickets are at €15 and €10. Bookings:
[email protected], 21 223200,
http://tinyurl.com/cn9qdp3.
MAY 10-12; 17-19; 24-26
MAY 12
MUSIC
Sliema Philharmonic Society
Foundation Day Celebration
Celebration mass and concert
on the occasion of the Sliema
Philharmonic Society foundation
90 years ago. The event will begin
with a mass at Parish of Our Lady of
the Sacred Heart of Jesus at 09:30,
which with the participation of the
Sliema Band composed mainly of its
bandsmen and students under the
baton of Assistant Band Director
Mro Lesley Tabone, who will also
be accompanied by singer Hanna
Bonnici
and the Parish Choir. The day will
proceed at the Culture Performance
Hall of the Sliema Philharmonic
St James Cavalier has formed a
partnership with The WOMAD
Foundation to present a series of
workshops, master classes and
performances in schools, colleges
and at the venue in Valletta. In
partnership with St James Cavalier,
WOMAD has devised a vibrant
and diverse programme of activities
for children and young people
working with visiting musicians and
visual artists including: Brassroots
(USA/UK), Siyaya (Zimbabwe),
Ipercussionici (Sicily), Malarky (UK),
Ripton Lindsay (Jamaica), Dave
Watts (UK/Tenerife) and Shona
Watt (UK). At the end of a week-long
residency artists and students will
animate the streets of Valletta with
music, dance and visuals on 5 May,
followed by showcases from students
and artists sharing their experiences
of working together.
UNTIL MAY 6
Tales of the Bloody Mary Oracle
Exhibition of artworks by graffiti and
mural artist Chris de Souza Jensen at
Guy Lee Studio, Mellieha.
UNTIL MAY 12
The play starts at 20:00. Tickets
are at €10. Bookings: [email protected],
77
345207. Due to limited seating, ticket sales at the door cannot be guaranteed. The play is rated 14
Exhibition of 35 oil paintings
by Macedonian artist Ljupco
Samardziski at St James Cavalier,
Valletta. The launch on April 12 at
19:00 and will be inaugurated by
David Felice and Mariella Pisani
Bencini.
UNTIL MAY 17
Painting Diaries
Exhibition of paintings by Matthew
F. Cassar at Palazzo Ferreria,
Republic Street, Valletta. Opening
hours: 09:00-18:00 (Monday to
Friday); 09:00-13:00 (Saturday)
UNTIL MAY 26
Vanity, Profanity and Worship
Exhibition of historical jewellery
at Casino Maltese, Republic Street,
Valletta. Organised by Patrimonju
Malti, the exhibition will bring
together spectacular pieces of
jewellery loaned from Maltese
private and church collections which
rarely, if ever, are seen in public. The
exhibition will be accompanied by
a series of activities and workshops.
Opening hours: 10:00 to 18:00
(Monday to Sunday; last entrance
at 17:30); until 21:00 on Friday (last
entrance at 20:00). Entrance fees
are at €5 (adults); €3 (senior citizens,
12-17 year olds, student youth
card holders and groups of 10 and
over). Children under 12 must be
accompanied by an adult. For more
information and a full programme of
events, log on to http://tinyurl.com/
cvdg3jh.
20
THIS WEEK
AT CINEMAS
TODAY
TV/CINEMA
19:30 – CSI New York – Italia 1
21:45 – Sherlock ¬– TVM
TVM
ITALIA 1
EMBASSY CINEMAS
20:00 L-Aħbarijiet 20:40 Dreams 21:45 Sherlock
23:15 L-Aħbarijiet 23:30 Paq Paq (repeat) 00:15
TVPM
18:30 Studio Aperto 19:20 Così fan tutte 19:30 CSI New York
21:10 Quel pazzo venerdì 23:00 The Vampire Diaries 00:35
Sport Mediaset 01:00 The Shield
VALLETTA
TVM 2
RETE 4
10:30, 15:00, 18:00, 21:00
19:30 News for the hearing impaired 19:40 Madwarna 20:00 Pre match programme 20:45 Champions
League 23:00 Highlight Programme
18:55 Tg4 – Meteo 4 19:35 Tempesta d’amore 20:30 Quinta
colonna 21:10 The Closer 23:20 Bones 01:00 Tg4 Night News
SIDE EFFECTS (16)
19:45 Net News 20:30 Premier 21:30 Net News
21:35 Iswed fuq l-Abjad 23:00 Net News
20:00 Telegiornale 20:30 Affari Tuoi 21:10 Rosso San Valentino 23:10 Tg1 60 Secondi 23:15 Porta a Porta 00:50 Tg1 Notte
01:20 Che tempo fa 01:25 Sottovoce
ONE
RAI DUE
19:30 One News 20:15 Maratona Gbir ta’ fondi 23:15
One News 23:50 Mass Meeting
18:15 Tg2 18:45 Cold Case 19:35 Squadra Speciale Cobra 11
20:30 Tg2 20.30 21:05 Vulcano 23:15 Tg2 23:30 A Gifted Man
00:15 In caso di punti ciechi 00:55 Parlamento Telegiornale
23:00 ¬– The Vampire Diaries – Italia 1
10:35, 13:40, 16:10, 18:40, 21:05
(PG)
16:20, 18:10, 20:50
OBLIVION (12)
10:30, 13:40, 16:10, 18:40, 21:10
CANALE 5
20:00 Tg5 – Meteo.it 20:20 Striscia la notizia 20:40
UEFA Champions League 22:45 Speciale Champions
League 00:30 Tg5 Notte – Meteo.it 01:00 Striscia la
notizia
IRON MAN (3D) (PG)
OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL
RAI UNO
NET TV
TEL. 21 227436, 21 245818
GI JOE RETALIATION (12)
10:20, 13:30, 16:00, 18:30, 20:50
THE CROODS (U)
10:00, 12:10, 14:20, 16:00, 18:55,
RAI TRE
19:00 Tg3 19:30 Tg Regione 19:51 Tg Regione Meteo
20:00 Concerto del Primo Maggio 00:00 Tg3 Linea notte
00:10 Tg Regione 00:13 Tg3 Linea notte 01:00 Meteo 3
21:00
EDEN CINEMAS
ST JULIAN’S
TEL. 23 710400
Films released by KRS Distributors
WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (14)
14:10, 16:30, 18:50, 21:05, 23:25
PARKER (16)
14:00, 16:20, 18:45, 21:15, 23:45
JACK THE GIANT SLAYER (PG)
14:00, 16:20, 18:40, 21:00, 23:25
SAFE HAVEN (12)
14:00, 16:25, 18:50, 21:15, 23:45
G.I JOE: RETALIATION (12)
14:05, 16:30, 18:50, 21:15, 23:40
OBLIVION (12)
14:30, 18:20, 21:00, 23:50
BROKEN CITY (16)
14:05, 16:20, 18:35, 20:50, 23:10
A GOOD DAY TO DIE HARD (12)
14:10, 16:25, 18:30, 20:50, 23:10
OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL
(PG)
I’m So Excited!
14:15, 18:00, 20:45, 23:30
STOKER (18)
14:15, 16:30, 18:45, 20:55, 23:10
MAMA (16)
14:20, 18:35, 21:05, 23:40
When it appears as though the end is in sight, the pilots, flight crew, and passengers of a plane heading to Mexico City look to forget the anguish of
the moment and face the greatest danger, which we carry within ourselves. Directed by Pedro Almodovar. Starring: Javier Cámara, Pepa Charro, Lola
Dueñas, Penelope Cruz and Antonio Banderas.
Showing soon
GUILT TRIP (12)
14:15, 16:25, 18:40, 21:10, 23:20
RUST AND BONE (16)
14:30, 18:35, 21:10, 23:40
IRON MAN 3 (3D) (PG)
14:00, 14:30, 17:00, 18:10, 20:00,
21:00, 22:45, 23:45
THE CROODS (U)
14:05, 16:15, 18:35
STOLEN (14)
20:55, 23:10
EMPIRE CINEMAS
BUGIBBA
TEL. 21 581787, 21 581909
G.I. JOE: RETALIATION (12)
10:25, 13:00, 15:20, 18:00, 20:45
IRON MAN 3 (3D) (PG)
10:10, 12:55, 15:35, 18:15, 20:55
PARKER (16)
10:45, 16:00, 21:05
STOLEN (14)
13:25, 18:30
Scary MoVie
The happily-married parents of a newborn boy seek the assistance of paranormal investigators in ridding their home of evil in this
installment of the popular spoof series produced and written by David Zucker (Airplane!, The Naked Gun), and directed by Malcolm D.
Lee (Undercover Brother). Ballet dancer Jody (Ashley Tisdale) and ape researcher Dan have just become the proud parents of a bouncing
baby boy when the spooky happenings in their home start causing problems in the workplace as well. With a mischievous demon making
their lives unbearable, the miserable couple plant cameras in every corner of their house, and recruit some supernatural experts to help
evict the diabolical imp. Starring: Charlie Sheen, Anthony Anderson, Regina Hall, and Katt Williams co-star in this horror spoof also
featuring Terry Crews, Molly Shannon, Chris Elliott, and Heather Locklear.
Showing soon
OBLIVION (12)
10:20, 13:05, 15:45, 18:20, 21:00
THE CROODS (U)
10:15, 13:15, 15:55, 18:10, 21:10
WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (14)
10:30, 13:10, 16:05, 18:35, 20:50
SAFE HAVEN (12)
10:35, 13:20, 16:10, 18:40, 21:15
21
Events
New Samsung Galaxy S4
now in Vodafone stores
THE new Samsung Galaxy S4, the
most sought after Android phone
which takes power and performance to a whole new level and offers an amazing camera is now
available at all Vodafone stores
across Malta and Gozo with exclusive discounts on the new Vodafone RED Plans.
“The Samsung Galaxy S4 is truly
a phone that makes our lives richer,
simpler and more fun,” said Karl
Galea, Senior Executive from Vodafone Malta. “As Vodafone Malta
we’re proud to launch the Samsung
Galaxy S4 in Malta. This helps us
provide our customers the latest
technology accompanied by the
best service on the Islands.”
The Smartphone features a 1.9
GHz Quad Core processor with
a 5-inch Super AMOLED 1080p
screen and the Android 4.2.2 (Jelly
Bean) OS. It comes with a range of
new innovative features, including
an improved dual 13-megapixel
camera and new software features
such as response to waves and gestures.
The Samsung Galaxy S4 captures
all the action wherever you are with
its dual camera. You can now take
multiple exposure pictures and
edit them together to add a special
dramatic touch with the new Cinema photo feature. With the new
Samsung Eraser Shot feature you
will be able to zap moving objects
from your photos, leaving only the
people and things you want to see.
The New S4 simplifies everyday
tasks designed with a well-connected multi-tasker in mind. You
can now call a friend, answer the
phone, preview emails and control
videos without even touching the
phone. The Samsung Galaxy S4
understands how important your
health is and can help you achieve
your fitness goals by monitoring
your fitness levels during workouts
and throughout the day. It also
cares for your general health with
sensors that automatically adjust
the display and volume, depending
on how you use your phone to ensure optimal experience.
Vodafone is selling this smartphone in Black and White.
To try out this device one can visit
the MIA or the St Julian’s Stores
which will be open today. For more
information call 247 for free from
a Vodafone line or 99 999247 from
any other line or log onto www.vodafone.com.mt/phones
FameLab Malta selects finalists
for national competition in May
From left: Alfred Mizzi Foundation Trustees Albert Petrocochino and
Julian Sammut, University of Malta Head of Marketing Department
Dr Tanya Sammut-Bonnici, University Rector Prof Juanito Camilleri,
RIDT’s CEO Wilfred Kenely and Dean of FEMA Prof Joseph Falzon
Alfred Mizzi
Foundation sponsors
University of Malta
Chair in Digital
Marketing
THE Alfred Mizzi Foundation has
donated funds to the Research, Innovation and Development Trust of
the University of Malta to establish
a Chair in Digital Marketing. Called
‘The Alfred Mizzi Foundation Chair
in Digital Marketing’, the post will be
set up at the Department of Marketing within the Faculty of Economics,
Management and Accountancy as
from 1 October 2013.
Established by Alf. Mizzi & Sons
Ltd in 2004, The Alfred Mizzi
Foundation aims to promote Maltese heritage, education and social
solidarity. University of Malta Rector, Professor Juanito Camilleri, and
Foundation Trustee Julian Sammut
signed the three year agreement at
the Valletta Campus. Also present
for the occasion were the Foundation Trustee Albert Petrocochino,
the Dean of the Faculty of Economics Management and Accountancy
Professor Joseph Falzon, the University’s Head of Marketing Dr Tanya
Sammut-Bonnici, and RIDT’s CEO
Wilfred Kenely.
“One of the three guiding pillars
of The Alfred Mizzi Foundation has
come into its own with the Foundation’s grant to FEMA within the
University of Malta. This will enable
this faculty to establish a chair in
digital marketing as from the coming academic year. The opportunity
afforded to the Foundation by the
University of Malta to set up such an
important chair marks a milestone
for both entities,” Sammut said.
This donation will strengthen the
Department of Marketing’s academic programme through the engagement of an external academic expert
of recognised international standing
in the field of digital marketing for
the duration of the agreement. The
academic expert’s involvement will
promote both academic and practical knowledge relevant to digital
marketing within existing and future undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as through ad
hoc tertiary programmes or professional training.
Professor Camilleri thanked The
Alfred Mizzi Foundation for their
generous initiative and contribution.
“Digital marketing is the tool for
next generation marketing activities.
Students wishing to pursue a career
in marketing using social media, online media and other digital and mobile technologies shall benefit from
extended expertise,” he said.
Kenely said: “The University is
seeking contributors like The Alfred Mizzi Foundation who believe
that for Malta to thrive and prosper,
it needs the backing of a university
that maintains its role as a centre for
research and innovation.” The University of Malta set up RIDT in 2011
to create a supporting structure that
sustains and expands the University’s research projects by providing
additional funds that supplement
the existing modest resources. Further information about RIDT can be
obtained from www.ridt.eu.
Participants during FameLab Malta auditions at St James Cavalier
THE finalists have been selected by
FameLab Malta to compete in the
national finals to be held on 17 May
2013 at 20:30 at the Manoel Theatre,
Valletta. Malta is participating for
the first time in FameLab, an international competition spanning over 20
countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and
USA in the search for the next top science communicator.
Twenty-three candidates, who took
up the FameLab Malta preliminary
challenge, were auditioned at St James
Cavalier, Valletta. These included
Maltese students and researchers
from the University of Malta and industry, in particular pharmaceutical
companies.
The topics of their presentations
were diverse. These ranged from brain
research studying stroke to molecules
that light up when they detect certain
chemicals like sugar. One participant
even performed a three-minute theatre performance based on the porphyria disease that afflicted aristocracy.
Ecologist Dr Sandro Lanfranco,
writer Malcolm Galea and the Dean
of the Faculty of Engineering Dr Ing.
John C. Betts formed the panel of
judges. The contestants were assessed
on three main qualities: scientific content and accuracy, clarity of delivery,
and charisma. The standard of all the
presentations was exceptionally high
and it took the judges over an hour of
deliberation to pick the finalists.
They are: Claude Bajada, Anthony
Debono, Sarah Dimech, Owen Falzon, Kristina Farrugia, Estelle Fenech
Imbroll, Alexander Hili, Denise Hili,
Gabriella Mifsud, Michelle Muscat
and Faisal Sadegh.
Malcolm Love, a media and communications professional from FameLab
UK and who has worked with the
BBC will be training the finalists to
improve their skills in communicating science during a weekend masterclass on the 27 and 28 April. They will
also learn how to tackle radio, TV and
print media interviews, and further
refine their own presentations for the
final contest in May.
At the FameLab Malta finals, each
competitor will present a threeminute original and attention grabbing talk that everyone can enjoy. The
public is invited to this entertaining
and interesting evening on the 17 May
at the Teatru Manoel. The event starts
at 20:30. Entrance is free.
The winner of the Malta final will
represent Malta in the Cheltenham
Science Festival on the 4 to 9 June
2013, all expenses paid.
FameLab was set up in 2005 by
Cheltenham Festivals to find and
nurture scientists and engineers with
a flair for communicating with public audiences. Since 2007, thanks to a
partnership with the British Council,
FameLab has gone global, with competitions now held in more than 20
countries across Europe, Asia, Africa
and the United States.
The first FameLab Malta competition is being organised in partnership
with the British Council, University
of Malta, Research Innovation and
Development Trust (RIDT), and with
the support of Actavis, Microsoft Innovation Centre, Vodafone, Teatru
Manoel, Malta Chamber of Scientists
and St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity.
The FameLab Malta initiative is in
line with the University’s Trust, RIDT,
highlighting the value and usefulness
of science and research. RIDT drives
to support research activity and to
seek additional funds to expand the
University’s research studies.
For more information one can email
[email protected] or visit
www.britishcouncil.org/malta-science-famelab or put like on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/FameLabMalta
Tribute to Verdi and other Italian
luminaries at the Manoel
‘CONCERTO all’ Italiana’, taking
place on 1 June at the Manoel Theatre,
Valletta, will be a showcase of the best
Italian music – taking place from 19:30
onwards.
Special guest opera singer will be
world renowned opera Baritone Orazio
Mori in the concert’s section entitled
‘Omaggio a Giuseppe Verdi’ on the
200th anniversary of his birth. The
programme includes also famous Italian songs and selections from popular
operettas.
The curtain-raiser will be the ‘Preludio’ from Verdi’s La Traviata, performed
by Orazio Mori’s daughter, pianist Mro
Debora Mori, from Milan’s ‘Concervatorio Giuseppe Verdi’.
Verdi’s special tribute will be fol-
Orazio Mori and Debora Mori
lowed by several classical Italian songs.
The second part of this ‘Concerto
all’Italiana’ is dedicated to operetta.
The popular selections range from
‘Frou frou del Tabarin’ to the duetto
‘Ah! come si sta ben’ from La Duchessa
del Bal Tabarin by Carlo Lombardo.
The operetta gran finale will include
famous and lively selections from The
White Horse Inn; The Merry Widow
and La Principessa della Czarda. By
general request from operetta lovers,
comedian and ‘cantattore’ Walter Rubboli, ‘capocomico’ of the ‘Compagnia
delle Operette del Laboratorio Lirico
Europeo’ of Milan, will perform Raymond Ventura’s versatile and entertaining piece of ‘Tutto va ben, Madama
Marchesa’ and a parody re-proposition
of Ettore Petrolini’s ‘Tanto pe’ canta’ rearranged by the famous Italian comedian Ciccio Ingrassia.
Bookings: 21 246389, www.teatrumanoel.com.mt
22
Classifieds
ALUMINIUM
MANUFACTURERS of aluminium security roller shutters for windows and doors.
Aluminium shutters for garages (roller
or ceiling systems). All types of aluminium, apertures, aluminium thermal insulation, PVC apertures, security main doors,
aluminium railings for stairs and balconies (chrome/stainless steel finish).
A45 Industrial Estate, Marsa. Call on
21226320, 99891899. Email: horvin@
waldonet.net.mt. Visit www.horvin.eu
engines. Built-in generator, davits and
many extras. Sleeps six. Comfortable
and airy boat. Very wll-maintained. Call
owner on 99887741
BOOKS
ATTENTION distributors – Lot of books
about local cuisine, Maltese, English,
German. Only €1 each plus VAT. Must
take whole lot, circa 3,500. Call on
99299846
CAR PARTS & ENGINES
ANTIQUES
BARGAIN Prices: For sale large gild
ormolu mirror, Maltese mahogany desk,
marble dressing table, chiffonier, biscuttin table, marble chest of drawers with
grotesque lions, pair Victorian chairs,
glass domes, clocks under domes, lusters, opalin and ceramic vases, figurines, Persian carpets and more. Call on
21415949, 99420241, 77415949
AUTO GAS CONVERSIONS
CONVERT to LPG Gas and reduce your
running costs by 40%.We convert all petrol engines. Acheck Ltd VRT Station, San
Pawl Tal-Qlejja, Triq Tas-Sriedaq, il-Mosta.
Call on 21432656, 99441297. Visit
www.autogas.com.mt
AUTO AIR-CONDITIONING
TECNOPLUS LTD, for auto air-conditioning. Check and prepare your air-conditioning now, repairs, servicing and parts.
Avoid summer rush. Call on 21468402,
27468402, 99468402, 99498371
BAKERY
SAN Quintin Bakery, prop. Mario Micallef,
Maltese & fancy bread - fresh daily. Visit
us at Censu Borg Street, Hamrun. Call on
21251410. Ghal hobz ta’ veru!
BOATS
27FT Chriscraft – bargain - half price.
Includes 4 berth, toilet, kitchen, electric
winch and trailer. Must sell! Price €4,800.
Call on 21558975, 99460726
FAIRLINE Targa 34 for sale, 1994
model. Powered by twin Volvo 230HP
A.G.R. Auto Japanes Parts, wholesaler & retailer. Supplies for Japanese &
Korean parts such as Kia, Toyota, Isuzu,
Daewoo, Mitsubishi, Honda and Subaru.
Importers of oil/ air filters, shock absorbers, brake pads, clutches, etc. Genuine
parts. We also do servicing & repairs
on all types of cars. Call on 21446839,
99474504, fax 21470295. Visit us at
Triq in-Nassab, Qormi. Email on alex@
agautoparts.com
KONI SHOCK ABSORBERS, lowering kits
and coil-overs, Koni bus, truck and trailer
shocks; Powerflex polyurethane suspension bushes; 123 ignition for classic
cars and parts for Italian vehicles. Call
on 21371801. Visit www.twinsparkgarage.com
SMART CARS – parts and accessories.
Genuine new and second-hand parts
and accessories including alloys, tyres,
forge D/V, S-Mann Kits and exhaust K &
N filters, EBC disks and pads and loads
more. Contact the number one Smart
Cars specialist: Autoray on 21388456;
email: [email protected]. Visit
www.autoraymalta.com
CAR REPAIRS
CALIGARI Spray Painting and Pane
Beating specialising in 2K, metallic and
water-based paints. Low back booth and
computerised mixing room. MSA insurance approved. De La Rue Avenue, Gzira.
Call on 27333879, 99426198 or email
EUROSTAR is an expert in car body
repair and collision repair for all types of
vehicles. Our body shop guarantees your
car’s body repair. Being in the business
for over 50 years, we have established
a reputation respected by many insurers.
If you require any of our services, call or
visit our collision centre in Qormi for a
free estimate on any accident repair or
=
€5
auto body repair. Eurostar Automotive
Repair Centre, Triq l-Industrija, Qormi,
Malta. Call on 21490735, 21490500
or Paul Ciappara Jnr 99426161, Louis
Micallef 7941959. Email: [email protected], Web: www.eurostarautomotive.com
ITALIAN VEHICLE SERVICING, diagnostics, mechanical repairs and electric
power steering repairs. Hydraulic power steering repairs on removed racks,
boxes and pumps of all brands. All work
guaranteed. Call on 21371801. Visit
www.twinsparkgarage.com
JOHN’S Garage Auto repairs since 1958,
for panel beating and spraying, contact Louis Sajeba. Visit at 342, Naxxar
Road, Birkirkara. Call on 21444533,
79444533, 9946 4654.
REGENCY PANEL BEATERS - don’t look
any further. Panel beating, spray painting,
mechanical repairs and also car hire. Visit
us in St Margaret Street, San Gwann. Call
on 21376784, 99427296, 79891013
SUNRISE GARAGE, panel beating and
oven bake spray painting. Full accident
repairs, chassis alignment. Mechanical
works and colour mixing. MSA approved.
Prop. Joseph Mifsud, 57, Triq il-Ballut,
Mosta. Call on 21436054, 9949 2047.
Visit www.sunrisegaragemosta.com
CAR WASH
GERMAN MAKE EHRLE TOUCHLESS
CARWASH operated round the clock
at Galea General Services Ltd, Mgarr
Road, Xewkija, Gozo. Self-service with no
brushes and hence spotless wash and
no scratches. Other washing equipment
available. For trade enquiries call on
21561122, 99494618; fax 21554277;
www.ggs.com.mt
CLEANING SERVICES
ECOLOGICAL Cleaning Services: cleaning of all water culverts, drainage pipes,
emptying of cesspits & wells. Also cleaning & repairs of grease traps and inspections of drain pipes by CCTV. Call on
21651029, 99421954, 99499714
COMPUTERS
ALL computer problems, 24/7 express
service, free antivirus given. Brand new
computers and laptops also for sale. Call
Chris on 99424703,
ENCOUNTERING computer problems?
Repairs on spot, on the same day?
Cleaning from viruses and spyware?
Swift-Tec is your answer. Renowned for
upgrades, new system installations and
distribution of the high quality laptops.
Installation of antivirus for free. Swift-Tec.
Call on 27886633
ENTERTAINMENT
NIGRET NIGHT CLUB in Labour Avenue,
Rabat, Malta. We cater for all kinds of
functions: coffee mornings, lunches, dinner dances, hen’s/bachelor’s and wedding parties. For more information call
on 21454858, 21454908, 79454908.
Freddie Portelli in attendance every
Friday and Franz Grech every Saturday
with line-dancing/ country music and
60’s music.
FOR HIRE
CHAIRS AND TABLES for all occasions
including children’s parties, weddings,
Gala dinners, etc.Variation of chairs and
tables of any colours and sizes. Call
Gino ta’ Hal Qormi on 99492732, 7949
2732, 21472838. Facebook: Gino ta
Hal-Qormi
TOP Hat Wedding Hiring Service: wedding suits, Holy Communion, Confirmation
suits, coloured suits, graduation gowns,
bridesmaids. Visit us at 210, St Edward
Street, Qormi. Call on 21488241,
79488241
FOR SALE
ADULT NOVELTIES and lingerie, ideal to
brighten up hens’ nights, bachelor parties
or for your intimate moments. Discreet
free delivery. Available online from www.
toysfourplay.com. Arbiv Marketing, PO
Box 26, St Julian’s. e-mail: [email protected]. Call on 9943 2019. Visit www.
toysfourplay.com
COLOUR bulbs or clear 15w filament.
See-through or matt light bulbs, ideal for
feasts, festoons, holders, LEDs, etc. Call
on 99497336
DINING suite with 10 seatings in cream
2 CLASSIFIEDS
FOR 3 WEEKS
Choose category. Fill in the boxes provided. Write in block letters. Your advert will appear for three weeks in both MaltaToday and MaltaToday Wednesday.
This offer does not apply to Real Estate agents. Send your form to:
MaltaToday Classifieds, Media Today, Vjal ir-Rihan, San Gwann SGN 9016.
Together with a €5 cheque payable to MediaToday Co. Ltd.
Name: ________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________
_______________________________________ Tel: ___________________ email: _________________________________
ANTIQUES
BOATS
FURNITURE
GENERAL
LETTING
PETS
PROPERTY
SITUATIONS WANTED
SITUATIONS VACANT
SERVICE
TUITION
VEHICLES / PARTS
WANTED
ANTIQUES
BOATS
FURNITURE
GENERAL
LETTING
PETS
PROPERTY
SITUATIONS WANTED
SITUATIONS VACANT
SERVICE
TUITION
VEHICLES / PARTS
WANTED
polished lacqured, 19 piece set €2,500.
Regency dining suite deep red oval table/
glass/top with 6 chairs covered in velvet €275. Call on 99635975 or email
[email protected].
FURNITURE
C.BORG FURNITURE, joinery works
including interior/exterior doors, kitchens, bedrooms, wall units, shoe cabinets
and more. Excellent prices and quality
workmanship. Borg Garage, St Katerina
Street, Gharghur. Call on 21413327,
99452554
FAIR DEAL FURNITURE where you
will find bedroom prices starting from
€1,375. Leather sofas at unbelievable
prices. Fair Deal Furniture, Mdina Road,
Zebbug. Call on 27282828 or visit www.
fairdealfurniture.com.mt
SITTING room suites for sale at moderate prices. Part exchange accepted. Also
second hand ones and re-upholstery. Call
21374823, 99824139
SOLID oak bunk beds with built-in side
cupboards. Bargain at €550. Call on
99451959
GENERAL
2,900 DVDs, ex-rental. All original and
are popular hits. Will sell the lot for
€1,400. Call on 99451959
NATIONAL Geographic magazine from
year 1950 to 2000. Will sell in blocks
of 5 years. Please make an offer to
21382704, 79320055
TEDDY’S Detergent Shop at 590, St
Paul’s Street, St Paul’s Bay. Best prices
in town. We also offer free delivery to
nearby areas. Find us on Facebook. Call
on 27333357
TEDDY’S Fashion on 571, St Paul’s
Street, St Paul’s Bay. Latest women’s
fashion at lowest prices. All items under
€20. Find us on Facebook. Call on
27889987
TREADMILL. Call on 21453770
WEDDING dress for sale, worn during a
small family wedding. Call on 79537696,
21411598
HEALTH & BEAUTY
BEAUTY Culture Centre, in Santa
Venera, offers professional waxing, beauty kits, couches and equipment including pressotherapy lymphatic and slimming machines. Sale of portable couches, steamers and beauty equipment at
favourable prices. Special offers on student packages. Ask for the special offer
of the month. Smart cards accepted. Call
on 21440424
MADAME MARIE Health and Beauty
Salon, for all beauty treatments and
make-up for all occasions. Visit us at
96, Triq il-Kbira, Qormi or contact Claire
Chetcuti on 21495103, 99423894
GIVE yourself a present with a relaxing
full-body massage by a female therapist.
Call on 99017954
SILHOUETTE HEALTH AND BEAUTY
SALON: facials, electrolysis, manicures,
pedicures, waxing, make-up for any occasion, gel & acrylic nails & slimming treatments. Visit us St Sebastian Street,
Qormi. Call on 21485716, 99450829
THE Nail House for gel nail extensions,
Makea nail products, waxing, Accura
lifting systems, semi-permanent make
up, fat busting, slimming treatments,
laser hair removal. Nails by Mariella at
22, Marina Street, Marsascala. For an
appointment call on 99451294
ALL PRICES INDICATED FOR YOUR PRODUCT OR SERVICE MUST BE IN EURO
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
23
Classifieds
GOZO, XLENDI new furnished apartments. Call on 21555026, 79592764
HOLIDAY flat for rent in Qala Gozo. Call
on 21563214
TA’ Rummiena Holiday Accommodations
- If you are looking for a premium holiday on the Island of Gozo, staying in
an authentic Gozitan farmhouse rented
directly from owners, this is the right
place for you. We can guarantee you a
memorable holiday in style in one of our
luxury yet traditional farmhouses in Gozo
at the most competitive of prices. Call
on 21554466, 99821550, 79821550.
Email: [email protected],
Website: www.farmhouseingozo.com
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
AGIUS Decorations Ltd for all types of
gypsum works, PVC Wall panelling, PVC
soffits, 60 x 60 soffits, folding doors,
coving, ceiling roses, roller nets, blinds,
curtain rails & laminate floor. Supply and
install. Agius Decorations Ltd - Shop,
Valley Road, Qormi. Call on 21472068,
21803654, 99476936, 79253740.
Email on [email protected]
W.P. LTD Specialists in waterproofing
membrane. Ten-year guarantee. For free
estimates and professional advice call
on 21438326, 99445527, 99493840;
email: [email protected]; www.wpmalta.
com
HYPNOTHERAPY
HYPNOTHERAPY, qualified help to quit
smoking, self-esteem, phobias, panic
attacks, depression, impotency, jealousy,
anger management, weight control, positive thinking, social interaction and stuttering. Phone C. Barlow MAPHP, MNRPC
on 27339320, 99881165
INT. MARINE LICENCE RYA
JOIN our RYA Day Skipper courses this
season and get qualified to make an
international voyage with your boat this
summer. Contact Malta Sailing Academy
on 21 388254, 79432526, [email protected]. Visit www.maltasailingacademy.com
LETTING
LARGE one bedroom (furnished, air-conditioned) apartment in a newly-restored
building, on the most photographed
street of Valletta. First occupancy; branded appliances. Long let only. Price €600
monthly. Call on 79423002, 99264510
MOSTA – commercial premises to let,
corner with Corner Gaden. It has class
5 permit and is ideal for a playschool,
pharmacy, office, clinic. Another shop
class 4. Price very reasonable. Call on
99242312, 21411598
PAOLA – upper level of accessories
shop. Ideal for the services of nail technician, beautician, massage parlour, etc.
Call on 99440819, 99406865
QAWRA - two bedroom flat for rent.
Long lets. Price €350 per month. Call
on 99468110
SAN GWANN - modern furnished three
bedroom apartment with balcony. Price
€700. Call on 27032790, 77441193
SWIEQI - first floor office in Swieqi Road.
Includes three large rooms, kitchen and
garden. Approx 70 sqm. Price €390 per
month. Call on 99804121 or send an
email on [email protected]
MARINE
PRIVATE EXCLUSIVE YACHT CHARTERS:
why not charter one of our sailing yachts
or motor boats for a day around the
Maltese Islands? You may also charter
for longer periods and sail to Sicily. We
provide fully insured and licensed yachts,
which may be chartered with or without
a skipper. Contact Nautica Ltd on info@
nautica.com.mt, 21345138, 99496510.
Visit www.nautica.com.mt, www.yachtchartermalta.com
VISIT Glassfibre Industries for all your
boating needs including resins and fiberglass, rubber fenders, made to measure canopies and a large variety of boat
accessories being sold at discounted
prices. Glassfibre Industries, San Gwakkin
Road, Mriehel. Call on 21470282
MEAT SHOPS
PRIME MEAT SHOPS offer you the best
variety of fresh beef, pork, chicken and
other meats for any occasion. Try our
oven-ready specials, marinated meats,
fresh rabbit, succulent steaks, tasty sausages and kebabs . PRIME MEAT SHOPS
are located in Marsa, Qormi, Paola,
Zejtun, Naxxar, Sliema, Qawra, St Paul’s
Bay, Mellieha and Ghajnsielem. For more
information, contact us on 21242650,
79478452 or browse www.primemalta.
com. You may also view James’ recipes
on Facebook group PRIME RECIPES 4 U
or join our mailing list by sending an email
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
MUSIC LINK - We stock a huge range
of musical instruments such as Acoustic
and Electric Drum Kits, Cymbals,
Percussion, Digital Pianos, Baby Grand
Pianos, Digital Sound Mixers and Sound
Cards, DJ equipment, Sound Systems,
Electric, Acoustic and Classical Guitars,
Bass Guitars, Brass Instruments, Wood
Winds, Violins, spare parts and loads of
accessories. We also stock Music Tuition
Books: ABRSM, LCM and Trinity. Kindly
call at Music Link, 262, Fleur De Lys
Road, Birkirkara. Call on 21482796
PIANOS Upright/Grand: Hyundai, Kohler
& Campbell, Seiler, Schulze Pollmann.
For hire and for sale at easy monthly payment terms. Keyboards, synthesizers, digital pianos: Farfisa, Viscount.
Jazz organs: Hammond. Church organs:
Viscount, Ahlborn. Drum kits: Ludwig,
Tamburo. Cymbals, gongs: Ufip, Istanbul,
Wuhan. Acoustic guitars: Alhambra,
Strunal. Electric guitars: G&L, Burns.
Trumpets, clarinets, saxophones: Selmer
Paris. Strings: Pirastro Other musical
instruments and accessories: concert
harps, hand held percussions, Latin percussion, violins, violas, mouth organs,
piano accordions, recorders, melodicas,
amplifiers and sound systems. Apply
Barbara Music Shop, Triq Misrah il-Barrieri, Santa Venera. Call on 21484151,
21485343. Email: barbara.trading@
go.net.mt
NAUTICAL LICENCE
LICENZJA tal-bahar course costing
€120 + €35 exam fee. Alternatively join
us for a two day RYA Powerboat level 2
course – fee €350. Contact Malta Sailing
Academy on 21 388254, 79432526,
[email protected]. Visit
www.maltasailingacademy.com
NURSING
CARE AND CURE GROUP LTD - Trained
nurses, caring assistants, nannies, companions, home help and night sitters.
24-hour service. Wheelchairs, hoists,
commodes, walking frames and Hospital
beds for hire. Call on 21376946,
99470178
OPTICIANS
THE CATHEDRAL OPTICAL one-hour
service, frames start from €27.96.
Attard: 21418315; Guardamangia:
21226020: Fgura: 2167 3332; Zebbug:
21465768; Birkirkara: 21490213;
Naxxar: 21431152; Rabat: 21450845;
Luqa: 21895248; Pinto Opticians (Qormi):
21488950; San Gwann: 21383947. We
are now open in Birzebbuga: 21421976.
Polar and Cebe sunglasses.
PAINTS
INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTS, water
based and acrylic, graffiato, silicato,
tiles, adhesives, plastering, liquid membrane, anti-humidity plastering products,
etc. Any colours. Wholesale prices sales
direct through an Italian company. Call on
21240027, 99490964. Email on info@
muracel.com.mt
PEST CONTROL
COCKROACH CONTROL services using
Goliath Gel. Long-term effect. Do-ityourself pest control products for sale.
Ortis Ltd, Ta’ Qali (next to the new
American Embassy). Call on 21420305;
email: [email protected]
PRIVATE INVESTIGATIONS
PRIVATE investigations Malta, fully
licensed. Separation, divorce, civic, commercial, DNA and other cases. Locally
and abroad. Call on 79590000. Visit
www.privateinvestigationmalta.com
PROPERTY FOR SALE
BIDNIJA - well over 2 tumolo of land,
ready to be used as a weekend retreat,
being sold as freehold. Call owner on
99492448
MARSALFORN - HOLIDAY APARTMENTS FOR SHORT OR LONG LETS
WITH MAGNIFICENT SEA-VIEWS. CALL
ON 21556021, 27556021, 79426883
MARSASKALA – two car garage, street
level. Freehold. Price €32,000 ono Call
on 79058166
MELLIEHA – maisonette, one floor.
This is a fully detached property situated in one of the best parts of the village. Property consists of 3 bedrooms
(one with ensuite), main bathroom, living/ kitchen, 2-car garage and large
terrace with pool. Property enjoys views
of Selmun and back views of St Marija
Estate valley. The roof has amazing 360
degrees views and be further developed.
Call on 21525990. Come and visit this
extraordinary property and we will strike
with you a good deal.
MGARR GOZO - apartment with three
double bedrooms, one ensuite, bathroom, kitchen, living/dining and washroom. The property includes marble
floors, back & front veranda overlooking
Comino and Mgarr Harbour. In a small
block in a quiet location. Close to restaurants & shops. Call on 21558975,
99460726
MOSTA - apartment located close to all
amenities consisting of open plan, fitted
kitchen, living/ dining, two bedrooms,
front balcony, main bathroom and use of
roof. Includes one-car garage. Ideal for single person. Asking price €135,000 negotiable. Call on 21434889, 99422151
NAXXAR - corner detached bungalow
with mature gardens, large pool and deck
area, over 1,200 sqm. Must view. Asking
€740,000. Call owner on 9939 5225
OVER 2 tumolo with 3 small rooms and
many mature trees with water reserviors
and vertical well (spiera) l/o Rabat accessible through lane, with surrounding rubble walls. Being sold freehold. Call on
owner 99492448, 99875540
SAN PAWL TAT-TARGA – bright two
bedroom flat with sea views, quiet neighbourhood. Ideal for bachelor or single parent. Price €111,800 includes car space.
Call owner on 99299846, 99231933
SANTA KATERINA – limits of Rabat,
almost 1 tumolo of land in a very quite
area, surrounded by rubble walls. Land
has numerous fruit trees and a good
sized girna. Also has a reservior and vertical well (spiera) being sold freehold. Call
owner on 99492448, 99875540
SLIEMA – furnished holiday flat with
two bedrooms, on the second floor, in
Depiro Street, centrally located. Price
€130,000 or nearest offer. Call owner
on 21805729
STOP and search for property, homes
for sale and rentals on www.sapphirerealestate.com. Updated 24/7, 7 days a
week
TARXIEN: a bright 3rd floor apartment served with lift. Large open plan
with two double bedrooms, bathroom,
ensuite, laundry room and two balconies.
Highly finished including brand new parquet flooring, modern kitchen and A/C.
Price €115,000. Call on 99275411,
77343444
SERVICES
24HRS chauffeur drive service. Call on
99939495. Visit www.mcabs.com.mt
COUNSELLING service: child, youth or
family related problems, Fibromyalgia,
bullying, bedwetting, relationships, addictions, grieve and abuse among other
issues. You are not alone. Service offered
24/7 Call on 99666663
FOR any PC repairs, formats on laptops
and computers, call on 99140083
FOR any type of repairs on washing
machines or dishwashers or other home
appliances, call on 99140083
HANDWRITING and signature analysis. A qualified graphologist is offering
her services to analyse and compare
handwriting and signatures for cases of
alleged forgeries and/or fraud. Analysis
can be done on any type of cartaceous
document including cheques, testaments, letters etc. Handwriting can also
be analysed to determine personality
traits and learning difficulties in children’s
early handwritings. Call on 79883344,
[email protected]
MINICABS 24/7, minicabs and mini buses. Competitive rates. Call Wembley’s on
21374141, 27374141, 79374141
SITUATIONS VACANT
A better tomorrow starts today AVON.
Join us to become an Avon Member!
Be amongst the over 5 million women
who are making their dreams a reality with the WORLD’S LARGEST DIRECT
SELLER of beauty products. Avon helps
you start your own business for a little
more than the price of a lipstick. Work
the hours to suit your lifestyle and have
a pleasant & friendly way of earning
money. With Avon, the company for women, you’re in business for yourself. Not
by yourself. Exclusively represented by
Nova Company Ltd, 51, Old Mint Street,
Valletta. Call on 21235199, 79837983.
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.avon.com.mt
BARTENDERS and waiters with experience required to work on part-time at
Riviera MartiniqueLido in Ghajn Tuffieha.
Email your CV on [email protected] or
apply personally. For further information
call on 21578586
COOKS to work on part-time basis at
Riviera Martinique Lido in Ghajn Tuffieha.
Email your CV on [email protected] or
apply personally. For further information
call on 21578586
PART-TIME waiters to work evenings
only at Peter Restaurant in Mellieha. Must
speak Maltese. Call Noel on 21523537,
99487073
SNOOKER/POOL TABLES
SNOOKER and Pool tables, foreign,
made in solid mahogany. Complete with
accessories. Professional and commercial cues, soccer tables and air hockey
tables. Maintenance and recovering of
all types of tables. Call on 21227209,
99475092 or email on mr.snooker147@
yahoo.com. Visit us on http://houseofsnooker.wordpress.com or 25, Market
Street, Floriana
STONE WORKS
J. VELLA STONE WORKS (Ta’ Comba),
for all types of stoneworks (lavur), columns, troughs (hwat), balustrades, fireplaces, fountains, etc. More than 30
types of stone cladding, old building
stone and imported stone. Also flagstone
(cangatura), stone slabs (xorok) and
doors for farmhouses. Open from 7am
till 4pm at Triq ir-Razzett l-Ahmar, Iklin.
Showroom: 19, Main Street, Mosta. Call
on 21432352, 21412216, 99477167
TOILET SEATS
WE manufacture any kind of toilet seats,
made to measure, complete with fittings.
For more information call on 79675053,
21675053
TOOLS
TOOL CENTRE, Naxxar Road, Birkirkara
wishes to announce they have discounts
on items including S.I.P and Awelco
welding equipment, Sparky power
tools, Omega and Wintecc Hydraulic
equipment, Climax Safety equipment,
Mobile Plastic Storage bins and cabinets, Impex wall chasers (no dust),
Evolution Metal Cutting machines, Fiac
Air-compressors, safety shoes. Call on
21499908, 99475348
TUITION
FRENCH tuition in Naxxar. One-to-one
classes to individuals and small groups.
All levels – beginners, SEC Intermediate
& Advanced. Also University of
Cambridge O’level (Form 4 students).
French need not be taken at school.
Notes provided. Excellent results. Call
on 79412364/ 21412364
LET’S join our Blabla tea time conversation: French, Spanish, Italian,
Russian, Arabic and English. Language
tuition available for children too in
a friendly atmosphere. €5 per hour.
Tuition taking palce in 8, Triq il-Freres,
Gzira – Association Gnien tal-Gherf.
Call on 99052651
WELCOME kids to the unique African
Mask workshop in Malta. Learning
about other countries is a good way to
teach children about diversity and tolerance. Learn about Tetela mask and others – 4 lessons once a week €4.50 per
session for children. Sessions in Gzira.
Call on 99052651
TV REPAIRS
ON the spot, expert professional
repairs for tv’s, LCD’s, plasma, LED’s,
microwaves and any other electronic
equipment. Call on 99446918
VEHICLES/PARTS
ATTENTION ALL ROVER AND JAGUAR
OWNERS: we supply new and secondhand Rover and Jaguar parts. We also
carry out service and repairs on all
types of Rover and Jaguar. We also
have close to manufacture diagnostic tool for Jaguar. Apply at British
Car Specialist. Call on 21483024,
99425122
BENZ 190E 1.8 petrol, auto metallic
black, low miles, in excellent condition.
€3,000. Call on 99635975 or email
[email protected].
FOUR steel wheels 14”x5½”, cheap to
clear at €10 each, €35 for all four. In
excellent condition. Call on 21382704,
79320055
PEUGOT 307 CC convertible, Nysha
Blue, full leather. In excellent condition. 50,000 miles. 1.6 petrol. Price
€9,950. Call 79946547
WANTED
COLLECTIBLE items such panini
albums and loose stickers, old postcards and posted envelopes, medals, militaria, coins and paper money, books, toys, stamps, badges,
paintings, etc. Call on 21310238,
99246632
Maisonette for sale
Located in the heart of Mosta, a 3 bedroomed elevated Ground
Floor Maisonette has been well-finished and furnished, found
in a quiet residential area. Layout is in the form of an open
plan kitchen / living / dining room. Main bedroom with ensuite,
bathroom, sitting room, central yard, box room and large sunny
back terrace overlooking the valley. Freehold. For viewing and
price, kindly contact owner directly on 79325522 / 79470647
24
Sport
SPORTTODAY
FOOTBALL
Borussia Dortmund players cheer with their fans
Dortmund survive Real
Madrid flurry to reach final
BORUSSIA Dortmund are through
to the UEFA Champions League
final after securing a 4-3 aggregate win over Real Madrid.
Following their stunning 4-1 success in Germany a week ago, the
Cristiano Ronaldo reacts
in disappointment at the
full-time whistle
visitors were stubborn throughout, with Madrid only able to
breach their backline in the final
10 minutes through Karim Benzema and Sergio Ramos.
Jose Mourinho made two changes from the first leg, bringing in
Michael Essien and Angel di Maria
for Pepe and Sami Khedira, while
Dortmund went with the same XI
that had won so convincingly at
the Westfalenstadion.
The hosts exploded into the
game and could have taken the
lead as early as the fourth minute.
Luka Modric robbed Marcel
Schmelzer and touched the ball to
Mesut Ozil, who found Gonzalo
Higuain first time in the box, but
Roman Weidenfeller rushed out to
smother the Argentine.
Ronaldo then blasted an effort
over and hit a swivelling volley
at Weidenfeller, either side of an
opening for Robert Lewandowski,
before Dortmund were handed
an early blow as Mario Gotze
was forced off with a hamstring
strain and replaced by Kevin
Grosskreutz.
Madrid were swarming forward
and wasted yet another gilt-edged
chance as Higuain’s flick sent Ozil
through on goal but, with Ronaldo
waiting square for a tap-in, the
German screwed his effort wide at
the near post.
In the build-up to Tuesday’s
game Mourinho had lamented
Real’s soft approach to handling
Lewandowski in the first leg, but
his side went about roughing up the
Pole where they could at the start
of the second. Fabio Coentrao was
the first to go into Howard Webb’s
notepad for a crunching challenge
on the striker, while he was also
caught by a stray Sergio Ramos elbow in an aerial challenge.
The visitors smelt blood and
went after an early goal in the
second half. Lewandowski blazed
over after good work from Jakub
Blaszczykowski on the left and
had an even better chance just a
minute later as Reus slipped him
through on goal, but the number
nine rattled the crossbar from
eight yards.
Dortmund kept the pressure on
and Madrid had Diego Lopez to
thank as he thwarted Ilkay Gundogan from point-blank range after Marco Reus and Grosskreutz’s
one-two had left Raphael Varane
for dead.
Madrid were struggling, with
Mats Hummels and Neven Subotic proving nigh-on impossible
to breach despite wave after wave
of attack.
Indeed it was Dortmund who
continued to make the better of
the chances and they should have
killed the tie off for good with 15
minutes to play. Reus danced into
the box and, with a sight of goal,
squared for Lewandowski, but
Varane threw himself in front of
the Pole’s effort to preserve the
stalemate on the night.
But the home fans were given
cause for hope in the 83rd minute
as Khedira played Ozil in down
the left flank and crossed for Benzema, who finished high into the
net.
With two minutes left on the
clock, Madrid had another. Benzema did magnificently to control
a high ball on the bye-line and
cut back to Ramos, who thumped
the ball past Weidenfeller, but it
was not enough for the hosts and
Dortmund will go on to face Barcelona or Bayern Munich, who are
4-0 up from the first leg, at Wembley in May.
Tonight’s UEFA
Champions League
match
20:45 Barcelona - Bayern Munich
25
Sport
WEIGHTLIFTING
Silver medal for Malta Weightlifting Team
in European Small Nations Tournament
SATURDAY, April 27 saw two great
Olympic Weightlifting events take
place at the Cottonera Sports Complex, with a total of ten nations participating. These included Cyprus,
England, Luxembourg, Monaco,
San Marino, Scotland, Sicily, Switzerland, Wales and Malta. Malta
fielded three teams, namely Malta
A, Malta B and the Malta Women’s
Selection. In the Women’s Selection, youth athlete Nicole Gatt gave
an impressive performance, surpassing some senior lifters along
the way, with a points total of 168
winning the best youth in the competition.
The spotlight was on the Malta
A Selection, which was made up of
Rodmar Pulis, Jovan Reljic, Matthew Muscat Inlgott and Charles
Degorigio. In a somewhat shaky
start, Degorgio failed to secure a total after some difficulty in the Clean
and Jerk section of the competition.
Next up was Serbian-Maltese lifter
Jovan Reljic, who began his competition with some difficulty also,
by missing out on his first two attempts in the Snatch lift. This left
only one attempt in order to secure
a total in order to proceed with the
Clean and Jerk and avoid disqualification – Reljic managed to throw
the bar overhead this time and held
on to achieve a ‘good lift’ announcement. Following the Clean and Jerk,
Reljic finished off with a 200kg total
and point best by virtue of lighter
body weight, having dropped a
weight class for this event.
Following Reljic’s effort, Matthew
Muscat Inglott took to the stage.
With a fantastic and consistent
performance, Inglott achieved a ‘six
out of six’, having successfully completed all three Snatch attempts and
all three Clean and Jerks, totaling
269kg.
To finish off Malta’s participation,
all pressure was now on Rodmar
Pulis to secure a medal. Opening
with a 95kg Snatch attempt, Rodmar narrowly missed having failed
to stabilise the bar overhead. Determined to secure his second attempt, Rodmar powered the weight
overhead in supreme fashion. In
the Clean and Jerk, Pulis delivered
when it counted most – a succession of three successful attempts
including 120kg, 124kg, and 131kg
respectively, of which the third attempt broke the national record.
With this, the Maltese team totaled 807 points, placing second for
silver medal position behind Cyrpus, who achieved a combined total
Rodmar Pulis
Jovan Reljic
Nicole Gatt
of 894 points, with Monaco placing
third with 797 points.
The second of the two competitions was the Charles Mifsud Open,
with Nicole Gatt joining Reljic,
Muscat Inglott and Pulis. Also participating was Scotland, with Olympian Peter Kirkbride, and also Monaco, Switzerland, Cyprus, Wales,
London and Sicily. Scotland’s great
Peter Kirkbride gave a stellar performance which included a 135kg
Snatch and 180kg Clean and Jerk,
which helped secure a comfortable
gold medal spot with a total combined points total of 1,230. In silver
medal position came Cyprus, with
1,017 points, and taking the bronze
was Switzerland, with 992 points.
Malta trailed behind at 4th position
with 975 points, surpassing a strong
Welsh side.
The event was successfully organised and made possible by the
Matthew Muscat Inglott
Malta Weightlifting Association
and President Jesmond Caruana,
with the help of Kunsill Malti għall-
MOTORSPORTS
Team AWDC Malta back in action
TEAM AWDC Malta will be back
in action this week when three
Maltese teams will again attempt
to conquer the seven day gruelling
Croatian Trophy. The weeklong
event kicks of Thursday 2 May
with the prologue which will determine the starting grid for the
Stages starting Friday. The hardest
day of the event will be on Saturday 4 May as the teams will have
to race in the morning Trophy day
but will not be able to rest much as
at 23:00 on the same day they have
to compete in the Night Stage.
This year team AWDC Malta will
consist of Colerio Race, starting
grid number 240, with their modified Jeep driven by Trophy Veteran
Kenneth Colerio and off-road vet-
eran Neville Ciantar. Kenneth is in
his 3rd successive Trophy. Up next
are Ciappella Racing, number 241,
in their Revolver Buggy driven by
Adrian Bezzina and John Zammit.
This is their second appearance in
the trophy. Last but defiantly not
least the team of Kamoy Engineering, team number 239, with their
Kamoy Buggy driven by Stefan
Mallia and Alistair Caruana. All
3 teams members participated in
last year’s event. They will be supported by an all Maltese crew who
will defiantly play a crucial role in
the event.
This year’s event sees a participation list of 98 vehicles split in
three classes, Trophy, Adventure
and ATV. Team AWDC Malta will
be participating in the Trophy
class that has a total of 50 vehicles
participating. This is an internationally renewed event with participants from countries such as
United Kingdom, Belgium, Nederland, Denmark, Germany, Austria,
France, Russia, Italy, Hungary,
Croatia and Australia.
This year’s team AWDC Malta
is supported by Parlamentry Secretary for Research, Innovation,
Youth and Sports, Kunsill Malti
Ghall-ISports and Malta Motorsport Federation.
For more information and daily
updates on this event please follow
us on www.awdc-malta.com. our
Facebook page AWDC - Malta or
Twitter #AWDCMalta
Isport (KMS) and Eleiko Sport as
the main sponsor of the competitions.
26
Sport
BODYBUILDING
Dominic Schieda takes top honours
at the 2013 IFBB-MALTA Bodybuilding
and Fitness National Championships
Luke Debono, Blanche Coppola, Dominic Schieda, IFBB-MALTA President Ralph Decelis and Stephen Borg
The final results
IN front of a record crowd of over
700 people, 27 athletes competed
against each other in what would be
a spectacular event at the Corinthia,
San Gorg Hotel.
From the 27 athletes, five would
be selected to represent Malta at the
IFBB European Championships in
Moldova, Spain this week.
Competition was at the highest
level and the judges had their hands
full to decide who would win in their
respective categories.
The five athletes that will be
representing Malta are:
Clive Sammut - Classic Bodybuilding category
Alison Matthews – Body Fitness
category
Dominic Schieda, Luke Debono
and Stephen Borg who were the top
three overall in the bodybuilding
category.
Gilbert Zammit, Mario Pace, Saviour
Caruana, Kevin Cauchi, Ray Cassar,
Katya Vella and Jacqueline Borg will
also be competing in Spain. IFBBMALTA President Ralph Decelis
and committee member Antoine
Micallef will also be accompanying
the team.
For more information about the
IFBB-MALTA and how to become a member can be found on
www.ifbb-malta.com or view the
Facebook group page IFBB Malta.
Jonathan Debono and Jacqueline Borg
Kenneth Bugeja, Ray Cassar and Marc Mizzi
Katya Vella, Alison Matthews and Charmaine Debono
Gilbert Zammit
Mario Pace, Etienne Hayman, Clive Sammut, Ray Cassar and Kevin Cauchi
Novices 1) Daniel Zammit 2) Clive
Sammut 3)Etienne Hayman
Juniors 1)Luke Debono 2) Daniel
Zammit 3) Clive Sammut
Masters Over 40 1) Dominic
Schieda 2) Stephen Borg 3) Gilbert
Zammit
Masters Over 50 1) Ray Cassar 2)
Giuseppe Cali 3) Mario Pace
Body Fitness 1) Alison Matthews 2)
Katya Vella 3) Charmaine Debono
Woman Bodybuilding Jacqueline
Borg
Men’s Physique 1)Jonathan
Seychell 2) Konrad Fenech 3)
Patrick Attard
Classic Bodybuilding 1)Clive
Sammut 2) Ray Cassar 3)Etienne
Hayman
Bodybuilding-75kgs 1) Daniel
Zammit 2) Roderick Schembri 3)
Steven Batram
Bodybuilding-80kgs 1) Pierre
Debono 20 Richard Galea 3)
Jason Farrugia
Bodybuilding- 90kgs 1) Dominic
Schieda 2) Luke Debono 3)
Stephen Borg
Bodybuilding 90+kgs 1) Gilbert
Zammit 2) Oliver Giordano 3)
Alessandro Balsamo
Mixed Pairs 1) Giordano Oliver/
Debono Charmaine 2) Borg
Stephen/Jacqueline
Bodybuilding Overall 1)Dominic
Schieda 2) Luke Debono 3)
Stephen Borg
Appreciation Award Ray Cassar
Hall of Fame Lorry Fabri
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLY CASSAR
KEVIN GRECH
27
Sport
OPINION
The obvious relegations
They emerged from summer as the
new rich boys in town, flashing their
cash around on Champions League
winning players such as Julio Cesar,
Ju Sung Park and Bosingwa. They
had the cash, but a winless streak
from previous manager Mark Hughes meant that Harry Redknapp inherited a complacent laughing stock,
with players whose wages did not
reflect their talent or commitment
levels. Only he knows what went on
in training, but under him, one they
could have labelled a hero and saviour if things improved, they went
from completely awful to just awful.
He moaned and complained about
their wages, however tried to patch
the situation up by spending big in
the Christmas break, bringing in
Jermaine Jenas, Christopher Samba and Loic Remy. These signings
would only sing on big wages, thus
increasing the division between the
under earners and over earners. And
look how good that turned out. Jose
Bosingwa was even seen smiling as
he headed down the tunnel following
relegation day.
Harry Redknapp is meant to be the
mean man manager of English football, and though his task seemed to be
a mission impossible, he had managed
in worse conditions at Portsmouth
against all odds. The situation at QPR
was a dreadful one, and he can moan
that he came in too late, but I would
still expect improvement, rather than
a whimper at the death.
Mark
Strijbosch
AS the season draws to a close, I am
afraid this one will not be remembered as a classic. Manchester United
clinched the title comfortably with
four games to go, and sadly the relegations were pretty much decided in
December.
The basement clash last weekend
was about as entertaining as watching paint dry. It was as if two bald men
were fighting over a comb, in their
retirement years. QPR and Reading
were head to head in what should
have been the most important games
in their history. This was not a chance
to stay up, but rather to postpone the
curtains on dreadful seasons, and to
give their sad fans something small to
cheer about.
It was not even close to that. A drab
goalless draw, where neither team
came even close to showing their
teeth. With Reading I expect nothing more. They are a championship
side, made up of championship and
League One players. Their late sacking of McDermott was foolish, and
ultimately new boss Nigel Adkins
never stood a chance after inheriting
a stagnant team.
QPR on the other hand had hope.
QPR’s high profile players did not do enough to keep them in the Premier League
The pride and passion of the club
is now damaged, and they face bigger trouble next season as all these
big signings would demand Premier
League football, not that they deserve
it. Surely QPR can not afford their
wages from the Championship and
selling them would only mean damaging promotion hope. With Wolves
about to slip two divisions conservatively, maybe QPR will join them in
that feat if the philosophy of the club
fails to improve.
Harry Redknapp claims most of his
stars would want to stay due to their
fat pay cheques, and shifting the ones
he doesn’t want will be no easy task.
Many claim QPR will be a big fish in
a small pond in the Championship,
however I feel it is the opposite. The
league is ever improving, with big
teams struggling there in the past.
Some of his players are some way off
the standard required in the Championship, let alone the Premier League,
and a reshuffle might be in order.
Harry is bound to stay and that could
be the only silver lining in this lame
scenario. He could not have saved
them from impending doom, but
there might be more bite left in our
fan favourite than we think.
Sadly for Reading they will need
more time to think about climbing
back. Eight of their players won the
Championship last year, and that experience will help, however bouncing
back is a tall order for a team which
does not boast the financial muscle
the likes of QPR do.
The trap door is still open for one
more, with no less than four teams
not safe with three games to go. The
final games are not called six pointers for nothing, and times have never
been so tough for the battling basement boys.
One thing is for sure: the table won’t
lie at the end of the season, and no
team gets relegated without deserving it.
Pursuits
Across
1. Gesture of approval (6,2)
6. Clasp for a door (4)
8. Botch (6)
9. Dated (3,3)
10. Lascivious man (5)
11. Person who lives in seclusion
(7)
13. Almost (6)
15. Tipsy (6)
17. Severe (7)
19. Condescend (5)
22. Plaid (6)
23. Most intimate (6)
24. Cushion round a wheel (4)
25. Patron (8)
Sudoku
Sudoku rules are
extremely easy: Fill all empty
squares so that the numbers 1
to 9 appear once in each row,
column and 9x9 box.
Answers to the MaltaToday crossword will be published next Wednesday
Last week’s solution
Chess
Today’s Weather
8
8
7
WEATHER:
Mainly fine with increasing
high clouds and with the
possibility of some rain at
times later
VISIBILITY:
Moderate to good
WIND:
Easterly force 4 to 5
locally force 5 to 6
SEA:
Moderate
SWELL:
Negligible or low
Southeasterly
6
7
5
4
6
3
5
2
1
4
A
3
B
C
D
Qe4+ Kf6
Qxe6+ Kg5
Ke4
Kh4
Kf4
Kh5
Qd6
Kh4
Qh6#
2
1
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
White to play and mate in four moves
E
F
G
H
PARTLY CLOUDY
20ºC / 17ºC
UV INDEX: 7
Down
2. Charge made for hauling (7)
3. Humid (5)
4. Ooze (4)
5. That which a person owns (8)
6. Nestled together (7)
7. Sea mammals (5)
12. Sanitary (8)
14. Rose shaped ornament (7)
16. Quick visual inspection (4-3)
18. Not hesitant (5)
20. Characteristic rhythm (5)
21. Sets of equipment (4)
News
Wain blasts lack of transparency
JURGEN BALZAN
NGOS Commissioner Kenneth Wain
lambasted the previous government’s
lax discretion in granting funds to voluntary organisations.
Wain, the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations, voiced his dissatisfaction at the lack of transparency
in the way the government approved
funding to voluntary organisations in
2012.
In his overview, published in the
2012 annual report, Wain noted that
2012 saw an unprecedented number
of ministerial exemptions to Church
organisations and “other free-riders”
despite his consistent complaints that
these exemptions undermined credibility.
Wain said, “I am also dissatisfied
with the government’s lack of adequate
transparency in the way it operates the
schemes and policies intended for the
voluntary sector, the operation of the
NGO Projects Selection Committee,
the Good Causes Fund, the Overseas
Development Aid fund, Eco-Gozo,
Public Broadcasting Services Ltd, etc.”
He added that these “blanket exemptions” were related to ministerial
funds, which were approved without
explanation or justification in a letter
of exemption.
“This way of doing things evidently
goes against the intention for any law
that provides for Ministerial exemption, namely that the tool should be
used sparingly and responsibly, in exceptional and justified cases, on a case
by case basis, and that the reason for
the exemption should be communicated to the Commissioner, otherwise
ministerial discretion is abused and
the mechanism made a farce,” Wain
said.
Wain believes that government policy should not be to indiscriminately
issue exemptions “but to insist that
organisations applying for funding or
other benefits enrol with the Commissioner before they are eligible to
apply.”
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He said the government should set
an example for the sector “but the
contrary is the case. I have insisted
that the administration of these funds
should not be internal to the ministries as is presently the case and that
such administration should be publicly accountable.”
Ministers should set up independent and competent selection boards
or committees with clear remits, clear
instructions on eligibility and unambiguous conditions of application,
including enrolment with the Commissioner and transparent selection
processes in accord with clear criteria,
Wain said.
Out of the 90-odd ministerial ex-
emptions handed in 2012, only three
organisations eventually applied for
enrolment with the Office of the Commissioner for voluntary organisations,
Wain pointed out.
Meanwhile, Wain also argued that
the enrolment of NGOs with the Office should be mandatory.
In his 2012 overview, he called for
two major amendments to the Voluntary Organisations Act, the first being
mandatory enrolment and the second
a change in the composition of the
council leading the Office.
“The two fundamental changes to
the VOA I am advocating, compulsory
enrolment and the democratisation of
the process for the appointment of the
council, will require in-depth discussion with the government and with the
council, but they are the way forward
for the sector and for civil society as a
whole,” Wain said.
Kenneth Wain
While noting that mandatory enrolment would “profoundly transform”
civil society by guaranteeing accountability and transparency, Wain added
that it “would strengthen the public
image and credibility of the sector itself.”
Wain explained that the composition of the council should follow the
Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) civil-society committee model.
“My recommendation is that the
council be elected wholly or largely
democratically by the voluntary sector itself with new representational
criteria,” Wain said, adding that he
had advised the former administration to extend the present council’s
term by one year to see through the
amendments to the VOA and oversee
the completion of the first phase of the
planned voluntary organisation centre
in Valletta.
The Office of the Commissioner for
Voluntary Organisations was set up
by the VOA in 2007, with the task of
strengthening the voluntary sector
through various initiatives and the
specific aim of promoting the work
of NGOs as well as encouraging their
role as partners with the government
in various initiatives.
By the end of 2012, 761 organisations were enrolled with the Office,
with Wain describing it as “satisfactory,” considering that enrolment is not
mandatory and the dispute with the
Church over the enrolment of Church
organisations remains unresolved.
In his 2011 report, Wain, an ethics
professor, described the Church organisations saga as a “sore point” and
registered his objection to the government’s extension of benefits to nonregistered Church organisations.

312 Midweek 1st May 2013

Transcription

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