Malta

MEPA REFUSES ENEMALTA APPLICATION IN ARMIER

2012-01-19T02:54:00.003-08:00

The Environment and Planning Commission (EPC) earlier today refused to give planning permission for the construction of an electricity substation in the area known as ir- Ramla Tat- Torri, in Armier, limits of Mellieha.

The Commission cited that there is no sufficient justification for the proposed development of a substation in this particular site, which will take up further virgin land outside the development zone. Additionally, considering the sensitive nature of the area and in the absence of an approved Action Plan, the Commission said that the proposed development is premature and there were no valid reasons justifying its approval.

Yesterday, Mepa’s enforcement directorate, issued an enforcement notice on a beach house which was being built without a permit within the same area. The Authority has given the occupier a few days to remove the illegality from on government owned land.

Volume of retail trade down by 0.8% in euro area

2012-01-19T02:54:00.001-08:00

Down by 0.6% in EU27

In November 2011, compared with October 2011, the volume of retail trade1 fell by 0.8% in the euro area2 (EA17) and by 0.6% in the EU272. In October3 retail trade rose by 0.1% and 0.2% respectively.

In November 20114, compared with November 2010, the retail sales index decreased by 2.5% in the euro area and by 1.3% in the EU27.

These first estimates come from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.

Monthly comparison

In November 2011, compared with October 2011, “Food, drinks and tobacco” fell by 0.8% in the euro area and by 0.7% in the EU27. The non food sector decreased by 0.7% in both zones.

Among the Member States for which data are available, total retail trade fell in thirteen and rose in seven. The highest decreases were observed in Portugal (-2.6%), Malta (-1.6%), Romania (-1.0%), Germany, Poland and Finland (all -0.9%), and the largest increases in Lithuania (+4.2%), Ireland (+2.0%) and Latvia (+1.9%).

Annual comparison

In November 2011, compared with November 2010, “Food, drinks and tobacco” fell by 1.6% in the euro area and by 1.5% in the EU27. The non food sector decreased by 3.0% and 1.1% respectively.

Among the Member States for which data are available, total retail trade fell in ten and rose in ten. The highest decreases were observed in Portugal (-9.2%), Spain (-7.0%) and Bulgaria (-5.3%), and the largest increases in Lithuania (+14.1%), Latvia (+7.6%) and Estonia (+3.9%).

Based on data adjusted for working days and seasonal effects.
The seasonally adjusted euro area and EU series are calculated by aggregating the working day adjusted series from individual Member States and performing an adjustment for seasonal effects on these series. Therefore the European seasonally adjusted figures for total retail trade are based directly on the working day adjusted series coming from the Member States and not on an aggregation of the seasonally adjusted indices from the Member States. The euro area and EU seasonally adjusted growth rates might differ from the weighted growth rates of the individual Member States. This procedure also implies that the aggregation of total retail trade is not directly based on the published details (food, non-food, fuel).

The weights of the Member States in the EU and euro area aggregates can be found at:

http://circa.europa.eu/Public/irc/dsis/ebt/library?l=/sts_weights_public&vm=detailed&sb=Title

See file: EU_EA17_NEWS_RELEASE_WEIGHTINGS_2005_nace2

More detailed data can be found in the short-term statistics database on the Eurostat website:

http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/portal/page/portal/short_term_business_statistics/data/database

The euro area (EA17) includes Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia and Finland.
The EU27 includes Belgium (BE), Bulgaria (BG), the Czech Republic (CZ), Denmark (DK), Germany (DE), Estonia (EE), Ireland (IE), Greece (EL), Spain (ES), France (FR), Italy (IT), Cyprus (CY), Latvia (LV), Lithuania (LT), Luxembourg (LU), Hungary (HU), Malta (MT), the Netherlands (NL), Austria (AT), Poland (PL), Portugal (PT), Romania (RO), Slovenia (SI), Slovakia (SK), Finland (FI), Sweden (SE) and the United Kingdom (UK).

Data of previous months have been revised compared to those issued in the News Release 178/2011 of 5 December 2011. The monthly growth rates for October 2011 have been revised from +0.4% to +0.1% in the EA17 and from +0.4% to +0.2% in the EU27. The annual growth rates have been revised from -0.4% to -0.7% in the EA17 and from 0.0% to -0.1% in the EU27.
Based on data adjusted for working days.

Labour Force Survey figures for the third quarter of 2011 indicate anincrease in employment of over 2 per cent when compared to thecorresponding quarter of 2010

2012-01-19T02:53:00.004-08:00

Labour StatusThe number of employed persons during the third quarter last year was estimated at 170,466, ornearly half the population aged 15 and over (Table 1). There were also 11,218 (3 per cent) within thesame age group who, according to the Labour Force Survey (LFS) criteria, were classified asunemployed. Another 173,679 persons (49 per cent) were inactive.On average, out of every 100 persons within the 15-64 age group, there were 62 who were eitherworking or actively seeking work (Table 3). There was an increase in the activity rate when comparedto the corresponding quarter in 2010. This rise was recorded for both males and females.The Employed PopulationThe employment rate for the third quarter of 2011 was estimated at 58 per cent - an increase of overone percentage point over 2010. The highest employment rates were recorded among personsaged between 25-54, for both sexes.The largest proportion of employed men were engaged in wholesale and retail trade, repair ofmotor vehicles and household goods, hotels and restaurants, and transport and communication, at32 per cent. On the other hand, the largest share of employed women (47 per cent) were working inother service activities (Table 7).Nearly a fifth of the employed population were engaged in service-oriented jobs. This categoryincludes occupations such as hairdressers, waiters and salespersons. Service-orientedoccupations were predominant among female workers, while men were mostly engaged in craft-related jobs.In terms of professional status, the majority of employed persons were employees, at 87 per cent ofthe total work force (Table 15); 146,855, or 86 per cent, were working on a full-time basis. On theother hand, 23,611 (14 per cent) were engaged in part-time jobs or had a full-time job with reducedhours (Table 16).During the period under review, the average gross annual salary of employees was estimated at€15,036. This amount refers to the basic salary and excludes extra payments such as overtime,bonuses and allowances as explained in the methodological notes. On a sectoral basis, the highestaverage gross annual salary for employees was recorded in financial, real estate, renting andbusiness activities (Table 9). The highest average salary by main occupation was for legislators,senior officials and managerial occupations, as expected (Table 13).The Unemployed PopulationThe unemployment rate for the period under review was estimated at 6.2 per cent - 5.9 per cent formales and 6.7 per cent for females (Table 5).The largest share of unemployed persons fell within the 15-24 age bracket (Table 17). Nearly half ofthese persons had been seeking work for at least 12 months (Table 18

Industrial production down by 0.1% in both euro area and EU27

2012-01-19T02:53:00.002-08:00

In November 2011 compared with October 2011, seasonally adjusted industrial production1 fell by 0.1% in both the euro area2 (EA17) and the EU272. In October3 production decreased by 0.3% in both zones.

In November 2011 compared with November 2010, industrial production dropped by 0.3% in the euro area and by 0.2% in the EU27.

These estimates are released by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.

Monthly comparison

In November 2011 compared with October 2011, production of non-durable consumer goods fell by 0.8% in the euro area and by 0.6% in the EU27. Durable consumer goods decreased by 0.8% in the euro area, but rose by 0.1% in the EU27. Capital goods remained stable in both zones. Intermediate goods remained stable in the euro area and grew by 0.1% in the EU27. Production of energy increased by 0.5% in the euro area, but dropped by 0.2% in the EU27.

Among the Member States for which data are available, industrial production fell in ten and rose in nine. The largest decreases were registered in Ireland (-9.4%), Sweden (-3.0%) and Slovakia (-2.4%), and the highest increases in the Czech Republic (+2.7%), Poland (+1.6%), Greece, France and Lithuania (all +1.1%).

Annual comparison

In November 2011 compared with November 2010, production of energy fell by 5.8% in the euro area and by 6.6% in the EU27. Durable consumer goods decreased by 4.0% and 2.1% respectively. Non-durable consumer goods dropped by 1.3% in the euro area and 0.7% in the EU27. Intermediate goods fell by 1.1% and 0.8% respectively. Capital goods increased by 4.3% in the euro area and by 4.5% in the EU27.

Among the Member States for which data are available, industrial production fell in nine and rose in ten. The highest decreases were registered in Greece (-8.2%), Spain (-7.0%), Ireland (-4.4%), Malta (-4.3%) and Italy
(-4.1%), and the largest increases in Poland (+9.9%), Latvia (+8.5%), the Czech Republic (+5.4%), Romania (+3.3%) and Germany (+3.2%).

Total industry excluding construction. According to the Council Regulation 1165/98 Eurostat publishes national seasonally adjusted data if available. For the other Member States (Greece, Spain, Cyprus, Malta and Luxembourg) Eurostat performs the adjustment. This means that different methodologies are used to make the seasonal adjustment of the national series.
The seasonally adjusted euro area and EU series are calculated by aggregating the working day adjusted series from individual Member States and performing an adjustment for seasonal effects on these series. Therefore the seasonally adjusted figures for total industry (excluding construction) is based directly on the working day adjusted series coming from the Member States and not on an aggregation of the seasonally adjusted indices from the Member States. The euro area and EU seasonally adjusted growth rates might differ from the weighted growth rates of the individual Member States (see Methodology of the industrial production index). This procedure also implies that the aggregation of the overall figures is not based on the published details (intermediate, capital, durable, non-durable goods, energy).

Missing observations from Member States are estimated for the calculation of the euro area and the EU aggregates.

The weights of the Member States in the EU and euro area aggregates can be found at:

http://circa.europa.eu/Public/irc/dsis/ebt/library?l=/sts_weights_public&vm=detailed&sb=Title

See file: EU_EA17_NEWS_RELEASE_WEIGHTINGS_2005_nace2 (NR ind_production).

More detailed data can be found in the short-term statistics database on the Eurostat website:

http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/portal/page/portal/short_term_business_statistics/data/database

The euro area (EA17) includes Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia and Finland.
The EU27 includes Belgium (BE), Bulgaria (BG), the Czech Republic (CZ), Denmark (DK), Germany (DE), Estonia (EE), Ireland (IE), Greece (EL), Spain (ES), France (FR), Italy (IT), Cyprus (CY), Latvia (LV), Lithuania (LT), Luxembourg (LU), Hungary (HU), Malta (MT), the Netherlands (NL), Austria (AT), Poland (PL), Portugal (PT), Romania (RO), Slovenia (SI), Slovakia (SK), Finland (FI), Sweden (SE) and the United Kingdom (UK).

Data of previous months have been revised compared with those issued in News Release 187/2011 of 14 December 2011. The monthly growth rates for October 2011 have been revised from -0.1% to -0.3% in the euro area and from -0.2% to
-0.3% in the EU27. The annual growth rates have been revised from +1.3% to +1.0% in both the euro area and the EU27.

Euro area external trade surplus 6.9 bn euro

2012-01-19T02:53:00.000-08:00

7.2 bn euro deficit for EU27

The first estimate for euro area¹ (EA17) trade with the rest of the world in November 2011 gave a 6.9 bn euro surplus, compared with -2.3 bn euro in November 2010. The October 2011² balance was +1.0 bn, compared with +3.1 bn in October 2010. In November 2011 compared with October 2011, seasonally adjusted exports rose by 3.9%, while imports remained stable.

The first estimate for the November 2011 extra-EU27¹ trade balance was a 7.2 bn euro deficit, compared with -16.8 bn in November 2010. In October 2011 the balance was -11.2 bn, compared with -9.5 bn in October 2010. In November 2011 compared with October 2011, seasonally adjusted exports rose by 2.8%, while imports fell by 0.6%.

These data³ are released by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.

EU27 detailed results for January to October 2011

The EU27 deficit for energy increased significantly (-317.5 bn euro in January-October 2011 compared with -246.4 bn in January-October 2010), while the surplus for manufactured goods rose notably (+198.9 bn compared with +136.4 bn).

EU27 trade with all its major partners grew in January-October 2011 compared with January-October 2010, except for imports from South Korea (-8%). The highest increases were recorded for exports to Russia (+28%), Turkey (+23%), China (+21%) and India (+20%), and for imports from Russia (+26%), Norway (+21%), Brazil and India (both +20%).

The EU27 trade surplus increased slightly with the USA (+60.8 bn euro in January-October 2011 compared with +60.1 bn in January-October 2010) and more significantly with Switzerland (+24.1 bn compared with +16.6 bn) and Turkey (+21.3 bn compared with +14.7 bn). The EU27 trade deficit fell with China (-132.2 bn compared with -139.8 bn), Japan (-16.1 bn compared with -18.3 bn) and South Korea (-3.9 bn compared with -9.6 bn), but increased with Russia (-76.0 bn compared with -61.1 bn) and Norway (-38.7 bn compared with -29.8 bn).

Concerning the total trade of Member States, the largest surplus was observed in Germany (+129.2 bn euro in January-October 2011), followed by Ireland and the Netherlands (both +35.9 bn) and Belgium (+10.1 bn). The United Kingdom (-98.2 bn) registered the largest deficit, followed by France (-72.5 bn), Spain (-40.1 bn), Italy (-24.2 bn), Greece (-16.9 bn), Portugal (-13.3 bn) and Poland (-12.0 bn).

EA17 trade - non seasonally adjusted data bn euro

Flows	Nov 10	Nov 11	Growth	Oct 10	Oct 11		Growth		Jan-Nov 10	Jan-Nov 11	Growth
Extra-EA17 exports	141.2	155.6	10%	139.8	147.9	r	6%		1 402.4	1 585.5	13%
Extra-EA17 imports	143.5	148.7	4%	136.7	146.9	r	8%	r	1 415.4	1 600.6	13%
Extra-EA17 trade balance	-2.3	6.9		3.1	1.0	r			-13.0	-15.1
Intra-EA17 dispatches⁴	135.5	141.2	4%	132.3	136.6	r	3%	r	1 358.8	1 490.5	10%

EU27 trade - non seasonally adjusted data bn euro

Flows	Nov 10	Nov 11	Growth	Oct 10		Oct 11		Growth	Jan-Nov 10	Jan-Nov 11	Growth
Extra-EU27 exports	123.2	136.8	11%	121.4		131.5	r	8%	1 227.1	1 395.3	14%
Extra-EU27 imports	140.0	144.0	3%	131.0		142.6	r	9%	1 374.5	1 547.8	13%
Extra-EU27 trade balance	-16.8	-7.2		-9.5	r	-11.2	r		-147.4	-152.5
Intra-EU27 dispatches⁴	234.8	247.0	5%	229.1		238.9	r	4%	2 326.2	2 583.7	11%

r: revised

The euro area (EA17) consists of Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia and Finland.

The EU27 includes Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

Compared with News Release 192/2011 of 16 December 2011, the trade balance for October 2011 has been revised from +1.1 bn euro to +1.0 bn for the EA17 and from -11.0 bn euro to -11.2 bn for the EU27.
This News Release is based on data available on 10 January 2012. These are provisional figures based on information provided by Member States. They are subject to frequent revision for up to two years after the month in question. Furthermore, national concepts may differ from the harmonised methodology used by Eurostat, leading to differences between figures in this release and those published nationally, both for raw data and for seasonally adjusted series.
Since the introduction of Intrastat for intra-EU trade on 1 January 1993, the value of dispatches has been consistently higher than that of arrivals. In theory, as dispatches are declared FOB and arrivals CIF, the value of arrivals should be slightly higher than that of dispatches. Eurostat uses dispatches as the more reliable measure of total intra-EU trade as, at aggregated levels, total dispatches has better coverage than total arrivals. Due to this divergence in intra-EU trade, and to the difficulties of interpreting figures in absolute terms at the level of individual Member States, trade balances for individual Member States must be interpreted with caution. The same caution applies to the trade balance of the euro area, which includes some intra-EU trade.

GO extends Christmas offers – on Home Pack and GO interactive tv with Home Pack

2012-01-19T02:52:00.001-08:00

18 January 2011: GO – Malta’s leading quad-play communications and entertainment provider –

is extending its offers on Home Pack and GO interactive tv with Home Pack, giving customers a further opportunity to make the most of higher value and exceptional quality spread over GO’s quad play services – the best in the market. The decision to extend both superb offers is strongly in line with the positive response that both offers enjoyed since hitting the market last December. The two offers now run till 31st January 2012.

“Thanks to the offers not only do customers pay a lot less than if they bought all the services separately but also lots of freebies are up for grabs with the offers, ranging from free installation and set-top boxes, to unlimited free fixed-line calls to any GO phone lines. Then for just a few euros more each month customers not only benefit from the plethora of advantages that come part and parcel of Home Pack, but they can subscribe to GO interactive tv – the amazing tv service that everyone is talking about, with a host of exciting features that allow viewers to watch what they want, when they want to.”

Customers who opt to sign up to Home Pack get the best in value and home entertainment with all four of GO’s premium services. Advantages include free mobile minutes on a monthly basis, Talk Anytime fixed line service with free calls to all GO phone line numbers, free installation of the phone service, 60 minutes of free calls to other local phone line numbers per month, up to 4Mbps, 25GB usage and free standard modem, tv service with free installation and up to 2 free set-top boxes – and much, much more!

Under the special Home Pack offer, customers who opt for the Home Pack €33 Silver offer will have their service upgraded to Gold tv for the first 3 months – absolutely free of charge – while if they opt for the €42 Gold package they will only pay €33 a month for the first 3 months under the offer.

And that’s not all ... with Home Pack, for just €5 more every month, customers can get GO interactive tv – a truly exceptional viewing experience where tv upgrades to an entertainment and an information centre. Customers who make a wise decision and sign on to GO interactive tv can experience HD picture quality, over 100 channels, widgets and games and tv control features such as restart, catch up, pause, rewind, record – all at the power of their fingertips. – a real must-have for all tv addicts!

What’s more customers who get GO interactive tv with Home Pack enjoy, as an additional benefit, the super value offer that includes free GO interactive HD box, free installation on all services, free internet modem and a free Nokia C1-01 or a €79 discount voucher towards the mobile phone of their choice. Home Pack Silver and Home Pack Gold are available at €39 and €47 per month respectively.

For further information on the above offers – Home Pack and GO interactive tv with Home Pack – customers can drop in at any one of GO’s outlets or authorised resellers in Malta and Gozo or call anytime on Freephone 8007 2121, 146 from the customer’s GO mobile or 79222146 from any other connection. Alternatively they can visit the website: www.go.com.mt. Terms and conditions apply with regards both of the two offers.

There were four traffic fatalities in the fourth quarter last year. All were males

2012-01-19T02:51:00.001-08:00

In the fourth quarter of 2011, the number of reported traffic accidents reached 3,482, an increaseof 185 cases over the corresponding period in 2010. Increases were recorded in all districts,with the biggest percentage increase (15.1 per cent) occurring in the South Eastern district.The Northern Harbour district registered the most accidents - 1,368 cases, or 39.3 per cent ofthe total (Table 1).In the period under review, 368 traffic casualties were reported, of which 237 involved drivers.There were three fatalities among drivers, while 206 injuries in this group were slight andanother 28 were reported as grievous. During this period 31 other persons (14 passengers and17 pedestrians) suffered grievous injuries, while 99 (69 passengers and 30 pedestrians) wereslightly injured. Furthermore, the injuries suffered by one pedestrian proved fatal (Tables 4-7).On a gender basis, slightly-injured persons numbered 305: 168 males and 137 females.Grievously-injured persons totalled 59, the majority being males. All four fatalities in the quarterwere males. The majority of casualties were in the 25-39 age bracket (Table 10).Table 12 shows that almost 76.6 per cent of traffic casualties were caused by passenger cars,followed by motorcycles at 11.7 per cent; 8.7 per cent were caused by goods-carrying vehicles.In the fourth quarter last year, the highest traffic casualty rate occurred on Saturdays, accountingfor 17.9 per cent of the total. The highest accident rate was recorded on Fridays, totalling 586cases, and the lowest on Sundays, with 362 cases. However, Saturdays topped the highestcasualty-to-accident ratios (Table 14).In the period under review, Birkirkara registered the highest rate of traffic accidents, with 229cases. Marsa and Msida were next, with 228 and 185 reported accidents respectively (Chart7).Annual perspectiveIn 2011, recorded accidents totalled 14,264, an increase of 3.9 per cent over 2010. The NorthernHarbour district registered the highest number of traffic accidents with 5,451 cases, or 38.2per cent of the total.Last year there were 1,577 persons (915 males and 662 females) who suffered injuries intraffic accidents, of which 17 cases (14 males and 3 females) proved fatal (Table 11). Table 13shows that in 2011, 75.4 per cent of casualties were caused by passenger cars, while 14.1 percent were caused by motorcycles.The largest number of traffic accidents in 2011 occurred in Birkirkara, with 921 cases, or 6.5per cent of the total. Marsa and Qormi were next, with 808 and 792 reported accidentsrespectively (Chart 8)

Substation at Armier will ensure acceptable electricity service

2012-01-05T11:22:00.001-08:00

Enemalta this afternoon said that the whole area between Armier Bay and Torri l-Abjad includes a number of legal residencies, restaurants, farmhouses and rural rooms. Enemalta is obliged to provide an electricity supply to its customers which is within the standard voltage range. The standard voltage supply is 230V plus or minus 10%. In the area the voltage supply goes below 170V during summer.

The voltage level is determined by the length of the feeders which provide the electricity supply and the load. In normal circumstances, feeders are approximately 300 meters long and this ensures an acceptable service. The only feeder presently in this area which supplies these customers is 1,500 meters long.

Following the technical specifications in the Network Code and the legal obligations in the Enemalta act, the building of a substation in this area would ensure an efficient service for the provision of electricity.

Euro area inflation estimated at 2.8%

2012-01-04T04:44:00.002-08:00

Euro area¹ annual inflation² is expected to be 2.8% in December 2011 according to a flash estimate issued by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. It was 3.0% in November³.

Computation of flash estimates

Euro area inflation is measured by the Monetary Union Index of Consumer Prices (MUICP). To compute the MUICP flash estimates, Eurostat uses early price information relating to the reference month from Member States for which data are available⁴ as well as early information about energy prices.

The flash estimation procedure for the MUICP combines historical information with partial information on price developments in the most recent months to give a total index for the euro area. No detailed breakdown is available. Experience has shown the procedure to be reliable (21 times exactly anticipating the inflation rate and 3 times differing by 0.1 over the last two years). Further information can be found in Eurostat News Release 113/2001 of
5 December 2001.

Scheduled publication dates

Index for	MUICP flash estimates	News release on euro area, EU and Member States
December 2011	-	17 January 2012
January 2012	1 February 2012	29 February 2012
February 2012	1 March 2012	14 March 2012

The Member States participating in the euro area are Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia and Finland.
Annual inflation is the price change between the current month and the same month of the previous year.
See News Release 189/2011 of 15 December 2011.
The MUICP flash estimate usually includes early price information representing approximately 95% of the euro area total consumption expenditure weight (see News Release 53/2006 of 28 April 2006).

NSO says that In the third quarter last year, provisional data indicate that industrial turnoveredged up by 0.2 per cent while manufacturing new orders decreased by6.6 per cent over the corresponding quarter of 2010

2012-01-04T04:44:00.000-08:00

In the third quarter last year, provisional data indicate that industrial turnoveredged up by 0.2 per cent while manufacturing new orders decreased by6.6 per cent over the corresponding quarter of 2010.Short-term industrial indicators:

Q3/2011Industrial turnoverTotal industrial turnover went up marginally by 0.2 per cent to 123.4 points in the third quarter of 2011,primarily as a result of an increase of 4.6 and 5.6 per cent in energy and capital goods.Offsetting this rise was a drop of 4.6 per cent in turnover for intermediate goods, which comprise44.0 per cent of the total industrial turnover.

Furthermore, turnover in consumer goods decreased by0.6 per cent, mainly on account of a drop of 0.5 per cent in non-durable consumer goods, whiledurable consumer goods fell by 3.0 per cent.Domestic industrial turnover increased by 3.4 per cent, mainly on account of an increase in energyof 4.6 per cent. This increase was partially mitigated by a drop in intermediate goods and consumergoods of 0.5 and 0.6 per cent respectively. On the other hand, non-domestic industrial turnoverdeclined by 2.8 per cent, mainly on account of a 6.0 per cent decrease for intermediate goods. Onthe other hand, capital and consumer goods rose by 3.3 and 2.0 per cent respectively.

Manufacturing new ordersIn the third quarter of 2011, new orders for manufacturing industries declined by 6.6 per cent over thecorresponding quarter of 2010. This was mainly attributable to a decrease of 7.8 and 13.6 per centin respect of new orders for intermediate and consumer goods respectively. On the other hand, neworders for capital goods rose by 10.6 per cent.Domestic manufacturing new orders decreased by 17.1 per cent mainly on account of a 24.8 and26.8 per cent drop in intermediate and consumer goods respectively, while new orders for capitalgoods advanced by 14.5 per cent. Similarly, non-domestic new orders retracted by 2.8 per cent,primarily as a result of a 6.9 and 10.3 per cent drop in new orders for intermediate and consumergoods respectively.

In contrast, new orders for capital goods in this market rose by 11.9 per cent.Industrial employment, wages and salaries, and hours workedIndustrial employment in the third quarter of 2011 increased by 1.1 per cent when compared to thecorresponding quarter of 2010. This was due to an increase in employment for intermediate andcapital goods of 0.9 and 7.2 per cent, although employment in energy and consumer goods decreasedby 1.8 and 0.3 per cent respectively.

The gross wages and salaries index for the quarter under review increased by 8.4 per cent to standat 97.6 points, reflecting an increase in gross wages and salaries for nearly all the main industrialgroupings, particularly in energy and capital goods, which rose by 23.4 and 13.7 per cent respectively.A decrease in gross wages and salaries was recorded in the durable consumer goods sector by3.5 per cent.Furthermore, hours worked increased by 1.0 per cent, reflected in a rise in hours worked in theintermediate and capital goods sectors by 3.1 and 2.6 per cent respectively. Hours worked in energyand in the consumer goods sector fell by 1.8 and 0.8 respectively

MRA on Gas prices

2012-01-04T04:43:00.000-08:00

The Malta Resources Authority would like to clarify a number of erroneousstatements made by the GRTU. The arbitrary increase in the price of LPG cylinders by the Distributors is notapproved by the Authority.

The official prices issued by the Authority clearlystate that:“Distributors are obliged to sell the LPG at prices established by Liquigas(Malta) Ltd…”Since the Distributors are agents of Liquigas (Malta) Ltd the Distributors must maintain the prices issued by the company.

As agents of the Operators the fixed commission paid to Distributors must beagreed and approved by the Operator as was the case when the pricing mechanism was approved by the Authority.

The pricing mechanism approved by the Authority provided for a fixed commission and the Distributors are notauthorised to increase this fixed commission

The Authority has, on numerous occasions, informed the Distributors that discussions on commissions should be held with the Operators and not with the Authority.

Health and Well Being Campaign - Malta

2012-01-03T02:30:00.003-08:00

Health and Well Being Campaign - Malta

The Health and Well-Being Campaign is a priority in the work of the Student Health Committee 2011-2012. The Student Health Committee is made up of a group of students from different student associations, Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU), Malta Medical Students’ Association (MMSA), Malta Pharmacy Students’ Association (MPSA) Malta Health Students’ Association (MHSA , Malta University Sports Club (MUSC), Youth for the Environment (Y4TE), Students for Healthy Living (SFHL) and Greenhouse that joined forces to organize health-oriented campaigns, seminars and to take a stand on several health issues.

The first event will take place on Saturday 17th December in

Paceville Square

, St. Julians. A stand will be located and some glowsticks will be given. A photo event will be at the stand where people can take a photo with a picture related to the topic, and these will be posted on the Facebook page.

The best photo will win a 6 month membership at the University gym, kindly provided by MUSC.

The aims of this campaign are to:

-Increase awareness about drugs and smoking

-promote dialogue and exchanges of best practice through the media. This project embraces the direct and indirect effects.

-instill a sense of interest in the topic

Golfing in Malta supported and powered by GO - yet again!

2012-01-03T02:30:00.001-08:00

GO has again pledged its full support to the Royal Malta Golf Club and recently signed up as the club’s communications partner for another term. Golfing is catching on tremendously not just in Europe but worldwide. It is precisely the huge upsurge in the popularity of golfing over the past years that has spurred GO to renew its commitment towards supporting the Golf Club’s top notch events and activities, in particular the immensely popular annual GO Golf tournament.

Under terms of the new partnership agreement that runs for the next two years, GO will provide the RMGC with a range of high-tech communications services spread over its quad-play services - mobile, tv, phone and internet. In addition to powering the Golf Club’s ongoing events and activities, GO will be giving away various communications services as prizes to the winner and the two runners up – in second and third placing – of the two-day GO Golf Tournament for males and females. GO looks forward to playing an active role in the rapid development of golfing as a first-rate sport in the Maltese Islands – for the benefit of residents and visitors alike.

The Royal Malta Golf Club (RMGC) was founded in October 1888 by Lieutenant-General Sir Henry D’ Oyley Torrens KCB KCMG. At that time, the then Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Alfred Ernest Albert, third son of Queen Victoria, was based in Malta and became one of the founder members of the club. Hence the royal patronage from where the club gets its name. The course was moved to Marsa in 1904.

Since its inception, the golf course has undergone enormous improvements: a water sprinkler system throughout the whole course and the new ‘greens’ are among the more dramatic developments as the sustainable growth of the sport is top priority for the club. Golfing as a sport in Malta is on the increase in line with a modern lifestyle attitude that advocates a green get-away from the stress and pressures of today’s living.

Speaking about the renewal of GO’s partnership agreement with the RMGC, GO’s Chief Executive Officer, David Kay, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to team up once again with the Royal Malta Golf Club and continue to offer the Golf Club – and its members - our full support. GO has pledged support to backing up the Golf Club’s vision of expanding Malta’s only golf course and enhance its chances of roping in new members. In addition, the partnership underpins GO’s active role in boosting golf tourism in the Maltese islands,” he said.
Speaking about GO tv during the presentation to winners of the GO Golf Tournament, Vanessa Macdonald, Manager of Public and Media Relations/Corporate Communications at GO, said: “The good news is that avid golfers and golf fans in Malta can keep track of the best high-profile international golfing events and tournaments – live and exclusive on GO sports. The channels showcase a massive variety of world-class sports disciplines. Topping the list of quality golf championships broadcast live and exclusive on GO sports include the PGA European Tour and the PGA Open, the British Open, the US Open, and the Ryder Cup (Golf Major) amongst others.”

RMGC Captain for the 2011-2012 season, Ian N. Macpherson, thanked GO for responding a third time to the Club’s appeal for assistance. “We are proud to be joining forces with GO – Malta’s leading communications provider. Powered by GO’s state-of-the-art systems and services, the Royal Malta Golf Club is now in a tremendously privileged position with hugely upgraded communications services – a fact that augurs well for avid golfers locally,” he said.

GO at the President’s Fun Run ... and more

2012-01-03T02:29:00.002-08:00

Hundreds of GO employees opted to take up the challenge and participate in the President’s Charity Fun Run this year – many for the very first time, encouraged by colleagues who had taken part in earlier editions. Sporting bright orange T-shirts, the group took to the streets with the more athletic joining the President for the run from San Anton Palace to Valletta while the others accompanied by their children, other family members – and even pets – joined up with Mrs Abela in St Venera to cover the distance to Valletta on foot.

GO prides itself on being one of l-Istrina’s longest-standing partners and supporters and has been actively involved in the worthy cause since the inception of Malta’s high-powered fund-raising campaign some 12 years ago. GO recently presented the Malta Community Chest Fund (MCCF) with a hefty donation of €36,984.80 representing GO’s revenue share from donations made from fixed line and mobile phones during last year’s edition of l-Istrina.
In addition to participating in the Fun Run, GO has extended its support towards other events organised by The Malta Community Chest Fund including Rockestra. This year GO also organised an auction of memorabilia signed by Gary Neville in aid of l-Istrina, hosted by the Manchester United Supporters Club and conducted by Obelisk Auctioneers.
GO is the official communications provider for the Malta Community Chest Fund and gives its full support by providing a wide range of communications and entertainment services free of charge throughout the year.
GO plays an intrinsic role in the management of communications for the l-Istrina event scheduled to be held at Verdala Palace on 26th December. GO will be waiving call charges and other expenses mainly associated with phone-in donations. The company also provides free man-hours, communications infrastructure and various quad-play services throughout the event and will once again join forces with other local companies to make a cash donation to l-Istrina in line with its social responsibilities.

enemalta fuel prices for january 2012

2012-01-03T02:29:00.000-08:00

Enemalta Corporation announces revisions in fuel prices effective 2nd January 2012.

Product	Previous Maximum Retail Price	Revised Maximum Retail Price	Change
Unleaded	€1.41	€1.41	No Change
Diesel	€1.34	€1.34	No Change
Kerosene	€1.34	€1.34	No Change
Gasoil for heating	€0.98	€0.98	No Change

The above Maximum Retail Price reflects the prices fetched by Enemalta for the latest shipments of imported fuel. TFO prices will not be published for the month of January since this is not currently sold to consumers.
The latest Unleaded consignment was based on November Platts prices whereas the latest diesel consignement was based on December Platts prices.
According to the latest Oil Prices Bulletin, published by the European Commission, petrol and diesel prices in Malta are ranked the 14^thand 10^th lowest respectively out of the other 27 European Countries. As presented in Table 1 below, the report also shows that consumer petrol and diesel prices in Malta are below the EU averages of EUR 1.50/ltr and EUR 1.43/ltr respectively. The published prices are inclusive of duties and taxes, and reflect the prices in force as at 19^th December 2011.

EU Country	Unleaded (Euros/litre)	EU Country	Diesel (Euros/litre)
Bulgaria	1.139	Bulgaria	1.197
Cyprus	1.205	Luxembourg	1.202
Poland	1.217	Poland	1.242
Romania	1.227	Romania	1.273
Estonia	1.270	Slovenia	1.277
Latvia	1.279	Lithuania	1.284
Luxembourg	1.289	Spain	1.285
Spain	1.296	Cyprus	1.306
Lithuania	1.301	Latvia	1.321
Hungary	1.307	Malta	1.340
Slovenia	1.328	Estonia	1.363
Austria	1.352	Austria	1.366
Czech Republic	1.379	France	1.368
Malta	1.410	Netherlands	1.375
Slovakia	1.456	Portugal	1.398
France	1.491	Germany	1.399
Ireland	1.504	Slovakia	1.402
EUR 27 Average	1.504	Czech Republic	1.405
Germany	1.507	Finland	1.407
Portugal	1.527	Hungary	1.410
Finland	1.529	Denmark	1.422
Belgium	1.540	Belgium	1.427
Sweden	1.544	EUR 27 Average	1.427
United Kingdom	1.578	Ireland	1.447
Denmark	1.584	Greece	1.514
Netherlands	1.623	Sweden	1.545
Greece	1.643	Italy	1.654
Italy	1.674	United Kingdom	1.678

Source: European Commission
The latest European Commission report can be downloaded from http://ec.europa.eu/energy/observatory/oil/bulletin_en.htm

During the month of December, the average price of Brent crude slightly fell to $108 a barrel over the November average of $110/bbl. The year 2011 may be remembered in the records of oil market history as the year of the supply shocks. While the quicker-than-expected return of Libyan production has contributed to a general view that supply in 2012 will be ample, some analysts argue that this may not be the case.
At the moment, there are an abnormally large number of significant supply-side concerns surrounding Iraq, Iran, Nigeria and other major producers. Iran on Saturday began ten days of naval exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, raising concern about a possible closure of the world's most strategic oil transit channel in the event of any outbreak of military conflict between Tehran and the West. Syria’s oil production has fallen by a third due to international sanctions imposed over its nine-month crackdown on anti-government protests. Worries about supply disruptions were offset by concerns that Europe's debt crisis might have extensive repercussions on oil demand going far beyond just weaker consumption in Europe (Reuters).
Figure 1 – ICE Brent Crude (January 2011 – December 2011)

Source: Reuters

While on average the international petrol and diesel prices dropped to some extent from the previous month, the euro currency has considerably weakened against the US dollar, making diesel and unleased imports more costly to purchase. This explains the stability brought about in January prices. EUR/USD rate dropped to a level of $1.3057 as at the last trading day, that is, 23rd of December.
Figure 2: EUR/USD trend (January 11– December 11)

Source: Reuters
Over the year, Platts prices have significantly increased compared to at the beginning of 2011. While the average of petrol prices in January 2011 was USD 878 per tonne, by December this has reached up to USD 914 per tonne. For diesel the registered price rise is higher. Whereas in January prices used to be about USD 846 per tonne, now prices have reached USD 958 per tonne.

SOUTH STORM WATER PROJECT

2011-12-12T22:57:00.000-08:00

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) Board granted full development permission for the construction of a storm water tunnel together with other infrastructural services for the area known as Ghar id-Duhhan, between the localities of Marsascala and Xghjara.

Initially, the applicant evaluated six alternative sites for this project, but proceeded with carrying out an Environment Impact Assessment on two sites which were deemed to be the best two options following a site selection exercise - option 3 (Xghajra outfall) and option 5 (Marsascala outfall). Both options have in common the catchment area of Zabbar and are located on the same coastal strip between Xghajra and Marsascala. The Environment and Planning Directorates evaluated both these options during the processing of the application but finally the applicant decided to present option 5 to the MEPA Board for its consideration.

Following intense scrutiny, the MEPA Board gave its go ahead for a planning permission to be granted for option 5 (Marsascala outfall). The Board cited that “in the balance of the environmental impacts caused by the two options, the Authority feels that the benefits of Option 5, namely greater water catchment and increased cost-effectiveness and social benefits far outweigh those of Option 3 which also labours under increased environmental disruption.”
The tunnel which will be constructed, as part of this project, which is being considered for co-financing by the European Regional Development Fund, is expected to have a length of nearly 2733m of which 1903m will pass beneath public roads.
The project will have two main shafts which are strategically located near the main tunnel. These shafts will serve as the entrance and exit to the tunnel both during the construction and operational phase
Earlier this year, the Mepa Board had approved the most strategic and important phase of the national flood relief project which included the construction of a storm water tunnel together with infrastructural services between Attard and the Ta’ Xbiex Marina.

WIED IL-BALLUTA PROTECTED

2011-12-12T22:55:00.000-08:00

Il-Wied ta’Balluta, which cuts through the localities of Sliema and St. Julians has been scheduled as an Area of Ecological Importance (AEI) by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA).

This natural site which encompasses an area of over 46,000m² has been designated with different levels of protection and includes a buffer zone to protect the overall integrity of the valley. While this velley represents a typical Maltese wied, it certainly holds some distinctive features in that it is “shorter, steeper, and wider” than most other widien in Malta.

Mr Richard Lia, heritage planning officer at Mepa said that “although today urbanisation girdles the entire valley, the steep banks and bed of this valley still supports rich and dense maquis vegetation, whereas a substantial part of its northern valley-side is characterised by exposed karstic terrain with associated floral assemblages.”

Mr Lia also points out that “this green lung, in this densely-built area, has various components that contribute to the landscape setting of this valley—its geomorphology, a mixture of natural communities, archaeophytes as well as pockets of agricultural land that are today still farmed in the traditional way.”

The entire protected wied is composed of Globigerina Limestone (Franka) while parts of the southern valley-side consists of a ravine with a sharp drop in site levels, reminiscent of a small-scale solution subsidence structure.

Apart from a predominance of carob and olive trees, the valley-bed also supports bay laurels (is-siġar tar-rand) whereas the upper valley side, sustains a population of rosemary (il-klin) and pyramidal orchids (l-orkidi piramidali), amongst other floral species.

At Wied il-Balluta cultivated fields are concentrated along the lower reaches of the valley with a distinctively sharp boundary between arable land and the maquis community further upstream. Along the northern valley-side the boundaries between cultivated land and maquis vegetation are significantly more diffuse.

An archaeophyte is a plant species which is originally not native to a geographical region, in this case Malta, but which was an introduced species in “ancient” times, often for agricultural, horticultural or medicinal purposes, rather than being a modern introduction. Archaeophytes are considered to be those species first introduced prior to 1492, when Christopher Columbus arrived in the ‘New World’ and the extensive exchange of plants, animals, persons and diseases between the ‘Old’ and ‘New Wordl’ began. Species arriving into Malta after 1492 are termed neophytes, and often referred to as non-native alien species

DIRECT ACTION AGAINST MOSTA F.C.

2011-12-11T22:58:00.000-08:00

The Enforcement Directorate within MEPA today started demolishing the roofing of an illegally constructed two-storey building adjacent to the Mosta football ground. This action was being taken just a few days after the enforcement order was issued, after the developer defied the Authority’s warnings on a number of occasions.

Early last week, the Authority investigated a number of complaints and found that a two-storey building was being built in an outside development area adjacent to the Mosta football ground, away from the road and hemmed in between some existing structures.

While it was evident that the concrete roofing was being planned, the Enforcement Officers stopped the works and ordered the workers off the site together with their crane and vehicles. The architect was also immediately informed that works were to stop and the roofing was not to take place since no development permit application had ever been submitted.

A subsequent site inspection by MEPA Enforcement Officers, three days later, resulted in workers being found on site preparing the reinforcement mesh for the roof. Works were again stopped, and the architect again advised that the roofing was not to be laid.

However, notwithstanding all these warnings, early Saturday morning the developer and architect went ahead with their planned work and roofed up the two storey building with concrete.

In view of this blatant disregard of MEPA Enforcement instructions and the Enforcement Order, MEPA today begun to demolish the roof of this building. Works proceeded until soon after noon, MEPA was stopped by a prohibitory injunction provisionally accepted by the Courts.

Following the Mepa Reform, the sanctioning of this large two-storey structure in an ODZ area is now not possible. The developer will have to drop down the entire building for the Authority to even consider accepting the submission of a planning application for any development on this site.

ILLEGAL STRUCTURES DEMOLISHEDPosted on: 19/12/2011 ILLEGAL STRUCTURES IN SENSITIVE AREAS DEMOLISHED BY MEPA ENFORCEMENT

2011-11-12T22:57:00.000-08:00

Over the past weeks, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) continued with its efforts to curb illegal development in 9 localities across Malta and Gozo. The main focus was the demolition of a number illegally built structures and a clusters of rooms, in sensitive outside development areas.

These rooms which were not only an eyesore in the countryside but also compromised the protection of our biodiversity were demolished in the localities of Qala, Rabat, Dingli and Siġġiewi. Another illegal room that was demolished had been constructed right by the Knights’ Fortifications at Hay Wharf in Floriana.

MEPA’s Enforcement officers also demolished a stable that was illegally constructed within a residential area at Żabbar by the side of the Bypass leading to Marsaskala. In this operation, the Authority also demolished an ashlar stone boundary wall, the gate, and removed the material that was used to form the paddock.

The Authority also removed large quantities of illegal dumped material and walling that had parceled off a piece of former garigue land in a sensitive area known as Tar-Ragħad, located along the road between Mgarr and Żebbiegħ. Tar-Ragħad is a scheduled Area of Archaeological Importance, featuring eight window-tombs and various other archaeological remains. During this operation great care was taken to proceed sensitively and not to cause damage to any garigue remnants in the surrounding areas.

The entrance to a quarry at Tal-Mentna in Mqabba that was being used for the illegal deposition of material was sealed off by MEPA Enforcement officers.

MEPA also removed an illegal bus shelter in a site known as Ta' Cassia in Qala, Gozo. Other scrap, including vehicles, had been removed earlier by the owner after the Enforcement Order was served.

Perit Alexander Borg, Director of Enforcement said “Whilst we cannot take things for granted and sit on our laurels we are pleased that over this past year, being our first year as an Enforcement Directorate, we have managed to work more effectively and efficiently in dealing with enforcement cases. We are satisfied that we have managed to close off, in a reasonable short period of time, a number of new enforcement cases that we investigated this year. More awareness has consequently been created among the public of the need to comply with planning and environment regulations and we are satisfied that in this short time frame, the rate of people removing their illegal developments themselves has increased markedly.”

MEPA SCHEDULES WIED IL-BALLUTA

2011-11-11T22:56:00.000-08:00

SAVING OUR VALLEYS AND NATURAL HERITAGE

Il-Wied ta’ Balluta, which cuts through the localities of Sliema and St. Julians has been scheduled as an Area of Ecological Importance (AEI) by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA).

NEW ENVIRONMENT PERMITTING SYSTEM

2011-06-12T22:50:00.000-07:00

Bringing the Environment and Industry together

A new draft environmental permitting system has been drawn up by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) to improve the regulatory framework applicable to industrial activities of environmental significance. This proposed system will further result in improving the protection of the environment, while offering several advantages to industry, such as legal certainty, clearer definition of environmental liability and the opportunity to identify priority environmental issues to enable appropriate risk management.

The system which is risk-based, focuses the regulatory efforts on activities with potentially significant environmental impacts. Examples of such facilities would include fuel and container terminals, shipyards, airports, batching plants, quarries, fish farms, waste management activities, industrial activities with a discharge to sea and certain manufacturing plants.

Businesses that carry out such activities will be required to apply for an environmental permit within a set timeframe in order to continue operating. The permit will include conditions on emissions to air, discharges of wastewater, noise and vibration, management of waste and appropriate storage of materials. The environmental permit may also include an improvement programme, to ensure that compliance with environmental standards is achieved within a set timeframe.

The industrial activities have been categorised into a four tier schedule depending on the different level of environmental risk. Each category has been given a different timeframe for an application to be submitted and for a permit to be issued.

Mr Michael Sant who heads the Unit responsible for Industrial Permitting within Mepa said “The environmental permitting system plays an integral role in ensuring that businesses are not only aware of environmental responsibilities but most importantly are able to meet their responsibilities.”

He added that “This new system will essentially cover industrial activities that carry a potential environment impact and which fall outside the regulatory parameters of the two other environmental permitting systems we currently manage, better known as the IPPC permitting for large-scale industrial and agriculture activities and the GBRs for micro, small and medium size enterprises which are below environmental permitting thresholds”.

The proposed environmental permitting framework is accessible on the MEPA website www.mepa.org.mt/public-consultation. The Authority is encouraging the business sector, NGOs and the public to submit their feedback and comments throughout this public participation period, through email address environmental.permitting@mepa.org.mt. Further information may be obtained by contacting the Environmental Permitting & Industry Unit within Mepa on 2290-7230. The public participation exercise will close on the 31st January 2012.

MEPA STATISTICS - NOVEMBER

2011-06-12T22:48:00.000-07:00

During the month of November, the Malta Environment & Planning Authority (MEPA) decided 409 planning applications. During the same month the Planning Directorate received 375 screening application requests while the pre-screening process for 276 applications was completed and validated. The net pending caseload at the end of the month was 2,149.

Last month, the Authority processed 131 notifications of development, which, according to the Development Notification Order 2007, do not require a formal application.

During the same month, 50 Stop and Enforcement notices were issued, 42 in Malta and 8 in Gozo. The enforcement section within MEPA closed 45 cases. 21 other enforcement cases were sanctioned by a planning permit while another 21 cases were resolved by the owners’ decision to remove their illegal development prior to commencement of formal enforcement proceedings.

70 waste carrier permits were also issued during the month by the Authority

Valletta - The Capital City of Malta

2010-09-19T06:02:00.006-07:00

Valletta is just a 15 minute drive from most locations in Malta, so if you are on vacation in Malta you should really visit this wonderful City.
A passenger cruise terminal is being built and when it is completed, the terminal will be able to handle 2,000 passengers in an hour. This reflects local positive perceptions about Malta's potential in cruise liners and passengers and high class holidays and vacations.
In 2001, Valletta hosted almost 15,500 cruise line passengers.
The foundation stone of Valletta was laid by the Grandmaster of the Order of Saint John, Jean Parisot de la Valette, on 28 March 1566; The Order (which was the long-time ruler of the city and the island) decided to found a new city on the Xiberras peninsula just after the end of the Siege of Malta in 1565, so as to fortify the Order's position in Malta, effectively binding the Knights to the island.
The city was designed by Francesco Laparelli, while many of the most important buildings were built by Gerolamo Cassar. Valletta, hence, is an urban area which boasts many buildings from the 16th century and onwards, but most of them were built during the time of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem (the Knights Hospitaller, or Knights of Malta).
Malta's public transport system, which uses buses, operates mostly on routes to or from Valletta, with their central terminus just outside the city's entrance. Traffic within the city itself is restricted, with some principal roads being completely pedestrian areas.
Some palaces that you should definitely visit whilst in Valletta:
Grandmaster's Palace - houses the Parliament of Malta
Auberge De Castille - houses the Office of the Prime Minister of Malta
Auberge D'Aragon - houses the Ministry of Finance
Auberge D'Italie - houses the Malta Tourism Authority
Auberge De Provence - houses the National Museum of Archaeology
Auberge De Bavière - houses Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs
Casa Rocca Piccola - private residence open to the public
Palazzo Francia - houses a number of offices and shops
Palazzo Parisio - houses the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Palazzo Castellania - houses the Ministry of Health, the Elderly and Community Care
National Museum of Fine Arts.

Smart City in Malta Expected to Help Tourism

2010-09-19T06:02:00.004-07:00

Recently, TECOM signed an agreement with the Government in Malta to set up its Smart City at Ricasoli. The money goes into Smart City, which is backed by Dubai's Tecom Investments, and Malta hopes this investment will put it on the world's IT map. Tecom Investments is a Dubai government entity that manages Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City and Knowledge Village.
After Dubai's investment in Malta, we expect Middle East investments to increase over the next few years. We had big Libyan, Tunisian, and Egyptian investments, and the region's biggest independent investment is a joint Maltese-Libyan company called Lafico, working in the hotel and tourism sector, the resources, as well as manufacturing.
Maltese house of character - Malta tourism vacation hotel:
One of Malta's picturesque views in a village. Will Smart City also attract better tourists?
Malta's entry into the European Union means that companies setting up business on the island get access to lucrative European markets.
Malta wants to be a centre of education, healthcare, maritime tourism and financial services.
The Dubai-based company acquired a 60% stake in Maltacom last May, from the Maltese government. The remaining 40% of the company has been registered on the Malta Stock Exchange since 1998, and the company was already also listed in an alternative listing in London. For all intents and purposes it was a private company. Government involvement here was practically nothing.
As Malta's old industries continue to close down and move to other low-cost countries, the little island is focusing most of its attention on attracting an increasing amount of foreign investment. While TECOM's Smart City is the biggest foreign investment in the island so far, it is definitely not the only one. Dubai Technology, Electronic Commerce and Media Free Zone (TECOM) has invested in more than just an internet city on the island.
After Dubai's investment in Malta, it is expected that Middle East investments to increase over the next few years. We had big Libyan, Tunisian, and Egyptian investments, and the region's biggest independent investment is a joint Maltese-Libyan company called Lafico, working in the hotel and tourism sector, the resources, as well as manufacturing.

Mdina - The Silent City in Malta

2010-09-19T06:02:00.002-07:00

Mdina - tourist attraction
Mdina is the old capital city of the island of Malta
It is a typical medieval town, very quiet and excellent for tourists to visit especially in the afternoon and during weekdays when there are less people around! It is situated in the centre of the island and is around 220 metres above sea level so it enjoys breathtaking and spectacular views of all the Maltese Islands.
Narrow streets, churches a cathedral, alleys and convents characterize the city's altogether mystical ambiance. Mdina is known as the "Silent City" and even tough it is still fully inhabited silence still reigns all day long especially since car traffic is very restricted.
Mdina as a tourist attraction
Brief History on Mdina:
Mdina was first fortified by the Phoenicians around 700 BC most probably it was chosen because of it's high altitude. The Roman Empire in 60 AD strengthened it and the Roman governor build his palace in Mdina.
Mdina by Night - tourist attraction - Malta
The Cathedral of St. Paul Mdina - tourist attraction - Malta
The apostle St Paul lived in this same palace. Saracens came in Malta in 870AD and continued to fortify the city making it the beauty that it is today for any tourist to admire.
Thousands of tourists gather at Mdina every month to visit the many places of interest in this beautiful medieval city. A list of places of interest that any tourist should visit whilst at Mdina:
- St. Paul Cathedral
- Vilhena Palace
- Palazzo Falzon (Norman House)
- St. Agatha's Chapel
- St. Nicholas' Chapel
- Natural History Museum
- Mdina Dungeons
- Carmelite Church & Convent
- Mdina Experience
- Benedictine Monastery
Today, no cars (other than those of a limited number of residents, emergency vehicles, wedding cars and hearses) are allowed in Mdina and there is a calming atmosphere as one walks along its narrow streets and ways. The city displays an unusual mix of Norman and Baroque architecture, including several palaces, most of which serve as private homes. The Cathedral is worth visiting and is fronted by a large square.

Malta's Culture

2010-09-19T06:02:00.000-07:00

The island of Malta is a living proof of 6,000 years of civilization and development. The inheritance of the various denominations who ruled over the islands all through the ages can be seen and felt. Any tourist who comes to Malta will be amazed by the cultural heritage that this relatively small island preserved for us all to see.
Malta's rich cultural background relates mainly from its history of foreign domination and the power and influence of the Roman Catholic Church.
Folk traditions have evolved mainly around the village feast, commemorating the patron saint of each city and village in Malta with air and land fireworks and processions. Good Friday also is celebrated with colorful processions in quite a a small amount of villages. Imnarja, the Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, which takes place on June 29, is the most important folk celebration; it is decorated by folksinging (ghana) contests and fried-rabbit picnics at the picturesque area of Buskett.
Most tourists will definitely visit the annual Carnival festival. It is celebrated at the capital city of Valletta with energetic dancing shows that include a sword dance commemorating the Maltese victory over the Turks in 1565, and other Maltese national dance.
The following list of national and public holidays shows that the Maltese have a lot to remember and they are proud of their glorious past:
National holidays:
31 March - Freedom Day A commemorative ceremony is held at the War Memorial at Floriana. During the afternoon, traditional regatta boat races are held in Grand Harbour.
7 June - Sette Giugno Commemorative Ceremony at Palace Square, Valletta, in remembrance of the incidents of the 7th June 1919.
8 September - Victory Day Commemorative ceremony in Valletta, to celebrate the lifting of the 1565 siege against the Turks, the capitulation of the French in 1800, and the siege of the Axis powers in 1943. the traditional colourful and keenly contested boat race or regatta, is held at the Grand Harbour in the afternoon. Festivities are also held at Senglea, Naxxar and Mellieha in Malta and at Xaghra in Gozo.
21 September - Independence Day Malta attained its Independence in 1964. A full programme of activities takes place in various localities.
13 December - Republic Day Malta became a Republic in 1974 by resolution of the House of Representatives. Celebrations, including horse races at Marsa, are held to commemorate the event.
Public holidays:
1 January - New Year's Day
10 February - Feast of St Paul's Shipwreck Feast of St.Paul?s Shipwreck This feast commemorates the shipwreck of St.Paul in Malta in 60 A.D. an event registered in the Acts of the Apostles.
19 March - Feast of St Joseph St. Joseph Feast celebrated at Rabat.
10 April - Good Friday This is a day of general mourning: cinemas, places of entertainment and offices are kept closed. Good Friday pageants are held at about 17.00hrs in 14 different towns and villages. During these pageants, a number of life-size statues depicting scenes from the passion and death of Jesus Christ are carried shoulder high in procession along the main streets of the particular locality. Men and women personifying Biblical characters from the Old and New Testament, dressed in period costumes, take part in the processions.
1 May - Worker's Day The feast of St. Joseph the Worker is also celebrated.
29 June - Feast of St Peter and St Paul Known in Maltese as 'Mnarja'. This is a traditional folkloristic event. The festivities open on the eve of Mnarja with open-air folk-singing and a musical programme at Buskett Gardens which continues up till the early hours of the 29th day of June. Maltese dishes are served for the occasion with fried rabbit being a traditional specialty of the evening. On the 29th, activities at Buskett continue with band marches and an agrarian exhibition. During the afternoon, traditional horse races are held at Saqqajja Hill, Rabat. The word Mnarja is derived from Luminarja (illumination), when Mdina, Malta?s medieval capital, was illuminated by bonfires for the occasion.
15 August - Feast of the Assumption Festivities are celebrated at Mqabba, Qrendi, Gudja, Ghaxaq, Attard, Mosta and Victoria in Gozo.
8 December - Feast of the Immaculate Conception
25 December - Christmas Day December in Malta is primarily the season for family parties. Young boys and members of a lay Catholic organisation participate in the evening processions of December 24, with the statue of Baby Jesus held in all towns and villages. The highlight is the Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, during which a child relates the story of the nativity.
Banks and shops do not open on public and national holidays.
Some shops, especially in tourist areas, will open as usual.

Low Cost Travel to Malta

2010-09-19T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good news for the holiday island of Malta has come in droves recently, following a period of decline in visitor numbers. Commenting upon the findings, a local travel guide says that while the spending per passenger while in Malta is small compared to holidaymakers, it's an important contribution to the island's economy.
'The spend is estimated at around US $10,000,000. And while this represents an average of around $40 a passenger, and holidaymakers spend considerably more, an important factor is that over 80 per cent of passengers would consider stopping at Malta again, and potentially that's a good number who would consider a land based holiday in the future.'
The good news for Malta doesn't stop at increased numbers of cruise passengers, as low cost airlines have recently started flying to the island.
'It's been a while since we've been able to say this,' comments YourMalta, 'but there are exciting times ahead for the Malta holiday industry. As well as the good news on passenger numbers from cruise ships, low cost airlines have started flying in passengers and it should boost the number of new tourists quite significantly in 2007.'
The turnaround in the Malta tourist industry's fortunes has come just in time according to some travel experts.
Hotel and holiday numbers have been declining consistently, and in late spring 2006 rumours were circulating on the island that one of the major UK travel companies were about to withdraw Malta from their 2007 brochures, with the worry that if others followed suit Malta would be relegated from mainstream to niche travel status.
The pessimism of 2006 has been replaced by optimism for 2007 as new low cost airlines have already started delivering passengers to the island, with some estimates suggesting that close to 100,000 visitors extra is on the cards for the year ahead.