1,977,673 People Travelled Between Malta & Gozo In Q3

Oct 17 2023

In the third quarter of 2023, sea transport between Malta and Gozo saw notable growth in passengers, vehicles, and trips compared to the same period in 2022.

A total of 11,840 trips were conducted, carrying 1,977,673 passengers, with July being the busiest month, accounting for 34.4% of the total trips.

Specifically between Mġarr and Ċirkewwa, 1,711,887 passengers traveled during this period, marking a 7.6% increase from the previous year.

August had the highest passenger count at 597,290, representing 34.9% of the total for the quarter. Vehicle numbers increased by 1.6% from the previous year, totaling 580,346.

The total number of trips in this quarter was 9,203, an increase of 0.7% compared to the same period in 2022. July saw the highest number of trips at 3,104, accounting for 33.7% of the total for the quarter.

In terms of passenger and vehicle traffic, Ċirkewwa was busiest on Fridays and Saturdays, while Mġarr had the highest traffic on Sundays and Saturdays. For the same period, 2,637 trips were made, carrying 265,786 passengers, reflecting a 14.9% increase in trips and a 33.5% surge in passengers from the previous year.

July had the highest number of trips (969), making up 36.7% of the total for the quarter, while August had the most passengers at 96,202, constituting 36.2% of the total.

Read full report here.

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MP Omar Farrugia Hits Out At Metsola & Von Der Leyen Position On Israel-Gaza Conflict

Oct 17 2023

Taking to social media, Labour MP Omar Farrugia issued his position, and a response to that of Roberta Metsola and Ursula von Der Leyen, when it comes to the conflict in Israel and Gaza.

Farrugia, whilst condemning the Hamas attack, also highlighted how the blood being spilt in Gaza should acquire the same condemnation.

‘People forced to leave their homes, parents and children dying, families separated – in a place that has been under siege for years now and is currently being bombarded.

‘The European Union had its chance to be the voice of peace and compromise. Instead, we sought photos and poses. We looked to side only with one side, even when we knew that retaliation meant more death and destruction.’

Addressing Metsola, Farrugia said that the EU has no power or mandate, from Malta or elsewhere, to give their support to Israel’s offensive. The EU, he said, should be attempting to bring the two sides to the table and stop the fighting immediately.

‘Not trying to paint a pretty picture of revenge by Israel on innocent people. Nothing good comes out of a war. No violence on innocent lives is justifiable. This is what our representatives in the EU should be saying and working for.’

This comes after EP President Metsola, along with Commission president von der Leyen visited Israel to show their support following the attacks.

In a speech addressed to the plenary, Metsola condemned the mass murder, kidnappings, rapes, torture and mutilations carried out by Hamas.

‘Even in the darkest of times, our Parliament has always and will always push for a fair two-state solution that is equitable and just. We will always push for a sustainable and lasting peace. I said this in the Knesset and in Ramallah when I visited President Abbas last year and it bears repeating now. Sadly, the vile actions of Hamas terrorists have pushed this prospect further away,’ said Metsola.

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‘Our focus must remain on ensuring that the hostages kidnapped are released unconditionally, that humanitarian aid reaches those in need, that civilians are not targeted, that safe corridors are maintained, and that we keep engaging with the legitimate representatives of the Palestinian people and regional actors to de-escalate tensions in the region and neighbouring areas.’

What do you make of this?

#MaltaDaily

Bieb Il-Bombi Vandalised: Police Investigating

Oct 17 2023

The Malta Police Force are currently investigating the vandalism of Bieb il-Bombi, after it was vandalised over night.

The words ‘I love you Dali’ were written on the monument, with two hearts with a smiley face on them drawn on the monument as well.

The act was called out by Minority Leader at Florian’s Local Council James Aaron Ellul, who said that he has been repeatedly calling for the reinstatement of a camera after it was removed without a reason.

Despite repeated calls, the call was ignored, with the act that he and others were concerned about happening finally taking place.

‘Councillors need to be given an ear and heard’, Aaron Ellul said.

*UPDATE*

The Cultural Heritage Superintendence, together with the Department of Restoration and Preservation, are carrying out joint work, in coordination with the Executive Police, to take the necessary actions after the condemnable vandalism that recently occurred by someone or some individuals on the Bombi Gate in Floriana.

The Ministry strongly condemns this act of vandalism. The Bombi Gate represents cultural and historical heritage. Through this collaboration, a plan will be implemented to repair the damage that resulted from this act of vandalism. In fact, restorers from the Department of Restoration and Preservation will immediately begin the restoration process with the aim of completely removing this defacement.

Our country’s cultural heritage gives us identity and belongs to us, which is why this Government remains committed to safeguarding and protecting our country’s cultural heritage in order to preserve what makes us Maltese and Gozitans.

#MaltaDaily

Marsa Double Murder: Accused Pleads Not Guilty

Oct 17 2023

Iddrisu Faisal, a 34-year-old plasterer from Ghana, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of 73-year-old Joe Bartolo (known as il-Babakku) and 56-year-old Carmen Abela in Marsa. The tragic incident occurred in a garage on Triq it-Tiġrija following a heated argument, during which the victims were reportedly attacked with large scissors.

Faisal, who previously resided on the farm where the crime took place, was swiftly apprehended with the help of a Nigerian couple allegedly injured by him, including a woman who sustained severe injuries. He appeared composed during the court proceedings, where he faced charges including wilful murder, attempted murder, assault, resisting arrest, and property damage.

Legal aid lawyer Joseph Brincat did not seek bail for the accused, and the prosecution requested a protection order for witnesses yet to testify. Magistrate Abigail Critien granted this request, extending protection to the injured parties and members of the Bartolo and Abela families.

Prosecutors, including AG lawyers Ramon Bonett Sladden and Kaylie Bonett, along with Inspector Wayne Camilleri, are handling the case. Lawyers Jason Azzopardi and Kris Busietta are representing the Bartolo and Abela families.

#MaltaDaily