800 inspections weekly at bars and food establishments by MTA

Dec 31 2021

The Malta Tourism Authority’s Enforcement Section continued to carry out inspections of bars, restaurants and other food establishments despite the pandemic.

Director David Mifsud told the News Centre that enforcement officers carry out an average of 800 inspections per week. He said that during festive times, the amount of inspections massively increased.

He also highlighted how the enforcement section was there to issue fines but instead assist and guide restaurants in complying with regulations laid down by Health Authorities.

The absolute majority of inspections showed that restaurants and bars are in fact complying with the current existing measures. The few which are violating the measures are fined according to law.

Detailing the process, Mifsud explained how one checks that there are the right number of people sitting at a table, sanitisers are present, record of customers is kept as well as a mini audit-like process of what is being done.

The pandemic proved to be a difficult period for many establishments but many seemed to have worked hard at ensuring the safety of all clients.

#MaltaDaily

What will the weather be like for the end of 2021 and early new year?

Dec 31 2021

A glimpse outside suggests that the last day of 2021 will be sunny weather, but many are wondering when the stormy and rainy forecasts are expected.

The change in weather is expected to arrive on the 8th and 9th of January, meaning we’ll be making up for this sunny weather with some early January storms.

However, we can enjoy sunny and slightly cloudy skies for the last day of the year, with a wind force 3. Highest temperatures are set to hit 17 degrees Celsius and lowest 12 degrees.

The same weather is forecasted for tomorrow the 1st of January 2022, with winds going slightly up to force 4. Highest temperatures will hit 19 degrees, with lowest at 12 as well.

However, many are opting for an indoor celebration. Given the recent spike in COVID cases, many cancelled their bookings and decided to celebrate inside with their loved ones.

For anyone still venturing out to celebrate these past, and quite chaotic, 12 months, we advise you celebrate responsibly and stay safe.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: On Site Malta

Malta will ban sale of single-use plastic products in 2022

Malta will ban sale of single-use products plastics in 2022

Dec 31 2021

Plastic straws, jablo cups, cotton buds and beverage stirrers will be among the items banned in Malta going into the next year.

As Malta moves into its second stage of the battle against single-use plastic, it became one of the first countries to prohibit the importation of several such products from January 1st 2021.

This ban will now be extending to the actual sale and distribution of such products in 2022, with the legal notice banning the sale published on Christmas Eve coming into effect on 24th February 2022.

The Environment ministry issued a statement Thursday saying that ‘this is being enacted as part of the government’s vision to strengthen the environment, tackle marine pollution and improve the quality of our biodiversity.’

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Hospitality industry bracing for most challenging New Year’s Eve due to COVID

Dec 31 2021

The hospitality industry is bracing for what could be the most challenging New Year’s Eve as the rapid spread of COVID-19 cases has led to massive staff shortages and cancellations.

With well over 10,000 active cases reached yesterday, the number of people currently under quarantine has also continued to climb, with estimates suggesting tens of thousands.

This platform got in touch with multiple business owners, especially those in the catering industry, to get an insider look into the situation.

Many informed this newsroom that as of the early stages of December, the New Year’s celebrations were looking great. Many even reported being fully booked in anticipation.

However, the quick and massive surge in cases heavily effected the bookings, with restaurant owners reporting that they had numerous cancellations for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day functions.

Some even decided to close down as it was not worth paying for supplies given the cancellations. The main reasons for the cancellations were quarantined or COVID positive individuals. This also had a domino effect on beauty parlours who also reported to this platform that multiple cancellations were called in as many found no need for appointments given they were not attending any celebrations.

Those who aren’t quarantined or positive have also reported preferring to celebrate indoors with loved ones or friends, feeling much safer doing so.

Given the new quarantine measures, the situation could likely improve. Health officials encourage people to get vaccinated and boosted so as to mitigate the rise and until then exercise caution.

#MaltaDaily