Gozo Arts Weekend Returns January 24th 2025

Jan 8 2025

The Ministry for Gozo and Planning is once again organizing the Gozo Arts Weekend, which will take place from January 24 to 26, 2025, in various locations across the island.

This year, the spotlight will be on the renowned Gozitan artist and sculptor, Michael Camilleri Cauchi.

Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, stated: “During the Gozo Arts Weekend, both local and international audiences will enjoy a varied program centered around the works of Michael Camilleri Cauchi, an artist who needs no introduction. This year’s edition will highlight Camilleri Cauchi’s talent, showcasing his sculptures, which delight the eye and convey powerful messages.”

The Gozo Arts Weekend aims to strengthen Gozo’s position as a cultural and tourist destination. This year’s program will feature a range of activities and exhibitions, offering visitors a unique opportunity to discover and appreciate the works of sculptor Michael Camilleri Cauchi, as well as to meet the artist in person.

“This celebration reflects our commitment to enhancing the arts as an essential part of Gozo’s identity and tourism offering. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating Gozitan talent and the universal language of art,” concluded Minister Camilleri.

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Din L-Art Ħelwa Proposes Dismantling And Moving Iconic Għajn Tuffieħa Tower

Jan 8 2025

Times of Malta have revealed that NGO Din L-Art Ħelwa have advised the government to dismantle and relocate the iconic tower found in Għajn Tuffieħa to a more viable and safe location.

The NGO proposed this relocation due to fears that the tower might collapse due to the movement of the cliff which the tower is located on.

In recent days, police closed off access to the tower due to concerns, saying the tower structure and surrounding area were at risk of collapsing.

DLĦ Executive President Patrick Calleja stated that permission has recently been granted for private developers to dismantle a section of the 19th-century British barracks at Fort Chambray to enhance the view for newly proposed residential units, so surely the same could be done to preserve the tower.

Built by the Knights in 1637, the Għajn Tuffieħa Tower has long watched over one of Malta’s most stunning coastal landscapes. Din l-Art Ħelwa has raised concerns about the tower’s deteriorating state, warning that its collapse would be a devastating blow to Malta’s cultural heritage. The NGO is urging immediate action to preserve this historic landmark before it is lost forever.

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Malta Introduces New Labour Migration Policy

Jan 8 2025

Malta has introduced a new labour migration policy with 32 measures to regulate the employment of third-country nationals (TCNs) and promote worker retention, rights, and integration. The measures include:

Retention-focused measures: Employers with high termination rates will face penalties. Small companies with 50% staff turnover, medium companies with 40%, and large companies with 35% turnover will be barred from hiring new TCNs. Exemptions apply to micro-companies, certain industries (e.g., healthcare), and student workers. Employers who dismiss staff due to business losses cannot rehire for the same role for 12 months.

Work permit reforms: Renewal fees for retaining workers will drop from €300 to €150, while first-time application fees will rise to €600. Permits can be renewed every two years for workers with two-year contracts.

Grace period for job loss: TCNs who lose their job will have 60 days to find new employment, double the current period, provided they can support themselves financially.

Mandatory bank payments: Employers must pay TCN salaries via bank transfers to prevent underpayment and fake payslips.

Pre-departure training: TCNs must complete an online course on Maltese culture, language, and history before arriving. Workers in low-skilled roles will undergo further upskilling.

Preference for Maltese/EU workers: Firms must advertise jobs with local platforms for three weeks before seeking TCNs and justify rejecting EU applicants. New companies must meet quotas for Maltese/EU employees before hiring TCNs.

These measures, announced during a press conference led by Prime Minister Robert Abela and Minister Byron Camilleri aim to balance workforce needs while protecting workers’ rights and fostering integration.

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Martina Zammit To Take Break From Radio Due To Pregnancy

Jan 8 2025

Martina Zammit has announced a brief hiatus from radio as she continues on her pregnancy journey as she prepares to welcome a new member to her family.

She shared a photo with her Magic 91.7 colleagues Valentina, JD and Abel, as well as a clip of her debut with magic.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Martina Zammit (@tinaz_zee)

Martina has kept track of her pregnancy journey with Emma on social media, sharing behind the scenes from the road to motherhood.

Best of luck to both for this new phase in your journey!

#MaltaDaily