Higher Prices & Longer Waiting Times Hit Malta’s Cab Market

Aug 2 2024

The recent spike in cab prices and prolonged waiting times have sparked widespread concern among users. Over the past few days, cab fares have surged, with some users reporting that prices have so much as doubled. The price hike comes amid news that numerous work permits for third-country nationals have been refused, reducing the number of available drivers.

Cab apps are displaying significantly higher prices than usual, and many users are experiencing extended waiting times, with some unable to secure a driver for long periods. This situation has left many frustrated, particularly as the price increases coincide with the peak tourist season.

On the other side of the debate, cab drivers argue that the previously low fares were unsustainable. They contend that fares of 4-5 euros per ride were insufficient to cover expenses and car maintenance, leaving them with minimal earnings. They describe the low-price model as borderline exploitative, unsustainable in the long run.

Additionally, some drivers and industry experts attribute the current price surge to the high tourist influx, which is a common practice during peak seasons to balance supply and demand. They assert that the fare increases are a necessary adjustment to ensure that drivers can earn a fair wage while accommodating the heightened demand during this busy period.

Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri has since taken to social media to share that certain companies are threatening to continue hiking prices unless they are allowed to bring more workers into the country without restraint. Camilleri shut down these threats, stating that they do not make sense, going on to highlight that it is time to take more decisions in this sector.

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Kyle Micallef Impresses at 2024 Paris Olympics

Aug 1 2024

Maltese-Australian swimmer Kyle Micallef has done Malta proud, representing the island at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and impressing many finishing in second place in his 50m heat.

Unfortunately his time was not enough to the next round of the competition, but it was still very impressive with Micallef coming close to beating his personal best.

Competing against another 7 swimmers, Micallef finished in second place with a time of 22.89 seconds at the Paris La Defence Arena. In first place came David Young for Fiji with a time of 22.71 seconds.

The fastest man overall of the round was Australian Cameron McEvoy with a time of 21.32 seconds, coming first in Heat 10.

The next athlete to represent Malta will be sprinter Beppe Grillo next Saturday the 3rd of August.

A big well done goes to Kyle Micallef who performed to his best whilst representing Malta at the grandest stage of them all.

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Unique Stingray Found At Ġnejna Bay

Aug 1 2024

A unique stingray has been spotted at Ġnejna Bay by local Nathaniel Camilleri, who managed to catch the beautiful fish at it’s perfect habitat wondering around the bay, posting it on his story for everybody to see.

It must be said that Stingrays should always be given their own space and peace as they easily could jolt or sting a person, leaving that person with grave pain.

The story also highlights Malta’s marine diversity and the responsibility everyone has to protect it.

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Inmate Died After Found In Pool Of Blood In Mater Dei Forensics

Aug 1 2024

Jesmond Gatt, a 54-year-old man detained at Mount Carmel Hospital’s forensic ward while awaiting bail, died after being found with head injuries in a pool of blood on July 13.

Gatt was housed with two other inmates and was discovered on the ground in his room.

He succumbed to his injuries and died at Mater Dei Hospital on Thursday. Gatt had a long criminal history, including a recent charge of arson after allegedly setting fire to a door in Ħamrun.

Although Gatt was granted bail on July 9, he was waiting for his family to pay a €500 bail bond and fulfill other conditions. The circumstances surrounding his injuries remain unclear, and a police investigation and magisterial inquiry are ongoing.

Prison director Chris Siegersma stated that Gatt may have slipped and hit his head but did not comment further due to the active investigation.

The forensic unit at Mount Carmel, managed by prison authorities, has protocols for patient safety, though questions have been raised about the safety of housing mentally ill patients together.

The government has faced criticism for the hospital’s deteriorating conditions and has pledged to close it within four years, beginning with the relocation of some patients.

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