Infrastructural Works on Fort Sant’ Anġlu Bridges Completed

May 31 2024

The Minister for Transport, Infrastructure, and Public Works, Chris Bonett, has officially inaugurated two newly constructed bridges providing access to Fort Sant’ Anġlu in Birgu. This significant project, aimed at enhancing both vehicular and pedestrian access, involved an investment of around three million euros.

Infrastructure Malta spearheaded the development, replacing the former single bridge with two distinct structures: one for pedestrians and another for vehicles. This initiative followed the collapse of part of the original bridge in June of last year. The original bridge, constructed by the British Services, was not designed to handle the increased weight of modern vehicles, leading to its deterioration and eventual closure to vehicular traffic.

Minister Bonett highlighted the government’s dedication to creating safer and higher-quality infrastructure. “Such projects are the result of the Government’s commitment to create a safer and higher quality infrastructure while in an area like Birgu Waterfront the best facilities are provided for Maltese people, tourists, and people who make use of the Navy,” he stated. Bonett commended Infrastructure Malta for their efficient work and professional results, which reflect the vision of a “beautiful and modern” Malta.

When the project was initiated in January, Minister Bonett had promised swift completion with minimal inconvenience to the public. The inauguration of the bridges fulfills that promise, providing secure access for all visitors to the site.

Ivan Falzon, CEO of Infrastructure Malta, remarked on the agency’s focus on improving accessibility and ensuring safe and efficient travel. “Hidmet Infrastructure Malta will continue to be focused on improving accessibility while ensuring that everyone reaches their destination safely and efficiently,” Falzon said.

Throughout the project, Infrastructure Malta maintained close collaboration with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage to preserve the historical significance of the site. This entity was involved from the project’s inception and played a key role in the design and oversight of the work. A restoration project is also underway to preserve the structure of the old bridge, which will be exhibited within the confines of the site.

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How To Spot The Difference Between Malta’s Cockroaches

May 31 2024

In a recent interview with Malta Daily, Arnold Sciberras ‘The Exterminator’ broke down Malta’s current cockroach situation and how to spot the difference between different species.

Sciberras started by stating that what most people are seeing is called the ‘German Cockroach’, the species which the Maltese derivatively call ‘Kokroċ’. He stated that, throughout the years, the Maltese language has effectively categorised the smaller species as ‘kokroċ’, while the other larger species are called ‘wirdien’.

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The Exterminator explained that, since the days of English rule in Malta, the smaller species have been known as ‘kokroċ’, stemming directly from the word ‘cockroaches’, highlighting that such creatures, like other species, require chemicals or bait to be controlled as they tend to multiplied if left uncontrolled.

On the other hand, the ‘American cockroach’, which are larger, often tend to fly and scare residents, are recognised as ‘wirdien’ in Malta.

Sciberras went on to reveal that Malta has 23 types of cockroach species, with three of these being categorised as ‘pests’ whilst the others beneficial, introduced or endemic, which means that they are unique to Malta and positively contribute to the country’s biodiversity.

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EasyJet Expands Operations in Malta with New Aircraft Maintenance and Repair Facility

May 31 2024

Malta has secured a significant addition to its aviation industry with easyJet inaugurating a new aircraft maintenance and repair facility in Luqa. This development follows an agreement between easyJet and SR Technics, through which easyJet acquired the facility from SR Technics and committed to retaining the existing workforce while planning further investments.

At the inauguration held in the spacious 40,000 square meter hangar, Prime Minister Robert Abela highlighted the Government’s support for the aviation sector. He emphasized the sector’s importance, noting that it employs around 1,500 professionals, including engineers, and contributes approximately €50 million annually to the Maltese economy. Abela praised the advanced facilities that underpin Malta’s leadership in aviation, supported by entities such as Malta Enterprise, Indis, and Transport Malta. He viewed the agreement as a pivotal step for the future of aviation in Malta and expressed gratitude to SR Technics for their years of service and training provided to Maltese workers.

The Prime Minister also underscored the broader impact of the facility, pointing out that it is one of three major European airline maintenance and repair facilities in Malta. This clustering of MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) companies fosters a robust ecosystem beneficial to the Maltese economy.

Minister for Economy, Enterprise, and Strategic Projects Silvio Schembri echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, celebrating the strengthened aviation industry resulting from the agreement. He highlighted the strategic reopening of Taxiway Lima by INDIS Malta last year, which enhanced the competitiveness of MRO companies by enabling them to accommodate larger aircraft. Schembri attributed these advancements to collaborative efforts between Malta Enterprise, MCAST, and the Choosing Aviation program. He also thanked SR Technics for their contributions and commended easyJet for their confidence in Malta’s aviation sector.

David Morgan, easyJet’s Chief Operating Officer, expressed satisfaction with the acquisition and the integration of the existing workforce into the easyJet team. He announced that easyJet will now employ over four hundred people in Malta, a significant boost to local employment. Morgan reflected on easyJet’s 15-year history in Malta and expressed enthusiasm for the strengthened presence, which will enhance maintenance and repair operations and improve connectivity across Europe for Maltese customers.

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Sarah Bonnici Launches Music Video for Eurovision Follow-Up ‘Lose’

May 31 2024

Sarah Bonnici has launched the music video for her new song “Lose”, the anthemic follow-up to her Eurovision entry “Loop”. The video is full of colourful and vibrant visuals that match the energetic and uplifting vibe of the track.

“Lose” was written and composed by Sarah Bonnici and Michael Joe Cini. The production, mixing, and mastering were all done by Michael Joe Cini at Micimago Studios. This collaboration has resulted in a polished and professional sound that complements Bonnici’s powerful vocals.

The music video for “Lose” was directed by Steven Levi Vella, with Victor Abela serving as the DOP. The video also features talented dancer Miguel Azzopardi Portelli and Andrew Camenzuli, adding an extra layer of excitement and energy to the performance.

Sarah Bonnici’s latest release showcases her growth as an artist after the Eurovision song contest, and we’re sure fans of her previous work will definitely enjoy “Lose”.

What do you think of the music video?

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