Jason Micallef to Contest For PL Party Affairs Deputy Leader

Aug 2 2024

Jason Micallef, former Labour Party secretary- general, has officially announced his candidacy for the position of deputy leader for party affairs. Despite the abolition of his former post by Joseph Muscat in 2010, Micallef remained an active Labour supporter and a notable advocate for Muscat, who is now facing corruption charges.

The deputy leader election, scheduled for September 13, seeks to appoint a non-MP to this influential role. Micallef, with a background in broadcasting and politics, stated, “This was not an easy decision. After extensive discussions with party members, including leader Robert Abela, I realized my experience could contribute to Labour’s renewal.” Micallef’s political journey began in 1994 as a local councillor for Mosta, followed by his tenure as a secretary-general from 2003 to 2009, and later leadership roles in media and cultural projects, including the Valletta 2018 Foundation.

Insiders assumed that Foreign Minister Ian Borg is the likely front-runner for Labour’s deputy leader race. Until recently, there were no clear contenders for the deputy leader for party affairs position, although former MEP Josianne Cutajar has been mentioned as a possible candidate by some sources.

#MaltaDaily

13 Reasons Why & Riverdale Star Ross Butler In Malta

Aug 2 2024

American actor Ross Butler, best known for his roles in “13 Reasons Why,” “Riverdale,” and “Shazam!,” has been spotted enjoying the scenic beauty of Malta while in Tigné, Sliema.

In a story posted today, Butler shared his admiration for the island, calling it “beautiful“, albeit joining the rest of the country in falling victim to the summer’s harsh temperatures.

Despite the heat, Butler embraced the Maltese weather, seemingly going for a jog this morning. His visit will definitely be enjoyed by fans of his shows, with some speculating that Butler may or may not be in Malta for a new project.

With his praise for the island, Butler joins a growing list of stars charmed by Malta – who else could we see on the island?

#MaltaDaily

Minister Addresses Threats of Increased Taxi Prices

Minister Claps Back At Further Increased Taxi Prices

Aug 2 2024

Minister for Home Affairs, Security & Employment Byron Camilleri recently addressed the ongoing issues in the cab sector, highlighting concerns over potential price manipulation and the dependency on precarious labor.

In a social media post, Camilleri criticised entities threatening to increase transportation prices even further if they are not permitted to bring in more workers without restrictions. He emphasised that this attitude is unreasonable, particularly since recent limitations do not affect current drivers and have not caused a driver shortage.

Camilleri’s comments come amidst a noticeable spike in cab prices and prolonged waiting times, sparking widespread concern among users. Over the past few days, cab fares have surged, with some users reporting that prices have nearly doubled. This price hike coincides with the refusal of numerous work permits for third-country nationals, reducing the number of available drivers.

Users have reported significantly higher prices on cab apps and extended waiting times, with some struggling to secure a driver. This situation has been particularly frustrating during the peak tourist season, further exacerbating the demand for cab services.

Cab drivers argue that previously low fares were unsustainable, covering neither expenses nor car maintenance. They describe the low-price model as borderline exploitative, making it difficult for them to earn a fair wage. Industry experts attribute the current price surge to the high tourist influx, a common practice during peak seasons to balance supply and demand.

Camilleri underscored the need to address the sector’s dependency on precarious labor, suggesting that more decisive actions may be necessary to ensure fair practices and sustainable wages for drivers. The minister’s statements reflect a commitment to balancing economic interests with ethical labor standards, aiming for a fairer, more sustainable transportation sector.

#MaltaDaily

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.

#MaltaDaily