Sciacca Grill Cleared, Trial Ordered For Muscat and Co-accused

Joseph Muscat & Co-Accused To Stand Trial

Jun 25 2024

Following a detailed review of evidence and relevant acts, Magistrate Rachel Montebello stated that the evidence sufficiently indicated illegal activity by all the accused, except for Sciacca Grill Ltd., previously linked to Keith Schembri.

Montebello ordered all defendants, excluding Sciacca Grill, to be formally charged. She also mandated the submission of various documents, including bank statements from the implicated companies.

In Tuesday’s session, defense lawyers critiqued the magisterial inquiry, claiming it lacked evidential support. Lawyer Chris Cilia defended MTrace Ltd., with a quip about storytelling versus truth. Jason Grima, representing Jonathan Vella, pointed out that his client was merely an accounts clerk for auditor Chris Spiteri, not a central figure in the allegations. Arthur Azzopardi, defending Brian Bondin and companies Technoline and Gateway Solutions, argued the inquiry failed to substantiate claims of fraud.

Sciacca Grill, once Kasco Foods and previously owned by Schembri, was the sole defendant discharged after Montebello found insufficient evidence against it. The prosecution had accused the company of skimming funds from contracts tied to the privatization of state hospitals by Vitals Global Healthcare, a claim Montebello deemed unproven.

The other defendants, including former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, Minister Konrad Mizzi, and Schembri, face trial for their alleged roles in a multimillion-euro fraud involving the 30-year hospital privatization deal awarded to Vitals. This concession, later passed to Steward Health Care, was annulled by a civil court last year due to fraud.

The proceedings will continue on August 1 at 10:00 AM.

#MaltaDaily

51 New Police Recruits Welcomed: Set For Constables

Jun 25 2024

Last week, the Malta Police Force welcomed 51 new recruits who have embarked on their journey to become Police Constables.

They have commenced a 6 month training programme at the Academy for Disciplined Forces, which will lead them to obtain a Pre-Tertiary Certificate in Basic Training for Police Constables.

‘In an introductory session, Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà personally met with the new recruits. He discussed the Force’s continued efforts to develop the policing career into a respected profession, emphasising our mission of professionalism, trust, safety, security and community engagement.’

Commissioner Rafa also highlighted the increased trust in the force, which was revealed through survey results from the NSO, Eurobarometer and an internal Employee Engagement Survey.

#MaltaDaily

Local Record For Biggest ‘Ħelwa Tat-Tork’ in Xagħra, Gozo

Jun 25 2024

The Malta Records have certified the national record for the largest ‘ħelwa tat-tork’ (‘Turk’s Sweet’), made in Xagħra, Gozo.

The sweet, made out of fig for the appropriately titled ‘Festa tat-Tin’, measured at a 57cm length, 37cm width and 43.5cm height. The sweet, a highly sought after delicacy around the Maltese islands, was devoured after the record was awarded.

Residents gathered for the event – and to enjoy the sweet itself!

#MaltaDaily

Things To Keep In Mind For Ed Sheeran Concert Tomorrow

Jun 25 2024

As world renowned singer and songwriter Ed Sheeran is making his way to Malta for a concert in Ta’ Qali, the organisers have released some very important information for all attendees to keep in mind if attending!

High Attendance and Traffic: With thousands of attendees expected, heavy traffic is anticipated. Shuttle services and group bookings for priority drop-off and pick-up close to the entrance are recommended.

Traffic Management Plan: A detailed Traffic Management Plan, coordinated with all authorities, is attached. All instructions from officials and signage on the ground should be followed.

Parking: Limited parking areas in the Ta’ Qali Area will be available. Carpooling or alternative transportation is strongly encouraged due to the expected heavy traffic.

Shuttle Service: Boarding requires a ticket, and transport will leave at 5:30 PM sharp from all locations. Plan accordingly, as boarding without a ticket will not be allowed.

Accessibility: Ticket holders for the accessibility area have received guidance via email. Access is exclusively through the Accessibility Entrance with specific parking arrangements organised.

Special Assistance: On-site officials will assist attendees with reduced mobility for drop-offs and pick-ups close to the entrance. Present a blue badge for drop-offs. Safe pick-up points after the event are minutes away from the main entrance. Follow on-site guidance from officials.

Cab Services: Cabs have a designated area at the farmers market parking. No other zones will be accepted for pick-ups and drop-offs, except for blue badge holders, who will be accommodated close to the entrance upon presentation of a blue badge, as per the attached site plan.

Entry Gates: The main entrance for Standing A, Standing B, Seated X, and Seated Z ticket holders is from the MFCC North Gate by the Ta’ Qali outdoor gym. Other ticket holders will not be allowed through this entry. Accessibility ticket holders have a separate entrance communicated directly to them.

Site Plan and Prohibited Items: Familiarise yourself with the attached site plan and note the prohibited items.

Stay Updated: Follow social media pages for major announcements and alerts on both greatt’s and NnG social media pages.

The organisers look forward to welcoming attendees to the concert and extend a big thank you to everyone involved, including authorities and the 1000+ crew, for making this event possible.

#MaltaDaily