July 2024 Unemployment Drops to 3.0%

Aug 29 2024

In July 2024, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 3.0 percent, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous month. This rate remained unchanged compared to July 2023.

The total number of unemployed individuals in July 2024 reached 9,503, with the majority of them aged between 25 and 74. Specifically, the number of unemployed youths (aged 15 to 24) was 2,321, while 7,183 individuals in the 25 to 74 age group were unemployed.

Male unemployment for July 2024 was recorded at 3.4 percent, marking a 0.2 percentage point drop from June. On the other hand, the unemployment rate for females remained steady at 2.4 percent compared to the previous month.

Youth unemployment (ages 15 to 24) saw an increase, reaching 8.7 percent. For individuals aged 25 to 74, the unemployment rate decreased slightly to 2.5 percent, down by 0.1 percentage points from June 2024.

#MaltaDaily

€10K Fines For Landlords Renting Property To Over 10 People

Aug 29 2024

A new legal notice has introduced fines of up to €10,000 for anyone caught renting property to more than 10 people.

This measure aims to address the issue of overcrowded properties, where foreign workers often pay low rents to sleep in cramped rooms filled with bunk beds.

The legal notice outlines specific limits on the number of occupants allowed based on the size of the apartment.

A one-bedroom apartment can accommodate a maximum of two tenants, while a two-bedroom residence can house up to four people.

A three-bedroom dwelling is limited to six occupants. Larger properties with four or five bedrooms must have two bathrooms, allowing for eight and ten residents, respectively.

These restrictions do not apply to families and will come into effect at the end of October, providing a two-month transition period. Violators of the law face fines ranging from €2,500 to €10,000 and may also face prosecution in court.

The announcement follows Housing Minister Roderick Galdes’ earlier plans for new rental regulations revealed in March. While existing planning rules already cap occupancy at six people per dwelling, they lack enforcement measures.

Overcrowded apartments have been a persistent issue in Malta’s rental market.

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Maltese Paralympic Athletes Wear Charles & Ron to Paris Opening

Aug 29 2024

Team Malta is all set for the Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games!

Representing Malta at this prestigious global event are Paralympians Maja Theuma and Antonio Flores, alongside Chef de Mission Julian Bajada, para swimming coach Edward Caruana Dingli, and team doctor Daniela Bonello Spiteri. The team is proudly dressed by renowned Maltese designer Charles & Ron, who created a unique look blending Maltese tradition with modern design.

Team Malta is ready to showcase their national pride on the grand stage in Paris, the capital of fashion. The Paralympic Games are a celebration of athleticism, resilience, and diversity, and Malta’s athletes will represent their country with honor and determination.

The Maltese delegation’s striking attire is a testament to both their heritage and forward-looking spirit, designed to stand out in the vibrant atmosphere of the Paralympic Games. Team Malta is proudly supported by Charles & Ron, emphasizing the connection between sports and local talent.

As the world watches, Malta is ready to shine at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

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New Building And Construction Service Officially Introduced

Aug 29 2024

The Minister for Justice and Construction Sector Reform, Jonathan Attard, has launched a new service and a helpline,138, provided by the Building and Construction Authority, aimed at offering free assistance to those affected by construction activities.

The service will begin following a public call and will include a panel of 20 professionals, consisting of 10 lawyers and 10 architects.

Minister Attard stated that the government is committed to continuing its support for citizens, which is why this new service is being introduced.

It will complement the newly launched helpline 138, which provides 24/7 support for those with immediate concerns related to construction and workplace health and safety.

Together, these two services will form a comprehensive assistance system designed to equip citizens with the tools to address their concerns effectively.

“We believe that every individual has the right to understand the implications of development in their neighborhood and to protect their interests. We have a clear vision to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to understand the complexities of construction projects, even with technical assistance,” Minister Attard emphasized.

Noting the positive response to the helpline in its first few weeks since launch, Minister Attard said that the service has received an average of 80 calls per day, with 75% related to questions or reports about construction works.

In turn, the Acting CEO of the Building and Construction Authority, Architect Roderick Bonnici, also spoke about the ongoing restructuring of the authority, as it continues to strengthen its regulatory role and update with initiatives and services aimed at providing easier access for affected citizens.

Also present at this conference were the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for Justice and Construction Sector Reform, Mr. Johan Galea, and the CEO of Servizz.gov, Mr. Massimo Vella.

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