Malta Once Again With 2nd Lowest Unemployment Rate In EU

Jan 14 2025

Malta, along with Poland, registered the second lowest unemployment rate in the EU, following only Czechia at 2.8%.

Germany registered the third lowest rate at 3.4%, whereas Spain registered the highest rate at 11.2%.

Greece and Finland registered the second and third highest rates at 9.6% and 8.7% respectively.

In November 2024, the euro area seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate was 6.3%, which is stable compared with October of last year.

‘The EU unemployment rate was 5.9% in November 2024, also stable compared with October 2024.’

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Improved Service With Direct Extensions On Freephone 153

Jan 14 2025

Did you know that 153 is the most dialled phone number in Malta?

153 is the freephone number for Servizz.gov, and it holds this title due to receiving around 863,000 calls in the past year alone.

To improve service, Servizz.gov has recently implemented direct extensions.

Now, when you call 153, you can immediately reach the specific service you need by entering the appropriate extension number.

This update significantly reduces wait times, meaning you’ll receive assistance much more quickly.

If you’re wondering which extension numbers are most commonly used, here are a few examples: tax services, social services, and many more.

Thanks to these changes, you can now enjoy faster and more efficient service when calling the freephone 153.

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PM Meets National Rugby League Team Malta Knights

Jan 14 2025

Yesterday, the Malta Knights national rugby league team had a significant meeting with Prime Minister Robert Abela at Castille.

Jean-Pierre Zarb, President of the Malta Rugby League (MRL) and vice-captain of the Malta Knights, expressed:

“This meeting with the Prime Minister is a major milestone for rugby league in Malta. It highlights the increasing recognition of our sport and its power to unite communities, inspire young athletes, and elevate Malta’s international profile.”

Anthony Micallef, Team Manager of the Malta Knights, shared his thoughts as well:

“As we celebrate 20 years of Maltese Rugby League, today’s meeting with the Prime Minister represents the dedication and effort of every supporter, player, and staff member who has been part of the Malta Knights journey, both past and present.”

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Revitalised Garden At Peace Lab Fulfils Dream For Fr Dionysius Mintoff

Jan 14 2025

At the age of 93, Fr Dionysius Mintoff, founder of the Peace Lab, witnessed the fulfillment of another long-held vision: the regeneration of the Peace Lab Garden.

Spanning 2,000 square meters, this peaceful retreat was revitalized through Project Green, which supported Fr Mintoff’s vision for this meaningful social initiative.

Minister for the Environment Miriam Dalli noted that projects like this contribute positively to society, highlighting how these open spaces foster connection with nature and promote community interaction. She expressed anticipation for more environmental projects to be carried out in the coming year.

During a visit to the garden with Minister Dalli, Fr Mintoff shared that the space once served as an airstrip during World War II, accommodating 7,000 Commonwealth soldiers. Today, it stands as a symbol of peace and tranquility.

“The goal is to remind people of the importance of leisure time and the messages nature offers us,” Fr Mintoff said. He hopes more visitors will come to enjoy the space.

“We aimed to transform a place of war into one of peace, and this garden is another step in that direction,” he added.

The renovation included the installation of low bridges and wider pathways for better accessibility, while preserving the garden’s biodiversity. New lighting creates a soothing atmosphere, and the addition of picnic benches and play equipment made from recyclable materials makes the space more welcoming.

The garden, open to all, was also visited by members of the Żurrieq Local Council and representatives from Project Green.

Architect Cheryl Camilleri from Project Green emphasized that sustainability and accessibility were key to the project, ensuring that the space would be enjoyed by the community.

Mayor Rita Grima of Żurrieq expressed gratitude for the collaboration, stating that the garden now provides another peaceful spot for residents and visitors alike.

Founded in 1971 by Fr Mintoff as a Pastoral Work Centre for peace, the Peace Lab has since expanded, with a new branch recently opened in The Hague, Netherlands.

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