Maltese MEPs Reflect on Journey from Candidate to Parliament at Local Event

Oct 30 2024

The “From Candidate to MEP” event took place at Floriani Hall in the Excelsior Hotel, gathering Maltese citizens, youth, and stakeholders to explore the journey of European Parliament representatives from candidacy to active service.

The event, held on October 30, opened with an address by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, underscoring the importance of democratic engagement in Malta.

Following the welcome, the agenda introduced the European Direct CORE Platform, represented by Dr. Roberta Lepre, and Junior Chamber International Malta, with David Bartolo. This was followed by a unique “reverse panel” aimed at young people and volunteers, where youth representatives voiced their views on democracy, voting, and political engagement. Panelists Marelaine Formosa, David Bartolo, Michael Gatt, Isaac Rizzo, and Kyle Vella shared their perspectives, with MEPs listening and responding to their concerns.

The second panel, titled “From Candidate to MEP,” featured MEPs Agius, Agius Saliba, Attard, and Bajada. Moderated by Claire Agius Ordway, the discussion provided insight into the transition from campaigning to legislative responsibilities, reflecting on whether pre-election expectations aligned with the realities of serving in the European Parliament.

The event concluded with remarks by Dr. Mario Sammut, Head of EPLO Valletta, followed by a light lunch, offering a final networking opportunity for attendees.

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40,000 Square Meters Of New Open Natural Spaces By End Of 2024

Oct 30 2024

By the end of this year, the public will gain access to 40,000 square meters of new open spaces, providing peaceful, natural areas for families to enjoy.

Minister for the Environment, Energy, and Regeneration Miriam Dalli and Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia announced this expansion, highlighting a €22 million investment over the coming year in 15 open space projects led by the Public Works Department. This investment complements other government efforts to enhance green areas within urban spaces.

During a press conference at Hospice Garden, a soon-to-open peaceful area for palliative care patients and families, Minister Dalli also announced that Villa Portelli Gardens in Kalkara, Wied Inċita, Spencer Garden in Marsa, and Independence Garden in Birżebbuġa would open by year’s end.

The broader Project Green initiative is progressing with 118 projects funded through €350 million aimed at improving public spaces.

Highlighting plans to transform former waste sites like Marsaskala’s San Antnin recycling plant into gardens, Minister Dalli emphasized a commitment to a quality environment. Next year, 19 more projects will open.

Parliamentary Secretary Farrugia stressed the importance of open spaces for community and family gatherings, noting a partnership with the University of Malta to create accessible and socially valuable spaces.

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AX ODYCY Hotel Brings Home Four Prestigious Awards for Malta at the European Property Awards

Oct 30 2024

The newly redeveloped AX ODYCY Hotel is proud to announce its success at the prestigious European Property Awards, winning four awards for Malta: Leisure Development, Commercial Redevelopment, Masterplan, and Hotel Architecture. This achievement solidifies its position as a leader in the hospitality and development sectors in Malta.

AX ODYCY is a premium 4-star destination in Qawra, Malta, offering a diverse range of dining, leisure, and family-friendly facilities. Having transformed from its days as the renowned Suncrest Hotel, the hotel’s design takes inspiration from airports and cruise liners—dynamic spaces that welcome vast crowds of travellers. This sense of adventure is mirrored throughout the hotel, with distinct locations and establishments thoughtfully integrated into its common areas, offering a diverse choice of dining options.

As part of the AX Hotels portfolio, the hotel blends modern architecture with innovative guest experiences, making it one of Malta’s most distinguished hospitality brands. With F&B outlets such as the adults-only Minoa Mediterranean Fusion restaurant, Medusa Sky Bar and family-favourite Trattoria Riccardo among others, AX ODYCY offers something for every visitor.

These achievements come as AX ODYCY has completed its first year and a half of operation following this redevelopment. With directors Claire Zammit Xuereb leading the concept and creation, and Denise Xuereb driving development and construction, it’s no surprise that AX ODYCY has evolved into an award-winning success.

The awards were presented during a ceremony held on Thursday 17th October 2024, at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square. Representing AX Group, Denise Xuereb, Director of Construction and Development, accepted the accolades on behalf of the company.

“It’s such a proud moment for us,” said Ms. Xuereb. “These awards aren’t just a win for the hotel, but for the whole team that believed in creating something truly unique. AX ODYCY’s design and development are all about exceeding expectations, and it’s truly rewarding to have this recognised on an international level.”

“AX ODYCY isn’t just a hotel—it’s a destination,” said Ms. Zammit Xuereb, Director of Hospitality. “It’s all about creating spaces where our guests from all over the world can have unforgettable experiences. These awards highlight that our vision was spot-on and fill a gap in the market beautifully. The future of ODYCY is incredibly exciting.”

In addition to being short-listed for Europe, the results of which will be revealed in December, ODYCY could go on to compete with other nominees from across the globe to be recognised in the International Property Awards among the ‘World’s Best.’

For reservations, contact [email protected] or call +356 2354 3000. Alternatively, visit the website https://axhotelsmalta.com/odycy

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European Union Debating Whether To Ban Energy Drinks

Oct 30 2024

Nationalist and Maltese MEP Peter Agius has revealed that the European Union are currently debating whether they should ban energy drinks such as Monster and Red Bull due to health concerns.

The local MEP revealed that a number of arguements and opinions have been going around in the European Parliament, such as completely banning the drinks or at least restricting them for kids and young adults.

Agius also revealed that the Commission had conducted a study on this subject over 10 years ago, but suggested that this study should be updated due to the recent debates about the drinks.

Should energy drinks be banned across the EU?

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