Munxar Mayor responds to firework incidents and calls for unity and respect

May 29 2023

Damien Spiteri Highlights the Importance of Observing the Law and Addresses Misconceptions

Munxar Mayor Damien Spiteri has addressed recent firework incidents that occurred over the past weekend, responding to comments made by various individuals, including Ta’ Sannat Mayor Philip Vella. Spiteri emphasised the significance of safeguarding residents’ safety while clarifying certain misconceptions surrounding the events. In his statement, Spiteri underscored the need for discussion, compromise, and adherence to the law when resolving disagreements.

One of the primary points made by Mayor Spiteri was the adherence to legal permits for burning aerial fireworks. He reassured the public that all permits were obtained lawfully and meticulously inspected by the police. Spiteri emphasised the importance of following the proper protocols and regulations in such matters.

However, Spiteri also highlighted incidents where individuals breached the designated closed areas during the firework displays. On at least two occasions, individuals without permits entered restricted areas when public access was strictly prohibited, as outlined in the permits. These unauthorised intrusions, Spiteri noted, were instigated by certain individuals who seemed intent on disrupting the event.

Further provocations occurred during the displays, as floodlights at the Ta’ Sannat football ground were turned on, intentionally obstructing the visual experience. Spiteri condemned this act, emphasising that the access to the area had been closed for security reasons, making such interference unnecessary and abusive.

Spiteri also mentioned another group of people who disregarded safety protocols and entered the fields, offending and intimidating the firework crew while the display was in progress. These individuals not only breached the closed access area but also endangered themselves by entering the vicinity where the fireworks were burning.

Moreover, Spiteri drew attention to an unsanctioned BBQ event organised in Ta’ Sannat, which took place just a few meters away from the firework display. This activity was not covered by any police permit, and Spiteri criticised the irresponsible behavior of those who organised it without proper authorisation, particularly due to its proximity to the fireworks. He further noted that attempts were made to exploit this unauthorised gathering to hinder the lawful burning of fireworks.

Spiteri took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the fire brigade and the police for diligently following the law and ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees. He called upon the community to observe the law with respect and goodwill, stressing the importance of unity in the face of intimidation and division.

#MaltaDaily

“Din ma naħmiliex saħta man” Minister Bartolo apologises after parliament microphone incident

May 29 2023

A video taken from parliament is currently making the rounds online showing Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo make a snide remark towards PN MP Rebekah Borg, unknowing that his microphone was still on.

After the speaker gave the floor to the Nationalist Party MP for a supplementary question, Bartolo passed a comment to his colleague next to him saying “God her… I can’t stand her one bit.”

Borg went on to make her supplementary question, but went on to address the minister’s comment via Facebook video, captioned “you forgot to turn off your microphone Minister Clayton Bartolo.” She went on to question whether this is appropriate language from a Parliamentary Minister, when it is her duty to ask questions such as this.

Speaking to Malta Daily, the Minister has reportedly since issued an apology to Borg via email.

#MaltaDaily

8,523 people in Malta are currently unemployed

May 29 2023

Malta’s Unemployment Rate Drops to 2.8% in April 2023.

According to the latest data released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) in Malta, the unemployment rate for April 2023 stood at an impressive 2.8 percent.

This marks a decline of 0.1 percentage points from the previous month and a notable decrease of 0.2 percentage points from the same month last year.

It is worth noting that the unemployment rate series has remained stable at around 3 percent over the past year, indicating a consistently positive trend in the job market.

The data reveals that during April 2023, there were a total of 8,523 unemployed persons in Malta. Among them, males and individuals between the ages of 25 and 74 constituted the major contributors to the overall level of unemployment.

Further analysis of the figures reveals that the seasonally adjusted number of unemployed youths, aged between 15 and 24, amounted to 2,263. On the other hand, the number of unemployed individuals aged between 25 and 74 years stood at 6,259.

Breaking down the unemployment rate by gender, it was found that in April 2023, the rate for males was slightly higher at 3.1 percent, while the rate for females stood at a lower 2.5 percent. This demonstrates a relatively balanced employment situation between genders, with both males and females benefiting from the overall decrease in unemployment.

Among different age groups, the data reveals that the unemployment rate for persons aged 15 to 24 years, often referred to as the youth unemployment rate, was relatively higher at 8.8 percent. In contrast, individuals between the ages of 25 and 74 enjoyed a significantly lower unemployment rate of 2.3 percent.

#MaltaDaily

Introducing ‘Bare Minimum Mondays’: Embracing a gentle start to the week

May 29 2023

In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, finding ways to alleviate stress and promote work-life balance has become a pressing concern for many employees.

As the world evolves, so do workplace trends, and the latest phenomenon gaining traction is none other than ‘Bare Minimum Mondays.’

While some may label it as laziness, this new approach to the start of the workweek is being embraced by those seeking a gentler, more self-compassionate way to ease into their professional obligations.

Australian marketing boss Caitlin Winter has wholeheartedly embraced this concept, and it’s time for the rest of us to take note.

‘Bare Minimum Mondays’ promote a slow and steady start to the week, allowing individuals to customise their work arrangements to reduce stress.

Whether it involves working from home, taking a half-day, or any other form of flexibility, the main objective is to eliminate the Sunday Scaries—the anxiety and dread that often overshadow the final day of the weekend.

Caitlin Winter, an Adelaide-based marketing manager, shared her perspective on this groundbreaking approach, emphasising the importance of allowing employees to navigate their day at their own pace while treating themselves with kindness and space.

The concept extends beyond merely reducing work-related pressure. ‘Bare Minimum Mondays’ afford individuals the opportunity to attend to personal errands and responsibilities that may have been neglected over the weekend.

The inspiration behind this innovative concept stems from Marisa Jo Mayes, the individual who coined the term ‘Bare Minimum Mondays.’ Mayes gained recognition after her essay on the subject went viral, where she shared her personal experience with the dreaded ‘Sunday scaries.’

#MaltaDaily