A police investigation has been launched regarding a number of items that disappeared from the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta.

Heritage Malta, the national agency for Malta’s cultural heritage, noticed that three vases and a clock, worth an accumulated total of around €13,000 were missing.

The police, together with Heritage Malta officials, are reviewing security footage to attempt to uncover the reason behind the items’ disappearance. It’s remains unknown when these items were taken.

On Thursday, Notary and former Speaker of the House Myriam Spiteri Debono was sworn in as Malta’s 11th President, with a ceremony being held at the Grandmaster’s Palace.

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By year’s end, a total of 442 social housing units to be launched across Malta since 2022.

In Msida, Minister for Social and Affordable Accommodation Roderick Galdes inaugurated the most ambitious social housing project to house 102 families.

During the opening ceremony, which bears the name of distinguished former Labour Minister Patrick Holland, Minister Galdes mentioned that from 2022 through the end of the current year, a total of 442 social housing units will be opened. “By the close of 2024, we will have supported 442 families in securing a promising future within decent and dignified homes,” the Minister stated.

The project with an investment of around €10 million, encompasses 102 apartments and 22 garages. Future expansions include the introduction of a Community Clinic and various retail outlets, enhancing the project’s contribution to the community.

He added that these efforts are complemented by the Housing Authority’s record schemes, marked by a €50 million investment and contributes to our country’s leading homeownership rate of 82.6% among European countries.

Minister Roderick Galdes concluded by saying that Government’s work in the housing sector brought about a social and holistic revolution. “The progress we’ve made and aim to continue is a testament to the collaborative effort of Team Malta working towards a common goal.”

The architect responsible for the design, Perit Samuel Formosa, shared insights into the innovative features of the building, notably its pioneering system for storing recycled water. Despite geographical challenges such as seawater and flooding, the building incorporates specialised underground facilities designed to collect and repurpose water in order to support civil protection efforts. Furthermore, the use of traditional Maltese stone in the facade preserves architectural heritage.

Present for the event were Permanent Secretary Emanuel Psaila, Msida mayor Margaret Baldacchino Cefai, and members of the Holland family.

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