An out-of-court settlement with MSCMZ Developers Limited has been reached between the company and the relatives of late Miriam Pace’s relatives. The building collapsed in March 2020 and took the life of Miriam Pace who was killed when her house collapsed while she was inside. A statement announcing the settlement was issued by lawyer David Bonello stated that by virtue of this agreement, civil claims brought forward against the developers, contractor, architect and site technical officer have been settled.

The company also stated that ‘throughout this difficult process for all parties involved, the directors of the company have strived to offer their full support and cooperation with full empathy towards the situation.’ Miriam Pace’s husband Carmel estimated damages caused by collapse cost around €593,000, but also stated that ‘obviously there are things which you cannot get a quotation for, such as memories and my wife.’

A 41-year-old Brazilian man was sentenced for 12 years and 6 months in prison after admitting he smuggled drugs into Malta. Adalberto Alves Da Silva was stopped at the airport after landing from a flight from Dubai in 20th January 2019. Upon searching, several packets of drugs were found tied to various parts of both his legs.

A total of around 1 and a half kilos of 50% pure cocaine, which would have sold for around €27,000 to €120,000 were it sold on the streets. Da Silva admitted in court, with judge Consuelo Scerri Herrera issuing the 12 year sentence and a €28,000 fine which, if not paid after a year in prison, will increase in amount.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: Kamra tal-Periti, DW.com

A new legal amendment requires companies that employ more than 20 persons to have 2% of the workforce be persons with disabilities. The amendment was passed in Parliament by Finance Minister Clyde Caruana and companies which fail to reach said quota will be subject to a €2,400 contribution. Current legislation provides for this, but clause has been largely ignore by employers across the island.

Companies which fail to reach the 2% quota will have to pay the aforementioned contribution for every person with a disability that should be in employment. The Minister stated that some companies were not on board with the contribution, and pointed out that ‘these people take a lot from this country, but towards these individuals they aren’t ready to contribute anything.’ He explained that this will ensure more inclusivity and that persons with disabilities will find their way into the work force.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: Clyde Caruana FB, Aurelius