New education minister convinced schools can reopen next month despite spike

Dec 31 2021

Newly appointed education minister Clifton Grima has revealed that he is confident in schools being able to reopen next month despite a surge of cases.

Speaking on TVAM this morning, Grima stated that ‘as a father, I believe that the education of children involves a number of aspects, primary of which is that they should attend school physically.’

He acknowledged the current health reality which necessitates people being careful and working side-by-side with the health authorities and follow protocols.

He stated that just as challenges were overcome in the past, he is convinced that we can reopen schools whilst also following health protocols. Grima said that the vaccination gave us a new weapon which was not present last year.

On the other hand, unions, particularly, the Malta Union of Teachers, came out as still unsure as to whether or not schools should reopen or not. The number of cases and quarantined people would have severe impacts on operations.

With cases soaring higher, active cases well over the 10,000 mark, it would be a difficult situation overall. However, many do not wish a return to online learning, given the mental toll on parents, students and teachers alike.

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Photo Source: Clifton Grima FB

800 inspections weekly at bars and food establishments by MTA

Dec 31 2021

The Malta Tourism Authority’s Enforcement Section continued to carry out inspections of bars, restaurants and other food establishments despite the pandemic.

Director David Mifsud told the News Centre that enforcement officers carry out an average of 800 inspections per week. He said that during festive times, the amount of inspections massively increased.

He also highlighted how the enforcement section was there to issue fines but instead assist and guide restaurants in complying with regulations laid down by Health Authorities.

The absolute majority of inspections showed that restaurants and bars are in fact complying with the current existing measures. The few which are violating the measures are fined according to law.

Detailing the process, Mifsud explained how one checks that there are the right number of people sitting at a table, sanitisers are present, record of customers is kept as well as a mini audit-like process of what is being done.

The pandemic proved to be a difficult period for many establishments but many seemed to have worked hard at ensuring the safety of all clients.

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What will the weather be like for the end of 2021 and early new year?

Dec 31 2021

A glimpse outside suggests that the last day of 2021 will be sunny weather, but many are wondering when the stormy and rainy forecasts are expected.

The change in weather is expected to arrive on the 8th and 9th of January, meaning we’ll be making up for this sunny weather with some early January storms.

However, we can enjoy sunny and slightly cloudy skies for the last day of the year, with a wind force 3. Highest temperatures are set to hit 17 degrees Celsius and lowest 12 degrees.

The same weather is forecasted for tomorrow the 1st of January 2022, with winds going slightly up to force 4. Highest temperatures will hit 19 degrees, with lowest at 12 as well.

However, many are opting for an indoor celebration. Given the recent spike in COVID cases, many cancelled their bookings and decided to celebrate inside with their loved ones.

For anyone still venturing out to celebrate these past, and quite chaotic, 12 months, we advise you celebrate responsibly and stay safe.

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Photo Source: On Site Malta

Malta will ban sale of single-use plastic products in 2022

Malta will ban sale of single-use products plastics in 2022

Dec 31 2021

Plastic straws, jablo cups, cotton buds and beverage stirrers will be among the items banned in Malta going into the next year.

As Malta moves into its second stage of the battle against single-use plastic, it became one of the first countries to prohibit the importation of several such products from January 1st 2021.

This ban will now be extending to the actual sale and distribution of such products in 2022, with the legal notice banning the sale published on Christmas Eve coming into effect on 24th February 2022.

The Environment ministry issued a statement Thursday saying that ‘this is being enacted as part of the government’s vision to strengthen the environment, tackle marine pollution and improve the quality of our biodiversity.’

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