Omar Farrugia Addresses Public Concerns Over BCRS

Feb 6 2025

Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia has raised concerns about the efficiency and financial viability of Malta’s Beverage Container Refund Scheme (BCRS), particularly following recent fee increases imposed on beverage producers and importers.

While the scheme has successfully achieved environmental targets—collecting 230 million plastic containers in 2023 – Farrugia questioned whether it meets public expectations.

Citing widespread complaints, he pointed to persistent issues such as malfunctioning machines, insufficient collection points, poor maintenance, and slow processing times.

While sustainability goals are being met, the system’s economic model appears fragile.

The private operator behind BCRS recently raised administration fees, citing financial losses of €1.31 million in 2023 due to the scheme’s success in exceeding collection targets. These higher fees, some of which increased by over 100%, have reportedly already led to price hikes for consumers.

Farrugia expressed concerns that consumers, despite doing their part, may ultimately bear the financial burden of inefficiencies within the system. He called for urgent improvements to make the scheme more user-friendly rather than discouraging participation.

Farrugia said that the government remains committed to sustainability, with initiatives such as waste management reforms and incentives for home water filtration systems.

Farrugia also dismissed Opposition claims of new taxes, emphasising that the administration prioritises incentives over financial burdens, ensuring the recycling scheme works for both the environment and the people.

#MaltaDaily

Carlo Gerada Releases Claudette Pace ‘Desire’ Remix

Feb 6 2025

Locally renowned DJ Carlo Gerada has officially dropped his famous ‘Desire’ remix of the iconic Claudette Pace’s Eurovision entry.

The DJ took to Instagram stories to unveil the release, saying that in honour of Eurovision week, he has finally – after much urging by Valentina Rossi – to release the track.

Gerada has dropped the track during numerous performances, with the iconic Maltese song being a go-to for many – whether it be during weddings or at parties. The song just stuck!

Have you heard the remix yet?

#MaltaDaily

Maltese Government to Organize and Fund Funeral for Late Dun Victor Grech

Feb 5 2025

The Maltese government has announced that it will pay its final tribute to the late Dun Victor Grech, who passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 95. As a mark of respect for his lifelong commitment to helping those in need, the government will take charge of organizing and funding his funeral.

Dun Victor Grech, a beloved figure, was the founder of Caritas Malta, a vital charity organization that has provided assistance to vulnerable communities across the island for many years. His unwavering dedication to social causes earned him the admiration of people from all walks of life.

The Office of the Prime Minister has been in close contact with Grech’s family and close associates to ensure the funeral arrangements reflect the dignity and respect he so rightly deserves.

Additional details about the funeral will be shared with the public in the coming days.

Dun Victor Grech’s legacy of compassion and service will be remembered for generations, leaving an indelible impact on Malta’s social fabric.

#MaltaDaily

Schembri, Mizzi & Fenech Plead Not Guilty To Electrogas Corruption Charges

Feb 5 2025

Seven individuals, including Keith Schembri, Konrad Mizzi, and Yorgen Fenech, pleaded not guilty to serious criminal charges linked to the Electrogas power station project.

The case follows a long-running magisterial inquiry into illicit payments linked to Fenech’s offshore company, 17 Black.

Charges, including corruption, trading in influence, criminal association, and perjury, were brought against seven people and four companies involved in the project.

Among the accused are Paul Apap Bologna, another Electrogas shareholder, Mario Pullicino, a local energy agent, and accountants Brian Tonna and Karl Cini, who allegedly orchestrated financial transfers.

Several companies, including Nexia BT, Fenech’s New Energy Supply Limited, and Pullicino’s OEGP Limited, also face charges. Maltese law allows companies to be held criminally liable, with potential fines between €20,000 and €2 million, as well as licence suspensions.

Investigators uncovered a network of financial transactions, including millions transferred between companies owned or controlled by the defendants.

Evidence suggests 17 Black received over €3 million, while payments were also traced to Chinese-linked company Macbridge.

Despite the allegations, no direct transactions were found between 17 Black and offshore firms owned by Schembri or Mizzi. Fenech’s lawyers attempted to dismiss the case, but the magistrate rejected the request.

Defence lawyers also challenged forensic experts’ findings and opposed an asset freeze sought by prosecutors.

#MaltaDaily