Passing Through Msida Because Of Work? Here’s What You Need To Know

Jan 5 2025

Infrastructure Malta has announced temporary traffic changes starting Thursday, 2nd January, as part of the ongoing Msida Creek Project.

These changes are designed to facilitate infrastructure upgrades in the area, improving traffic flow in the long term while addressing immediate logistical needs.

What to Expect:

New Route from Valletta to Ta’ Xbiex:
Commuters traveling from Valletta towards Ta’ Xbiex will need to turn right near the Workers’ Monument instead of continuing towards the traffic lights. This diversion will lead to a newly opened road that offers direct access to Rue d’Argens.

Closure of Xatt Ta’ Xbiex Slip Road:
The slip road connecting Xatt Ta’ Xbiex to Msida Valley (opposite Johnsons) will be temporarily closed. As a result, vehicles accessing Msida Valley, Tal-Qroqq, or Ta’ Xbiex will only be able to proceed towards Valletta.

How to Avoid Delays:
Commuters are encouraged to use alternative routes like Kappara or Regional Road. Routes from Msida Valley to Tal-Qroqq, Sliema, and Valletta will remain unaffected.

Why These Changes Are Necessary:
Infrastructure Malta emphasizes that these changes are crucial for the progress of the Msida Creek Project, which aims to reduce congestion and enhance road infrastructure in one of Malta’s busiest areas. While some short-term disruptions are expected, these changes are designed to bring long-term improvements for both commuters and residents.

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Malta Police Force Donates €50,000 To Various Charities

Jan 5 2025

Over the past year, the Malta Police Force has shown its unwavering commitment to the community by donating nearly €50,000 to various charitable causes.

This initiative reflects the force’s dedication to making a meaningful impact beyond its core mission of serving and protecting the public.

A significant portion of these funds was directed towards Puttinu Cares, with €21,640 donated to support patients and families undergoing treatment abroad.

Another €15,000 was contributed to L-Istrina, Malta’s largest annual fundraiser, which provides assistance to numerous charities across the island.

The Pope Francis Charity Services, known as Elemosineria Apostolica, received €10,000 to continue its work aiding vulnerable individuals, while Dar tal-Providenza, a vital organisation offering residential care to people with disabilities, was granted €3,000.

These contributions were made possible through the collective efforts of police officers, staff, and the Maltese community, who came together to support these vital causes.

The Malta Police Force expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a role in these initiatives, emphasising the power of unity in creating positive change.

Through these charitable efforts, the police and the community continue to work hand in hand to build a more compassionate and supportive society.

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Former Minister and Architect Michael Falzon Passes Away

Jan 5 2025

Michael Falzon, a former Nationalist Minister in Malta, has passed away at the age of 79. Renowned for his remarkable political career and contributions to Malta’s development, Falzon was a professional architect and served as a Member of Parliament from 1976 to 1996.

Over the years, he held key ministerial roles, including Minister for Infrastructure Development (1987–1992), Minister for the Environment (1992–1994), and Minister for Education (1994–1996).

Tributes poured in from political leaders across the spectrum, recognizing his enduring legacy. Prime Minister Robert Abela reflected on their professional interactions, particularly during the establishment of the Maltese Developers Association, and shared that they had spoken just weeks before his passing.

Abela described Falzon as a committed public servant who valued diverse perspectives while remaining devoted to the nation. The Labour Party also acknowledged his significant contributions.

Nationalist Party leader Bernard Grech highlighted Falzon’s pivotal role within the party and his efforts to advance its media initiatives.

European Parliament president Roberta Metsola, who contested against Falzon in the very first MEP elections, paid tribute to him calling him a “source of information and experience who lived through difficult political times”.

Falzon began his political journey in 1974 as general secretary of the Nationalist Party Youth Movement and later served as the party’s information secretary.

After leaving active politics, he continued serving the public, chairing the Water Services Corporation (1998–2008) and managing information services at Media Link Communications (1999–2004).

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Tugboats To Be Exempted From European Union Regulations

Jan 3 2025

Tugboats operating in Maltese and European ports will no longer be subject to unnecessary administrative burdens following amendments to the EU’s maritime emissions monitoring regulations (MRV).

The change comes after the direct intervention of Maltese MEP Daniel Attard, who collaborated with stakeholders at both national and European levels to address concerns within the maritime sector.

Anna Maria Darmanin, Secretary-General of the European Tugowners’ Association, explained that the original proposals mistakenly classified tugboats—typically operating in ports—as large offshore vessels working in international waters.

This misclassification would have imposed disproportionate financial and administrative challenges, particularly for companies in Malta.

Darmanin praised Attard for his prompt action in addressing the issue. “Daniel listened to maritime stakeholders and swiftly raised the matter with the European Commission. Thanks to his efforts, tugboats are now exempt from these regulations.”

In September, Attard formally brought the issue to the European Commission, gathering input from various stakeholders, including the Malta Chamber of Commerce and the Merchant Shipping Directorate.

He stressed the importance of balancing the EU’s environmental goals with practical considerations.

Attard expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the change reflects fairness and safeguards the competitiveness of Malta’s maritime sector.

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