PN File New Lawsuit Over Vitals-Steward

Dec 12 2023

The Nationalist Party has initiated legal action with the aim of compelling State Advocate Chris Soler to recover funds from Vitals and Steward, previously disbursed by the government, back into the public treasury.

The announcement follows the reveal during a fundraiser during which Opposition leader Bernard Grech stated that they will be once again going to court over the controversy.

In this lawsuit, filed today by Grech and former leader and current MP Adrian Delia, there is a specific demand for the State Advocate to retrieve the contested €400 million.

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The government has disputed this amount, arguing that it encompasses payments made for staff salaries.

Grech emphasized the need for the State Advocate to act autonomously, independent of Robert Abela’s directives, asserting that the State Advocate is meant to represent the entire state, not just the interests of Abela.

On his part, Delia highlighted the recent Court of Appeal decision that revealed collusion between the government and Vitals-Steward in defrauding the nation and stressed the urgency of the situation.

He called for prompt judicial attention to the case, emphasising the need for political accountability, the restitution of the €400 million to the public, and the prosecution of those responsible for wrongdoing.

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Malta 9th Most Googled Travel Destination Of 2023

Dec 12 2023

As Google releases its Year in Search data, CN Traveller got an exclusive look at the travel section of the data and discovered that Malta was the 9th most googled travel destination for this year.

The data shows what users have Googled over the past 12 months, and shows that Malta, with its restaurants and history, is a favourite among those with a case of wander lust.

‘This island is a hit European destination. Its history runs deep, and its beauty runs deeper’, CN Traveller writes.

‘The country has been used as the backdrop for many iconic films and TV series (Gladiator, Game of Thrones and Troy to name a few), but beyond its honey-hued streets lies restaurants, bars and hotels waiting to be explored.’

Greece took 1st place, followed by Spain and Italy for the top 3 countries. Portugal and Croatia rounded off the top 5 respectively, followed by Cyprus in 6th, Thailand in 7th, Egypt in 8th and Morocco in 10th.

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Foundation For Affordable Housing Sets Up Investment Committee

Dec 12 2023

By means of a resolution of its Council of Administrators, the Foundation for Affordable Housing established its own investment committee. Under the oversight of the same Council, the investment committee’s aim is to administer the first major initiatives of the Foundation with a view to the organisation’s longterm growth.

Commenting on the setting up of the investment committee, the Foundation’s CEO Dr Jake Azzopardi described it as an important signal of good governance and transparency in the organisation’s financial management which shall be the cornerstone for the Foundation’s sustainable growth.

“This is part of the ethical business orientation that this organisation brings to the fore which should ensure lasting social impact,” he said. The Foundation for Affordable Housing was set up in January 2022 but only fully started operating in June of this year.

It has recently published a study with a comprehensive outlook of the issues of affordability. In the coming weeks it is expected to launch its first major product on the local market. CEO Jake Azzopardi will chair the committee composed of members who bring significant experience in the banking and financial sectors.

The Secretary to the Committee and Administrator is Mr Raymond Filletti, and the executive members are Mr Herald Bonnici, Mr Joseph Darmanin and Mr Roberto Buontempo.

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Entangled Turtle Rescued By Diving Instructor In Marsalforn

Dec 12 2023

A juvenile turtle entangled in a woven plastic sack was rescued in rough seas in Marsalforn by Atlantis Diving Centre Sascha, earning the thanks of Nature Trust.

The turtle’s situation was reported by the staff at Ristorante il Gambero – Marsalforn, leading to it being taken under the care of the new Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for veterinary care.

Sea turtles are a protected species in Malta and cannot be harmed or captured, with volunteers having wildlife handling permits as well as training and equipment to help these creatures.

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