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Press Release By The Parliamentary Secretariat For Public Works And The Parliamentary Secretariat For Local Government

Nov 19 2024 Share

An agreement was signed for 20 localities to install a total of 374 new solar infrastructures for more sustainable communities.

Through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Public Works Department and 20 Local Councils, 374 new solar infrastructure projects will be installed, promoting more sustainable communities.

Installing this new infrastructure will ensure that selected streets or areas identified by Local Councils will be illuminated using renewable energy in several localities. This means that 20 localities in Malta will transition towards more energy-efficient and cleaner energy solutions.

Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia emphasized that “This agreement and investment by the Public Works Department further strengthens the synergy that exists between Local Councils and the Department. Together, we are making the next leap forward for present and future generations.”

He highlighted that this investment complements a series of projects being undertaken by Local Councils through the Framework Agreement signed last April. These projects focus on open spaces, regeneration of gardens and playgrounds, and the development of more accessible infrastructure, among other initiatives.

From her end, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli welcomed this collaboration between the Public Works Department and the Local Councils Directorate.
“This project should also serve as an example for Local Councils and other entities so that they also participate in this change in mentality that our country needs to experience to be truly more sustainable,” said Parliamentary Secretary Zerafa Civelli. She concluded by commending the work being carried out by the Public Works Department in collaboration with Local Councils and also commended the Local Councils who are participating in this initiative.

This project represents an investment of approximately €3 million, funded by European Funds through the Recovery and Resilience Programme.

Present at the signing were the Director General of the Public Works Department, Stephen Bonello; the Director General of the Local Government Division, Emil Vassallo; and the Head of Political Reporting and Media for the European Commission Representation, Claudine Camilleri.

Malta Amongst Top Destinations For 2025 Reveals Popular Platform Travelzoo

Nov 19 2024 Share

Popular lifestyle and travel site, Travelzoo, have named Malta amongst one of the top vacation destinations for 2025.

The Mediterranean island was selected as a Travelzoo Best Bet for 2025, alongside only another nine destinations such as Massachusetts, Japan, Slovenia and Greenland.

These top picks were selected for a number of reasons such as new travel infrastructure that’s made reaching the previously unreachable a breeze; big anniversaries, landmark events or standout conscious travel practices; increased interest among Travelzoo members; or exceptional culinary and cultural offerings.

International photographer and videographer Eric Rubens, wrote about his love for the island after visiting Malta this past summer.

Rubens stated that travelling around Malta, “was like walking in a movie” and mentioned various places to go and visit such as Mdina, Valletta and Comino.

He also stated that for such a small country, there was a lot of variety and also stated that it is the perfect place for history buffs.

#MaltaDaily

 

 

Malta’s November Drought Persists, Despite Rainfall

Nov 19 2024 Share

November 2024 has delivered much-needed rainfall, with nine days of rain so far out of 18 and an average of 86mm. While this has provided some relief from the ongoing drought, it is clear that significantly more rainfall is required to restore balance.

The soil tells a compelling story of this rainfalls limitations. Despite the recent showers, local weather page ‘It-Temp Madwarna’ has indicated that rainwater has only managed to seep a few centimetres into the ground, leaving the deeper layers completely dry. This reveals how parched the land remains even after these rains, highlighting the severity of the drought and the challenges in replenishing groundwater levels.

In Qlejħa Valley, located between Mosta and Rabat, the situation is similarly stark. The area has yet to see its waterways fill up or overflow, as much of the water has been absorbed by the surrounding farmland. The thirsty soil and crops have consumed the rainfall, leaving insufficient water to revitalise the valley and surrounding ecosystem.

Despite these early signs of relief, the persistent dryness underscores the urgent need for continued rainfall to sustain both the environment and agricultural productivity.

#MaltaDaily

Locals Bid Heartbreaking Farewell To Legendary Ice Cream Man ‘Skutu’

Locals Bid Heartbreaking Farewell To Legendary Ice Cream Vendor 'Skutu'
Nov 19 2024 Share

Ċikku Attard, known as ‘Ta’ Skutu,’ has sadly passed away. His family announced the news on Monday, with his son Joseph taking to social media to pay tribute to his late father Facebook. “For us, he was the backbone of our family – the one who did everything for us and guided us to become who we are today. His love, strength, and sacrifices will never be forgotten,” Joseph wrote.

Ċikku was the focal point amongst the locals in Qrendi , known for his famous ice cream. His ice cream van, serving soft-serve cones and traditional ice creams that became a cherished part of many locals’ childhood memories. In a 2018 interview, Ċikku shared fond recollections of starting out with his father, selling ice cream from a cart, and later transforming the business into the vibrant vans still seen in the area today.

Ta’ Skutu ice cream is widely celebrated for preserving traditional flavors and recipes, continuing a legacy of simple joy and along that he had managed to also preserve a piece of iconic socio-cultural history amongst those who grew up passing by his truck in the heat of Maltas summers.

Ċikku’s funeral will take place on Tuesday, 19th November 2024, at 3 p.m. at the Qrendi Parish Church. May he rest in peace.

Photo Source: Eman Azzopardi / Joseph Farrugia Il-Bubbus Żurrieqi Funeral Service

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