Reshuffle: Chris Fearne Will Not Remain Health Minister

Jan 6 2024

In a notable development, Prime Minister Robert Abela is orchestrating a cabinet reshuffle at his office in Castille, as revealed by sources close to Malta Daily and emerging reports this morning. Cabinet members have been summoned to Abela’s office at Valletta’s Auberge de Castille, hinting at the unveiling of a potentially revamped executive team that may introduce new faces to the forefront.

This reshuffle holds significant weight, with indications pointing towards the potential reassignment or replacement of current ministers and junior ministers within the cabinet. This marks the first such restructuring since the 2022 general election, a pivotal moment in Malta’s political landscape.

As the terms of Malta’s President and EU Commissioner approach expiration this year, intriguing dynamics are at play within the political arena. According to reliable sources close to Malta Daily, Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne is expected to relinquish control of the Health portfolio, a role he has held for eight years. Speculation suggests this move aligns with Fearne’s possible transition to Brussels, with an imminent role in the European Commission.

With the European Commission’s tenure concluding this year, Malta faces the task of nominating a new EU Commissioner to succeed Helena Dalli. Fearne, having lost the Labour leadership race to Abela in 2020, emerges as a prime contender for this influential position.

In the event of Fearne’s departure, Minister for Active Ageing Jo-Etienne Abela, a fellow medical professional, stands out as a strong candidate for the role of Health Minister.

Further insights from Malta Daily sources indicate that Helena Dalli may return to Malta to assume the position of President of the Republic, succeeding George Vella as his term concludes.

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Malta Makes It On Bloomberg’s List of Top Travel Destinations in 2024

Jan 6 2024

Once again, the charm and allure of Malta have captured the attention of the global stage, earning our Mediterranean gem a spot on Bloomberg’s list of must-visit destinations for 2024.

In an article titled “Where to Go in 2024,” Bloomberg dedicated a special section to Malta, highlighting its unique offerings as an ideal travel destination.

Among a diverse array of locations globally, including cities and states of much larger scale, Malta stood out alongside Busan in South Korea, Boston, Las Vegas, Montecito, and Aspen in the United States, Argentina, Hong Kong, Halifax in Canada, Bergen in Norway, Quito in Ecuador, Transylvania in Romania, San Sebastian in Spain, Belfast in the UK, Lima in Peru, Morocco, and the enchanting island of Palau.

Bloomberg anticipates 2024 as a record-setting year for travel, with a positive outlook on overcoming pandemic fears, economic challenges, and geopolitical conflicts. The International Air Transport Association projects that 4.7 billion people will take to the skies this year, generating a staggering $964 billion from air travel alone.

For those planning their travels, Bloomberg recommends choosing Malta for a vacation in 2024. The article highlights the opportunity to explore filming locations of blockbuster movies like Gladiator and Troy, as well as the iconic settings of the Game of Thrones series. Beyond cinematic landscapes, visitors can immerse themselves in Malta’s rich historical tapestry and bask in the beauty of the surrounding seas.

On the cultural front, Bloomberg acknowledges Malta’s International Contemporary Art Space (MICAS) as Europe’s most significant museum. With a government investment of thirteen million euros, MICAS provides a platform for both local and international contemporary art exhibitions. Notably, the museum offers breathtaking views of the Port of Marsamxett.

The article also encourages travelers to mark their calendars for March to May, as Malta hosts the Maltabiennali.art, themed “White Sea and Olive Groves.” Additionally, October presents an enticing opportunity to experience Notte Bianca, when museums and historical sites open their doors to the public free of charge.

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Malta Suffers Defeat Against Germany in European Water Polo Championships

Jan 6 2024

In a closely contested water polo match, the Maltese national team experienced an 18-13 defeat against Germany during the first game of their commitments in the LEN European Water Polo Championships 2024, Preliminary Round Group C.

At the end of the second session, the scoreboard was levelled at 9-9, showcasing the fierce competition between the two teams. However, the third session proved decisive as Germany clinched a 6-2 victory, securing a four-goal lead of 15-11 going into the last session.

The final session remained evenly matched, with both teams giving their all, but Germany managed to edge ahead, winning 3-2.

The conclusive score stood at 18-13, granting Germany the victory in this hard-fought water polo encounter.

Despite the defeat, notable performances came from the Maltese national team’s top scorers, Liam Galea and Jake Muscat, each contributing four goals to their team’s tally.

Looking ahead, the Maltese national team will have an opportunity to bounce back as they return to action tomorrow, facing off against Israel at 17:00.

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Cabinet Reshuffle In Progress? Robert Abela Calls MPs to Castille

Jan 6 2024

Prime Minister Robert Abela is currently conducting a cabinet reshuffle in his office at Castille, according to sources close to Malta Daily and reports emerging this morning.

Cabinet members are being summoned to Abela’s office at Valletta’s Auberge de Castille, where the prime minister is preparing to unveil his new executive team, possibly including new faces.

Sources indicate that the reshuffle is expected to be significant, with the possibility of some current ministers or junior ministers losing their positions or undergoing changes in their portfolios.

This move marks the first cabinet reshuffle since the 2022 general election, which was the latest major election in Malta.

The subsequent elections anticipated are those unrelated to local members of parliament but are set to elect Members of the European Parliament and local councillors in June 2024.

The current cabinet comprises of 18 ministers and four parliamentary secretaries.

#MaltaDaily