Times of Malta, 14 June 2010
Research engineer Nicholas Sammut, last year's winner of the Johnnie Walker Man of the Year Award, has donated his prize to the Puttinu Cares Foundation.
The cheque was presented to Victor Calvagna, consultant paediatrician and president of the foundation that cares for children with cancer, by Matthew Miceli, director of M. Demajo (Wines and Spirits) Ltd, which had originally funded the prize. Dr Sammut is vice-chairman and chief executive officer of the Council for Science and Techno-logy.
He had won the award because the judges felt he reflected the core brand essence of Johnnie Walker, that of inspiring continuous personal progress and achievement.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100614/local/man-of-the-year-donates-prize-to-charity
Monday, June 14, 2010
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
“Small country with a big heart”
Di-Ve, 09 June 2010
Malta is “a small country with a big heart”, Foreign Minister Tonio Borg said in a speech detailing Malta’s assistance to developing countries.
Dr Borg was speaking at the opening of a training workshop on capacity building schemes. Within the context of development aid, capacity building is the assistance provided to entities in developing countries to help them develop necessary skills and competences.
Addressing the NGOs present at the workshop, the minister noted that until recently, with the exception of a handful of projects in Albania and Sri Lanka, few local NGOs ventured beyond Malta’s borders. However, he added, this was all changed with Malta’s accession to the EU.
The foreign ministry has set up a development directorate which manages a budget of €330,000 annually, money which is aimed at projects in the developing world.
Dr Borg said that while government has taken the role of policy planner, it embraced the involvement of civil society to implement development policy, noting that NGOs were the best at carrying it out.
“We have and will continue to partner with you in order to best represent our aspirations worldwide. You are the agents of change and we rely on you in order to translate our policy into concrete actions on the ground,” the minister told those present.
Malta’s area of focus was mainly centred on the Horn of Africa, Dr Borg said, with full recognition of the country’s limited size and resources.
“By concentrating on infrastructural projects in one area of the world we are giving our development policy a better chance of success. And by success we mean a registered improvement in the lives of those recipients of our aid,” the minister said.
He later said that the outpouring of support from Malta after any natural disaster across the world was testimony to Malta’s status as a small country with a big heart, though he noted that Malta could not simply limit itself to reacting to crises, but be consistently present overseas.
“The key to our success is most definitely sustainability. No longer are we a nation of tins and clothes so to speak. On the contrary whilst we will still appeal for necessities in times of crisis, our development policy is and should be centred on long-term, sustainable projects. We will give a man a fish but also ensure that we will give him a fishing rod in order to be able to catch the fish himself,” Dr Borg noted.
As an example, he noted that after a tsunami affected many countries bordering the Indian Ocean in 2004, SOS Malta opted to fund the purchase of fishing boats in a Sri Lankan village instead of simply purchasing food, thus ensuring the sustainability of the fishing community.
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=73415&newscategory=31
Malta is “a small country with a big heart”, Foreign Minister Tonio Borg said in a speech detailing Malta’s assistance to developing countries.
Dr Borg was speaking at the opening of a training workshop on capacity building schemes. Within the context of development aid, capacity building is the assistance provided to entities in developing countries to help them develop necessary skills and competences.
Addressing the NGOs present at the workshop, the minister noted that until recently, with the exception of a handful of projects in Albania and Sri Lanka, few local NGOs ventured beyond Malta’s borders. However, he added, this was all changed with Malta’s accession to the EU.
The foreign ministry has set up a development directorate which manages a budget of €330,000 annually, money which is aimed at projects in the developing world.
Dr Borg said that while government has taken the role of policy planner, it embraced the involvement of civil society to implement development policy, noting that NGOs were the best at carrying it out.
“We have and will continue to partner with you in order to best represent our aspirations worldwide. You are the agents of change and we rely on you in order to translate our policy into concrete actions on the ground,” the minister told those present.
Malta’s area of focus was mainly centred on the Horn of Africa, Dr Borg said, with full recognition of the country’s limited size and resources.
“By concentrating on infrastructural projects in one area of the world we are giving our development policy a better chance of success. And by success we mean a registered improvement in the lives of those recipients of our aid,” the minister said.
He later said that the outpouring of support from Malta after any natural disaster across the world was testimony to Malta’s status as a small country with a big heart, though he noted that Malta could not simply limit itself to reacting to crises, but be consistently present overseas.
“The key to our success is most definitely sustainability. No longer are we a nation of tins and clothes so to speak. On the contrary whilst we will still appeal for necessities in times of crisis, our development policy is and should be centred on long-term, sustainable projects. We will give a man a fish but also ensure that we will give him a fishing rod in order to be able to catch the fish himself,” Dr Borg noted.
As an example, he noted that after a tsunami affected many countries bordering the Indian Ocean in 2004, SOS Malta opted to fund the purchase of fishing boats in a Sri Lankan village instead of simply purchasing food, thus ensuring the sustainability of the fishing community.
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=73415&newscategory=31
EPSCO council meeting
The Independent, 09 June 2010
Joe Cassar, Minister for Health, Elderly and Community Care, took part in the EU Council Meeting for Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs (EPSCO) in Luxembourg yesterday.
The council meeting discussed several important topics including a proposal for a new directive on the application of patients’ rights for cross-border care, changes to current regulations on the provision of food information to consumers and the adoption of two council conclusions relating to equity and health in all policies and to the action to reduce the intake of salt by people.
Of particular relevance was Malta’s support for a political agreement to be reached on the new draft directive on patients’ rights for cross-border care, which would create a common legal framework across the EU for the treatment of patients across the European Union. The Minister said that “this directive will provide clearer rights and legal assurance for the patients who wish to pursue treatment across the borders.”
This would facilitate access to safe, quality care across the EU while governing the mechanism for the reimbursement of costs and the exchange of medical information, including information through electronic means. This draft directive will now require the ratification of the European Parliament.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=107359
Joe Cassar, Minister for Health, Elderly and Community Care, took part in the EU Council Meeting for Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs (EPSCO) in Luxembourg yesterday.
The council meeting discussed several important topics including a proposal for a new directive on the application of patients’ rights for cross-border care, changes to current regulations on the provision of food information to consumers and the adoption of two council conclusions relating to equity and health in all policies and to the action to reduce the intake of salt by people.
Of particular relevance was Malta’s support for a political agreement to be reached on the new draft directive on patients’ rights for cross-border care, which would create a common legal framework across the EU for the treatment of patients across the European Union. The Minister said that “this directive will provide clearer rights and legal assurance for the patients who wish to pursue treatment across the borders.”
This would facilitate access to safe, quality care across the EU while governing the mechanism for the reimbursement of costs and the exchange of medical information, including information through electronic means. This draft directive will now require the ratification of the European Parliament.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=107359
Friday, June 4, 2010
Cana Movement evaluating state policies on family structure
Times of Malta, 04 June 2010
The point of departure of the government's family-related policies was the principle of a permanent, indissoluble marriage between a man and woman, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi stressed yesterday.
Speaking during a visit to the Cana Movement, a voluntary organisation within the Church which helps couples prepare for marriage, Dr Gonzi said his was not a courtesy call but a "strong message in favour of strengthening the family".
"Despite divergent opinions, no one doubts that the traditional family structure is the nucleus of the Maltese society, a precious diamond we should guard with all our might," he said.
His comments come in the wake of a set of proposals by Parliament's Social Affairs Committee to regulate cohabitation and which also consider a form of civil union between same-sex couples.
Lawyer Robert Tufigno, on behalf of Cana, warned Dr Gonzi that the recognition of non-traditional relationships was "detrimental to society".
"The recognition of any other relationship (not between a man and a woman) is detrimental to society and goes directly against the principle of the family. This does not mean we should not show compassion and solidarity with these people but we cannot say yes to every request," he said.
Dr Gonzi praised the representatives of the Cana Movement for their sterling work preparing couples for marriage and guiding them through married life. He said the preparation phase was the most important aspect because of the challenges the modern world presented newly-wed couples with.
Dr Tufigno said the Cana Movement was studying government policies to see which of them were strengthening the family structure and which were destabilising it.
He called on the government to launch measures to discourage the birth of children outside wedlock. This did not mean giving out condoms but more education focusing on the importance of children being born within the structure of a family, set up by a man and a woman who became one through the sacrament of marriage.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100604/local/cana-movement-evaluating-state-policies-on-family-structure
The point of departure of the government's family-related policies was the principle of a permanent, indissoluble marriage between a man and woman, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi stressed yesterday.
Speaking during a visit to the Cana Movement, a voluntary organisation within the Church which helps couples prepare for marriage, Dr Gonzi said his was not a courtesy call but a "strong message in favour of strengthening the family".
"Despite divergent opinions, no one doubts that the traditional family structure is the nucleus of the Maltese society, a precious diamond we should guard with all our might," he said.
His comments come in the wake of a set of proposals by Parliament's Social Affairs Committee to regulate cohabitation and which also consider a form of civil union between same-sex couples.
Lawyer Robert Tufigno, on behalf of Cana, warned Dr Gonzi that the recognition of non-traditional relationships was "detrimental to society".
"The recognition of any other relationship (not between a man and a woman) is detrimental to society and goes directly against the principle of the family. This does not mean we should not show compassion and solidarity with these people but we cannot say yes to every request," he said.
Dr Gonzi praised the representatives of the Cana Movement for their sterling work preparing couples for marriage and guiding them through married life. He said the preparation phase was the most important aspect because of the challenges the modern world presented newly-wed couples with.
Dr Tufigno said the Cana Movement was studying government policies to see which of them were strengthening the family structure and which were destabilising it.
He called on the government to launch measures to discourage the birth of children outside wedlock. This did not mean giving out condoms but more education focusing on the importance of children being born within the structure of a family, set up by a man and a woman who became one through the sacrament of marriage.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100604/local/cana-movement-evaluating-state-policies-on-family-structure
Funds could be suspended for several more months
Times of Malta, 04 June 2010
It may take at least five more months for the European Commission to lift its suspension of education programmes funding to Malta.
"If we take Cyprus's example, which also passed through the same unfortunate experience two years ago, the suspension was only lifted after a year," Commission sources said.
"Although we don't think it will take Malta a year to put its house in order, and recent developments have shown that the island is now responding quickly to our demands, we still think it will take a while to lift the suspension, at least five more months," the sources said.
The Education Ministry said that, following contacts with other member states, it had found placements for about 140 of the students who would otherwise miss out on the opportunity to study abroad due to the suspension.
The Commission is not committing itself on any target dates for resumption of the funding. Its official spokesman for education and culture said: "The suspension of both Youth in Action and Lifelong Learning Programmes will be lifted once the Commission has reasonable assurance on the management by the Maltese national agency of EU funds for decentralised actions of the programmes and the supervision thereof by the Maltese national authority."
Brussels has already acted on a letter sent by Education Minister Dolores Cristina last week detailing the measures taken so that the programmes may resume as soon as possible.
"The Commission has now issued a letter further detailing all the requirements to be addressed by the Maltese authorities and the national agency. The Commission will also provide a detailed feedback on the additional documentation received recently from the Maltese authorities (including the minister's letter), as soon as their analysis is finalised," the spokesman said.
Funding was suspended for the Lifelong Learning and Youth in Action programmes, administered by the European Union Programmes Agency (EUPA) within the Ministry of Education, after warnings were issued to the Maltese authorities on the need to put the management of these programmes on a sounder basis and in line with EU rules.
It is estimated that about €4 million were earmarked for Malta for use this year in projects financed through the programmes. Brussels said it had no other option but to temporarily suspend them after it concluded that the issues it highlighted had been ignored.
The Prime Minister ordered an inquiry into the issue on May 20 and the report was released on Wednesday. It was found that one of the main reasons for the lack of action by Malta was that the officials directly responsible for the day-to-day management of the funds had persistently failed to inform Malta's Permanent Representation to the EU in Brussels, the EU Secretariat at the Office of the Prime Minister and the Education Minister about the ongoing issue with the Commission.
The inquiry put the blame on three officials at the ministry, including the permanent secretary, saying the situation could have been avoided. The position of the three officials was described as untenable.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100604/local/funds-could-be-suspended-for-several-more-months
It may take at least five more months for the European Commission to lift its suspension of education programmes funding to Malta.
"If we take Cyprus's example, which also passed through the same unfortunate experience two years ago, the suspension was only lifted after a year," Commission sources said.
"Although we don't think it will take Malta a year to put its house in order, and recent developments have shown that the island is now responding quickly to our demands, we still think it will take a while to lift the suspension, at least five more months," the sources said.
The Education Ministry said that, following contacts with other member states, it had found placements for about 140 of the students who would otherwise miss out on the opportunity to study abroad due to the suspension.
The Commission is not committing itself on any target dates for resumption of the funding. Its official spokesman for education and culture said: "The suspension of both Youth in Action and Lifelong Learning Programmes will be lifted once the Commission has reasonable assurance on the management by the Maltese national agency of EU funds for decentralised actions of the programmes and the supervision thereof by the Maltese national authority."
Brussels has already acted on a letter sent by Education Minister Dolores Cristina last week detailing the measures taken so that the programmes may resume as soon as possible.
"The Commission has now issued a letter further detailing all the requirements to be addressed by the Maltese authorities and the national agency. The Commission will also provide a detailed feedback on the additional documentation received recently from the Maltese authorities (including the minister's letter), as soon as their analysis is finalised," the spokesman said.
Funding was suspended for the Lifelong Learning and Youth in Action programmes, administered by the European Union Programmes Agency (EUPA) within the Ministry of Education, after warnings were issued to the Maltese authorities on the need to put the management of these programmes on a sounder basis and in line with EU rules.
It is estimated that about €4 million were earmarked for Malta for use this year in projects financed through the programmes. Brussels said it had no other option but to temporarily suspend them after it concluded that the issues it highlighted had been ignored.
The Prime Minister ordered an inquiry into the issue on May 20 and the report was released on Wednesday. It was found that one of the main reasons for the lack of action by Malta was that the officials directly responsible for the day-to-day management of the funds had persistently failed to inform Malta's Permanent Representation to the EU in Brussels, the EU Secretariat at the Office of the Prime Minister and the Education Minister about the ongoing issue with the Commission.
The inquiry put the blame on three officials at the ministry, including the permanent secretary, saying the situation could have been avoided. The position of the three officials was described as untenable.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100604/local/funds-could-be-suspended-for-several-more-months
Public seminar: TeachingagainstIslamophobia
The Independent, 04June 2010
The University of Malta’s Work in Progress Seminar Series (WIPSS) is hosting a special seminar in Gateway Building, Hall E on Wednesday from 6 to 7 pm, to be followed by a discussion.
The speaker will be Prof. Shirley Steinberg of McGill University, Canada, and her topic will be: ‘Teaching Against Islamophobia’. Entrance is from the main car park. The public is welcome to attend.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=107091
The University of Malta’s Work in Progress Seminar Series (WIPSS) is hosting a special seminar in Gateway Building, Hall E on Wednesday from 6 to 7 pm, to be followed by a discussion.
The speaker will be Prof. Shirley Steinberg of McGill University, Canada, and her topic will be: ‘Teaching Against Islamophobia’. Entrance is from the main car park. The public is welcome to attend.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=107091
Thursday, June 3, 2010
European communication directors meeting
The Independent, 03 June 2010
The Department of Information is this week organising the Plenary Meeting of the Club of Venice in Marsalforn.
The Club of Venice is an informal group comprising the most senior communication professionals from the governments of EU member and candidate states, the European Parliament, the Council of the EU, the European Commission, the European Central Bank, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions.
The plenary meeting yesterday afternoon was preceded by a workshop on public diplomacy within a communications context. The plenary meeting itself will be held today and tomorrow. It will be attended by over 40 delegates, and is being held with the cooperation and participation of the European Commission Representation in Malta, and the European Parliament Office in Malta.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=107044
The Department of Information is this week organising the Plenary Meeting of the Club of Venice in Marsalforn.
The Club of Venice is an informal group comprising the most senior communication professionals from the governments of EU member and candidate states, the European Parliament, the Council of the EU, the European Commission, the European Central Bank, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions.
The plenary meeting yesterday afternoon was preceded by a workshop on public diplomacy within a communications context. The plenary meeting itself will be held today and tomorrow. It will be attended by over 40 delegates, and is being held with the cooperation and participation of the European Commission Representation in Malta, and the European Parliament Office in Malta.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=107044
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Maltese NGOs join in the international condemnation of attack
The Independent, 02 June 2010
In reactions in Malta, Imam Muhammad el Sadi on behalf of the Muslim community of Malta called upon the international community to bring the Israeli perpetrators to justice. The Imam urged the American government to stop its ‘blind support’ for Israel and apply justice with the oppressed Palestinian people. The community wonders how the United States would be able to convince the world that it is against terrorism while it ignores the state terrorism committed by Israel.
While the Muslim community, appreciates the EU’s stance on the Israeli offensive, it called on the US, the EU and governments to exert pressure on Israel to end the Gaza siege and withdraw the forces from occupied Palestine according to various United Nations resolutions.
“A clear message should be sent to Israel to stop its aggressive practices against the Palestinian people. Through such atrocities, it is obvious that Israel does not believe in peace. The disrespect to international law, is more proof of Israel’s arrogance and contempt for world legitimacy,” said the Imam.
The Imam went on hailing the pro-peace protestors, including the American and European ones, whom he considers as heroes. At the same time he offered his and the community’s condolences to the families of those who were left dead and offered his prayers for those who were wounded.
Moviment Graffitti also condemned the attack in a statement. The Israeli attack, said Graffitti, “confirms Israel’s track record of human rights abuses and disregard for international law. The Israeli navy carried out its unprovoked attack in international waters on peaceful activists concerned about the inhumane conditions of the Gazan people. When one considers that Israel committed this barbaric act when the whole world was watching, one can imagine the atrocious acts it commits against the Palestinian people whom it considers as its enemy. Ironically this attack took place only a few days after Israel was welcomed as a member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) ”. The NGO also urged the international authorities to press for justice.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106979
In reactions in Malta, Imam Muhammad el Sadi on behalf of the Muslim community of Malta called upon the international community to bring the Israeli perpetrators to justice. The Imam urged the American government to stop its ‘blind support’ for Israel and apply justice with the oppressed Palestinian people. The community wonders how the United States would be able to convince the world that it is against terrorism while it ignores the state terrorism committed by Israel.
While the Muslim community, appreciates the EU’s stance on the Israeli offensive, it called on the US, the EU and governments to exert pressure on Israel to end the Gaza siege and withdraw the forces from occupied Palestine according to various United Nations resolutions.
“A clear message should be sent to Israel to stop its aggressive practices against the Palestinian people. Through such atrocities, it is obvious that Israel does not believe in peace. The disrespect to international law, is more proof of Israel’s arrogance and contempt for world legitimacy,” said the Imam.
The Imam went on hailing the pro-peace protestors, including the American and European ones, whom he considers as heroes. At the same time he offered his and the community’s condolences to the families of those who were left dead and offered his prayers for those who were wounded.
Moviment Graffitti also condemned the attack in a statement. The Israeli attack, said Graffitti, “confirms Israel’s track record of human rights abuses and disregard for international law. The Israeli navy carried out its unprovoked attack in international waters on peaceful activists concerned about the inhumane conditions of the Gazan people. When one considers that Israel committed this barbaric act when the whole world was watching, one can imagine the atrocious acts it commits against the Palestinian people whom it considers as its enemy. Ironically this attack took place only a few days after Israel was welcomed as a member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) ”. The NGO also urged the international authorities to press for justice.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106979
Israeli attack difficult to justify - former AFM commander
Times of Malta, 02 June 2010
It will be very difficult for Israel to justify its deadly raid on a flotilla of ships carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, according to former army commander Carmel Vassallo.
"The attack is very difficult to justify because the ships were on the high seas and even if they intended to challenge the Israeli blockade of Gaza they did not pose a threat," Brig. Vassallo said.
The deadly attack yesterday prompted the UN Security Council to call for an international probe into the raid and for the immediate release of all civilians.
The ships carrying hundreds of international pro-Palestinian activists were in international waters when Israeli commandos boarded the vessels, killing nine people after they opened fire. Israel has insisted the commandos acted in self-defence after they were assaulted with clubs, knives and metal rods, a claim the activists heavily deny.
"One would have expected the activists to make some form of reaction since they were provoked into defending their ship," Brig. Vassallo said, insisting the military action was harder to justify because the ships carried humanitarian aid for besieged Gazans.
Israel's actions sparked international outrage with the EU calling for an independent inquiry to establish what really happened.
Speaking from Madrid at a meeting of European national parliamentarians and MEPs, Francis Zammit Dimech, chairman of the parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee, condemned the violence and reiterated the EU's call for a "thorough and independent" inquiry.
Foreign Affairs Minister Tonio Borg on Monday deplored the "disproportionate use of violence" and described the situation in Gaza as a source of "grave concern".
Israel has imposed an information blackout on the incident and civilian activists on board the ships have been taken to the southern port city of Ashdod for questioning.
The Israeli navy intercepted the flotilla of six ships in international waters at about 5 a.m. on Monday. The ships were on a mission to defy the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip and deliver supplies to the Palestinians.
Israel has blockaded Gaza since 2007 when Hamas Islamists took power in the enclave, home to 1.6 million Palestinians that borders the Mediterranean Sea, Egypt and Israel.
Egypt yesterday temporarily lifted border restrictions at the Rafah crossing into Gaza following the attack, while Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan called the Israeli raid a "bloody massacre" and warned Israel of irreparable consequences to their bilateral ties.
Four of the activists killed were Turkish nationals.
The French Prime Minister yesterday called on Israel to release French civilian nationals still held in detention.
Condemnation for Israel's actions also poured in from civil society with Moviment Graffitti accusing Israel of "illegal and senseless" actions. "Israel's attack on the aid convoy heading for Gaza continues to show its arrogance against anyone who disapproves of its unacceptable treatment of the people of Gaza," Graffitti said.
The Muslim community in Malta said the attack was evidence of Israel's disrespect for international law. "Through such atrocities, it is obvious Israel does not believe in peace. The massacre against a civilian convoy carrying medicine, food, construction materials, children's toys and wheelchairs for the disabled in Gaza shows how the Israeli army is using its might to kill the Palestinian people by depriving them from basic human needs," it said.
The Nationalist Party, the Labour Party and Alternattiva Demokratika also condemned the attack.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100602/local/israeli-attack-difficult-to-justify-former-afm-commander
It will be very difficult for Israel to justify its deadly raid on a flotilla of ships carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza, according to former army commander Carmel Vassallo.
"The attack is very difficult to justify because the ships were on the high seas and even if they intended to challenge the Israeli blockade of Gaza they did not pose a threat," Brig. Vassallo said.
The deadly attack yesterday prompted the UN Security Council to call for an international probe into the raid and for the immediate release of all civilians.
The ships carrying hundreds of international pro-Palestinian activists were in international waters when Israeli commandos boarded the vessels, killing nine people after they opened fire. Israel has insisted the commandos acted in self-defence after they were assaulted with clubs, knives and metal rods, a claim the activists heavily deny.
"One would have expected the activists to make some form of reaction since they were provoked into defending their ship," Brig. Vassallo said, insisting the military action was harder to justify because the ships carried humanitarian aid for besieged Gazans.
Israel's actions sparked international outrage with the EU calling for an independent inquiry to establish what really happened.
Speaking from Madrid at a meeting of European national parliamentarians and MEPs, Francis Zammit Dimech, chairman of the parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee, condemned the violence and reiterated the EU's call for a "thorough and independent" inquiry.
Foreign Affairs Minister Tonio Borg on Monday deplored the "disproportionate use of violence" and described the situation in Gaza as a source of "grave concern".
Israel has imposed an information blackout on the incident and civilian activists on board the ships have been taken to the southern port city of Ashdod for questioning.
The Israeli navy intercepted the flotilla of six ships in international waters at about 5 a.m. on Monday. The ships were on a mission to defy the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip and deliver supplies to the Palestinians.
Israel has blockaded Gaza since 2007 when Hamas Islamists took power in the enclave, home to 1.6 million Palestinians that borders the Mediterranean Sea, Egypt and Israel.
Egypt yesterday temporarily lifted border restrictions at the Rafah crossing into Gaza following the attack, while Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan called the Israeli raid a "bloody massacre" and warned Israel of irreparable consequences to their bilateral ties.
Four of the activists killed were Turkish nationals.
The French Prime Minister yesterday called on Israel to release French civilian nationals still held in detention.
Condemnation for Israel's actions also poured in from civil society with Moviment Graffitti accusing Israel of "illegal and senseless" actions. "Israel's attack on the aid convoy heading for Gaza continues to show its arrogance against anyone who disapproves of its unacceptable treatment of the people of Gaza," Graffitti said.
The Muslim community in Malta said the attack was evidence of Israel's disrespect for international law. "Through such atrocities, it is obvious Israel does not believe in peace. The massacre against a civilian convoy carrying medicine, food, construction materials, children's toys and wheelchairs for the disabled in Gaza shows how the Israeli army is using its might to kill the Palestinian people by depriving them from basic human needs," it said.
The Nationalist Party, the Labour Party and Alternattiva Demokratika also condemned the attack.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100602/local/israeli-attack-difficult-to-justify-former-afm-commander
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Maltese Muslim community condemns Israeli attack
Times of Malta, 01 June 2010
The recent Israeli attack of a multi-national humanitarian aid convoy on international waters has been condemned by the Muslim community in Malta.
A total of 19 pro-Palestinian peace activists were killed in the attack and another 26 were injured.
The community said this was more evidence of Israeli piracy and disrespect to international law.
"It is more proof, if any was ever needed, of its arrogance and contempt to world legitimacy.
"Through such atrocities, it is obvious that Israel does not believe in peace.
"The massacre against a civilian convoy carrying medicine, food, construction materials, children’s toys and wheelchairs for the disabled in Gaza shows how the Israeli army is using its might to kill the Palestinian people by depriving them from basic human needs," it said.
The Muslim community in Malta calls upon the International Community to bring the Israeli perpetrators to justice.
"The community calls upon the American Administration to apply a sense of justice with the Palestinian oppressed people and stop its continuous blind support for Israel.
"The community wonders how the United States will be able to convince the world that it is against terrorism while it ignores state terrorism committed by Israel."
The Muslim community in Malta called upon the United States, the European Union and world governments to exert serious pressure on Israel to end the Gaza siege and withdraw from occupied Arab lands according to various United Nations resolutions.
"The Muslim community highly appreciates the EU’s condemnation of this Israeli offensive, and it calls upon European governments to take effective action against Israel and send a clear message to it to stop its aggressive practices against the Palestinian people."
It saluted peace activists, including American and European participants, involved in this convoy and considered them heroes.
"The community extends its sincere condolences to the victims’ families, and prays to God to have mercy upon them, heal the wounded and bring them back safely to their countries," it said.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100601/local/maltese-muslim-community-condemns-israeli-attack
The recent Israeli attack of a multi-national humanitarian aid convoy on international waters has been condemned by the Muslim community in Malta.
A total of 19 pro-Palestinian peace activists were killed in the attack and another 26 were injured.
The community said this was more evidence of Israeli piracy and disrespect to international law.
"It is more proof, if any was ever needed, of its arrogance and contempt to world legitimacy.
"Through such atrocities, it is obvious that Israel does not believe in peace.
"The massacre against a civilian convoy carrying medicine, food, construction materials, children’s toys and wheelchairs for the disabled in Gaza shows how the Israeli army is using its might to kill the Palestinian people by depriving them from basic human needs," it said.
The Muslim community in Malta calls upon the International Community to bring the Israeli perpetrators to justice.
"The community calls upon the American Administration to apply a sense of justice with the Palestinian oppressed people and stop its continuous blind support for Israel.
"The community wonders how the United States will be able to convince the world that it is against terrorism while it ignores state terrorism committed by Israel."
The Muslim community in Malta called upon the United States, the European Union and world governments to exert serious pressure on Israel to end the Gaza siege and withdraw from occupied Arab lands according to various United Nations resolutions.
"The Muslim community highly appreciates the EU’s condemnation of this Israeli offensive, and it calls upon European governments to take effective action against Israel and send a clear message to it to stop its aggressive practices against the Palestinian people."
It saluted peace activists, including American and European participants, involved in this convoy and considered them heroes.
"The community extends its sincere condolences to the victims’ families, and prays to God to have mercy upon them, heal the wounded and bring them back safely to their countries," it said.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100601/local/maltese-muslim-community-condemns-israeli-attack
Spaniards sailing around the world to promote peace
The Independent, 01 June 2010
Two Spaniards who set sail around the world four years ago did not set out to break any world records. Aside from their passion for the sea and being in search of adventure, theirs is a humble voyage – they set out to promote peace and multiculturalism.
Juan Carlos Armas Gutierrez, a mechanic, and Juan Manuel de Leon Tower, a fisherman, are currently in Malta – one of their last few stops in the final phase of their tour.
Speaking to The Malta Independent on their sailing boat, the Itaparica, which is berthed at the Msida Yacht Marina, the men explained that the aim of their voyage was to achieve an understanding of different religions, cultures and civilisations.
At the same time, they wanted to be ambassadors of their hometown, Puerto de la Cruz, situated on the north western coast of Tenerife, which forms part of the Canary Islands off the Moroccan coast.
They have been trying to promote peace, understanding and tolerance between different people and cultures, the better use of resources, as well as the fight against hunger, poverty, injustice and inequality.
Mr Armas Gutierrez explained that in certain places they visited people who were poor, but happy.
“We met people who live off agriculture and fishing, and the global crisis isn’t really affecting them. People who live a fast life, people who live in cities would certainly be a lot happier if they can appreciate nature.
“Tenerife is at the cross-roads of three continents. We have travelled to 40 countries across the five continents, and we crossed the Pacific, the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean.”
Their voyage has not been an uninterrupted one; they normally travel for one to two months, leave their ship in a safe port and travel back to Tenerife by plane, before carrying on with their journey a few months later. Their sponsors include their local council and the regional government and King Juan Carlos, who has promised to meet them, had written to them, saying he supports their project.
Speaking about one of the memorable events of their voyage, the Spaniards recalled having rescued two people whose jet ski broke down 20 miles off the coast of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean.
Asked about the most beautiful place they visited, they agreed that San Blas Islands, an archipelago of 365 islands off the north coast of Isthmus, east of the Panama Canal, was a very special place.
Going to talk about their toughest sailing trip, they recalled a storm in the Pacific Ocean, when they had to battle with six- to seven-metre waves and wind blowing at 90 kilometres per hour.
They explained they sometimes get very lonely when travelling at sea, so they always make sure they have a stock of good books to keep them company.
The men plan to document their four-year voyage both in print and audiovisual form when they return to Tenerife.
What did they have to say about the Maltese?
“Oh they have a very big heart, and Malta is a beautiful island,” said Mr de Leon Tower.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106967
Two Spaniards who set sail around the world four years ago did not set out to break any world records. Aside from their passion for the sea and being in search of adventure, theirs is a humble voyage – they set out to promote peace and multiculturalism.
Juan Carlos Armas Gutierrez, a mechanic, and Juan Manuel de Leon Tower, a fisherman, are currently in Malta – one of their last few stops in the final phase of their tour.
Speaking to The Malta Independent on their sailing boat, the Itaparica, which is berthed at the Msida Yacht Marina, the men explained that the aim of their voyage was to achieve an understanding of different religions, cultures and civilisations.
At the same time, they wanted to be ambassadors of their hometown, Puerto de la Cruz, situated on the north western coast of Tenerife, which forms part of the Canary Islands off the Moroccan coast.
They have been trying to promote peace, understanding and tolerance between different people and cultures, the better use of resources, as well as the fight against hunger, poverty, injustice and inequality.
Mr Armas Gutierrez explained that in certain places they visited people who were poor, but happy.
“We met people who live off agriculture and fishing, and the global crisis isn’t really affecting them. People who live a fast life, people who live in cities would certainly be a lot happier if they can appreciate nature.
“Tenerife is at the cross-roads of three continents. We have travelled to 40 countries across the five continents, and we crossed the Pacific, the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean.”
Their voyage has not been an uninterrupted one; they normally travel for one to two months, leave their ship in a safe port and travel back to Tenerife by plane, before carrying on with their journey a few months later. Their sponsors include their local council and the regional government and King Juan Carlos, who has promised to meet them, had written to them, saying he supports their project.
Speaking about one of the memorable events of their voyage, the Spaniards recalled having rescued two people whose jet ski broke down 20 miles off the coast of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean.
Asked about the most beautiful place they visited, they agreed that San Blas Islands, an archipelago of 365 islands off the north coast of Isthmus, east of the Panama Canal, was a very special place.
Going to talk about their toughest sailing trip, they recalled a storm in the Pacific Ocean, when they had to battle with six- to seven-metre waves and wind blowing at 90 kilometres per hour.
They explained they sometimes get very lonely when travelling at sea, so they always make sure they have a stock of good books to keep them company.
The men plan to document their four-year voyage both in print and audiovisual form when they return to Tenerife.
What did they have to say about the Maltese?
“Oh they have a very big heart, and Malta is a beautiful island,” said Mr de Leon Tower.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106967
Almost 7,000 pensioners opt to continue working
The Independent, 1 June 2010
Some 6,970 persons who reached the age of 61 until November 2009 chose to continue working, according to information the Employment and Training Corporation had, Education Minister Dolores Cristina said yesterday.
Minister Cristina, replying to a parliamentary question by Labour MP Carmelo Abela, said that of these, 2,399 worked full-time and 4,571 opted to work part-time.
In another question put to Rural Affairs Minister, George Pullicino, it came out that 2074 people aged over 65 opted to continue working the fields. 133 of these come from Siggiewi and 126 from Rabat, he said, but Pembroke, Gzira and Floriana only had one registered farmer aged over 65.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106956
Some 6,970 persons who reached the age of 61 until November 2009 chose to continue working, according to information the Employment and Training Corporation had, Education Minister Dolores Cristina said yesterday.
Minister Cristina, replying to a parliamentary question by Labour MP Carmelo Abela, said that of these, 2,399 worked full-time and 4,571 opted to work part-time.
In another question put to Rural Affairs Minister, George Pullicino, it came out that 2074 people aged over 65 opted to continue working the fields. 133 of these come from Siggiewi and 126 from Rabat, he said, but Pembroke, Gzira and Floriana only had one registered farmer aged over 65.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106956
No retirement
Times of Malta, 1 June 2010
At the end of November, 2009, there were 6,970 persons who had kept on working after having reached retirement age.
Quoting the Employment and Training Corporation, Employment Minister Dolores Cristina said 2,399 were working full-time and 4,571 part-time.
She was answering a parliamentary question by Carmelo Abela (PL).
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100601/local/no-retirement
At the end of November, 2009, there were 6,970 persons who had kept on working after having reached retirement age.
Quoting the Employment and Training Corporation, Employment Minister Dolores Cristina said 2,399 were working full-time and 4,571 part-time.
She was answering a parliamentary question by Carmelo Abela (PL).
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100601/local/no-retirement
MUT declares industrial dispute
The Independent, 1 June 2010
The Malta Union of Teachers has declared an industrial dispute with the government in relation to teachers, kindergarten assistants and learning support assistants falling under the “supply” category and who have been four years in employment.
It accused the government of going back on a memorandum of understanding, signed in May last year, in which these categories of employees were to be given an indefinite contract and start progressing to their relative salary scale.
Nothing has been done in this regard, the MUT said.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106947
The Malta Union of Teachers has declared an industrial dispute with the government in relation to teachers, kindergarten assistants and learning support assistants falling under the “supply” category and who have been four years in employment.
It accused the government of going back on a memorandum of understanding, signed in May last year, in which these categories of employees were to be given an indefinite contract and start progressing to their relative salary scale.
Nothing has been done in this regard, the MUT said.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106947
MUT calls for resignation of person responsible for EU funds programmes
Times of Malta, 1 June 2010
The Malta Union of Teachers is calling for the resignation of the person who had been managing the EU funds programmes.
Addressing a news conference this morning, President John Bencini said the union had been very cautious so as not to speak before it had information.
Deficiencies in the management of funds by the local European Union Programme (EUPA) Agency, which was responsible for the projects, were first highlighted by the European Commission nine months ago. Changes were made but the Commission was not satisfied and so suspended the funds.
Mr Bencini said that someone needed to shoulder responsibility.
“An apology is not enough... it is an insult to the intelligence of the hundreds of students and about 50 teachers who were going to participate... This is the result of mismanagement and inefficiency which is affecting young people, some of whom saw their dream being shattered,” he said.
Mr Bencini pointed out that there was no culture of resignation or embarrassment in Malta and said that the MUT expected those responsible to have stepped aside.
The EU, he said, had pointed to persistent shortcomings and mismanagement and this should be enough to lead to resignations.
Mr Bencini also referred to a problem the union was having regarding an agreement reached with the government last year on kindergarten assistants.
A memorandum of understanding, he said, was signed with the government last year through which experienced kindergarten assistants would not have to get a diploma but would be able to sit for courses to be promoted from one level to the next.
It was agreed that those who had 30 years experience would take a 70-hour course, those with 20 years experience a 140-hour course and those with 15 years experience, a 210-hour course.
However, when the 70-hour course was concluded, the authorities discovered that some of those who said they had 30 years experience did not and told them they would not be given their certificate and they had to take the longer course.
The same happened with some of those who had said they had 20 years experience. The reason behind the mix-up was that maternal or paternity leave or another job at the school for number of years was not considered part of the years in the job.
The problem, Mr Bencini said, was with record keeping. For while some were told they would not be given their certificates, others in the same situation were not. This had created misunderstandings between workers. It was a reflection of inefficiency, incompetence and mismanagement and the union wanted an independent inquiry.
He pointed out that the MUT had provided two solutions but the government had not accepted them. He would not, however, say what these solutions were.
On sectoral allowances for all teaching grades, Mr Bencini said that negotiations were at a crucial point and a decision from the government was expected at any time.
“This is a crucial week,” he said.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100601/local/mut-calls-for-resignation-of-person-responsible-for-eu-funds-programmes
The Malta Union of Teachers is calling for the resignation of the person who had been managing the EU funds programmes.
Addressing a news conference this morning, President John Bencini said the union had been very cautious so as not to speak before it had information.
Deficiencies in the management of funds by the local European Union Programme (EUPA) Agency, which was responsible for the projects, were first highlighted by the European Commission nine months ago. Changes were made but the Commission was not satisfied and so suspended the funds.
Mr Bencini said that someone needed to shoulder responsibility.
“An apology is not enough... it is an insult to the intelligence of the hundreds of students and about 50 teachers who were going to participate... This is the result of mismanagement and inefficiency which is affecting young people, some of whom saw their dream being shattered,” he said.
Mr Bencini pointed out that there was no culture of resignation or embarrassment in Malta and said that the MUT expected those responsible to have stepped aside.
The EU, he said, had pointed to persistent shortcomings and mismanagement and this should be enough to lead to resignations.
Mr Bencini also referred to a problem the union was having regarding an agreement reached with the government last year on kindergarten assistants.
A memorandum of understanding, he said, was signed with the government last year through which experienced kindergarten assistants would not have to get a diploma but would be able to sit for courses to be promoted from one level to the next.
It was agreed that those who had 30 years experience would take a 70-hour course, those with 20 years experience a 140-hour course and those with 15 years experience, a 210-hour course.
However, when the 70-hour course was concluded, the authorities discovered that some of those who said they had 30 years experience did not and told them they would not be given their certificate and they had to take the longer course.
The same happened with some of those who had said they had 20 years experience. The reason behind the mix-up was that maternal or paternity leave or another job at the school for number of years was not considered part of the years in the job.
The problem, Mr Bencini said, was with record keeping. For while some were told they would not be given their certificates, others in the same situation were not. This had created misunderstandings between workers. It was a reflection of inefficiency, incompetence and mismanagement and the union wanted an independent inquiry.
He pointed out that the MUT had provided two solutions but the government had not accepted them. He would not, however, say what these solutions were.
On sectoral allowances for all teaching grades, Mr Bencini said that negotiations were at a crucial point and a decision from the government was expected at any time.
“This is a crucial week,” he said.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100601/local/mut-calls-for-resignation-of-person-responsible-for-eu-funds-programmes
Teachers' union declares dispute
Times of Malta, 1 June 2010
The teachers' union has declared an industrial dispute with the government over what it described as a lack of respect towards its members.
The dispute involves supply teachers and kindergarten and learning support assistants who, despite an agreement having been reached last year, had not yet received confirmation about their indefinite status and an annual salary increase, the union claimed.
In the circumstances, the union said it had no choice but to file an industrial dispute to ensure its members get their dues.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100601/local/teachers-union-declares-dispute
The teachers' union has declared an industrial dispute with the government over what it described as a lack of respect towards its members.
The dispute involves supply teachers and kindergarten and learning support assistants who, despite an agreement having been reached last year, had not yet received confirmation about their indefinite status and an annual salary increase, the union claimed.
In the circumstances, the union said it had no choice but to file an industrial dispute to ensure its members get their dues.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100601/local/teachers-union-declares-dispute
FORUM laments continuing MCESD saga
Di-Ve, 01 June 2010
The Forum Unions Maltin (FORUM) trade union confederation is lamenting the latest delays by government and the MCESD in dealing with its request to join the council, and is insisting that it will not give up its goal simply because of such tactics.
In a brief statement, the confederation of 11 trade unions, including the Malta Union of Teachers and the Malta Union of Midwives and Nurses, said that government has refused to amend the law which set up MCESD to allow it to join the council and contribute. Instead, government has left the matter to the council, expecting it to take its own decision.
FORUM said that on April 9, it received a letter from MCESD chairman Sonny Portelli which said that the request would be given immediate attention at the council.
The next meeting was to be held on April 23, but it was disrupted and stopped abruptly. The meeting was thus postponed to May 29, but was postponed yet again for unknown reasons, FORUM said, adding that it is not yet known when the next meeting will be held.
The confederation noted that FORUM has been urging action over the matter for nearly 5 years, and that government had been dragging its feet all along. However, it stressed that such delaying tactics would not discourage it, adding that its criticism would continue until government decided to move away from a policy of exclusivity.
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=73115&newscategory=31
The Forum Unions Maltin (FORUM) trade union confederation is lamenting the latest delays by government and the MCESD in dealing with its request to join the council, and is insisting that it will not give up its goal simply because of such tactics.
In a brief statement, the confederation of 11 trade unions, including the Malta Union of Teachers and the Malta Union of Midwives and Nurses, said that government has refused to amend the law which set up MCESD to allow it to join the council and contribute. Instead, government has left the matter to the council, expecting it to take its own decision.
FORUM said that on April 9, it received a letter from MCESD chairman Sonny Portelli which said that the request would be given immediate attention at the council.
The next meeting was to be held on April 23, but it was disrupted and stopped abruptly. The meeting was thus postponed to May 29, but was postponed yet again for unknown reasons, FORUM said, adding that it is not yet known when the next meeting will be held.
The confederation noted that FORUM has been urging action over the matter for nearly 5 years, and that government had been dragging its feet all along. However, it stressed that such delaying tactics would not discourage it, adding that its criticism would continue until government decided to move away from a policy of exclusivity.
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=73115&newscategory=31
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