Saturday, September 30, 2017
Vassallo tells Delia to dismiss kingmakers and yes-men
The outspoken MP said Adrian Delia would be tested every da in his role and needed 'someone like me because I have the moral fibre to stand up and not be a yes-man'
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Agius will still contest if Said decides to run for PN deputy leadership
Nationalist Party Parliamentary Whip David Agius is adamant that he will contest the party's deputy leadership for parliamentary affairs position whether his fellow MP Chris Said runs for the post or not, even though Said is pushing for a one-horse race that would see him run for the post unchallenged, this newspaper is informed.
Speaking to this newspaper yesterday, MP Edwin Vassallo, who announced yesterday that he would also run for the post, claimed that Said is seeking an uncontested election and that he would stand down, which is due to be held by the year's end, if Agius were to do the same.
Also contacted yesterday, Chris Said, who failed to be elected party leader last month, refused to comment on whether he would run for the position or not. Since losing the party leadership election to Delia on 16 September, Said has not given comments to the media or posted anything on his Facebook page, where he was very much active during the leadership campaign.
Agius, who had shown an interest in becoming Deputy Leader for Parliamentary Affairs right from the start, insisted that he has no intention whatsoever of standing down from the contest.
Vassallo told this newspaper yesterday that he is under the impression that Chris Said is seeking an uncontested election similar to how Mario de Marco, who also finished as a runner up in the last party leadership election, had been elected as Deputy Leader for Parliamentary Affairs in the wake of his defeat.
Vassallo declared his intention to run for the post after having what he described as a "positive" meeting with PN leader Adrian Delia, in which Vassallo said he spoke about bringing people back to the party.
Vassallo, known for his conservative views, was the only MP to have voted recently against same-sex marriage, which had resulted in him coming under fire, but in the process, he also gained the respect of core Christian voters. Vassallo had also been an avid supporter of Chris Said during the leadership election campaign.
As such, Vassallo made it clear to this newsroom yesterday that he had laid down one condition to Delia. He pledged his loyalty to the party but stipulated that if David Agius decided to step down as a contender, he would also withdraw from the deputy leadership election because of his loyalty to Said and the party "so that Chris Said may put his name forward for the post as had happened in Mario de Marco's case".
Nonetheless, the current deputy leadership for parliamentary affairs election remains a contentious and problematic affair.
Agius had expressed his intention to run for the post to The Malta Independent on Sunday back in July, when he had been the first to announce his candidacy.
"I believe I have a lot to offer to the PN. For me, this is my natural next step," he had said.
At the time, Agius had also pledged loyalty to whoever was eventually chosen as the PN's next leader. "I am willing to work with whoever the party members choose as the party's leader. As an MP, I have always been loyal to all PN leaders – be it Eddie Fenech Adami, Lawrence Gonzi or Simon Busuttil".
Delia and Said have had their disagreements especially during the last few days of the leadership campaign, and Delia has now reportedly encouraged Said to stand for the election.
Sources within the party have pointed out that Delia would like to see Said elected as deputy leader to help reunite the party, which has been somewhat fractured in the wake of a divisive leadership campaign.
PN MP Robert Arrigo, who is contesting for deputy leader of party affairs, yesterday said about Vassallo's decision on Facebook: "The joy of having people like Edwin coming forward is immense." Arrigo said that nobody should be excluded, precluded or convinced against putting themselves forward.
He added, "The more candidates the better and eligible voters will have more of a choice. My deputy leadership nomination is there and is confirmed. I declare that I will accept no remuneration from the PN for my work. I gave and will give to the party, I will not take. Funds should go to the employees of the party."
He said he hopes that more contestants will come forward. "People play hide and seek out in the open, breathing down somebody's neck. There are too many faces wanting the position behind the leader for a photo session. I have always been my own man, and not somebody's sidekick."
When Delia met Prime Minister Joseph Muscat last Tuesday, he was accompanied by MPs Clyde Puli and David Agius, which had raised eyebrows and suggestions that the two are Delia's chosen deputy leaders.
While Agius is in the running for the parliamentary affairs position, when contacted yesterday Puli told this newsroom that he is still considering running for deputy leader for party affairs.
Meanwhile, PN sources said Delia called the MP a few days ago to try to persuade him not to contest the post of deputy leader for party affairs. "As a compromise, Mr Arrigo was offered to oversee the PN's finances. However, he flatly refused the offer," sources said.
MP Kristy Debono, similarly, did not confirm or deny whether she would contest a deputy leadership position, telling this newspaper that she was taking the time to do some soul searching. She said she will serve wherever Delia asks her to serve, but that she is open to contesting any role.
When asked about the rumours that her husband Jean Pierre Debono had given up his parliamentary seat for Delia and that in return she would get a top job, she said that when they the rumour the first time the couple had laughed it off. Both she and her husband had supported Delia's party leadership bid.
She admitted that she could now understand why people were starting to believing the rumour since her husband had surrendered his seat to Delia.
She added, "No one was ready to relinquish their seat so we started looking at the 7th District where Jean-Pierre was elected. The fact of the matter was that all the other remaining candidates in that district were willing to give Dr Delia the seat.
"I can assure you no discussions took place in which Jean Pierre giving up his seat meant I would be made deputy leader. I honestly can't believe people believed that because, if it had really been a done deal, it would have been done a while ago and not used as a last resort option."
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A new, positive perspective to life despite battling breast cancer - survivors share experiences
Josette Aquilina is a 49-year-old breast-cancer survivor who had a lumpectomy, the removal of a breast tumour, just over a year ago in August last year. Two months later, in October, she began a course of chemotherapy which was completed in April this year.
"The experience was not easy. I tried to look at it as a journey, one that was long and mysterious without an end in sight. It did help me get in touch with myself, something I had put off doing for some time."
She described how finding out that you have cancer is like having somebody close to you dying. She said that, apart from being in denial about what was happening in her body - although deep down she really knew - her mother had passed away in the March, after having suffered from Parkinson's disease for five years, just a few months before Aquilina had major surgery.
She went on to the describe the major hardship she went through during her battle, from an identity crises as a result of seeing yourself so weak, to the fear of telling family, and the difficulties for her own friends and family in dealing with what happened. Aquilina said she found it difficult to express herself and became quite emotional.
In the end, she said, being forced to deal with your own mortality opens up a whole new perspective to life and the whole ordeal fostered "creativity and innovation" in the new way she is living her life.
She thanked all the staff at Mater Dei hospital for helping her and for the great service.
* * * * *
Lorraine Vella is currently battling breast cancer. Seven years ago, her mother had herself contracted the disease and because the 41-year-old had seen what her mother had gone through, the moment she felt something in her breast, she immediately sought medical advice. The doctor she consulted, however, assured her that there was nothing wrong.
So she made an appointment with a gynaecologist, who identified a lump. Because of the family history, a mammogram and ultrasound were carried out immediately which resulted in Grade 3 cancer being identified. This news came on 7 May and by 4 June she began her first round of chemotherapy, with her last round being just last Wednesday.
In a few weeks, Vella will have surgery, and after that she must then have six weeks of radiation therapy. She will require another form of treatment after that and will be on daily medication for the next 10 years.
Vella remarked that the support given by the staff at Mater Dei made you feel like a princess and said that she is very grateful for their help.
Asked about her family, she said she had told her older son immediately, but waited a while to tell her younger son because he was in the middle of exams. She said that, on a personal level, she initially took the news badly but, despite the circumstances, she has managed to achieve a much more positive outlook on life than she had before she found out about the breast cancer.
Should you wish to contact the Action for Breast Cancer Foundation, which does wonderful work in supporting breast cancer patients in many ways, it can be reached on: infor@actionforbreastcancer.com
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Keeping the Opposition on the right track | Marlene Farrugia
That is how outgoing PD leader Marlene Farrugia views her role within the fragile 'ForzaNazzjonali' coalition. But does it tally with her actual performance as an Opposition MP?
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San Lawrenz mayor and Qala deputy barred from contesting ALC elections ‘to maintain status quo’
Labour sources confirmed that PN leader Adrian Delia and Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, in their first meeting earlier this week, agreed to maintain the status quo in the Association of Local Councils
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Greek police arrest 8 smugglers who brought in 38 migrants
Greek police announced they have arrested eight migrant traffickers who reportedly smuggled 38 migrants through Greece's land border with Turkey.
All the arrests were made Friday, in northern Greece, in four separate incidents.
The largest group of migrants — 10 from Vietnam, two from Iraq and two from Pakistan — was smuggled by two Moldovans and a Romanian. The migrants were stashed in one car while two other traffickers drove another vehicle, checking for police roadblocks, police say.
Ten Syrians and Somalis smuggled in by a Bulgarian driver told police they paid 2,400 euros ($2,836) each to be taken into central Europe. Another seven Iraqis, five Afghanis and two Pakistanis were also smuggled in by traffickers.
Similar incidents occur almost daily, police say.
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Pharmacies opening today between 9am and noon
Floriana: Vilhena Pharmacy, 3 St Anne Street; Ħamrun: Brown's Pharmacy, 706 St Joseph High Street; Qormi: Drugshop Dispensary, De La Cruz Avenue; Birkirkara: Pharmaplus, Ganu Street; Ta' Xbiex: Pharmaland Dispensers, 5 Tagliaferro Mansions, Princess Margaret Street; San Ġwann: Medical Plaza Dispensing Chemists, Cass-i-Mall Buildings, Myrtle Avenue; Sliema: Mrabat Pharmacy, Imrabat Street; Attard: St Mary Pharmacy, 2 Antonio Schembri Street; Għargħur: St Albert Pharmacy, Oratory Street; Mellieħa: Brown's Pharmacy, 69 George Borg Olivier Street; Paola: Distinction Pharmacy, 32 Antoine De Paule Square; Birgu: Milia's Pharmacy, Cottonera Street; Żabbar: St Peter Pharmacy, Sebbelika Street; Birżebbuġa: Martin's Pharmacy, 182 Birżebbuġa Street; Qrendi: Qrendi Pharmacy, 6 Main Street; Żebbuġ: De Rohan Pharmacy, St Anthony Street; Rabat: Ideal Pharmacy, 63 Main Street.
Malta International Airport: The '8 Till Late Pharmacy' is open every day from 8am to 10pm
Gozo: 9am to noon
Victoria: Batu Pharmacy, 38 Palm Street; Għarb: Ta' Pinu Pharmacy, Franġisk Portelli Street.
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Prison official: OJ Simpson moving toward release in Nevada
O.J. Simpson was apparently in transit Saturday, ahead of his release on parole as early as Monday — possibly in Las Vegas, a Nevada prisons official said.
State Department of Corrections public inmate records provided no information about Simpson's custody status or location, which prisons spokeswoman Brooke Keast said usually indicates that an inmate is being moved in custody. Locations are withheld for security reasons, she said.
"He is still in our custody, at least until (Sunday)," Keast said. "The department is progressing toward his release as soon as possible."
Simpson's attorney, Malcolm LaVergne, said he wouldn't confirm his client's location. He said that when he last spoke with Simpson, he was still at Lovelock Correctional Center in northern Nevada.
When Simpson arrives at a prison facility, the department's public website will reflect his location, Keast said.
Nevada Parole and Probation Capt. Shawn Arruti, who is involved in Simpson's release, did not immediately respond to telephone and email messages.
Keast said this week that plans called for Simpson to be transferred to High Desert State Prison outside Las Vegas to be freed as early as Monday — the first business day after Simpson becomes eligible for parole on Sunday. She said releases normally aren't handled on weekends.
The former football hero, TV and movie actor, advertising pitchman and celebrity criminal defendant, now 70, has served nine years in prison for a 2007 armed robbery involving two sports memorabilia dealers in a Las Vegas hotel room.
He maintained he led five men into the confrontation to retrieve personal items and family mementoes stolen following his acquittal in 1995 of murder charges in the 1994 slayings of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman. He was found civilly liable for the slayings in 1997 and ordered to pay the victims' families $33.5 million.
Simpson was sentenced in Nevada to up to 33 years, but was granted parole in July. Once released, he'll be subject to supervision by the state Division of Parole and Probation through September 2022.
High Desert State Prison is located in Indian Springs, about 45 miles northwest of Las Vegas. It is the main processing center for inmates from southern Nevada, where Simpson was convicted.
A close Simpson friend, Tom Scotto, has offered to have Simpson live with him in Naples, Florida. Such a move would require an agreement between parole departments in Nevada and Florida.
Scotto didn't immediately respond Saturday to messages.
Florida had not received transfer paperwork from Nevada as of Friday, and Florida's attorney general said this week she doesn't want prison officials to let Simpson live in the state.
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De Bruyne scores winner as Manchester City beat Chelsea 1-0 in EPL
Kevin De Bruyne capped a dominant performance from Manchester City with a brilliant long-range goal in a 1-0 victory at Chelsea in the English Premier League on Saturday.
The midfielder exchanged passes with Gabriel Jesus before shooting left-footed from just outside the area in the 67th minute, a goal that earned unbeaten City a sixth win from seven games and kept the team in first place.
The goal would have been extra sweet for De Bruyne, who was sold by Chelsea in January 2014 after 18 months at Stamford Bridge. He made just nine appearances and never felt he was given a real chance.
Chelsea, which lost star striker Alvaro Morata to an apparent left hamstring injury in the 35th, was overwhelmed by the visitors' passing and movement in what will be regarded as a signature win in City's toughest game of the season.
Lukaku scores again as Man United beats Palace 4-0 in EPL
Romelu Lukaku scored for the sixth straight game after Marouane Fellaini netted twice as Manchester United beat Crystal Palace 4-0 on Saturday, keeping the beleaguered visitor without a point or a goal in the English Premier League.
Lukaku was kept relatively quiet at Old Trafford until the 86th minute, when he tapped in for an 11th goal in 10 games for his new club.
It wrapped up unbeaten United's fourth 4-0 win in seven league games.
Earlier, fellow forward Marcus Rashford excelled, setting up two of the goals, including the first of the game by Juan Mata inside three minutes.
Rashford beat a defender with ease on the left wing and raced into the area before squaring for Mata to finish from 10 meters.
Fellaini applied a side-footed volley from Ashley Young's cross to double the lead before halftime, and the bushy-haired midfielder headed in Rashford's free kick after the interval for his second goal.
It was the first time Fellaini has scored twice in a game for United since joining in 2013.
Last-place Palace has conceded nine goals in two trips to Manchester in the space of a week, having lost 5-0 at City last weekend.
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Hamrun ease past Mosta as St Andrews and Tarxien score dramatic wins
Gift goals pave way for Hamrun easy victory
ĦAMRUN S. 5
MOSTA 2
Hamrun S: S. Sultana, K. Micallef, D. Zerafa, L. Micallef, T. Caruana (L. Sciberras 72 min), D. Camilleri, G. De Castro, T. Espindola De Paula, F. Marino Clavero (T. Agius 64 min), M. Jose Marinho, A. Faria Machado (Siraj Arab 45 min).
Mosta: A. Vella, L. Ferreira, D. Mansi, T. Veronese, I. Maric, D. Ifeanyi Nworah, K. Frendo (C. Camilleri 46 min), D. Xuereb (L. Portelli 65 min), D. Zarate Biboa, M. Cristian Jorge (N. Frendo 66 min), K. Magro.
Scorers: L. Micallef 2 min, 34 min, 67 min D. Xuereb 10 min, M. Jose Marinho 15 min, C. Camilleri 77 min, S. Arab 89 min
Referee: Fyodor Zammit
Ass. Referees: Luke Portelli, Sammy Portelli
Fourth Official: Philip Farrugia
Yellow cards: M. Jose Marinho, K. Micallef, D. Xuereb, L. Micallef, S. Arab, T. Agius
Player of the match: Lyden Micallef (Hamrun Spartans)
TMI best 3: 1. L. Micallef, 2. G. De Castro, 3. T. Veronese
Attendance: 390
Two gift goals set up by two incredible Mosta defensive blunders in the first half, and both scored by Lydon Micallef, paved the way for Hamrun's easy 5-2 victory yesterday.
For the Spartans it was a return to winning form after their defeat against Floriana in their last outing.
Lyden Micallef was the Spartans hero yesterday scoring a hat trick, these being his first goals since joining the club. The match was balanced and never reached high standards, pathetic at times with Hamrun having the edge and fully deserving their victory, but Mosta were let down by their defensive mishaps.
After only two minutes, Hamrun were in front when Ivan Maric incredibly passed towards Lydon Micallef who accepted the gift to beat Vella with a low drive.
On ten minutes however Mosta were back on level terms when Dexter Xuereb took full advantage of a Daniel Zerafa short clearance to beat Sultana with a low drive on the first post.
Five minutes later Hamrun were back in front when Espindola De Paola floated a good cross from the left and defender Mauricio Jose Marinho headed beutifully home from close range.
On 31 minutes Mosta almost levelled the score again when from a Veronese corner Ferreira blasted over the bar when well placed.
On 34 minutes Mosta yet again provided another chance to the Spartans when Dexter Xuereb incredibly passed backwards to the completely unmarked Lyden Micallef who again accepted the gift to beat the helpless Vella with a fine drive.
In the second half Mosta had more of the ball as they tried to get back in the game and had a good opportunity on 64 minutes when Martins Fernandes shot well over the bar from the centre of the penalty area following a good cross from Veronese.
On 67 minutes Hamrun put the issue beyond doubt with a well taken goal from Lyden Micallef who obtained his hat trick after he was served by Triston Caruana who made a very good move on the right flank.
On 75 minutes a Veronese scorcher was well saved by the Hamrun custodian and two minutes later Mosta pulled one back when substitute Calvin Camilleri scored with a shot on the turn following a Veronese freekick.
Minutes later Lyden Micallef almost scored his fourth goal but his effort was well saved by the Mosta goalkeeper Vella.
On 89 minutes Hamrun scored their fifth and final goal when Lyden Micallef gave an inch perfect pass to substitute Siraj Arab who beat Vella with a powerful drive.
Farrugia steals it for Saints in overtime
ST ANDREWS 1SENGLEA ATHLETIC 0
St Andrews: M. Calleja Cremona, E. Beltre', A. Borg, L. Grech, N. Perry, J. Farrugia, D. Jackson, M. Davis, K. Butler (M. Grima), M. Miranda Gomez (J. Walker), A. Friggieri
Senglea A: M. Farrugia, J. Bondin, S. Bonnici, A. Terracciano, M. Garzia, G. Virano (P. Sammut), H. Vella, I. Paz (R. Vella), A. Caseras, M. Escobar (T. Vella), J. Leyton
Referee: M. Degabriele
Asst.refs: D. Petrovic, T. Zammit
4th official: E. Grech
Scorers: J. Farrugia 90+
Yellow cards: R. Caseres, L. Grech, J. Leyton, A. Terracciano, E. Beltre', T. Vella, I. Paz
Red cards: R. Caseres, A. Terracciano
Player of the match: J. Farrugia (St Andrews)
TMI top 3: 1. N. Virano 2. J. Farrugia 3. M. Garzia
SILVIO VELLA
There was drama at the death in this shambolic affair at the Centenary Stadium yesterday, with St Andrews beating nine-man Senglea Athletic thanks to a Joseph Farrugia free kick in added time.
Senglea's three-match unbeaten run was thus interrupted, having shot themselves in the foot, with two players sent off in the second half, despite having more of play. Their profligacy arguably cost them the chance to pile up more points.
St Andrews went into this match at the back of three consecutive defeats.
In an attempt to arrest his side's slump, coach Marko Glumac sought defensive security and made two changes at the back, with Liam Grech starting as centre back and Jamaican Nehemiah Perry wide on the left. Atkinson made way for Tano Azian in attack, but he was often starved of service.
Senglea's game plan remained simple. Four at the back, Garzia and Hubert Vella in front of them, with wide players Virano and Paz supporting the attacking duo of Caseres and Escobar.
Quality was in short supply in the first half, but the best opportunities came for Senglea when Caseres went past two opponents inside the Saints area but failed to conclude towards goal in the opening minutes.
Short of the quarter hour, Bonnici headed a Senglea corner against the bar before the Saints keeper Calleja Cremona was fouled and play was interrupted. Senglea had other tame efforts late in the half
Although well organised, St Andrews were short of penetration. The injury to Butler before the break did not help matters.
The pattern did not change much after the interval.
The first noteworthy episode of the second period was Caseras' dismissal on 54 minutes for his second booking, after fouling Grech.
Terence Vella went in for Escobar.
Past the hour, Senglea thought they had gained the lead when their substitute headed in Paz's free kick but the goal was disallowed for the player's offside position.
More minutes of largely artless skirmishing followed as both teams continued to show lack of invention, before Terence Vella went close again for Senglea with ten minutes remaining. His shot from a tight angle was turned into a corner by keeper Calleja Cremona.
Deep into five minutes of added time, Senglea had a second player, Antonio Terracciano, sent off, for committing a foul just outside the area.
Joseph Farrugia stepped up to beat keeper Farrugia with a delicious direct free kick and steal the points for St Andrews.
Tarxien clinch dramatic first win
TARXIEN RAINBOWS 2
SLIEMA WANDERERS 1
Tarxien R: C. Cassar, A. Scicluna, A. Azzopardi, J. Brincat, L. Grech, R. Darmanin (M. Desira Buttigieg), R. Faria, S. Cipriott (M. Spiteri), G. McKay (A. Agius), E. Baker, E. Calin
Sliema W: G. Zammit, S. Bianciardi, M. Muchardi, F. Temile, G. Aquilina (R. Spiteri), J. De Assis, R. Correa, E. Agius, F. Qeros, J. Mintoff, N. Gavric
Referee: G. Tonna
Asst.refs: M. Scerri, T. Debono
4th official: I. Barbara
Scorers: R. Darmanin 26, J. De Assis 35, A. Scicluna 90+
Yellow cards: J. De Assis, G. McKay, S. Bianchardi, L. Grech, F. Temile
Player of the match: M. Muchardi (Sliema W)
TMI top 3: 1. M. Muchardi 2. E. Baker 3. C. Cassar
Attendance: 303
SILVIO VELLA
Tarxien Rainbows left it late to register thei first Premier league win of the season as their defender Andre Scicluna's header in added time gave them a 2-1 victory over Sliema Wanderers.
Tarxien led courtesy of a Ryan Darmanin first-half finish but looked like having to do with a point, after Jefferson De Assis equalised past the half hour and the Wanderers mounted a series of attacks even in the second half, until Scicluna made his mark.
This win moves Tarxien out of bottom place as they lift themselves on four points, above Naxxar Lions and Lija Athletic in the standings.
With Balzan and Valletta winning on Friday and Hamrun Spartans winning earlier in the afternoon, the pressure was on Sliema, who could not afford to drop any points to keep the pace with the leading pack.
A slicker Sliema were unable to convert their chances, thanks also to Christian Cassar's fine display in the Tarxien goal, and surely need to be more ruthless in front of goal.
Tarxien, fielding an unchanged side from last week's draw against Senglea Athletic, took the lead midway through the half after a quiet opening.
Ryan Darmanin pounced on Azzopardi's pass and ran clear through the Sliema rearguard to beat keeper Glenn Zammit.
Sliema's midfield must have suffered in the absence of Peter Xuereb and Mark Scerri yesterday, but Matias Muchardi, Edmond Agius and Gabriel Aquilina produced some tireless workrate to help their side draw level before halftime.
After falling behind, the Wanderers laid siege on Tarxien's fort. McKay had to block Gavric's shot into a corner and an Agius drive from a distance took another deflection into a corner.
Parity was restored on 35 minutes when there was a misunderstanding between Scicluna and Grech in defence, their poor clearance fell straight to Jefferson De Assis who beat keeper Cassar with a low strike at the bottom end of goal.
Sliema kept up the pressure but could not add further goals before halftime. Muchardi had a shot going narrowly off target before Tarxien keeper Cassar rushed off his line to thwart De Assis, put through by Aquilina.
The Rainbows, though made to look ragged at times, did not bow down and Darmanin cracked a rasping low shot that just missed the target, on 50 minutes, before getting injured and forced to leave his place to Mateo Desira Buttigieg.
Sliema, however, kept up the tempo in the second half, playing with more intensity than their opponents. But they could find few openings.
Tarxien's McKay was lucky when, on 67 minutes, his late tackle from behind on De Assis, running clear towards goal, was not sanctioned by the referee.
Their efforts in the late stages, brought Sliema no rewards as Tarxien keeper Cassar denied Mintoff on 73 minutes and then again saved Temile's shot when well served by Qeros eight minutes from the end.
As the match looked heading towards a draw, Tarxien struck the fatal blow deep into four minutes of added time, with defender Andre Scicluna heading in Brincat's sailing free kick to clinch a most dramatic win.
Photos: Domenic Aquilina
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PD spokesperson opts out of bye-election, Farrugia and Briguglio in online tiff
PD leader Marlene Farrugia calls the PN's new councillor Michael Briguglio 'a coward'
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Spain, Catalonia head for showdown over independence vote
Montserrat Aguilera wasn't intending to vote for the Catalonia region to secede from the rest of Spain.
But the 52-year-old laboratory worker changed her mind amid an unprecedented crackdown by Spain's government as it tries to prevent Sunday's independence referendum from going ahead.
Spain and its most powerful and prosperous region are headed for a showdown, with police trying to shut down polling stations to stop the referendum and activists, students and parents occupying schools designated voting places to keep them open.
Much remains unclear, including whether police will forcibly remove people who are still in the polling stations at a 6 a.m. Sunday deadline and how many of Catalonia's voters will be able to cast ballots amid the central government's crackdown.
Also unknown is what happens next if regional leaders declare any vote legitimate and Catalonia declares independence. The referendum was suspended under constitutional rules weeks ago so a court could consider its legality.
Turnout will be key, and if people like Aguilera are any indication, it could be high. She wanted a referendum to be held under constitutional rules so she could vote "no" and try to keep Spain and Catalonia united. Now, she wants Madrid to feel the pinch of the region's disgust.
"I don't agree with the way the vote has been convoked by the Catalan government. It should have been a legal one," Aguilera said. "But this is going to be a demonstration of democratic force to show (Prime Minister Mariano) Rajoy that we deserve respect and that he needs to listen to Catalonia."
Catalan authorities have pledged to make the voting possible even if police, acting on judges' orders, manage to close polling stations and seal off ballot boxes. Some 5.3 million people are eligible to vote in the region, one of 17 in Spain.
The latest surge for independence essentially started in 2010, when Spain's Constitutional Court struck down key parts of a groundbreaking charter that would have granted Catalonia greater autonomy and recognized it as a nation within Spain.
The rejection stung, and Spain's 2008-2013 financial crisis and the harsh austerity measures that followed generated more support for secession, with many Catalans feeling they could do better on their own. Catalonia contributes a fifth of the country's 1.1 trillion-euro economy ($1.32 trillion.)
While the vast majority of Catalans favor holding a referendum, they have long been almost evenly split over independence.
If "yes" wins, Catalan authorities have promised to declare independence within 48 hours. No minimum participation rate has been set, but regional President Carles Puigdemont has acknowledged that a significant turnout will be needed to declare the results legitimate.
In a mock referendum in 2014, only about 35 percent of Catalans voted. Eighty percent favored independence.
Officials say the Spanish crackdown could make the difference this time. Catalan Vice President Oriol Junqueras said six out of 10 Catalans were expected to vote, according to the regional government's polling.
Nou Barris, where Aguilera lives, showed the least support among Barcelona's neighborhoods for separatist parties in regional elections two years ago. In balconies and windows, there are few of the pro-independence flags ubiquitous in other central and wealthier areas of Barcelona.
Still, Aguilera says many in her neighborhood, including her son, have decided to show for Sunday's disputed vote.
"Vote yes, vote no, vote null or an empty ballot, but vote to be free and be heard," she said. "These two governments need to sit down and talk, and this is how we'll make them understand that."
The Spanish government says the vote, which has been ordered suspended by the Constitutional Court, will not take place. It has called in thousands of police reinforcements that are being housed in ferries in Barcelona's port, raising tensions in one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations.
The government has also initiated a barrage of legal challenges, including placing 700 pro-independence mayors under investigation and briefly arresting a dozen or so government officials.
"These are not easy days, for sure, but we feel strong," Puigdemont said recently. "While Spain acts like a regime where the authority of power grows inversely to its moral strength, we feel increasingly supported by the Catalan people's greatest asset: its people."
But it's hard to see how a vote will take place when millions of ballot papers were seized and police have been ordered to make sure no polling center stays open. There is no electoral board to monitor the election, but Catalan authorities say votes will be counted.
"Voting is not guaranteed," Andrew Dowling, a Catalonia specialist at Cardiff University in Wales, said. "We don't know what will happen but there won't be a referendum in any meaningful sense."
There has also been little or no campaigning by those opposed to independence.
"The 'no' side don't feel they have to turn out on Sunday because they don't think independence is going to happen," Dowling said.
No country or international body has expressed an appetite for Catalan independence either. The European Union backs Spain and says an independent Catalonia would have to reapply for EU membership, something Spain could block.
"On a legal level, Madrid is right," European Parliament President Antonio Tajani said Friday. "I think it's important to talk on a political level after Monday and to respect laws — Catalan laws and Spanish laws."
U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Spain should stay united, branding the secession move as "foolish."
Rajoy, the prime minister, has warned Catalonia to drop the referendum bid, which he called a "totalitarian act."
Talks between the two sides have been virtually nonexistent and both accuse each other of acting illegally and undemocratically.
The issue has so far had almost no economic fallout, although the S&P credit rating agency warned that growth prospects may weaken if tensions in Catalonia escalate.
"If you have got financial interests in Madrid or internationally you do not think that Catalan independence is imminent and I think that feeling is true for lots of Spanish people and lots of Catalans," Dowling said.
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Briguglio says PD decision to contest casual election ‘damages’ role of small parties
Michael Briguglio has lashed out against the Partit Demokratiku for choosing to contest a casual election to replace Jean Pierre Debono on the seventh district.
Debono resigned his parliamentary seat in an obvious move to allow for the election of new Natiomalist Party leader Adrian Delia to the House of Representatives. PN candidates who will contest said that, if elected, they will relinquish the seat to Delia.
But, apart from the six PN candidates who submitted their nomination of Tuesday's casual election, a PD candidate, Lee Bugeja, will also contest.
PD leader Marlene Farrugia had said that PD candidates should contest to respect the will of the people through their vote.
But Bugeja's candidacy did not go down well with Briguglio, who has joined the PN ranks after serving as Alternattiva Demokratika leader for several years.
In a post on Facebook, Briguglio said Farrugia decided to stand in the way and "disrespect the democratic will of its coalition partner, the PN. Marlene fielded a 45-vote candidate in 7th district casual election. This has damaged trust in role of 3rd parties in future coalitions and has spread the butter on PD's toast. Kudos to candidate Monique Agius who did not follow Marlene's obstinacy and did not submit nomination. Let us now finish what was started through a strong, reflective and forward looking PN opposition against the corrupt Labour government."
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Armed Forces of Malta holds annual open day
The Armed forces of Malta today held its annual open day at the AFM Air Wing in Kirkop.
People flocked to see AFM equipment and learn about the Maltese armed forces.
Photos by Michael Camilleri
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Briguglio hits out at PD for contesting casual election
PD leader Marlene Farrugia's decision to field candidates in Tuesday's casual election, "spread the butter of PD's toast," Briguglio said.
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Alternattiva Demokratika calls for increased hunting infringement penalties
AD Chairperson Carmel Cacopardo has called for an increase in penalties for hunting infringements.
During a Buskett visit organised by Birdlife Malta, Alternattiva Demokratika Chairperson Carmel Cacopardo thanked Birdlife for their work for the conservation of wild birds and biodiversity.
"Public awareness for more nature protection has increased exponentially over the years," he said.
Cacopardo said "that irresponsible hunters are a threat to conservation efforts. It is for this reason that fines and other penalties for hunting infringements should be made harsher rather than being reduced as is being suggested by government spokespersons. Advocating the reduction of fines and penalties sends the wrong messages. People acting responsibly and who abide by the law should not have any issues with a crackdown on illegalities."
Simon Galea, Spokesperson for Agriculture and Animal Welfare said: "the present scenario does not augur well. Incidences of illegal hunting continue to rise. Protected birds, such as birds of prey, are killed indiscriminately, denying the public the right to enjoy such natural heritage. The general public are not the only victims, but so are law abiding hunters who have to carry the blame for their irresponsible counterparts."
"Apart from the need to beef up enforcement - complimented by hefty fines - it is about time that hunters shoulder responsibility. It is unacceptable that after years of continuous rampant illegal hunting occurrences, nearly nobody from the hunting community has stepped forward to report such illegalities. Hunting associations come up with all kinds of imaginable excuses to defend such infringements. If hunters are of goodwill, then their associations and the individuals alike need to embark on a self-regulating exercise, where illegalities are reported and culprits are named and shamed. In the absence of such, the government should close the hunting season indefinitely, a promise which was never kept by Prime Minister Muscat"
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Hamilton takes pole position for Malaysian GP; Vettel last
Lewis Hamilton took pole position for the Malaysian Grand Prix with another brilliant drive under pressure on Saturday, while title rival Sebastian Vettel's miserable luck continued as he quit early in qualifying after losing power on a straight.
Having struggled in all three practice sessions, finishing no higher than fifth, Mercedes driver Hamilton suddenly found the pace he needed to take the 70th pole of his career ahead of Kimi Raikkonen.
Vettel will start from last in the latest bitter blow for Ferrari.
"We just didn't know if we were going to fix the issues or not. The Ferraris still looked like they were ahead," Hamilton said. "We had no idea how it was going to go today. Somehow we turned it around."
Max Verstappen qualified third ahead of Red Bull teammate Daniel Ricciardo, while Hamilton's teammate Valtteri Bottas was fifth.
It was Hamilton's fourth straight podium in Malaysia, fifth overall and seemingly one of the toughest. He held a towel on his face for several moments and still seemed breathless before answering questions, his shoulders rising and falling slowly at one point as he took a long, deep breath.
"I didn't sleep well last night," the 32-year-old British driver said. "I don't really know where that lap came from, to be honest."
There were heads in hands in the Ferrari garage as Vettel came back in the first part of qualifying, having not even set a time. At least Raikkonen saved face, finishing just 0.045 seconds behind Hamilton's time.
Raikkonen turns 38 later this month, but the 2007 Formula One champion has been showing admirable form recently.
"It's a bit more painful when you get that close," the softly spoken Finnish driver said. "Tomorrow is a long race and it will be tough for tires. I have a good feeling. It's a tight first three corners so a lot usually happens."
Verstappen celebrated his 20th birthday with a fine drive. He must make Raikkonen feel old, considering that Raikkonen raced against Verstappen's father — Jos Verstappen — when making his F1 debut back in 2001.
"I'm happy to be in third, I was struggling a lot with balance in P3," Verstappen Jr. said. "I want to have a good Sunday, finally. On Saturday it's been going really well, but I haven't scored a lot of points."
Verstappen secured third place in China — the second race of the season — but has not been on the podium since and has failed to finish seven races, mainly because of engine problems.
Ferrari had swapped Vettel's engine after third practice. Engineers changed the internal combustion engine as a precautionary measure after detecting an electronic malfunction on his car.
It made little difference.
Vettel was on his first lap when he lost power.
"I am limping back," a concerned Vettel said as he drove his powerful car back at pedestrian speed.
The mishap was even stranger, given that Ferrari had looked very strong in the third and final practice earlier Saturday with Raikkonen leading from Vettel. In Friday's second practice, Vettel was fastest ahead of Raikkonen.
Vettel did not incur any penalty for the engine change because it was the fourth one of the season — the maximum. Any more will incur grid penalties, although that would not impact him here since he is starting from last place anyway.
There were sympathetic pats on the back and comforting words from Vettel to his mechanics.
"Don't worry guys, fix it for tomorrow," the German driver said. "We will come back."
Two weeks ago, Vettel was the one red-faced as he wasted pole in Singapore, causing a first-turn crash that took out Raikkonen, Verstappen and McLaren's Fernando Alonso with him.
It handed Hamilton the championship initiative, extending his lead to 28 points.
Another strong performance could see Hamilton clinch a fourth straight win, eighth of the season and 61st overall, and take a giant stride toward a fourth F1 title with five races left after this.
"We just have to maximize every opportunity we get," Hamilton said, offering some sympathy to Vettel. "I don't really know what happened to Sebastian today. It's very unfortunate for him."
One small crumb of comfort for Vettel is that, despite strong qualifying, Hamilton has only won once here — in 2014.
Last year, Hamilton was cruising to victory in Sepang when his engine cut out late on and he retired.
Vettel could be forgiven for hoping for a similar ending on Sunday.
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FIRST MAGAZINE: Time for bed - How to get your baby or toddler, and yourself, some sleep!
I am a 31-year-old woman from Venezuela and the mother of two girls aged three-and-a-half and two. When my second daughter was born, I was determined to breastfeed her and that took a lot of my energy - and hers. Between feedings, crying, pumping and rocking her to sleep - and taking care of my other daughter - it seemed like a never-ending situation, and co-sleeping did not work neither did breastfeeding, rocking, or a dummy. I even tried letting my baby 'cry it out' but her that would wake up her big sister and then we all ended up crying together! My elder daughter missed naps, which affected her appetite and behaviour, making her cranky most of the time, and - well - we all were! I was mentally and physically exhausted, not to mention sleep-deprived and am sure that postpartum depression didn't help, either!
During one long night I found out about sleep coaching on the internet and decided to work with Kim West - 'the Sleep Lady' - to get my girls and myself to sleep. I found out that the baby was suffering from 'silent reflux', so I got that under control by following the suggestions the 'Sleep Lady' made. Soon my daughters were sleeping together in the same room all night and even napping during the day at around the same times as well. I learned a lot about sleeping and how sleep works where little ones are concerned, so I decided to spread the word and be that 'light at the end of the tunnel' for sleep-deprived families.
Here are some questions and answers that may help you get some sleep!
At what age do you think a baby should start sleeping through the night?
Sleeping is a self-learned skill, and most babies are developmentally ready by the age of six months; others take a bit longer and are ready by their first birthday or they could need to be fed during the night for longer for medical reasons.
What sleeping hours do you suggest, and why?
Recently, there has been a lot said and written on the value of early bedtimes - and in some cases extra-early bedtimes - and both do work in some cases. However, the truth is that some children are able to stay awake for longer and still manage to sleep through the night without any detrimental effect on their behaviour or development. However, the temperament of every child, and the dynamics of every family, are different so the number of hours of sleep a child needs will vary. And it is also important to remember that it is not only the quantity (ie, the number of hours) that has to be considered, but also the quality of the sleep.
What bed-time tricks do you suggest?
"Wrap it up and connect". While you are helping your child put his or her pyjamas on, or changing the nappy, talk about what you've done during the day, what you are doing now and then what will happen next. For example: "Today we went to the beach and played with the sand. We paddled in the water and built little castles, and you had such fun, stepping on them, didn't you?" Wait for the response and then continue describing highlights of the day until your child is ready for sleep. Then, help your child into bed and kiss him or her good-night. Say that you will check on him/her soon and then switch off the light and leave. And make sure that you do what you said, and check a little later.
What should you not do before sleep time?
Studies have shown that screen time can affect the quality of our sleep, making it difficult to stay asleep and causing some children to have nightmares. It is recommended to have at least one hour free of screen time before bedtime. Quiet games like puzzles, building blocks or colouring are more soothing than running and jumping around with loud music. What is eaten is also important and anything containing caffeine or sugar should be avoided in the three hours before bedtime.
How can you tell if your child is over-tired?
The ability of children to stay awake is a roller coaster. When they are 'up' is when they should be awake and when they are 'down' they should be asleep. When they need to sleep they will often slow down, exhibit a lack of focus and prefer quiet activities. When they are overtired they will appear cranky and fidgety and it will be more difficult for them to get to sleep. Then, like in the roller coaster, they will need to be 'up' to be able to enter a calm stage where they will be able to sleep.
What would you tell parents who can only get their baby to sleep in a moving car?
A baby that will generally only go to sleep in a moving car is relying on the motion of the vehicle. To change what can become a routine, I would suggest that the parents make a gentle transition by offering the same kind of motion as part of the bedtime routine at home - and sticking to it. You could do this until your baby is asleep and then carrying him/her into the cot or bed to sleep. As the days go by, reduce the amount of the 'car' motion and let the baby be more aware of being in the cot. As always, be sure your child is not over-tired and has a soothing bedtime routine.
Do you suggest keeping to a sleep routine when on holiday?
Yes, some of some type. New places and new people can be really overwhelming for our children so it is important that we are able to offer them some kind of routine that makes them feel safe going to sleep in a new place. Taking a few of their favourite books and maintaining the same routine at bedtime can also help a lot.
How strict should a parent be and what do you suggest for parents who easily give in to their child's tantrum when he/she does not want to go to bed?
I would not use the word 'strict", but if you are unhappy with a situation and want to change it, you need to be very consistent. This means being consistent with your actions and expectations, with your health and that of your child. Have a plan, create a routine with which you and your child are comfortable and use it consistently, allowing your child to unwind and to look forward to it. Work together with others care-givers, and be patient.
What factors can change the sleep routine or the number of times a baby or toddler wakes up during the night?
It depends. Since the temperament of every child is differently, there are various reasons. Children that go to sleep independently will wake up fewer times than those that rely on something being done for them in order to go to sleep because they will often need it to actually stay asleep. Big events and feeling unwell can affect the sleep pattern of most children, in the same way that they do for adults. Others circumstances such as room temperature, noise, light or hunger and bowel movements are things that we can either prevent or take action to prevent and thus confidently avoid sleep disruption.
What is a sign that a child is not getting enough sleep?
Sleep-deprived children demonstrate changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating and regulating their emotions, suffer from headaches, hyperactivity, impulsivity and 'crankiness', have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep and wake up more frequently in the night. Sleep deprivation is accumulative, so the less a child sleeps, the less he or she is likely to sleep. Falling into a sleep deprivation cycle has shown tendencies to continue into childhood, where signs can even resemble the symptoms of ADHD.
Can a child who goes to sleeps at midnight without a tantrum ever fall asleep earlier?
Yes. When a child goes to sleep late and wakes up late it can be a case of 'inverted circadian rhythm'. By allowing the child's body the opportunity to move that clock to an earlier time - at the same time being gentle and respectful of the child's needs - can achieve an earlier bedtime.
Daniela can be contacted by telephone on 9995 9857, on Skype: danielasleepcoach and Facebook: Daniela Sleep Coach. For more information visit her website: http://ift.tt/2xJglzz
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Theft suspect growls, barks at magistrate
The 19 year-old, who had a mask over his face to stop him from spitting, was arrested for trespassing
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Gozo Minister says government is looking into Mgarr park and ride service
The Gozo Ministry has begun looking into the possibility of introducing a park and ride service for the Mgarr port, and has issued a call for applications for a study.
Gozo Minister Justyne Caruana said that government in aware of the problems Gozitan students and workers face, having to cross over the Malta for work and for their studies.
One such problem, the minister said, is that there are not enough parking spaces.
"This is why government proposed a park and ride so that during the peak traffic times, Gozo would have this alternative system."
Minister Justyne Caruana said that this was one of the first projects the Gozo ministry began working on, with the first phase being a study of the project itself, the demand, and operational recommendations of the park and ride.
The public call was issued on 22 September and closes on 13 October. A public consultation, she said, must occur as part of this exercise.
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Trump seeks new health chief after Price resignation
President Donald Trump is seeking a new health secretary to take the place of Tom Price, ousted after an outcry over flying on costly private charters for official travel.
The Health and Human Services chief oversees a $1 trillion department, with 80,000 employees and jurisdiction over major insurance programs, advanced medical research, drug and food safety, public health, and disease prevention.
The administration will also have to contend with renewed scrutiny of Cabinet members' travel. Following news reports about Price, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee launched a governmentwide investigation of travel by top political appointees.
Trump has named Don J. Wright, a deputy assistant secretary of health, to serve as acting secretary.
Mentioned as a possible permanent successor to Price is Seema Verma, a protege of Vice President Mike Pence. She now leads the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, an HHS division that runs health insurance programs covering more than 130 million Americans.
Verma's immediate challenge is to manage the 2018 open enrollment season under the Obama-era Affordable Care Act, which Trump and the GOP-led Congress have been unable to repeal.
Another possible HHS candidate is FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, who won some bipartisan support in his confirmation and is well known in policy, government and industry circles.
Price, 62, a former GOP congressman from the Atlanta suburbs, resigned Friday afternoon. His pattern of costly trips triggered investigations that overshadowed the administration's agenda and angered his boss. Price's regrets and a partial repayment couldn't save his job.
Price became the first member of Trump's Cabinet to be pushed out in a turbulent young administration that has seen several high-ranking White House aides ousted. He served less than eight months.
On Friday Trump called Price a "very fine person," but added, "I certainly don't like the optics" around his travels.
Price said in his resignation letter that he regretted that "recent events have created a distraction."
Privately, Trump had been telling associates in recent days that Price was overshadowing his tax overhaul agenda and undermining his campaign promise to "drain the swamp" of corruption, according to three people familiar with the discussions who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Price's repayment of $51,887.31 for his own travel costs did not placate the White House. The total travel cost, including the secretary's entourage, could amount to several hundred thousand dollars.
An orthopedic surgeon turned politician, Price rose to Budget Committee chairman in the House, where he was known as a fiscal conservative. When Price joined the administration, Trump touted him as a conservative policy expert who could write a new health care bill to replace the Obama-era Affordable Care Act.
But Price became more of a supporting player in the GOP's futile health care campaign, while Vice President Mike Pence took the lead, particularly with the Senate. The perception of Price jetting around while GOP lawmakers labored to repeal the Obama health law - including a three-nation trip in May to Africa and Europe- raised eyebrows on Capitol Hill. Price flew on military aircraft overseas.
But House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., said Friday that Price had worked hard to help that chamber pass its plan before the GOP effort reached an impasse in the Senate. "I will always be grateful for Tom's service to this country," he said.
Democrats were glad to see Price go. Some urged Trump to appoint an HHS secretary who would reach out to them.
"I hope President Trump learns from this mistake, and looks to appoint someone who can work in a bipartisan way to strengthen health care for all Americans," said Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J.
Price used private charter flights on 10 trips with multiple segments, when in many cases cheaper commercial flights were available. His charter travel was first reported by the news site Politico.
The controversy over Price was a catalyst for Congress launching a bipartisan probe of travel by political appointees across the administration. The House oversight committee has requested travel records from the White House and 24 federal departments and agencies.
Initially, Price's office said the secretary's busy scheduled forced him to use charters from time to time.
But later Price's response changed, and he said he'd heard the criticism and concern, and taken it to heart.
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Seven nominations for Jean Pierre Debono’s Parliamentary seat; one PD candidate to contest
A total of seven nominations for PN MP Jean Pierre Debono's Parliamentary seat were received by the Electoral Commission, and a casual election will be held on 3 October.
Three nominations for the casual election were received last Wednesday, two more were received yesterday, and the final two were received today.
Nationalist Party candidates Sam Abela, Dounia Borg, David Vassallo, Peter Micallef Antoine Borg and Ian Vassallo applied to contest the election. One PD candidate, Lee Bugeja Bartolo has opted to contest. He had gotten less than 100 votes in the general election
All Nationalist candidates on the seventh district have said that, if they will be elected, they will give up the seat to new PN leader Adrian Delia. Given the odds of the PD candidate being elected, it seems that Delia will be taking up a seat in Parliament.
The deadline for nominations closed today.
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Edward Scicluna calls PN pre-budget document negative; expects surplus by end of year
Finance Minister Edward Scicluna has labelled the PN pre-budget document negative in this morning's press conference, whilst also saying that he can almost guarantee a surplus by the end of the year.
Directly remarking on Mario de Marco's evaluation, which spoke about the problem of poverty said to be "growing in magnitude even if the statistics point to the contrary," Scicluna disagreed, stating that many statistics say otherwise and that such a notion cannot be an issue of opinion.
In reference to the new leader of the Nationalist Party, Adrian Delia, the minister said that whilst ex-leader Simon Busutill was negative towards the economy, the new leader is claiming the economy is doing well however attributing such excellent economic results to the previous Nationalist government.
On the subject of the surplus, the minister is nformed that government is expecting to end the year with a surplus. "We can almost guarantee that we will once again finish with a strong surplus by the end of the year", he said.
Standard and Poor's are also revising their report on Malta in which the rating from stable to positive is being reviewed, Scicluna added. "They had upgraded Malta from triple B to A- and now they are revising it from stable to positive. This was changed in a year or two meaning they are upgrading Malta by another notch"
The second "positive" document was issued by the NSO, revealing that from January-August 2017, the Government's Consolidated Fund registered a surplus of 31.million, which compared to last year indicates a substantial increase already, he said. The minister of Finance moreover referred to the indications issued by the Global Competitive Index, two days ago, in which Malta rose by four places.
Additionally, although Malta saw itself calling a snap election this year, such political instability had little effect on the economy or finances of the government, Scicluna claimed. "We believe a surplus will increase over last year's amount because the economy is still strong despite the election. People did not discontinue with business, and the economy kept on going. It really was a minor blip overall. This can't be said for other general elections, where the economy did suffer".
"Of course a better economy means more work. And this is all being achieved without any risks, people can rest assured that the government is taking care of everything... and that debt is decreasing with this government".
Concluding, Scicluna mentioned the €3 million debt, which were borrowed by the Nationalist government in previous legislatures, stating that the then government had the luxury of €3 million for the budget, whilst this government refuses to create more debt, ensuring that as finance minister he ensures sensibility when costing this year's budget.
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TMID Editorial: Rental market - Real social conscience over profit and gain
The Malta Developer Association's 'social conscience' proposals have immediately come under fire and this came as no surprise.
In a meeting with Parliamentary Secretary Roderick Galdes, who is responsible for social housing, MDA put forward a number of proposals which, the association said, are aimed at making more affordable housing available on the market.
Some of the proposals, like the one on increasing the minimum amount IIP applicants have to spend on accommodation (which would mean that they would have to rent more expensive properties while leaving the budget housing for others), seem to make sense.
But one of the proposals, and this was the one that received the most media attention, has been met with incredulity. MDA is proposing that developers reserve parts of new developments for social housing in return for permits to add extra floors.
So, under this proposal, a developer might reserve the bottom floor of an apartment block for social housing in return for a permit to add two additional floor, to be sold at an inflated price. That is quite a bargain.
MDA chief Sandro Chetcuti said in this way developers would be giving part of their revenue for social purposes, but he did not say anything about the added revenue that would come in from the extra floors. Many commented that if developers want to give something back to the community they should contribute to social housing without expecting anything in return.
The association also focused strongly on the problems that landlords face in the rental market, hardly acknowledging that these are contributing to the social tragedy that is unfolding in the sector.
The advent of gaming companies has brought with it a huge demand for accommodation. Since these workers earn more than double the average wage of a Maltese person, they can easily afford paying some €1,000 a month on rent. This has led practically all property owners to raise their prices to phenomenal levels and, while igaming employees are comfortable renting from them, Maltese families have got a sour deal.
We have heard countless stories of single parents, often with young or teenage children, who are forced to live in one-bedroom flats because that is the only thing they can afford. Other, less lucky ones are forced to seek shelter with relatives because they just cannot cope in a market that now caters almost exclusively for well-off foreigners.
We have also heard many cases where tenants are suddenly given days to move out of a property, no doubt because the landlord would have found a wealthier client.
This problem does not only affect single parents or low income families. Last week a group that represents Gozitan students said the rental prices are just too much for these youths, who are being forces to stay on the island and travel to Malta on a daily basis.
Many Maltese, it seems, just want to become rich quickly, and have come to realise that renting property is one of the easiest methods to do so. There is nothing wrong in enriching oneself, but this unruly practice has led not only to the degradation of our urban landscapes but also to skyrocketing prices. Because why would you rent to a low-income Maltese parent when you can rent to a couple of foreign youths with a couple thousand euros to spend on a flat every month?
The government will finally launch a white paper to, as it puts it, get a clear snapshot of the rental market in Malta, but it is surely taking its time. In the meantime these poor families are living in misery.
The authorities have to step in and do something. Whether the government should cap rental prices or not is debatable but something has to be done to keep accommodation affordable. This government is supposed to be a socialist one, after all.
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Standard & Poor’s maintains Malta’s sovereign credit rating, but raises outlook to positive
Standard & Poor's has maintained Malta's sovereign credit rating at A-, but has raised the outlook to positive from stable.
S&P says that the outlook on Malta was revised to positive on strong growth prospects. They said that the outlook revision reflects their expectation that Malta's economy will continue its strong cyclical expansion.
"The positive outlook reflects that we could raise ratings on Malta over next 24 months if economic growth remains in line with our expectations," S&P said, while adding that the Malta ratings are supported by strong growth performance, with consistent current account surpluses, and by narrowing government deficits.
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Church Environment Commission believes Malta should safeguard values that have always distinguished
The Church Environment Commission (KA) has issued a position paper on human life, as well as the environment in Malta.
In a statement, the Commission said that it shared some thoughts inspired by Pope Francis' Encyclical Laudato Si', on the value of Life and the need to respect it in all its aspects, on the occasion of the Season of Creation.
"This in a time when many end up accepting fallacies and misconceptions presented in the media, which are nothing but a distortion of reality," the Curia statement read.
"Recognizing the value of life implies the appreciation of the dignity of all forms of life, which stimulates us to acknowledge its vulnerability and do everything possible to protect it. This principle should apply not only when the life of animals and plants/trees is threatened, but also, and particularly, with reference to human life in its very early stages."
"During the debates about the very early stages of life, the KA cannot accept rhetoric aimed at eliminating guilt feelings by hiding the truth. It strongly believes that a human being's rights need to be respected, irrespective of size, stage of growth and development, physical or mental ability and condition of health. In a just and democratic society, everybody's rights are safeguarded, whether one is an adult or a vulnerable creature who cannot defend itself. In this aspect, the KA fears that if we are not careful, there is the risk that the pharmaceutical and medical industry end up giving priority to economic interests rather than to moral rules and values. One needs to invest more in research that explores methods which would overcome infertility without jeopardizing human dignity."
As to the built environment, the KA sadly notes the fast change our country's physiognomy is undergoing; "Malta has become one huge building site. Despite a lot of talk about sustainability, it seems that the environmental impact of the construction industry is not being given the importance it deserves. The KA feels that it is high time the Planning Authority becomes more proactive with regard to planning rather than occupying its time processing development applications. In this respect, the involvement of Local Councils and consultation with the residents of the locality concerned are indispensable."
True development goes beyond financial gain, the Commission said, "and should safeguard the quality of life and dignity of one and all. Genuine developers commit themselves to promote the common good and therefore, among other things, ensure that the workers under their responsibility are treated with dignity. In the light of what Pope Francis says about work, the KA considers as inappropriate the objections raised by the commercial sector in our islands with regard to the minimum wage, maternity leave, the employment of persons with special needs and the restrictions on sick leave benefit. "
The KA does not agree with the notion of gauging the progress of our islands by how much they have come to resemble other countries. "Unfortunately, any means to reach this end may become justifiable, even the violation of human dignity. Upholding our values and boldly denying any means of human exploitation should be our stance in local and international fora."
The KA believes that Malta should cherish and safeguard those values that have always distinguished it as a nation, "and that local, national, regional and global governments should provide the necessary protection to the vulnerable, especially those who are unable to defend themselves because of their social, physical and psychological condition."
The full position paper can be read here
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Church calls for respect for life at all stages, built environment in new position paper
The Church Environment Commission said human life, in its very early stages, needs to be protected
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Health warning issued on four varieties of chocolate bars
In accordance with the Food Safety Act and Regulation (EC) No. 178 of 2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council and EU Recommendation 2013/647/EU, the Environmental Health Directorate within the Superintendence of Public Health wishes to inform the public that from information received through the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed the following products must not be consumed since they may contain pieces of plastic.
| Product description: | 4 varieties of chocolate bars |
|
Product names: |
Waitrose 1 White Chocolate with Matcha Tea & Pistachio Waitrose 1 Pistachio Milk Chocolate with pistachio, Almond and Hazelnut Waitrose 1 White Chocolate Waitrose 1 Milk Chocolate with Feuilletine & sea salt |
|
Brand: |
Waitrose |
|
Weight: |
85g |
|
Durability date: |
Best Before end: July 2018
|
Since the company involved declared that part of the consignment has been sold, this Directorate is obliged to inform the public of this recall.
For further information, the public is kindly requested to contact the Health Inspectorate Services between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on telephone number 21337333, or by calling personally at its offices at Continental Business Centre, Old Railway Track, Santa Venera or by email mhi@gov.mt. The public is also being invited to access the Directorate's Facebook page at http://ift.tt/17gI9gi or our official website athttp://ift.tt/2cgkKy0 for similar information.
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Trump interviews four for Federal Chair job
A decision will be taken in the next month, the US president says.
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Iraqi military preparing to take control of Kurdish borders
Iraq's military prepared Saturday to take control of the international borders of the northern Kurdish region.
The move is part of the central government's stepped-up efforts to isolate the Kurds following their vote on independence earlier this week.
On Friday evening, Iraq instituted a flight ban that halted all international flights from servicing the territory's airports.
Iraqi troops now in Turkey and Iran are expected to start enforcing control over the border crossings in and out of the Kurdish region, but are not expected to move into Kurdish territory.
Abdul-Wahab Barzani, director of intelligence at the crossing point from the Kurdish region into Turkey, said Iraqi troops are in position on the Turkish side of the border.
"So far they have not contacted us," he told The Associated Press. He said he heard they plan to set up a customs point some 15 meters (16 yards) away on the Turkish side and traffic is expected to continue to be allowed to pass the crossing normally.
The escalation feeds worries in the United States, a close ally of both the Kurds and Baghdad, that the referendum vote could lead to violence, setting off an unpredictable chain of events.
The nonbinding referendum, in which the Kurds voted overwhelmingly in favor of independence from Iraq, will not immediately result in an independent state.
But the vote has set off alarm bells in Baghdad, where the government has said it is determined to prevent a break-up of the country, and in Iraq's neighbors, Iran and Turkey, which fear the vote will fuel similar ambitions among their own significant Kurdish populations.
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Edwin Vassallo declares intention to contest PN deputy leadership elections
PN MP Edwin Vassallo has declared his intention to run for the post of PN Deputy Leader for Parliamentary Affairs.
In a Facebook post, he said that he feels that it is his duty to carry responsibility and help the party, which is calling on him to throw his name in the hat and work for unity, strengthening of the party, and for the party to regain the trust on the people. "I want to do this with God's help and through the trust of the PN paid members.
"This, so that together with my friends in the new administration I would be able to be of help to Adrian Delia, and to the other MPs."
He said that he took this decision following a positive meeting with PN Leader Adrian Delia. Vassallo said that he pledged his loyalty to the party, and said that he is willing to withdraw his interest in the post, if David Agius did the same, "so that Chris Said may put his name forward for the post as had happened in Mario De Marco's case."
Vassallo was the only MP to vote against marriage, which had resulted in him being in the line of fire, but also gained the respect of core Christian voters.
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Edwin Vassallo is to contest deputy leadership election
Vassallo, who made headlines earlier this year when he was the only MP to vote agains the introduction of gay marriage, has already met PN leader Adrian Delia to confirm his decision.
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Parties’ backroom deal on local councils association election dubbed ‘dangerous precedent’
No love lost: Jason Azzopardi levels another dig at PN leader over council association elections
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25 year-old suffers grievous injuries after traffic accident
The incident took place in the early hours of the morning at 4 am.
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Friday, September 29, 2017
‘More people should take up first aid training’ - Commissioner of the St John Rescue Corps
More people should be encouraged to take up first aid training, Commissioner of the St John Rescue Corps Andrew Grech told The Malta Independent.
"There's a lot of interest in first aid, as people keep coming for first aid training. But it's always positive to have a push for this and ensure there are first aiders in different places."
He explained that if one finds himself or herself in a situation where first aid is required, and the person doesn't know what to do, then that could worsen the situation, but could be useful in emergency situations if they are trained.
The PN recently presented a Private Members Bill proposing the introduction of the internationally recognized Good Samaritan Legislation, which the PN hopes would protect good Samaritans.
The PN had explained that people sometimes hold back from assisting persons in need of medical help for fear of doing more harm than good, with the possibility of ending up in court, despite their noble intentions.
PN MP Claudio Grech had explained that the aim of the new legislation would be to protect people who help others against civil and criminal prosecution. However it would not exonerate people who harm others through negligence.
Andrew Grech was asked for the Corps opinion on this Bill. "It is positive that such proposals are being considered, however we still need to discuss this internally and we are still gathering information about it, to see the effects. We have to see how it would be implemented and the final effects before saying whether the proposal is good or not."
He explained that he the PN had invited the St John Rescue Corps to a meeting and the proposal, and reasons for it, was explained to them.
"I would imagine that this kind of proposal does not only affect first aiders, but also doctors and nurses who might be off duty, he said. "If you are unconscious, you cannot ask for a signature authorising an intervention, so professionals sometimes might have the fear of intervening without authorisation."
During the launch of the Private Members Bill, PN MP Therese Comodini Cachia said the proposed law would strengthen civil commitment and protect those who do not turn away from people who need their help. As an example she mentioned teachers who might be required to assist injured students. These people should be rewarded, rather than placed under legal pressure, she said. The law would protect those who help people in need.
The Malta Independent spoke to Malta Union of Teachers president Marco Bonnici, who said that, while the union is still discussing the proposal, and as such does not have a position yet, the principle of protecting first aiders is always good.
He explained that a few years ago, there was never an official first aider post, and the role was taken over by anyone who had first aid training. "But these people were not covered. People feared this since the repercussions are substantial." Cases of parents sending legal letters etc were not unheard of, he said.
"A few years ago we introduced the concept of a health and safety rep in schools, which worked and which didn't work at the same time. The post came about due to certain requirements which weren't covered, such as students with severe allergies, or those who need EpiPens."
"Between us and the Department there is documentation regarding coverage, but if the individual is taken to court we need to ensure the person is safeguarded."
Currently, he said, the arrangement that was meant to be put in place was that there be two first aiders in each school, who would be at teaching grade (could be teachers, LSAs etc.). "An allowance was tied to this and a document between us and the ministry to cover the individual was also drawn up. But the uptake was very low. Aside from the allowance, the probability for the low uptake is that many feared the risks."
He stressed that the document with the ministry covers the individual, but doubts remained whether the first aider would be given the required support in the circumstances, when a parent tries and sues. That element of doubt always remained."
He spoke of the need for legislation to protect first aiders.
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25-year-old grievously injured after crashing into parked van
A 25-year-old youth from San Gwann suffered grievous injuries after crashing into a parked van in St Julian's early this morning.
The incident occurred at 4 am on Mikiel Anġ Borġ street.
The 25-year-old, who was driving a Toyota Tercel, was taken to Mater Dei Hospital. Police investigations are ongoingfrom The Malta Independent http://ift.tt/2x467YF
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Gżira stay unbeaten with a late penalty as Valletta return to winning ways in style
FLORIANA 1
GŻIRA U 1
Floriana: I. Akpan, J. Baldacchino, E. Pepe, E. Ruiz, A. Cini, E. Marcelina, A. Henrique, M. Vella, D. Grima (L. Grech 78'), I. Varela, M. Fontanella
Gżira: J. Haber, G. Muir, S. Diamoutene (L. Brincat 83'), C. Gatt Baldacchino, K. Pulo (J. Corbolan 65'), M. Avila Perez, R. Briffa, A. Cohen, E. Okoye, A. Samb, S. Tounkara
Yellow Cards: M. Avila Perez 43', K. Pulo 53', A. Samb 60' (G), I. Varela 78', J. Baldacchino 87', L. Grech 91' (F)
Red Card: S. Tounkara 84' (G)
Scorers: M. Vella 47' (F), A. Samb 94' pen (G)
Referee: Alan Mario Sant
Assistant Referees: Roberto Vella, Paul Apap
TMI Top 3: 1. M. Vella (F), 2. A. Samb (G), E. Marcelina (F)
BOV Player of the match: Maurizio Vella (Floriana)
Leaders Gżira United stayed unbeaten as they managed to snatch a late goal to finish in a draw against Floriana. Considering that the game was between the first two teams in the table, the match disappointed those present, with very few actions to note especially in the first 45 minutes.
Floriana were more compact in defence, and after they took the lead they seemed to control well their opponents. Coach Giovanni Tedesco protested heavily with the referee after the penalty he awarded, and as things stood, it looked like Floriana had lost the game.
The Italian coach made two changes from their last game as Artur Henrique and Dylan Grima were included in the first eleven. On the other hand, Gżira had only change, as Justin Haber made the debut for Gżira against his former club.
Gżira could have taken the lead after 28 minutes. The Floriana defence failed to clear the danger after Akpan blocked partially the run by Briffa, Samb headed to Samba Tounkara, but the striker failed to hit the ball, in what would have likely been a goal. Six minutes later, Andrew Cohen tried an effort from distance but his shot finished off target.
Floriana broke the deadlock with their first danger in the second minute of the second half, as a bad shot by Dylan Grima in the penalty area, finished in the direction of Maurizio Vella, who had no problem of scoring in a practically empty net.
Floriana seemed to control the game without difficulty as Gżira were failing to mount serious pressure towards Ini Akpan. In fact, fifteen minutes from time, Floriana almost doubled their lead, with a personal action by Maurizio Vella, but Justin Haber was ready to save his low shot.
Ħames minutes later, Okoye tried with a first time shot that finished well off target. To make matters worse, Gżira were reduced to ten men after Samba Tounkara was shown a straight red card by referee Alan Mario Sant after a kicking his feet towards an opponent.
The rhythm of the game stayed the same and Gżira kept trying in their limits to save the game. They managed to get a penalty in the 94th minute, as Alan Mario Sant pointed to the spot after a clear hands ball by Alex Cini. Amadou Samb made no mistake from the spot.
Valletta return to winning ways in style
VALLETTA 3
Birkirkara: P. Schranz, C. Attard (E. Nfor 74'), N. Vukanac, M. Klein, M. Landry, M. Guillaumier (E. Herrera 61'), M. Andelkovic, J. Grech, R. Camenzuli (A. Nilsson 61'), B. de Brito, L, Montebello
Valletta: H. Bonello, S. Borg, R. Camilleri, J. Borg (N. Pulis 69'), J. Zerafa, J. Cruz Gill, C. Pani (M. Piciollo 28'), S. Malano, I. Saleh, M. Mifsud (D. Rocha dos Santos 46'), K. Nwoko
Yellow Cards: M. Landry 23', E. Nfor 84' (B), D. Rocha dos Santos 83' (V)
Scorers: M. Mifsud 12', K. Nwoko 31', D. Rocha dos Santos 62' (V)
Referee: Mario Apap
Assistant Referees: Christopher Francalanza, Peter Abela
TMI Top 3: 1. I. Saleh (V), 2. K. Nwoko (V), 3. J. Borg (B)
BOV Player of the match: Ibrahim Saleh (Valletta)
Attendenza: 2026
Valletta showed their true potential after a shaky start to the season, beating Birkirkara with a resounding 3-0 scoreline that is a mirror of how the game went. Zoran Popovic's team showed more hunger to clinch the three points and looked a different team from the side that lost to Balzan.
Considering the results of other games, this win proved to be a six-pointer for Valletta, as they are now alone in second place, three points under Gżira United. On the other hand, Birkirkara are in a bad spot in the bottom half of the table, nine points after the leaders with only six games played.
Till now, Paul Zammit hasn't managed to turn Birkirkara's fortunes after sacking Peter Pullicino, and after four games in charge, won twice and lost twice. The stripes weren't tought enough as they should be, and were controlled by their opponents.
Valletta showed their intentions from the get going, but Birkirkara created the first danger in the early minutes with a shot by Luke Montebello that finished well over the bar.
The Citizens took the lead on the 12th minute mark thanks to veteran striker Michael Mifsud who made the most out of a mistake by Cain Attard and fired past Philip Schranz after receiving a cross.
Both teams had occasions to score as Birkirkara almost equalised a minute later when Jake Grech had a shot practically cleared off the line after a blunder by Bonello, while Saleh had a shot from an ideal position that finished wide.
Michael Mifsud was dangerous on the left side and on the 18th minute, had a personal action that finished with a diagonal shot but it missed the target. Just before the half hour mark, Valletta were unlucky as a shot from outside the box by Nwoko, was partially saved by Schranz and hit the upright.
But two minutes later, Schranz couldn't do anything as Nwoko connected from a corner by Saleh and hit past the Birkirkara goalkeeper with a fine header.
Birkirkara seemed helpless and also failed to make a proper reaction after the break. To continue Birkirkara's off day, Valletta scored the third goal after the hour mark, just as soon as Paul Zammit introduced Edward Herrera and Alex Nilsson in order to shake things up.
Valletta caught their opponents' defence on one foot as Saleh passed to substitute Denni Rocha dos Santos who advanced and beat Schranz for the third goal, and his first after returning to play in a Valletta shirt.
Birkirkara kept trying to at least reduce the margin, but their attacks weren't dangerous to the Valletta defence and Henry Bonello, as Valletta kept controlling the last part of the game.
Birkirkara only had a shot by de Brito in the last 15 minutes that finished over the bar, while a shot by Kyrian Nwoko in the last moments of the game, also finished off target.
Draw takes Hibernians down a notch
HIBERNIANS 1
NAXXAR LIONS 1
Hibernians: A. Hogg, M. Kreuzriegler, D. Vella, R. Gomes (J. Bezzina), R. Soares, M. Dias, C. Failla, B. Kristensen (J. Degabriele), J. Elias, A. Agius, M. Sahanek
Naxxar L: C. Nicht, S. Fenwick, R. Grech (M. Fenech), D. Falzon (G. Nagaoka), D. Bonnici, J. Debono, D. Bustos (R. Cassar), A. Buhagiar, N. Ousseynou, A. Cascaval, A. Mendy
Referee: S. Spiteri
Asst.refs: J. Spiteri, W. Debattista
4th official: M. Spiteri
Scorers: S. Fenwick 7, J. Elias 26
Yellow cards: R. Gomes, A. Agius, A. Buhagiar, A. Mendy, C. Nicht
Red card: A. Mendy
Player of the match: C. Failla (Hibernians)
TMI top 3: 1. C. Failla 2. D. Falzon 3. A. Hogg
Attendance: 555
Champions Hibernians had to settle for a draw against lowly Naxxar Lions, and drop to fourth place in the standings, overtaken by Valletta.
Hibernians had enough to win the game, after fighting their way back from a goal down, and having two goals disallowed, the second in very controversial circumstances. Still, they did not look clinical enough to down Naxxar who gritted their teeth, stuck out their chest and hung in for the kind of point that is winning them a new sort of admiration, despite playing with ten men for the last quarter hour.
It was just as well Hibernians' defence had some ragged moments of their own in a very open game.
The champions had Marcelo Dias and Rui Gomes back after suspension, but dropped both Jackson Lima and Jurgen Degabriele to the bench, with Dunstan Vella starting in midfield.
Naxxar also had Ndoye Ousseynou returning in the side, keeping cover in front of the defence.
They were the first to take a surprise lead after only seven minutes when Scott Fenwick took advantage of some soft defending by Rui Gomes, on a high ball inside his area, and headed over the onrushing keeper Hogg.
The Lions dropped deeper with the one-goal advantage as the game progressed, inviting Hibernians to attack.
But the champions were struggling to get any meaningful possession. They were strangely lacklustre, offering only a muted response, until they levelled matters midway through the half. Failla had his effort rebounding off the bar and the ball fell invitingly to Jorge Elias to head in from close range.
Past the half hour, Jorge Elias netted again from a Failla free kick but the goal was disallowed for an offside position.
On 37 minutes Hogg produced a smart save off Falzon's powerful shot. And there was more controversy before half time. Naxxar's penalty claims, for Rui Gomes' push on Falzon inside the area, were turned down by the referee, who also ruled out another Hibernians goal, after Vella scored from a Dias cross, because another ball lay inside the Naxxar area, deemed to have been interfering with play.
Soon after the restart, a Falzon meaty free kick was repelled by Hogg.
Indeed Naxxar, with their speedy front pairing of Fenwick and Falzon, looked the likelier to score again.
After a lull in proceedings, Hibernians tried to stir things up with the introduction of Johan Bezzina for Rui Gomes past the hour. Mendes deflected the substitute's free kick into a corner and a Sahanek grounder was blocked by Naxxar keeper Nicht.
Jurgen Degabriele went in for Kristensen but on 76 minutes, Naxxar were down to ten men after Mendy was sent off for a second bookable offence.
The champions increased their efforts, with a Failla free kick held out by the alert keeper Nicht, who also blocked a low Dias effort from inside the area.
Jorge Elias also shot over from a promising position and Dias scuffed the glaring of chances in added time as he blasted the ball over, in front of a gaping goal.
Such wastefulness proved costly for the Paolites at the end.
Balzan leave it late to beat neighbours Lija
BALZAN FC 4
LIJA ATHLETIC 3
Balzan: I. Janjusevic, S. Bezzina, M. Johnson, A. Effiong, U. Ljubomirac, R. Fenech, S. Arab, P. Fenech, C. Brincat (B. Kaljevic), C. Mendes (M. Lepovic), A. Alves (J. Borg)
Lija A: L.Bonnici, P. Babic (P. Borg), L. Muscat, D. Scerri, E. Beu, L. Schembri (A. Galea), A. Borg (C. Cassar), A. Bello Osagie, M. Clinch, O. Sidibe, D. Leeflang
Referee: L. Kopriwa (Luxembourg)
Asst.refs: G. Becker, C. Ries
4th official: S. Pace
Scorers: R. Fenech 11, E. Beu 18, pen, L. Schembri 25, B. Kaljevic 52 pen, 68, A. Bello Osagie 59, A. Effiong 87
Yellow cards: C. Brincat, O. Sidibe, A. Alves, M. Clinch, M. Johnson
Player of the match: L. Schembri (Lija A)
TMI top 3: 1. R. Fenech 2. E. Beu 3. L. Schembri
Balzan left it late to beat neighbours Lija's spirited performance, in a match that proved a roller-coaster and produced plenty of goals and excitement.
This game was played in invigorating, end-to-end style. Beu converted a penalty for Lija, shortly after Balzan had taken an early lead through Ryan Fenech, and Leejoe Schembri gave them a 2-1 lead at halftime.
Kaljevic's second half penalty temporarily restored parity before Bello Osagie again put Lija ahead. But the game turned on its head as Kaljevic and Effiong scored 20 minutes apart, allowing Balzan to win 4-3.
Balzan had Clive Brincat starting instead of the suspended central defender Elkin Serrano but had Paul Fenech back in midfield after suspension. Bojan Kaljevic went in as a second-half substitute and scored two of his side's goals.
Balzan took an early lead after 11 minutes. Ryan Fenech advanced inside the Lija area on a Mendes through pass, beat the onrushing keeper Bonnici before steering the ball into the net.
To their credit, Lija were not demoralised. Beu's pace on the right was always proving problematic for the Balzan defence to cope with and Leejoe Schembri's runs posed questions down the left.
On 18 minutes Brincat was late with his tackle on Beu, as he ran inside the Balzan area on a Bello Osagie through pass, and condeded a penalty. Beu himself placed the ball beyond the keeper's reach to restore equilibrium.
And when, midway through the half, Lee Joe Schembri outpaced Johnson on the left and made progress inside the Balzan area to beat keeper Janjusevic, Lija were surprisingly in front.
Suddenly Balzan were on the back foot. They were forced to make a reaction and carved enough opportunities that could have seen them equalise before the interval.
Effiong had his shot from the right side turned into a corner by the Lija keeper, before Ljubomirac sent an inviting low cross from the right that found nobody to connect to.
On 37 minutes Ljubomirac failed to convert another golden opportunity as he skied the ball from inside the eight-yard box.
Balzan introduced Kaljevic instead of Brincat and reverted to a thee-man defence after the interval.
Ryan Fenech had already tested keeper Bonnici, footing out his powerful drive, before Balzan were awarded a penalty on 52 minutes, for Sidibe's foul on Paul Fenech just inside the Lija area. Bojan Kaljevic stepped up to beat keeper Bonnici and restore parity.
That lasted only seven minutes though. Lija were in front again and the goal arrived at the end of a hallmark passing move, concluded with Schembri picking up Beu with his cut-back cross from the byeline on the left, the ball laid in the path of Abubaker Bello Osagie to finish off with a low drive.
Balzan did not take long to catch up again with their opponents. On 68 minutes, the Lija defence failed to cut Ryan Fenech's cross from the left and Bojan Kaljevic nippedin at the far side to hit his side's equaliser.
Balzan's determined attitude earned them a winner three minutes from normal time. Alfred Effiong headed in Alves' cross to break Lija's hearts.
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