Updated 1145
Disability quota for employers widely ignored: Nearly half (48%) of companies required to employ at least 2% of workers with disabilities are failing to meet the quota, opting instead to pay a financial contribution capped at €10,000. Although the law mandates this employment for firms with over 20 staff, many find the penalty more convenient. The fixed contribution, €2,400 per missing hire, disproportionately benefits larger employers, making non-compliance financially insignificant. This system undermines the law’s intent, as larger companies can bypass the quota with minimal cost. The funds collected go to JobsPlus to support the Lino Spiteri Foundation, which promotes sustainable employment for persons with disabilities.
Elizabeth Ellul to chair board responsible for permits in UCA and Gozo: Veteran planner Elizabeth Ellul has been appointed chair of the Planning Commission handling permits in Urban Conservation Areas and Gozo’s development zones. Previously removed from overseeing permits outside development zones in 2020 amid controversy, she had served in a low-profile role sanctioning minor irregularities. Ellul, known for her deep planning knowledge and links to the controversial ODZ policy, has faced criticism over past decisions and potential conflicts of interest. The Planning Authority also announced it is expanding its commissions from three to four to tackle over 5,000 pending applications, aiming to improve efficiency, legal compliance, and public trust by ensuring permit cases are heard within 15 days.
Morning Briefing
Archbishop announces memorial mass, book of condolences for departed Pope
Archbishop Charles Scicluna has described the late Pope Francis as direct, disciplined, and witty. Speaking
after the Pope’s death on Monday, Scicluna invited the public to a memorial Mass at St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta this evening 6:30 p.m. A book of condolences will also be available at the Apostolic Nunciature in Tal-Virtù, Rabat. Though Pope Francis appeared frail during Easter Sunday, Scicluna said his passing was still a shock. “He quickly understood people and expected bishops to lead by example, stay committed, and keep their word,” he said. Archbishop Scicluna said Pope Francis’s style highlighted the joy of Christ’s message and that his legacy would be better understood with time. He added that the Pope’s visit to Malta was deliberate, reflecting his special regard for the Maltese people. (Times of Malta)
Francis Zammit Dimech passes away
Francis Zammit Dimech, former MP, minister, and currently Malta’s acting president, passed away on Monday after a period of illness. He was 70. Opposition leader Bernard Grech announced his passing on social media describing him as a “gentleman politician” who dedicated decades of service to the nation. Grech praised Zammit Dimech’s unwavering commitment, saying he faced every challenge with resolve and always approached problems with a smile.Born in October 1954 and hailing from St Julian’s, Zammit Dimech had a long-standing political career with the Nationalist Party. First elected in 1987, he was successfully returned to parliament in every general election until 2017.
Concern as University chops part-time lecturers
The University of Malta’s Academic Staff Association (UMASA) expressed concern over the university’s decision to cut part-time lecturers, which will reduce the number of elective study-units available to students. In a statement, UMASA said it shared student group SDM’s worries about the negative impact this move could have on course quality. The association emphasized that electives are essential for offering students a well-rounded education, aligning with their interests while ensuring national expertise across various fields. Cutting these options, UMASA argued, undermines both course diversity and academic standards. (The Malta Independent)
