Malta’s film industry has generated around €1.5 billion for the national economy over the past eight years and supported more than 15,000 jobs across a wide range of sectors, according to figures published by the Malta Film Commission. In a statement, Film Commissioner Johann Grech said Malta hosted around 200 international productions during this period, resulting in local expenditure of approximately €730 million. He also referred to the approval of the masterplan for the redevelopment of the Malta Film Studios, which he said is expected to lead to significant job creation within the industry. Mr Grech noted that the number of workers in the film sector increased from 300 in 2018 to 1,800 over eight years, with most employed on a continuous basis. He added that for every euro invested by government, four euros were generated, stressing that future efforts will focus on sustainable growth, skills development and competitiveness. (TVM News)
MV Gaudos to Be Taken Out of Service for Month-Long Maintenance
Gozo Channel has announced that the vessel MV Gaudos will be taken out of service for nearly a full month to undergo maintenance at dry docks. The ferry will stop operating from Wednesday 7 January and is expected to return to service on Wednesday 4 February 2026. During this period, Gozo Channel said it will operate a temporary schedule using the remaining vessels in its fleet in order to maintain crossings between Malta and Gozo. The announcement follows recent operational difficulties involving the Gaudos. In the past days, the vessel experienced problems at Ċirkewwa when its loading door failed to open after around two hours of waiting. As a result, vehicles on board were forced to reverse or turn around to exit through the rear door. The company said the maintenance works are necessary to ensure the vessel’s continued reliability and safety. (The Malta Independent)
Petition Calls for Ban on Plastic Bottles and Non-Stick Cookware
A parliamentary petition submitted by Glen Ciantar is calling for legislative action to completely remove plastic bottles and non-stick cookware from the market, citing concerns for public health and environmental protection. Ciantar argued that scientific evidence has confirmed the dangers posed by microplastics and other substances found in plastic bottles and non-stick cooking items. He pointed to an increase in cases of cancer, weakened immune systems and other chronic illnesses, which he said have been linked to prolonged exposure to these materials. With regard to plastic bottles, Ciantar warned that microplastics can leach into drinking water, particularly when bottles are exposed to sunlight or left unused for extended periods. He also raised concerns about non-stick cookware, explaining that toxic substances can be released into food and the air when the coating deteriorates or is exposed to high heat. Ciantar proposed that any such measure should include a transition period for consumers and businesses, alongside public awareness campaigns and the promotion of safer alternatives to plastic. (Newsbook)
