Engineering Board Resignations Raise Alarm Over Professional Standards
Two members of Malta’s Engineering Profession Board have resigned just hours before discussions were due to begin on processing warrant applications from MCAST engineering graduates, warning that the move risks lowering professional standards. Arthur Ciantar and Samuel Bonanno, both affiliated with the Malta Association of Professional Engineers, raised serious concerns about granting warrants to graduates from courses that remain unaccredited under European standards. They questioned whether sufficient lessons had been learnt following the death of construction worker Jean Paul Sofia in 2022, warning that weakened safeguards could have tragic consequences. Both engineers stressed that accreditation by a body recognised by the European Network for Accreditation of Engineering Education is essential to protect public safety and the integrity of the profession, adding that inconsistent decisions could expose board members and warrant holders to serious responsibility in the event of future incidents. (Times of Malta)
Din l-Art Ħelwa Tables €2.5m Offer to Secure Fort Tigné
Din l-Art Ħelwa – National Trust for Malta has formally offered €2.5 million to match the terms of a promise of sale agreement for the temporary emphyteusis of Fort Tigné, following widespread public concern over its potential redevelopment. The offer was made directly to MIDI plc after the company announced an agreement to sell the lease to J. Portelli Projects Ltd. The NGO said its proposal reflects a broad national sentiment that converting the historic fort into a hotel would be inappropriate, echoing remarks by the Prime Minister that such a use would be “obscene”. Executive President Patrick Calleja described the offer as serious and straightforward, noting that the government has indicated openness to alternative, culturally sensitive uses for the site that respect its historical value. (The Malta Independent)
Births Slightly Outnumber Deaths as Popular Names Remain Unchanged
The Malta Public Registry recorded 4,368 births, 4,176 deaths and 2,240 marriages across Malta and Gozo in 2025, according to the latest official figures. Boys accounted for a slight majority of births, with 2,243 boys and 2,125 girls registered. Malta recorded 4,028 births, while Gozo accounted for 340. Noah and Emma remained the most popular names nationally, alongside Luca and Matteo for boys, and Emilia and Leah for girls. In Gozo, Ellie, Valentina and Mia featured prominently. For the fourth consecutive year, traditional Maltese names Ġanni and Luċija also remained in use. Identity Agency CEO Edric Zahra said continued digital investment is improving efficiency and ensuring vital civil services remain accessible and reliable for citizens. (Maltatoday)
