MFSA ordered to pay former COO €414,000 for unfair dismissal
The Malta Financial Services Authority has been ordered to pay nearly €414,000 in damages to a former senior official who was unjustly dismissed by then CEO Joseph Cuschieri. Reuben Fenech, who had served as the authority’s Chief Operations Officer since 2018, took his case to the Industrial Tribunal after being abruptly fired in September 2019. The Tribunal, chaired by Joseph Gerada, found that Fenech’s dismissal was “premeditated” and unfair since Cuschieri did not follow the procedures set out in the Staff Handbook. That was an integral part of the employment contract. The Tribunal concluded that the dismissal was therefore unfair and awarded Fenech €413,688, of which €50,000 are moral damages, payable by the Authority by the end of this year. In a reaction, the Opposition said that the MFSA should seek legal remedies to ensure that the taxpayer is not made to pay for Cuschieri’s actions. (Times of Malta)
Malta, US discuss Med security challenges
Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri met with U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defence, Celeste Wallander, to discuss Malta’s ongoing cooperation with the U.S. on Mediterranean security challenges. They focused on combating organised crime and smuggling, with Camilleri highlighting the Central Mediterranean Security Initiative, a joint effort to boost cooperation and intelligence-sharing. Migration was a key topic, with the minister emphasising Malta’s balanced approach to distinguishing between genuine asylum seekers and those exploiting the system. (Maltatoday)
Fast ferry service to increase trips
Authorities have announced improvements to the fast ferry service between Malta and Gozo, including more frequent trips and a year-round schedule starting 1 October. Following discussions with operators, the government will invest €1.3 million to maintain a fixed schedule. There will also be an increase in trips between Valletta’s Grand Harbour and Mġarr Harbour in Gozo. Transport Minister Chris Bonett described the decision as a reflection of the government’s commitment to enhancing sea transport since the service’s launch three years ago. (The Malta Independent)
