In the Press: Citizen activism brings results for environmental NGOs

Times of Malta

Environmental NGOs and activists rejoice as the Planning Authority unanimously rejects an application for rehabilitation of a quarry and the building of a retirement home in Wied Ghomor, San Gwann. Residents of St Julian’s, Swieqi and San Gwann contributed heavily to the mobolisation of the NGOs involved, including Din L-Art Helwa, Front Harsien ODZ and Front Ambjent Ahjar. Members of these NGOs hope that such events will serve as an example that the people’s voice can be heard and can tilt the balance on issues people feel are important to them.

L-Orizzont

The government’s auditor report will now be put to good use, as a yearly publication initiated this year will be publishing all the recommendations made by the general auditor and explaining how these were handled. This provides assurance to the general public that action is being taken.

In-Nazzjon

Eight members of the police force will be promoted to major as of Monday.   A number of changes are expected to come to the police force in the coming weeks following the resignation of the police commissioner Michael Cassar.

The Malta Independent

Since starting operation in February 2015, the Curia’s Safeguarding Commission has had to deal with a total of 31 cases. 24 risk assessments were concluded while the others were still ongoing by the end of the year. Dealing with issues including sexual, physical and emotional abuse, neglect, bullying and poor practice, however the results of the 27 completed assessments show that 18 of cases were unsubstantiated, three were false, one false with malicious intent and another case was referred to a third party.