Malta Chamber of SMEs

Traffic situation unacceptable – crisis needs immediate action

Posted on 12.10.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

The traffic situation has become unbearable and unacceptable. The GRTU Malta Chamber of SMEs has been inundated by members’ concerns from across widespread business sectors that the alarming situation is not just one of frustration and

tardiness, but profitability and competitiveness. Justifications

related to infrastructure and discussing long-term possibilities have long expired.

GRTU Malta Chamber of SMEs and its members have invested time and resources to consult, discuss

and put forward proposals to the authorities responsible for transport and traffic management.

Proposals that have time and time again been left on the shelf. GRTU’s approach was always to discuss

around the table but this has not achieved anything close to desired results of improvement.

The situation is affecting business across the board and the lack of effective planning and effective

implementation are resulting in each and every one of us paying the price. Chauffeur-driven transport is

choosing not to operate during specific peak times, transport and delivery costs are plummeting due to

inefficiencies caused by heavy traffic, customers are giving up driving to go shopping, and workers are

becoming less efficient per day of work due to time wasted in traffic.

The expectation for drivers and businesses to be patient with the traffic situation and accept the status quo should not even be considered. Tangible actions need to be taken imminently.

GRTU is calling for the authorities to take immediate action. Immediate action points to alleviate the

traffic crisis:

1. Private Collective Transport – Free for all schools, organised transport for all government

employees and immediate outlay of incentives for employers to organise private collective

transport for their own workers.

2. Enforcement Overhaul – Local Wardens and TM Officials need to be brought hand-in-hand with

traffic police. Aim of giving out fines needs to be completely and irreversably replaced with

coordinating and assisting traffic at all times but more surely during peak traffic. Emergency

teams need to be closer to peak areas to immediately address any traffic collisions with

minimum impact on flow of traffic. Smart application of intelligent transport systems such as

traffic lights and screens which are currently either under-utilised, used to fine, or deteriorating

rather than supporting traffic, need to be enhanced and adapted to support and manage traffic

flows . A Crisis Traffic Team needs to be set up to take immediate action, monitor daily if need

be, implement decisions and review decisions according to traffic impact and situation.

3. Change in Attitude for Public works and Closures – Projects with national impact such as the

Kappara Junction Project need to have works undertaken round-the-clock without further

excuses. This project is a major burden on traffic and every hour wasted from its completion is a

disservice to the country. There is so much work that can be undertaken during the night and

weekends to reduce the overall detailed project timeplan, which to date has not yet been

provided to GRTU. Zero allowance of public/maintenance works or part-/full- closures by any

public entity to allow permits during peak hours.

4. Immediate implementation of Car Parks/Park and Ride options – GRTU has been pushing for

under-utilised areas to be used as park and ride zones offering key parking areas and shuttle

service towards hub areas, such as the Gzira Stadium. Car Park development need to be

incentivised and given priority and Planning Authority level.

5. Shift towards staggering hours, online services, work-from-home and flexitime –government has

to lead by example. Departments across the board need to imminently adapt a work-from-home

approach during specific hours and staggering working times of employees. It cannot be

sustainable for everyone to drive towards Valletta at the same time because this is what has

always been done.

GRTU Malta Chamber of SMEs is calling for immediate actions that can in any way alleviate or mitigate

traffic. This situation is seriously effecting operation and merely accepting that school has started is not

enough. GRTU shall be seeking to address this matter immediately directly with the Prime Minister.

Issued for immediate release – 8th October 2016

GRTU dubs reformed warden system a cosmetic exercise – calls on decision-makers to go back to drawing board

Posted on 19.08.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

GRTU Malta Chamber of SMEs calls for an urgent overhaul of the local enforcement system. Despite wide consultation in 2014 and updates to the law to establish the Local Enforcement System Agency (LESA), the sorry situation remains unchanged.

This is reflected in the lack of consideration to those working on the road to conduct deliveries or transport passengers, amongst others. Productivity is already affected by growing traffic and lack of parking. Irrational fines continue to hinder rather than improve the situation.

The starting point for devising and implementing enforcement needs to be based on the reality of those whose livelihood depends on the road, where a regular day for delivering perishable goods or driving tourists to catch their flight, are such that traffic causes constant delays. Delivery-persons conduct difficult goods-carrying work often in undesirable weather conditions in both summer and winter. The service needs to be effected as close to destination as possible. In a constant battle against time, local wardens need to be there to support and not to reap on the traffic and parking situation by issuing of senseless fines.

GRTU reiterates that even though parking abuse needs to be addressed, the lack of parking spaces and the related exigencies should not be abused of by wardens to issue fines irrationally. Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) and Gozo Business Chamber have accused wardens of ‘irrational decisions’ over Santa Marija weekend. There needs to be serious consideration of the impact of such approach in terms of tourism and competitiveness. Blatant issuing of fines in what is possibly the busiest day for external and internal tourism alike in Gozo is insensitive to say the least.

Solutions need to be found on a broad level and to this extent GRTU welcomes Transport Malta’s move towards setting out a Master Plan and Transport Strategy for the whole country, to which GRTU has put forward a document with concrete proposals. This however does not tally with how the local enforcement system is operating in practice.

Being flexible and practical are key. Whilst abuse should not be tolerated, parking for a few minutes in places where there is no inconvenience or obstacle should be allowed and guided by local wardens rather than fined. Unloading and boarding bays need to be respected.

We should look at a system which educates first-time offenders and punishes frequent offenders. The private operator needs to invest in training of those engaged in wardens to communicate effectively, educate and give directions instead of simply issuing fines, which is at times accompanied by arrogance. Local wardens need to understand the importance of their role when aiding during traffic diversions and road closures and have to be seen acting accordingly.

Most of all setting up of agencies that control enforcement needs to be tied with government self-financing rather than leaving it up to the operation itself to finance the authority or enforcement. Enforcement cannot be driven by the need to collect funds but rather towards understanding, educating and ultimately improving the situation. The goal is not to issue more fines, but to provide a better service to the community.

This matter shall be presented with specific measures in GRTU’s proposals for the upcoming National Budget.

An ever-improved fair through GRTU Malta Chamber of SMEs and Fiera il-Kbira agreement

Posted on 01.07.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

An agreement of cooperation signed between GRTU Malta Chamber of SMEs and Il-Fiera l-Kbira promises successful organization of the nation-wide fair. The aim of the collaboration focuses on improving quality and standards whilst reflecting evolving practice that can serve business exposure and benefit consumers alike.

The long-term agreement is an echo of collaboration in the past years between fair organizers and GRTU as an organization representing the interest of businesses. GRTU’s involvement is set to upstage an already prominent important event on Malta’s commercial calendar with plans to solidify the fair and ensure that its full adherence to regulations and improved level of quality give an even better showcase to consumers in the years to come.

GRTU President Paul Abela stated that “it was important for GRTU to safeguard the interest of its many members exhibiting at the Fiera l-Kbira and thanks to GRTU’s intervention a significant amount of resources invested, both in terms of time and money, have been saved from waste and harm to business. Fairs serve an essential economic purpose and are an important platform, especially for the smaller businesses seeking increased exposure to the consumer.”

The management of il-Fiera l-Kbira said that although the fair has always been controlled by several rules and regulations, formal collaboration with an organization with the standing of GRTU will directly result in the strengthening of quality and standards, increasing the success of the fair for the benefit of everyone involved.

Just like the previous two editions, this third edition of il-Fiera l-Kbira is expected to attract a crowd of over 100,000 visitors.

The Fiera l-Kbira will be held at Montekristo Estate between the 7th and 17th of July 2016.

GreenMT Council Awards 2016

Posted on 30.06.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

Green MT, the National Authorised Packaging Waste Compliance Scheme has held its annual Council Awards under the patronage of the Hon. Minister for Sustainable Development, the Environment and Climate Change, Jose Herrera and the Hon. Stefan Buontempo, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government.

The Green Council Awards have entered into their sixth year and nine awards were this year given to Local Councils, Schools, Industry Operators,

and individuals who have distingushed themselves in the sector of waste separation and final recycling.

In 2015, Green MT has managed to collect 4986 tons of recyclable waste from across 28 towns and villages in Malta and Gozo. More than three-quarters of that waste came from household waste collection, with 21.6 per cent collected at bring-in sites. Green MT manages 41 grey bag collections each week from these localities. As of 2015, Green MT has also started the glass bottles and glass container collection and has managed to collect and recycle 257 tons.

Addressing the Green Council Awards, GREEN Mt CEO, Mr Joe Attard explained that each tonne costs the Scheme anything €120 in Malta and €217 in Gozo. Mr. Attard said that “sustainability in this sector can be ensured if the law obliges residents to separate at home”

GRTU Vice President and Green Mt Director Marcel Mizzi said that GRTU is committed to ensure the proper implementation of the extended Poluter Pays Principle according to various EU Environemnt Directive. Mr. Mizzi continued that GRTU is a main stakeholder and on behalf of it’s members, it must be involved in every decision taken on waste management.

The winners of the Green Council Awards are:

OVERALL BEST PERFORMING LOCAL COUNCIL

• Ta’ Xbiex – (inġabru 239 tunnellata – 87 kg per capita)

• Imġarr, Malta – (inġabru 223 tunnellata – 61 kg per capita)

• Mellieħa – (inġabru 607 tunnellati – 60 kg per capita)

AWARD FOR INDIVIDUAL COMMITMENT TO RECYCLING

• Is-Sur Mario Calleja – Sindku ta’ Marsaskala

OUTSTANDING COLLEGE OF THE YEAR AWARD

• St Ignatius College, Luqa Primary

RECYCLING BUSINESS YEAR AWARD

• Simonds Farsons Cisk

LOCAL COUNCIL IMPROVEMENT AWARD

• Imtarfa

BEST PERFORMANCE GLASS COLLECTION

• Siġġiewi

MOST SUPPORTIVE LOCAL COUNCIL

• San Pawl l-Baħar

Kappara Junction Project Progresses – GRTU follows closely as Vjal ir-Rihan Traffic Management is amended

Posted on 30.06.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

The Kappara Junction Project has registered progress as diversion and alternate routes have been upgraded and improved in preparation for excess traffic that would be using such roads during the more rigorous phases of the project where actual works will be undertaken at the Kappara Junction itself.

Works have included widening of roads such as in Swieqi Valley, amended traffic diversions to support a circular traffic flow such as at Gzira strand, as well as upgrading of road infrastructure. During the month of June, Transport Malta has implemented new traffic management at Vjal ir-Rihan San Gwann. This route is to be utilised as one of the major diversion routes for traffic once Kappara Junction will be partially or fully closed during works.

GRTU has followed business needs closely during this change whereby better implementation and support to commuters was necessary. The business community in San Gwann has been in constant communication with GRTU. GRTU has managed to safeguard interests of retail outlets by convincing the authorities to install adequate un/loading bays in the area as well as introducing timed parking to ensure customers find adequate parking facilities in the vicinity. Moreover it is expected that in a few weeks time, when major works are undertaken at the Kappara Junction and further closures are effected in other zones, traffic will increase drastically resulting in more business in the outlets of the effected area.

GRTU continues with its proposals and communication with businesses and government on this project in order to ensure that business interests are safeguarded. The GRTU Transport Lobby Group represents business operators related to the passenger and goods transport and logistics sector. The Lobby Group continues to offer its on-the-ground expertise in order to put forward proposals and mitigate possible pitfalls. On the other hand, GRTU continues supplying direct information to business outlets in the effected zones to ensure that their interests are safeguarded as much as possible during the months ahead as the project progresses.

The next immediate step is that of Sliema Road partial closures and related works. GRTU is in contact with its members in the area in order to ensure a smooth transition. GRTU is gathering information and suggestions from businesses in the effected area and surroundings to be able to fully represent business interests and ensure that any measures to mitigate such effects are taken in full by government and respective authorities. For further information you are kindly asked to contact GRTU on 79232884 or 21232881.

GRTU supports the 2nd edition of ‘Servizz bi Tbissima’

Posted on 30.06.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

A press conference was held at MCCAA to inaugurate ‘Servizz bi Tbissima’ The Service with a smile award’ that will also be extended to the best online service.

This award is organized by the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA). The aim of this competition is to recognize those shops that offer good service and strive to improve the relationship between consumers and retailers. At the same time promote good business practices.

Addressing the conference, Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties Hon. Helena Dalli said that following the positive experience of last year, this year another category will be added where consumers will have the opportunity to reward business that offer good service online.

Director-General within the MCCAA Joyce Borg explained how apart from ensuring law enforcement amongst business, the Authority also conducts online action to ensure that sales and purchases online are efficient. Thus consumers have the peace of mind that these sales methods are in accordance with the GRTU supports the 2nd edition of ‘Servizz bi Tbissima’ law. GRTU Vice President Marcel Mizzi praised the initiative and said that the GRTU strongly supports this award. He mentioned how GRTU insisted that the application should be accessed and submitted online to make the application process easier. Mr Mizzi expressed the importance of the Maltese businesses using online platforms and said that in the coming days a financial scheme will be launched to help and encurage business owners to start selling over the internet.

In this second edition, consumers will play a key role in choosing the winner through online voting on the MCCAA Facebook page as well as through the website.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony that will be held in October.

Nomination forms along with more details about this award can be accessed at: www.mccaa.org.mt

Loading & Unloading of Containers: a much needed clarification

Posted on 30.06.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

GRTU has recently insisted with the Department of Local Government for a clear policy to be introduced in relation to the loading and unloading of containers.

The issue relates to containers being loaded and unloaded within Localities as opposed to the Hal Far Groupage Complex. GRTU has been advocating the principle that traders had every right to request permission to place a container within a Locality as long as the entire contents of the container were to be delivered to the same recipient.

Containers carrying groupage are strictly to be unloaded at the Hal Far Groupage Complex in terms of the Motor Tractors Regulations.

Until recently, the practice to load or unload a container outside one’s warehouse consisted of simply obtaining a permit from the Local Council offices in that locality.

Nonetheless in recent months members complained that certain Local Councils were refusing to issue permits for placing containers outside their premises temporarily in order to load or unload their contents. The issue revolved around conflicting interpretations of two pieces of legislation: the Motor Tractors Regulations and the Activities Requiring Permits by Local Councils Regulations.

This has left many traders fuming after being unable to carry out their commercial activities and moreover being served with contraventions to appear in Court charged with having containers parked on the street without the necessary permits.

After analyzing the existing regulations, GRTU’s legal department asked the Director for Local Government from the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government to confirm the GRTU’s interpretation which was eventually confirmed by virtue of two circulars that finally clarified the matter.

Members are therefore being made aware of the correct procedure for placing containers outside their premises:

Containers still loaded on their trailers simply require a Police Permit from the local district office. They do not require a permit from the Local Council. A Police Permit will always be given under the following conditions: (1) that no road is obstructed; (2) that no inconvenience to neighbours is caused; and (3) that no garages are obstructed.

Containers that have been removed from their trailers and placed on the street do not require a Police Permit. The trader however will have to obtain a Local Council permit. Permits for temporarily placing containers on the street from Local Councils cost €35.00 for a twenty-foot container and €70.00 for a forty-foot container.

GRTU requests MCESD meeting following BREXIT vote

Posted on 30.06.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

Following Britain’s referendum result at the end of June, GRTU Malta Chamber of SMEs President Paul Abela has requested a meeting of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development for Government and social partners to plan together a way forward in a context of an EU without Great Britain.

There is definitely an expected impact for the political and economic reality of the European Union and developments have to be followed closely. The political setting in Great Britain is also moving fast with resignations from PM David Cameron and with lead EXIT campaigners now refraining from taking leadership in a possible post-BREXIT United Kingdom whilst calls for Scottish Independence resurface.

Nonetheless whilst following these developments closely, our focus should only remain on Malta’s own positive economic momentum. There should not be any alarm bells but rather maintain Malta’s economic growth and identify opportunities in this new setting. This was Paul Abela’s first reactions to a MEUSAC Core Group meeting held days after the British vote.

Launch of a New Code of Practice for Outlets serving Alcohol

Posted on 30.06.201608.09.2020 by SME Chamber

A new Code of Practice for outlets serving alcoholic beverages was launched amid calls for a more inclusive social responsibility to promote common welfare.

The new code replaces the one introduced 15 years ago and is the result of collaboration between The Sense Group, the Institute for Tourism Studies

(ITS), the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA), the GRTU Malta Chamber of SMEs and the Malta Bartenders Guild (MBG).

The new code introduced for the first time concerns the element of binge-drinking and lays out guidelines on how to deal with people who would have exceeded legal drink limits.

Outlets which serve alcoholic beverages for consumption on premises contribute to social well-being by providing venues for socialising and entertainment. It is for this reason that outlets serving alcoholic beverages acknowledge their social responsibility through these ethical guidelines.

These outlets must:

Only promote legal consumption of alcohol;
Not serve alcoholic beverages to any person below the legal drinking age. If a bartender or serving staff is in doubt as to the age of the purchaser, proof of age should be requested and ascertained;
Not serve alcoholic beverages to known alcoholics. Serving staff should make an effort to identify negative behaviour that is related to alcoholism and aim at preempting issues that may arise as a result of excessive consumption of alcohol;
Not serve alcohol to anyone who has clearly exceeded the legal drink driving limit and is identified to have the intention to drive afterwards. In such cases they shall offer alternative non-alcoholic beverages and advise clients to either seek passage home with someone who is within the legal limits or, either takes public transport or a taxi. Bartenders should take the initiative in such instances and offer to make the necessary arrangements themselves;
Manage intoxicated, antisocial or disruptive clients with safe removal from the premises. It is very important that all members of staff immediately inform management or supervisor on duty, to take control and address any problematic client/s, as this can easily turn into a bad situation if not handled properly;
Be responsible for the safety of their clients, when trying out new trend of recipes, or creating new recipes making sure that they are aware of any ingredients and allergic reactions that may cause to their clients;

During the launch Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis said that the European Union had been had been discussing issues relating to the consumption of alcohol for a number of years.

“The EU has actively worked with a number of institutions and industry representatives in order to increase awareness and introduce best practices towards establishing a responsible and updated policy regarding the consumption of alcohol.