Sunday Circle Issue 218

www.sundaycircle.com

FEBRUARY 2013 – ISSUE NO. 218

Feature An UnEASY MArriAgE

INTERVIEW

IN BETWEEN TAKES Marama Corlett on her life as a professional actress

By Katryna Storace Photos by Alexandra Pace see page 10

The ChurCh AND MAlTese PoliTiCs

ToDAy

By Philip Leone-Ganado see page 53

Mario DE MARCO Exclusive

He has helped boost tourism, reformed state censorship and cemented his reputation as one of the PN’s most reliable assets – but will this be enough when the people take to the polls in March?

PLUS

Why do rape victims suffer in silence?

By Martina Said – see page 27

JU W M IN EI A RA LU H X wi D B UR th U E Y RO AC HO se C B e p S A H LID ag T H AY e 3 RA I O 5 V TE EL L

By Katryna Storace -§- Photos by Steve Muliett see page 18

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contents

INTERVIEWS

RElaTIoNShIpS

Marama Corlett tells Katryna Storace about the highs and lows of being a professional actress and sharing the stage with Keira Knightley

In an age where technology and speed dictate our every move, Martina Said asks if we still have time to be romantic

10 In Between takes

18 at the Crossroads

Minister Mario de Marco speaks to Katryna Storace on his running for a third term with the Nationalist Party, past achievements and what lies ahead

18

24 a tIme for Change

49 the PerfeCt smIle

Dental and Implant surgeon Jean Paul Demajo on how to replace multiple missing teeth

65 the safe aPProaCh to

50 the elder statesman

Consultant plastic surgeon Raymond Debono on what to look out for when considering cosmetic surgery

CRIME

27 the greatest sIlenCe

Rape is one of the greatest crimes against women.

Martina Said finds out why most victims continue to suffer in silence

TRaVEl

32 destInatIon duBaI

We take a look at some of the greatest hotspots in Dubai and shed a spotlight on the luxurious Jumeirah Beach Hotel, offering a five-star holiday of a lifetime with Sunday Circle and ROCS Travel

27

hEalTh & bEauTy

Labour Party candidate Chris Cardona tells Katryna Storace the time to turn over a new political leaf is well overdue

Minister Francis Zammit Dimech tells Philip LeoneGanado why – with over two decades of parliamentary experience – he is still relevant

41

41 the way we were

58

PlastIC surgery

SoCIETy

53 an uneasy marrIage

Philip Leone Ganado asks whether it is legitimate to question where the Church’s influence on Maltese politics is actually originating

MuSIC

58 on an Island

French musicians Stanley Brinks and Clemence Freschard talk to Katryna Storace about their music and their affinity with Malta

REGulaRS

2 a word from the edItor 4 C Body | 6 C style | 8 PaParazzI | 63 C hotsPot

ShoppING

46 BuBBly, sweet & sexy | 67 style and teChnology | 69 PaInt It red | 71 CIrCle Cares | 72 food & drInk

COMPETITIONS* 35 TRaVEl CoMpETITIoN

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Send your letterS to: Sandra Aquilina, the editor, Sunday Circle, Network Publications Ltd, Level 2, Angelica Court, Guzeppi Cali Street, Ta’ Xbiex, XBX 1425, or email: sandra@ networkpublications.com.mt. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and where space is limited. For advertising enquiries email: renee@networkpublications.com.mt or call: 2131 6326/7/8. Artworks should be sent to: natalie@networkpublications.com.mt. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole, or in part, is strictly prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed in the Sunday Circle are not necessarily those of the editor or publishers. All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor and publishers cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome, but cannot be returned without a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The editor is not responsible for material submitted for consideration. The Sunday Circle is printed by Progress Press and distributed free with The Sunday Times on the first Sunday of every month.

A word from the editor With all the talk surrounding the upcoming election, the time seems ripe to take stock.

We must look back before we can start to look ahead towards what the future holds in store. Whether questioning the future of the relationship between the Church and local politics, or musing on whether romance is a thing of the past – or talking to those rape victims who are eternally haunted by a past that threatens their futures. Also at the proverbial crossroads, it seems, is Dr de Marco, who features on our front cover this month. With a successful stint in office behind him, he is now running for another

term – but not without recognising the need for retrospection and change. Or Dr Francis Zammit Dimech, who still sees his relevance in Malta’s future – and Dr Chris Cardona, for whom change is not only imminent but also vital. The time for change is upon us all, not least us here at Sunday Circle. This is not without an element of the nostalgic and bittersweet, of course. From the past, however, we salvage that which has made us what we are today – and, in earnest, hold dear those who have passed on the knowledge and wisdom to allow us to carry the baton into the future.

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FEBRUARY 2013 – ISSUE NO. 218

Feature An UnEASY MArriAgE

INTERVIEW

IN BETWEEN TAKES Marama Corlett on her life as a professional actress

By Katryna Storace Photos by Alexandra Pace see page 10

The ChurCh AND MAlTese PoliTiCs

ToDAy

By Philip Leone-Ganado see page 53

Mario DE MARCO Exclusive

He has helped boost tourism, reformed state censorship and cemented his reputation as one of the PN’s most reliable assets – but will this be enough when the people take to the polls in March?

PLUS

Why do rape victims suffer in silence?

By Martina Said – see page 27

JU W M IN EI A RA LU H X wit D B UR h U E YH RO AC O se C B e p S A H LID age T R I HO AY 35 A VE TE L L

By Katryna Storace -§- Photos by Steve Muliett see page 18

COVER PHOTO Steve Muliett PHOTOGRAPHER

John Mizzi ART DIRECTION

PUBLISHER John Formosa Network Publications Ltd PUBLICATION & SALES MANAGER Renée Micallef Decesare

EDITORIAL Katryna Storace EDITOR

Martina Said ASSISTANT EDITOR

Philip Leone-Ganado ASSISTANT EDITOR

ART & DESIGN John Mizzi

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Sunday Circle | February 2013

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Sunday Circle |February 2013

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1: Rodney G. Galea, Simon D'Agostino, Penelope Ciangura, Lewis Hamilton, Alfred Ellul Galea and Ian Ciangura

2: Rebecca Vassallo, Charles Mifsud, Franco Galea, Daniel Grech, John Degiorgio, Paul Ellul, Tania Farrugia, Rachel Hyzler, & Geoffrey Farrugia

3: Yvonne Young, Sarah Young & Joe Young

4: Jo Caruana & Colin Fitz

5: Dorianne Zarah, Claire Sammut, Nicky Cassar & James Cassar

• 1: Presentation of a glass memento, handmade by Phoenician Glass to F1 driver Lewis Hamilton by the McLaren F1 Club Malta.

• 2: Golden Gate and Shireburn Software held a light buffet lunch to launch their e-store at the Radisson Blu Resort, St Julians on 17 January.

• 3-7: Sarah Young hosted a reception to launch the re-brand of 'I Do' Weddings at Temptasian, The Palace, Sliema on 13 January.

• 8-10: Wjcon make.it together with Beauty Inc. held the official opening of Wjcon Malta, Birkirkara on 18 January.

• 11-12: Marco Muscat hosted a party to launch the opening of Dario's Wine, Dine, Lounge at The Strand, Sliema in January. * For inclusion in Circle Paparazzi contact Marisa Schembri on marisa@networkpublications.com.mt ** For more Paparazzi photos log onto www.sundaycircle.com

11: Paul Bonnici, Marco Muscat & Gordana Perovic

12: Marco Muscat, Daniel Farrugia, Mykill Cini, Darren Casha & Victor Fenech

10: Monique Chambers, Sue Caruana & Bianca Darmanin

9: Sue Caruana, Carmine Di Ciccio & Carina Camilleri

6: Nicole Bulawa, Rachel Pisani, Sarah Young, Lisa Galea

7: Rene Rossignaud, Jo Caruana & Paul Parker

8: Wjcon make-up artists with Carmine Di Ciccio & Marisa Ciappara in the centre.

IntervIew

10 Sunday Circle | February 2013

IntervIew

IN BETWEEN TAKES

MaraMa Corlett has shared the stage with Keira Knightley, played a KleptoManiaC in sinbad and will star alongside angelina Jolie. she speaKs to Katryna storaCe about the highs and lows of life as a professional aCtress Photography by Alexandra Pace

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 11

IntervIew Her big break came through a friend of hers, who directed her to Maltese casting director, Edward Said, while working as a dancer in London. “I wrote to him expressing my interest in acting. He was kind enough to look through my CV and a few months later gave me a shot at my first audition for The Devil’s Double being filmed in Malta. That’s pretty much how it all began.”

M

arama was born and raised in Malta, and has fond memories of her childhood as one of four girls. One of her dearest childhood memories is that of travelling to New Zealand with her family.

“My dad is a Kiwi, so my parents would save up all their money for about five years at a time and take us all to visit our grandparents out there. My dad would rent a van and drive us all over New Zealand.

We would buy ready-made chicken, stop in front of some Lord of the Rings-type scenery and chill... Now that we all work and have different schedules, we haven’t managed to go there together again since we were teenagers.”

Growing up with four sisters – she admits – hasn’t always been easy, and household squabbles while they were teenagers were common. “But now that we’ve grown up, we’re really close – my sisters are one of the most important things to me. We’re also all pursuing creative paths, which brings us closer too.”

I was always a bit of a dreamer but at some point you just have to sum up whether or not your dream is important enough to you and if it’s worth chasing As a young girl, Marama Corlett dreamt of becoming a ballerina in Russia. Life, however, would have it differently. After packing her bags and moving to London to pursue a dancing career, Marama “fell” into acting.

Before long, she had landed herself parts in some major international productions, both on screen and on the stage. And this is just the beginning. With some exciting projects lined up in the near future, her acting career is gaining momentum.

12 Sunday Circle | February 2013

How important was it for her to venture out and follow her dreams? “I was always a bit of a dreamer but at some point you just have to sum up whether or not your dream is important enough to you and if it’s worth chasing,” she says. “I did some travelling around Europe for a year before moving to London, which gave me a lot of time to think over what I wanted to do with my life... In the end you’ve just got to pack your bags and go for it.”

So far, the risk has paid off. Aside from The Devil’s Double, Marama has also appeared in the acclaimed TV series, Sinbad, as well as her West End debut in The Children’s Hour, alongside Keira Knightely. In the pipeline are two exciting film projects, Maleficent – which features Angelina Jolie in the title role – and Desert Dancer, based on the true life story of an Iranian dancer.

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IntervIew

Having invested all her energy in a ballet career, and lacking any formal training as an actor, why the sudden transition into acting?

“I always felt that I lacked a voice in ballet and very much desired to have one, both literally and figuratively, in my work... Unfortunately, unless you are a prima ballerina, you don’t get much freedom or say in creative decisions,” she says.

That said, however, she misses the medium of ballet “terribly”.

“But it doesn’t mean I don’t get to use my ballet skills in acting jobs,” she adds. “For example, in Sinbad, it was definitely a plus having a background in dance, as I had to do all my own stunts.”

me and I was over the moon when I got the part. Shooting in Malta was just a wonderful coincidence.”

She plays the part of Rina – a street-wise, compulsive thief, with a penchant for shiny objects. Are there any similarities between herself and her character? “Well... I’m not a kleptomaniac in real life, which is a good thing,” says Marama. “I like to think of myself as an independent, tough kid, like Rina – although she is a lot braver than I am.”

positive. “The play was on for six months and because of the well-known cast involved, the theatre was pretty much sold out every day,” she says. “This made the experience all the more electric.” Fortunately there was good chemistry between the cast members, on and off stage. And working so closely with Keira Knightley, was that daunting?

“She is a wonderful person and has a great presence on stage,” she replies. “It was a good experience working with someone who has had so much success in their acting career and is still so grounded and down to earth.”

Last year, Marama also made her stage debut on London’s West End in the classic drama, The Children’s Hour. She describes the experience as “overwhelming” and

Marama has just finished work on Desert Dancer, which was largely filmed on location in Morocco. “Driving through the small humble villages through the desert every morning, just in time for the sunrise, was unforgettable... Because Morocco is a Muslim country most of the crew would be saying their prayers at the same time, and I found that very beautiful.”

Finishing a job is always tough...

I go through some sort of bereavement for a couple of weeks each time, just letting it all go

Working on Sinbad, which was shot locally, gave her the opportunity to return home for the duration of filming with a sense of accomplishment. “It was a very special job for 14 Sunday Circle | February 2013

What is the best piece of advice she’s ever been given? “Jekk ma tafx għid ‘ma nafx’ – if you don’t know the answer to something, just admit it,” she says. “My uncle Gus drummed this into my head because I had a habit of making up answers to questions.”

Admitting ignorance, she concludes, is the best way to learn.

Amid the highs and successes of her career, is there anything she struggles with? “Finishing a job is always tough,” she confides. “I go through some sort of bereavement for a couple of weeks each time, just letting it all go...” So far at least, each ending opens up a new beginning, and this, perhaps, is the greatest comfort.

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Cover Story

At the

crossroads Ten years afTer his firsT elecTion as an MP for The naTionalisT ParTy, Mario de Marco is now running for a Third TerM. here The TourisM, culTure and The environMenT MinisTer looks back and ahead

Photography by Steve Muliett -§- Art Direction by John Mizzi Once hailed as a “reluctant politician”, Mario de Marco appears to have embraced his political inheritance. His time in office as Minister for Tourism, Culture and the Environment has been characterised by a decent string of achievements. He has succeeded in boosting a waning tourism industry, taken some popular decisions within the cultural sphere, and has taken a number of important steps as regards the environment.

Five years on, Dr de Marco does not regret his decision of putting his legal profession on hold to form part of Cabinet. “To be honest,” he admits, “every single day since then has been amazing.

Days, months, years have flown by, and I hope that after all this, I may have contributed in some small way towards this government’s performance in helping to ensure that our economy performed well, despite the massive challenges that all of Europe is facing.”

Despite his government’s decent showing in this regard, however, the Nationalist Party has emerged from a year of internal strife, culminating in the recent events wherein the budget was defeated and the government collapsed. Issues ranged from accusations of incompetence to the general feeling that the PN was too conservative and not aligned with the people’s concerns and changing values.

18 Sunday Circle | February 2013

cover story

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 19

Cover Story Dr de Marco himself was the first to publicly state that he would vote in favour of the divorce legislation in parliament. He insists, however, that he still feels “perfectly aligned” with the party. “The strength of the PN is that it is constantly updating itself, both in terms of people and in terms of ideas,” he says.

“Indeed, as a party, it is constantly evolving.

The party has always viewed itself, in the words of de Gasperi, ‘un partito di centro che guarda a sinistra’. While it has always been the party for free enterprise, the very principle of solidarity must be overarching because you will always have people who may not realise their ambitions or be in a position to seize the opportunity, and need to be helped by society.”

to ensure that notwithstanding the strike, tourists left the airport and got there safely.”

EnvironmEnT

The environment is a far thornier issue – but the minister does not flinch. “A point of satisfaction was the launch of the national environmental policy. Before, our actions on the environment were largely dictated by the numerous EU directives in this field. We need to have a holistic approach and vision for the environment which also takes into account the local context and concerns, that may not necessarily be covered by EU directives. The policy translates itself into over 200 measures over a 10-year period.”

drew his attention. “It resulted that no ban on political satire in fact existed, other than a prohibition that had been in place some time before the war and had since been removed.”

And with the approach of V.18, things are really looking up for the arts. The whole point, says the minister, is the opportunities this will provide to address some lacunae in the field. “If we had to look at V.18 as only a year of activities, we would fail in our objectives. But, if we look at it as a pretext to invest in the cultural infrastructure we have lacked so far, invest in today’s children to be the participants and audience of tomorrow, and ensure that the stakeholders in the cultural and creative industries are given the recognition and support to make their projects a reality, then the

The strength of the PN is that it is constantly updating itself, both in terms of people and in terms of ideas Tourism

Tourism was one of government’s winning cards. “I’m proud to see that the tourism industry has had four record years in the last five.” This, he says, came about despite a setback in 2009 when the effects of the global recession started being felt. “We now have an industry that brings nearly 1.5 million tourists to our shores spending 12 million nights in Malta generating over €1.3 billion in expenditure. Over and above these figures, we had an additional 600,000 cruise liner passengers in 2012.”

It might not emerge from the figures – but the minister had to overcome a number of setbacks within a few months of taking office, such as the public transport strike. “We managed, through the participation of MTA employees who came with private cars, hotel owners and employees, 20 Sunday Circle | February 2013

He insists that there are many stories about the environment that are good news and that have not been adequately stressed. For instance, until 1998, over 80 per cent of our sewage flowed untreated into our seawater. “Today, we’re the first country in the Mediterranean to have our sewage completely treated. The consequential benefit has been that 98 per cent of our bathing waters are of excellent quality by EU standards making our waters the cleanest in the Mediterranean.”

CulTurE

Culture has of course been dominated by the censorship issue which hit the headlines on numerous occasions. The minister led a consultation process which resulted in all theatre productions being classified by the producers themselves and assuming the legal responsibility for their productions. Censorship on political satire during Carnival was also a subject that

benefits of V.18 will be felt also in subsequent years to come.” In particular, he says, it provides an opportunity for the capital. “I wish to see from it a full regeneration of Valletta, not only from the heritage and cultural side, but also from the social side, bringing more people back to live in this unique city.”

PrioriTiEs, PrioriTiEs

With such vast fields of responsibility, how does he prioritise? The minister nods. “Yes, they are large areas, but the fact that each one has an impact on the other helps you prioritise them all.” If you take tourism, he says, “you cannot have a successful tourism industry if the state of the environment is poor… Likewise, if you want to have a sustainable tourism, culture plays an important part, because it is not season-related.

That is one of our strengths vis-à-vis competing destinations in the Mediterranean.”

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A life in politics

Despite his father’s involvement in politics, joining the fray was not an easy decision for Dr de Marco. “For many years I tried to resist the call and the temptation, until in 2003, the election became hotly intertwined with the confirmation of the EU referendum.” This is when he first decided to contest, and got elected.

In fact before then he was more at ease in the academic world: he was awarded a Commonwealth Scholarship which enabled him to study at Cambridge, where he specialised in Commercial and Business law.

Eventually he was offered the opportunity to further his studies at PhD level. “Unfortunately, I turned down the offer, as I was keen to start working. It is, in fact, probably the only major decision I regret in my life. Looking back, I realise that a three-year sacrifice within the larger context of a working life, pays well in its brevity.”

Still the academic world has never ceased to fascinate him. “I have lectured on a part-time basis within the Law Faculty these past 23 years. To be honest, it’s the time of the week I enjoy most.”

He seems to relax a little, dropping his guard slightly. Two years after his father’s passing, how does he feel about his legacy? “I’ve learnt so much from him – I try to put into practice what I’ve learnt.”

What has he had to give up for politics? He shrugs. “I try to ensure that despite everything, I have time for my family. I make it a point that, at least on Saturday, I keep my day free to spend as much time with my wife and children as possible. During the week, I make sure that I’m the person to wake up my children and get them ready for school. It’s also important for me to have quality time with my wife.

Very often, on Fridays, we go to one of our favourite restaurants and, come Saturday evening, we usually escape to the cinema... I’m a creature of habit.”

He smiles. Then assumes the political demeanour again. “Malta has changed and will keep changing. It’s important for the party to read the signs of the times in time – and, if possible, ahead of the time.”

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 000

INTERVIEW

A TIME for CHANGE The Time To Turn over a new poliTical leaf is well overdue, mlp candidaTe chris cardona Tells KaTryna sTorace

Photography by Steve Muliett -§- Location: The Grand Hotel Excelsior, Floriana Labour Party candidate, Chris Cardona, needs no introduction. He has been active on the political scene since he was a university Law student, and was elected as a member of parliament in Alfred Sant’s cabinet for the first time in 1996. He was only 23 years old at the time. Since then, he has served on a number of committees and has been the main spokesman on a number of key issues, including competition, commerce and technology, as well as industry, foreign investment, the self-employed and business.

Sixteen years on, this will be Dr Cardona’s fifth election, wherein he will be contesting the customary eighth district, as well as the first district for the first time. Given his healthy portfolio and experience honed by over a decade of passionate engagement in politics, Dr Cardona’s aims for the upcoming electoral campaign are clear: to outline the shortcomings of the present government and to address those issues that he feels have fallen by the wayside. In this, he is very much in sync with the Malta Labour Party. “Our movement is based on unity and openness,” he says. “It applies the best brains to come up with the most intelligent solutions to the problems that this government is conveniently trying to brush under the carpet.”

Despite his disgruntlement on a number of fronts, Dr Cardona does not shy away from flagging up some of the achievements of this government. “For example, in the strengthening of the financial services industry or e-gaming, we have done well, he says. “It will be essential to strengthen and support these industries.”

24 Sunday Circle | February 2013

“In tourism, we have been consistent in our support of measures that build on our achievements and help us improve our product in the face of strengthening competition in other countries.” He also agrees with investments in education, as they lead to a stronger, more prosperous society.

It is when the cabinet begins defending its actions in the field of health, for example, that Dr Cardona finds himself unable to rally his support. “We have been badly let down. The tireless work by our doctors, our nurses, our midwives and others who work in the health sector is the only thing that is preventing a bad situation from getting worse. It is not because of this government, but in spite of this government that we have a functional health service in the country.”

The incompetence of this government, he says, has been demonstrated on a number of fronts. “In my opinion, the bureaucracy, the increasing burden on operation and the poor example set by the leadership of GonziPN has made the private sector question the ability of GonziPN to govern this country for another five years.”

By leadership, does he refer to the Prime Minister? “Yes, but not exclusively – I am referring to the entire cabinet,” he says.

“Leadership in business is critical. When a business starts to fail, when more and more problems develop within its operation, shareholders have to decide to change that leadership. I think we’ve reached this point now, change is not just politically desirable, it is socially and economically essential.”

The time for choice is upon us; a choice between more of the same or a change for the better “Serious businesses in the private sector know that if customers are not provided with a service that they pay for, they seek it elsewhere. It is this competition that keeps businesses on their toes,” he adds. “The private sector simply would not tolerate the mismanagement of this government in its fumbling attempts to reform services such

IntervIew

as public transport or planning, or the totally inadequate response to meeting the demands of its customers in terms of public health, for example. The queues that we saw at ARMS when people had problems understanding and paying their bills, the medication stock problems and in so many other areas, would simply not be tolerated.”

He also challenges the government’s claim that it has succeeded in creating 20,000 jobs, referring to the pre-budget document for 2013 and the statistics issued by the NSO. What, then, is the Labour Party proposing to do differently? “We will reduce electricity bills by an average of 25 per cent for families within one year of being elected and twelve months thereafter we will introduce a 25 per cent cut across the board for businesses and industry,” he says, “and water bills will be reduced by 5 per cent for everyone.”

“Our plan for energy generation will address three problems: the crippling impact of higher bills introduced by this government on businesses and families, the pollution caused by an unnecessary insistence on using heavy fuel oil, and the swollen debt of Enemalta.”

Bureaucracy will also be targeted. “We will appoint someone whose job it is to find and fix those processes that are an unnecessary burden on job creation. We will make work more accessible through the provision of free childcare and get a return on the investment made in women’s education in doing so.”

Another promise, he says, is to take the country out of the debt spiral that this government has dug itself into by heavy spending on low priority projects that yield little or no return. “We will invest in the country to create economic growth and all will have a chance to be involved and

everyone will have the opportunity to benefit from this growth.”

The emphasis is on providing the “real leadership” that he feels is lacking in the current government. “We have reached the point where there is no longer genuine political leadership, but coercion. Good leaders lead by example. We are currently faced with a carrot and stick approach. Obey the executive line and you are rewarded, speak out of turn and you are removed,” he says.

“The time for this kind of thinking is over. The time for choice is upon us; a choice between more of the same or a change for the better. A choice between a rushed set of promises or a carefully costed doable plan. A choice between more broken promises and a responsible, credible alternative that acknowledges and builds upon the successes of the past regardless of who brought them about.”

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 25

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For a woman, rape is the ultimate violation. Yet, considering the gravitY oF the crime, manY victims choose not to report it and continue to suFFer in silence...

Text by Martina Said It was an ordinary evening for Sarah* that night in 1991. She was making her way home – only two nights earlier she was stalked by a stranger, leaving her anxious to walk alone. So she sought out the security of a man she’d known. But, by the end of the night, she’d wished she hadn’t.

Sarah was driven to the man’s apartment – she got punched at, spat on, kicked, pushed around and strangled and the more she tried to save herself, the less she managed. Sarah made an attempt for the door and for the bathroom window, but there was no way out. She tried to reason with him, but he continued relentlessly. * Name changed

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 27

crime She was sexually abused and raped, and the entire ordeal lasted a terrifying eight hours. Sarah was 17 years old and a virgin. Her rapist got away with nothing more than a warning, if at all, because she was forced to decide – there and then sitting in a police station in a state of shock and fear – whether she wanted to press charges or not. Scared of what he might do to her if she did, she decided to let it go.

Now in her thirties, she has come to terms with that one appalling night, although she says that for a long time afterwards she felt as if everyone around her was a potential rapist. “It is a paralysing fear. I refused help for a long time and developed bad coping mechanisms,” she says. “You start believing a lie – there were times I wished he had finished the job. Rape is a huge violation; it penetrates you emotionally, mentally and spiritually. It is the closest thing to murder which keeps you alive, but kills everything else.”

Sarah’s story is more than unsettling – she knew the man who raped her and he was a person she thought she could trust, making the violation that much worse. And, equally troubling is the sense of shame that blankets the crime. Like Sarah there are many other women who endured a similar ordeal, but most of them believe their story is better left untold.

Victim Support Malta director, Roberta Lepre, says she has no idea how widespread rape in Malta really is. “We only get an idea from the people we see for counselling, but we know there are more victims and most cases remain unreported,” she says. “What’s worse is that we know many cases take place within the context of a relationship. It might be my perception but stranger rape is the minority.” One of the only ways to get hold of real figures, she adds, is by conducting a nationwide study, which is time-consuming and very costly.

There are various reasons why victims choose to stay silent in the face of a heinous crime. Some might not be aware that what they are enduring is abuse. Feelings of shame and guilt hinder courage, “and victims fear getting into complications that make their situation worse, so they think they’re better off picking up the pieces and moving on.”

Inspector Louise Calleja, who forms part of the Vice Squad, says in 2012, 15 cases of rape were reported, 18 in 2011 and 11 in 2010. She also believes the number of reported cases does not reflect reality and that sexual abuse within the family is not uncommon, “but for reasons known to the victims, the police are not involved.”

Rape is a huge violation; it penetrates you emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

It is the closest thing to murder which keeps you alive, but kills everything else 28 Sunday Circle | February 2013

Various acts can be considered to be sexual abuse, including forcefully kissing someone, touching them inappropriately or making them perform a sexual act against their will, legally labelled as “violent indecent assault”. What, then, distinguishes rape from other kinds of sexual abuse? Inspector Calleja says for it to be considered rape, there must be the commencement of or full penetration against or without a person’s consent.

“It is different from, for instance, telling a minor to touch themselves. That is defilement, not rape. If a person is not consenting to intercourse then it is considered rape. Also, consent must be valid – when raping a person who is too drunk to know what’s going on, or is 11 years old, for example, you cannot expect the person to stop the act from happening.”

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THE TRUTH ABOUT RAPE • Rape offences are punishable with a sentence ranging between three to nine years in jail. A sentence can increase if the crime is aggravated (for example raping a minor) and continuous (where a victim is raped repeatedly).

• Proposals for the setting up of a Sexual Assault Response Team have been drawn up by the Task Force consisting of members from the Ministry for Justice, Dialogue and the Family, the Ministry of Health, the Commission on Domestic Violence, Mater Dei Hospital, the Police and Victim Support Malta.

• A new Victims’ Rights Directive establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime, has been drawn up. Malta has two years to implement it, making the state duty bound to offer support to victims.

• It is encouraged for victims of rape to seek help and support when trying to deal with their experience. In the words of a victim, “There are no shortcuts and you have to feel worse before you can feel better. But one night should not ruin the rest of your life.”

Inspector Calleja says the way a rape case is investigated depends entirely on the case itself. It is best when a victim shows up soon after the incident, in order to collect physical and forensic evidence such as swabs for body fluids, evidence of body injuries, bruises, signs of a struggle and anything to corroborate a report. There are instances, however, where a victim files a report years after the crime. What becomes of the case, when physical evidence is near impossible to obtain?

Perhaps part of the problem also lies inherently within our culture. Dr Lepre says part of the reason why victims are rarely willing to speak out is because of the way the crime is stigmatised by society. “There is the unintentional message that it’s partly a woman’s fault that she gets raped and this is the result of our culture. There is also a lack of training in handling victims, so we send out the wrong message to society.”

At Victim Support, psychological support services, or emotional support, and legal services are offered to victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence. Dr Lepre explains that once it is determined what the victim wants and needs, counselling can begin. “With counselling, victims feel someone is listening to them and wants to help them. That is often enough. We cannot do anything to erase what happened, but we can help victims get on with their lives.”

At the time of her ordeal over 20 years ago, Sarah felt stigmatised and judged. She says no policewomen were around to handle her case, and she had no choice but to reveal intimate details to a number of policemen.

Today, things have changed somewhat, thanks to the setting up of the Vice Squad in 1993, two years after Sarah’s ordeal.

Inspector Calleja says that the Vice Squad is comprised of both male and female police officers and a policewoman can be found on duty should a victim request to speak to a female officer.

With counselling, victims feel someone is listening to them and wants to help them...

We cannot do anything to erase what happened, but we can help victims get on with their lives

“Although the chance of obtaining physical evidence is highly unlikely, the victim’s version of events is still evidence.

We rely a lot on the credibility of the person in such situations, in how they recount the event. You might get an offender giving you different versions of the same story, which creates doubt, and makes the offender’s credibility questionable.”

When there’s a lack of physical evidence in investigating a rape case, and there are no witnesses to testify against an offender, the case could easily turn into a bitter battle of “his word against hers”. What becomes of the victim in such an eventuality? Inspector Calleja says it is then up to the court to decide if a perpetrator is guilty or not. “We are not the ones who judge but the ones who provide the evidence in court.”

30 Sunday Circle | February 2013

Dr Lepre adds that an overall lack of faith in the judicial system hinders victims from pressing charges against their offender, as they believe they won’t get justice in court and the process will not make up for what they suffered. “I think being forced to give oral sex is just as traumatic as being forced to have intercourse. A court sentence, however, might not reflect this.” Also, society’s evolution is not mirrored by the law. “The section under which the law on rape falls in Malta’s criminal code is called ‘Crimes against the peace and honour of families, and against morals.’ The focus here is not on the individual, it is on the honour of the family.”

Still, Sarah feels that there is a long way to go when it comes to dealing with rape cases.

“The silence surrounding this crime is so great it is almost loud, and that makes you feel ashamed. There is need for the silence to be broken.” And, perhaps with the help of a few brave voices like hers, it eventually will.

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Travel

Destination

DUBAI

Sunday CirCle and rOCS travel team up tO Offer a fantaStiC hOliday tO the five Star Jumeirah BeaCh hOtel tO Be wOn thiS mOnth. duBai iS the deStinatiOn Of the mOment...keep reading tO find Out why

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rom luxury beaches to incredible architecture, Dubai leaves no stone unturned in offering a holiday to remember. There truly is no better place to kick back, unwind and escape the busy lives we lead from day to day. Ahead of planning your holiday to Dubai, here is a list of some of the top five things to see and do on your holiday.

Burj Khalifa It is impossible to miss the world’s tallest man made structure – the Burj Khalifa – from the moment you set foot in Dubai. The groundbreaking feat of architecture and engineering stands tall at 828 metres. The main attraction for visitors is the Observation Deck on the 124th floor – at day or night the view is truly spectacular.

Dubai Mall This mall is no average shopping centre with a staggering 1,200 shops. It is also a complete entertainment hub with a 22-screen cinema, an indoor theme park called Sega World, a children’s area by the name of Kidzania, a giant aquarium complete with a shark tunnel and underwater zoo and a full-sized ice rink. The eateries are nothing short of fantastic, leaving visitors beyond spoilt for choice with a selection of around 160 outlets.

32 Sunday Circle | February 2013

Desert Safari Travelling across the deserts of Dubai in a four-by-four vehicle is a truly exhilarating excursion.

Adrenaline seekers should not miss out on the chance to skim the sand dunes in sand boarding sessions.

Alternatively, one may opt for a camel ride and complete the journey with an artistic henna tattoo.

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Be Pampered Getting pampered is a necessary part of a holiday in Dubai, with plenty of five star hotels and resorts offering treatments and therapies that are fit for royalty.

The Talise Spa at Jumeirah Beach Hotel is among one of the most sought after spa centres; you can indulge in total relaxation while taking in breathtaking views of the ocean.

The Palm Jumeirah The Palm Jumeirah is a stunning architectural must-see gem stretching almost four miles into the sea and big enough to be seen from space. It is made up of the Palm’s trunk and 16 fronds, constructed from rock and sand dredged from the seabed of the Arabian Gulf. The Palm makes for a spectacular landmark while driving down the central stem.

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 33

Travel Fun on Jumeirah Beach Situated in the heart of this magical city, the spectacular five-star Jumeirah Beach Hotel offers all the perks of a luxury holiday. Its unique, curved design emulates that of a breaking wave, and stands an incredible 93 metres high and stretches the length of 275 metres.

On the outside, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a stylish mix of sleek aluminium and cool blue-plated glass. By contrast, the hotel’s interior draws upon a combination of elements, hailing back to the four elements – earth, air, fire and water – present in nature. Each element is represented by a separate colour theme, resulting in a layout that is both themed and colour co-ordinated.

At the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, pleasure is a philosophy. As a guest, you will be free to experience the extravagances of a luxury lifestyle destination. One of the hotel’s most attractive features is that it offers 36,300 square metres of private beach for your ultimate pleasure and enjoyment. Whether to kick back and relax while the children play in the soft, warm sands; or for long, sunset strolls with the family, the beach here is the stuff of dreams.

At the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, fun for the kids simply never stops, thanks to Sinbad’s Kids Club and the Teenagers’ Club. While the kids are off on their own adventures, take some time to enjoy an adventure of your own, while meeting other, like-minded travellers, at the Premium Leisure Club. If you’re the sporty type, you and your family can enjoy a game of tennis on the floodlit courts, and avail yourselves of the facilities available at the Pavilion Marina and Sports Club.

With its numerous awards and accolades, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel continues to be an ideal getaway for all the family, promising only the most memorable experiences and adventures in the wonderful city of Dubai.

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You will also receive a further €50 discount per room per night off the published rates. You will also be getting a free flight to Rome.

Start off this year with one of our favourite family holiday destinations: the spectacular five-star Jumeirah Beach Resort. ROCS Travel are very proud to have been appointed to represent this outstanding resort here in Malta, following on the successful partnership with the magnificent five-star Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. They guarantee the best package rates to Dubai in Malta, offering the best possible rates for the Jumeirah Beach Resort and a portfolio of other hotels in Dubai. Special package rates offered by ROCS Travel at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel start from as little as €959 and include return flights on Emirates, three nights accommodation, daily buffet breakfast and taxes.

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WIN A TRIP TO THE FIVE-STAR JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL IN DUBAI Over the past year, we have given our readers the opportunity to participate in a number of fun and interactive competitions on sundaycircle.com. We’ve given away some fantastic holiday prizes in conjunction with ROCS Travel. This year, we’re back with more!

Sunday Circle together with ROCS Travel are giving you the chance to win the holiday of a lifetime to the five-star Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai worth €4,000.

Simply log on to sundaycircle.com to find out how to participate, and you could be on your way to the Jumeirah Beach Hotel for the five-star holiday of your dreams.

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 35

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GENERAL

ELECTION

• What are the issues that are important to you?

I think the most important issues to address are work and education. I want to work actively towards creating more jobs for Gozitans in Gozo.

• What do you have to offer? Why should people vote for you?

Joseph Cordina Age: 50, Accountant, Mayor of Xaghra, Gozo LABOUR PARTY | DISTRICT: 13

sandro Craus

Age: 42, Educator, Mayor of Rabat LABOUR PARTY | DISTRICT: 7

I have been mayor of Xaghra for six years, and I’ve always worked hard to push the locality forward.

Now, if I’m elected, I’m equally determined to work hard to push all of Gozo forward.

• What would you change about local politics if you could?

We need to get rid of political hatred. I know people who don’t talk to each other simply

because of their political beliefs. Politics should be about debate and discussion, not fighting or hatred.

• Why is your party the best choice for the country?

The PN has aged and fatigued in 25 years of government. The PL is a young party and the only party with enough will, determination and enthusiasm to direct the country.

• What do you do when not working or campaigning?

In my spare time I enjoy reading, swimming, and walking in the countryside, and I love travelling abroad with my family.

responsibility and accountability restored to the decision-making process. These aren’t just buzzwords, but serious issues that have been sorely lacking in the last few years.

• What do you have to offer? Why should people vote for you?

I can say that I’ve already proven myself as Mayor of Rabat. When I became Mayor, I realised we had an infrastructural problem, and for 5 years we’ve been working non-stop to remedy that. The results are there for all to see.

• What would you change about local politics if you could?

I would like to see more respect in political discourse. We need to be careful in the way we address our opponents. Hearing the Prime Minister say that the PL is something to be ashamed of...that’s not the way politics should be done.

• What are the issues that are important to you?

I’m very passionate about education. We need to address two points: the well-being of children and also the well-being of teachers. I want to see teachers involved in devising the curriculum, and given more dignity, respect, and motivation to work. At the same time we should invest further in libraries and literacy strategies. Our classrooms should become laboratories for research. Apart from these issues, I want to see 38 Sunday Circle | February 2013

• Why is your party the best choice for the country?

The PL is the most relevant to the needs of today. We have a strong team of candidates, and a leader who is willing to listen, who believes in dialogue and consultation. We have a number of solid proposals that don’t cost money but tackle very real problems. The direction we need to give the country is one where everyone feels included, and the PL can make that happen.

• What do you do when not working or campaigning?

I don’t have too much leisure time, but my family is very important to me, and I love going out to eat!

General election 2013

Kristy Debono

Age: 31, Economist NATIONALIST PARTY | DISTRICT: 9

• How did you get into politics? What made you decide to run for parliament?

• What do you have to offer? Why should people vote for you?

I’m in politics out of conviction. I never dreamt of running for election, but the thought of losing what our nation managed to achieve over the past years as a result of a clear vision, avant-garde policies, pro-business approach and sound economic and fiscal decisions convinced me to give my time, energy and knowledge to contribute towards strengthening what we’ve built, and together aiming towards an even more prosperous future.

Being the only female economist on the PN ticket, I tend to analyse holistically but from a socio-economic perspective. I am also the youngest candidate on the district, so I’m working closely with youths and can contribute fresh ideas and innovative perspectives on forward-looking policies.

I have been involved in the iGaming sector since the very beginning and therefore I believe I have the vision to recognize a sector with potential, analyse it, and convert any threats to opportunities to eventually reap its economic benefits.

• What are the issues that are important to you?

I believe we should continue striving to ensure that our high-quality free health services remain sustainable. A healthy nation is imperative to ensure that one can continue to educate oneself and eventually contribute to society by joining the workforce. Thus, another major issue is the consolidation of the education sector. One must ensure that, although the education sector has reached the highest levels, it remains free for all.

We must also keep up with the times: education should be focused on particular niches that will prepare our young ones to participate in sectors of the new economy.

Through my home visits, I’ve encountered several patients or relatives of patients who are suffering from cancer. This unfortunately is a relatively new reality and we must equip ourselves to the full to combat this disease. We must ensure that our government will continue to invest in cancer treatments and the oncology centre.

I am also aware that to ensure adequate economic growth, more women must get on board and join the workforce. Thus, I am committed to promote and encourage more participation of women and youths both in the labour market and also in the political arena.

Having said all this, I believe that by voting for me, the electorate would be voting in favour of a forward change whilst ensuring that the same values are kept.

• What is one thing you would change about local politics if you could?

One thing that I would definitely strive to achieve is reducing the dependency some people feel on politics and politicians. Politics is about policies and giving the best quality of

life to people, rather than encouraging people to remain dependent on politicians. We need to give our all to fine tune our systems to make them more citizen-oriented and customer-friendly.

Furthermore, I feel that the paradigm shift we need to experience in local politics, when one goes to a politician with a genuine case, is from asking for a favour to actually exerting a right.

• Why do you feel your party is the best choice for the country?

The Nationalist Party has a track record in creating jobs and in fostering a better standard of living, through prosperity and wellbeing, the best education and healthcare systems, as well as a social net which safeguards those who are really in need. I believe that the PN is a party with vision: a visionary party creates opportunities for the country that will offer the peace of mind and wealth to guarantee an optimum quality of life.

• What do you do when not working or campaigning?

Free time is a rare commodity nowadays but I cherish each and every minute I get to spend with my husband, Jean Pierre. As Assistant Secretary General of the PN, Jean Pierre is also intensely involved in politics, so we are lucky enough to understand each other’s commitment and fully support each other.

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 39

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Relationships

In an age where technology and speed dIctate our every move, do we stIll have tIme to be romantIc, asks martIna saId? When was the last time your partner brought you breakfast in bed? How long has it been since you held hands as you walked down the promenade on a bright spring morning? Do you remember when you used to cuddle on the sofa and fall asleep while watching your favourite film? It’s easy to admit that today, thanks to our busy lifestyles, romantic gestures have gone out the window, in spite of the fact that opportunities lie about us wherever we go.

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 41

relationships She adds that there are no rules to being romantic and what you might consider to be silly could turn out to be a heartfelt gesture. “Romantic moments create bubbles in life where we’re not always pragmatic and busy living, so weaving it into the everydayness of life makes it richer. Romance is not just a cognitive experience, it is a soulful experience too.”

The “disappointment” Joyce touches upon is mirrored by The Observer’s Barbara Ellen, in an article called ‘Is Romance Dead?’ Ellen considers romance to be “gaudy and perishable”, and no matter how “older and wiser” we become, “where romance is concerned, it seems that women in particular never get used to the sudden terrible absence of it all.”

Does that mean it is only women who seek romance in a relationship? Is it true that women are more romantic than men?

According to Ellen, this is hardly the case, although one of the greatest problems is men and women’s different approaches to romance. “In general, I truly believe that men are the more romantic, more open-hearted sex. When they like you, they really do just like you; there’s none of that feverish totting “Rome is a romantic city, a dress can have a romantic style, a walk in the countryside on a beautiful day is romantic – romance symbolises a space and a time that is generally understood in its meaning. When someone says the word we know just what it means,” says psychotherapist, Joyce Sciberras, who defines romance as the meeting of two souls. “Romance is needed in a relationship. It is when two people really see each other and then tune in to one another. One learns how to please and be there for the other.”

Nathaniel Branden, psychotherapist and author of The Psychology of Romantic Love agrees. In an in interview with Newsweek he says that people, especially when young, do not understand what they’re being deprived of in failing to be romantic, and need to find a way back to intimacy.

“Romantic love can be terrifying. We experience another human being as enormously important to us,” says Branden.

“So there is surrender – not a surrender to the other person so much as to our feelings for the other person. What is the obstacle?

The possibility of loss. Need creates a vulnerability that can be frightening and enraging. Romantic love is not for children.”

42 Sunday Circle | February 2013

We should all lead romantic lives, and this requires the willingness to make contact, be present and be respectful One of the greatest faults in our idea of romance is the thought that grand gestures are the most meaningful; in reality, little things can go a long way. Joyce says that we should practise being romantic in our day-to-day living, “not only when we’re reminded to be, or made to feel guilty about it. We should all lead romantic lives, and this requires the willingness to make contact, be present and be respectful.”

When we’re at a loss for ideas, we tend to do the obvious – browse Google for tips and guidelines on how to be romantic and what to do to make the man or woman in our lives feel special. While it could prove to be a helpful exercise, it is not exactly ideal, says Joyce.

“Sometimes, we read tips online and give them to our partners as dogmas; then when our partners fail, we’re disappointed.”

up of pros and cons that rattle endlessly through the average pragmatic female mind from the moment they agree to share spit.”

Joyce, however, begs to differ. While she agrees that men could be equally – if not more – romantic in a relationship, it is an inaccurate oversimplification. “I wouldn’t say that women are more romantic than men – in general we tend to hear that women are hard to please and that men are not romantic enough. That is generalising, and by generalising we tend to miss the individual,” says Joyce.

It is fair to say that the early years of a relationship are the more obviously romantic, whereby both members are more willing to please and surprise. Joyce says the kind of romance in a young couple is largely different to that which exists in an older couple.

The Silent

Revolution.

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masthead

“As time passes, romance does die away. It doesn’t come automatically, it needs to be worked on,” she explains. “We tend to become indifferent, and in doing so, we don’t see the other person as a human being in his or her own right, but start seeing our partner as an extension of ourselves.”

For instance, there is no reason why the table should not be nicely set up for dinner, even if it’s just for two – “it is a little daily thing that makes up life, and should not come round once a year.”

An event that does come round once a year is none other than 14 February. “On Valentine’s Day, there is a cultural importance to remember and buy something. It doesn’t come from a place of depth within us; it’s out of a sense of ‘what should be done’.” On a more positive note, however, Joyce thinks that we should regard the day as a wake-up call to be more romantic and to take a more romantic approach towards life.

How has technology affected our approach to romance today? There was a time when romance came in the form of hand-written poetry and love letters, now replaced by text messages and emails filled with shortened sentences and phrases such as “luv ya”. Hand-picked garden flowers have been replaced by pre-ordered bouquets and effortless symbols of love have been shadowed by grand gifts.

Even in spite of this, however, it is only on days like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries that such gifts are given, rarely for no reason other than to say “I love you”. It is an attempt at rekindling latent emotions that, for the better part of the rest of the year, are ignored or left dormant.

As for the belief that we are living in an anti-romantic age, whereby emotional shallowness replaces passion and profoundness – are we really?

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 000

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46 Sunday Circle | February 2013

masthead

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the Perfect

SMILE Three implants in the top arch four months after insertion

Dental anD Implant Surgeon Jean paul DemaJo offerS Some aDvIce on how to replace multIple mISSIng teeth Multiple missing teeth may be replaced using several techniques. As far back as the Egyptian civilisation, dentures and bridges were used to fill the space of missing teeth. A piece of animal bone would be carved and used to fit the gap where the missing teeth once stood. Gold wire used in traditional jewellery would be used to tie the mobile or extracted teeth to the adjacent good teeth and hold them in place.

Porcelain bridge fixed in place

SoME cauSES of MuLtIpLE tooth LoSS: • Hypodontia: genetically missing teeth • Trauma: assault/road-traffic accidents • Tooth failure: failed root canal treatments and fracture of teeth supporting bridges • Periodontal/gum disease

Result after placing seven fixed porcelain teeth supported by the three implants

The materials used in both dentures and bridges have changed considerably but the concepts have not. Dentures are now made of acrylic resin and false acrylic or porcelain teeth are bonded onto them. Together with their design, removable dentures are held in place with the help of clasps engaged around the adjacent natural teeth. Bridges too require adjacent teeth for support. Utilising this method, the adjacent teeth are filed down to short stubs and crowned to form part of the bridge fixing it into place.

aDvantagES of IMpLant SupportED tEEth DISaDvantagES

• Prosthetic teeth are independent of patient’s natural teeth

Dentures

Bridges

• Removable

• Dependent on teeth; tooth loss = bridge loss

• Move on eating, talking • Reduce taste • Psychologically demeaning

• Continual loss of bone and gingiva

• Food entrapment Implants discovered by a Swedish orthopaedic surgeon made all the difference. In this scenario, the implants engage in the patient’s bone and are independent of teeth, whether present or not. Implants are inserted in the patient’s natural bone and within three to four months of healing, the surrounding bone grows and bonds onto the implant surface. As a result, the rigidity of the implant fixture is extremely high and can support very large loads.

Typically, two implants may support two to four teeth; three implants, three to six teeth; and four to six implants, up to 14 teeth. This means that with multiple implants one may completely eliminate the need for dentures.

• Retention of natural bone and gingival tissue • Stability and security at all times Most of the bone and gingival tissue surrounding a tooth is lost when the tooth is extracted. This is even more evident with multiple tooth loss. In certain case scenarios the volume of bone present is not enough for implantation and so bone grafting is required. Bone grafting is also essential in obtaining a good aesthetic result with good gingival architecture. This is especially important in the anterior aesthetic zone. The posterior areas are also important as they support facial tissue such as the cheeks and lips retaining the patient’s facial features and hence reducing the effects of ageing. Implants carry a hefty price tag and require a series of appointments but ultimately, it’s quality of life that commands.

Dr Jean Paul Demajo has trained in London and works in private practice in Malta

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 49

IntervIew

THE ELDER

STATESMAN

wIth over two decades of ParLIaMentarY eXPerIence, foreIgn affaIrs MInIster francIs ZaMMIt dIMech Is one of the Pn’s oLd guard. here he teLLs PhILIP Leone-ganado whY he Is stILL reLevant Photo by Steve Muliett It has been nearly five years since Francis Zammit Dimech, recently appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs, received a text message from the Prime Minister informing him that he would not be part of the new cabinet.

“On a personal level, that was definitely one of my most difficult moments,” he says. “But what few people know is that there was a second part to the message: the PM invited me to meet him should I wish to talk further.

We had a lengthy discussion at Girgenti, and I assured him that he would have my utmost support, loyalty, and honesty going forward.”

That loyalty was rewarded two months ago, when the Prime Minister appointed him to his most senior ministerial post yet. A veteran politician, Zammit Dimech has been an MP since 1987 and at various points has served as the minister responsible for tourism, culture, environment, communication, and transport.

His list of achievements is a long one, but he counts as his highlight the inauguration of the St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity.

“I walked into a completely derelict building, being used as a government printing press,” he recalls. “It was completely unbecoming.

I thought: this needs to become a centre of creativity, where different art-forms can intersect. One of my biggest passions is the arts, so I’ll cherish that for the rest of my life.”

The Foreign Affairs position is a shortterm arrangement, certainly, and much of the minister’s work has been focused on consolidating the achievements of his predecessor – the Brussels-bound Tonio Borg – but since coming in from the cold, Zammit Dimech is enjoying the challenge of this important portfolio. “Foreign affairs are really domestic affairs. Whatever I discuss with my foreign counterparts has very real local implications.” His very first meetings, in 50 Sunday Circle | February 2013

fact, finalised the agreement for the MaltaSicily interconnector, set to be concluded by early February. With the electoral campaign bringing the project into sharp relief, he does not hold back from a dig at the Opposition’s plans. “It is utter heresy to suggest that we need a new power station at this stage,” he says vehemently.

What change, then, does he feel the party needs to undergo to reassert itself? “The PN is in a constant process of reinvention. For two years we’ve been conducting workshops and reaching out to civil society, we have a new, younger, deputy leader, and no matter who gets elected in the next election, about a third of our parliamentary group will be completely new.”

He insists that the next election will be the toughest the party has ever faced, but rejects outright the suggestion that the PN would benefit from five years in opposition.

“Anyone who says that must be a great lover of the party, but an incredible masochist on a national level. We cannot afford to spend years reorganising and building financial structures for a razzle-dazzle campaign while the ship of state fails. Being Nationalist is about loving this country and giving it what it deserves.”

“The party structures have to be revamped. We need to be available, reflecting the new needs of society.” We have moved, he says, from a period of mass production to one of specialisation and specific interests, and politics needs to change to mirror that. “We need to speak that language and be part of it.”

But, as a candidate in the next general election, he has no intention of stepping aside for the new order. Where does an old hand like himself fit in? The minister laughs. “I suppose I have to safeguard my own generation now.”

We owe people an apology and a commitment. We have taken stock, and we are open to change.

He accepts that change is needed. In an unusually frank admission, he says it is all too easy for a government to get bogged down in projects and grow detached. “We owe people an apology and a commitment.

We have taken stock, and we are open to change.” But while other countries are facing unemployment, austerity measures, and rising tuition fees, Malta’s performance over the last few years, he argues, should be vindication enough. “I hope people can appreciate that all we did, we did to keep the country sailing in the right direction”.

There is a place, he argues, for experience and analysis to sit alongside youth and enthusiasm.

“My formation has always reflected youth movements, and I have always felt most comfortable in the company of young people. I still feel that energy.”

He admits that he has sacrificed a lot for politics – his friends, his privacy – but he feels that he still has more to give. “Politics is about difficult moments coupled with the joy of seeing your dreams take shape. It’s tough, but if you believe in it as a mission, you don’t think of it as a sacrifice, you do it lovingly.”

IntervIew

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 51

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MARRIAGE THE QUESTION OF CHURCH AND STATE IN MALTA HAS ALWAYS BEEN ONE OF TWO QUITE COMFORTABLE BEDFELLOWS. BUT AS THE SIGNS NOW BEGIN TO POINT IN THE DIRECTION OF AN INCREASINGLY SECULAR SOCIETY, IS IT LEGITIMATE TO QUESTION WHERE THE CHURCH’S CONTINUING INFLUENCE ON MALTESE POLITICS IS ACTUALLY ORIGINATING? Text by Philip Leone-Ganado The drafters of the Maltese Constitution saw fit to include not only an explicit reference to Roman Catholicism as the religion of the state, but also a provision granting the Catholic Church “the duty and the right to teach which principles are right and which are wrong”. For its part, the Church has taken its Constitutional right to heart, playing an active (some would say militant) part in public discourse for decades. Meanwhile, the general public has proved remarkably receptive to the message the Church wishes to convey, granting

it an implicit but undeniable stranglehold on the collective consciousness.

“The Church, as part of civil society, has a duty to be involved and present in public discourse,” says Fr Joe Borg, a member of the clergy and well-known media commentator. “This is a right which it shares with every other component of civil society. Pluralistic societies by definition exist because there are different points of view which battle it out in the public arena. If the Church does not take part in this forum it would be impoverishing public debate and discourse.”

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 53

society

And indeed, in a country that according to Vatican data is 93.9 per cent Catholic (the fourth-highest figure anywhere in the world), it seems churlish to complain about the influential position the Church enjoys in society. But there is a sea-change taking place. The above figure, high as it is, is down from 98.9 per cent in 1987, and in any case contrasts sharply with the only 52.6 per cent who regularly attend Sunday mass. Similarly, figures for the general public’s acceptance of social issues that the church has traditionally opposed – gay marriage being a prime example – are on the rise, particularly among the young.

What this implies is that not only is religious sentiment among the general populace faltering, but that among those who consider themselves religious, strict adherence to the teachings of the Church no longer appears to be the norm. “Baptism records are no indication that the church speaks for a person,” says Ramon Casha, a member of the Malta Humanist Association. “The oftrepeated claim that Malta is over 90 per cent Catholic is misleading.”

Arguably, the line in the sand was drawn two years ago, when in spite of an aggressive campaign by the Church, the public voted in a referendum to introduce divorce in Malta. Many saw the result as a crushing 54 Sunday Circle | February 2013

condemnation of the Church’s approach: “the vote for divorce,” wrote columnist Daphne Caruana Galizia in the Malta Independent, “was not so much a vote for divorce as a vote for the final separation of church and state.”

A clear message was sent out that, as Ramon Casha puts it, “the Church has a right to make its own demands on government, like any other organisation, but it can no longer use its millennial hold on popular culture as unreasonable leverage to get its way through legislation that binds Catholic and nonCatholic alike.”

“We are a party that loved and loves our religion,” said the Prime Minister at the party’s general conference that year. “It is not a coincidence that our emblem carries the Latin phrase: Religio et Patria, which we did not remove... We should never be ashamed of saying we are a democratic and Christian party, democratic and Christian.”

In the column referred to above, Caruana Galizia struck out at this approach, saying the problem was not one of state and church so much as state and “churchy thinking”:

Baptism records are no indication that the church speaks for a person...The oft-repeated claim that Malta is over 90 per cent Catholic is misleading But if the relationship between the Church and the general public has soured somewhat, the same is not necessarily true of policymakers. Having stood with the Church against divorce before the referendum, the Nationalist Party-in-government stuck to its guns in its aftermath, with the party granting a free vote on the bill in Parliament, and several prominent members (the Prime Minister among them) voting against it.

“Politicians who are motivated by religion – any religion, it doesn’t matter which – are disturbing. Islam does not bother people but Islamic parties do. Roman Catholicism does not bother people, but Roman Catholic parties do. Religion is no longer a matter of cultural identity, but is something private and personal, except to a minority of the population who has not yet evolved.”

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It is certainly true that the level of religious sentiment among legislators no longer seems congruous with that of the general populace. Of the sixty-nine parliamentarians who took oath in 2008, only one – former Labour Prime Minister Alfred Sant – chose the non-religious option allowed by law. The rest all swore

by God and kissed the cross.

The resulting state of affairs is an awkward one. The days of official Church influence and interference in public policy may be in the past, but if parliamentarians are faithfully representing Church views in parliament, is the distinction anything more than academic? When Tonio Fenech says that God should have a say in the morals of the country, and defines himself as a “Christian politician”, isn’t he effectively granting the Church a privileged influence?

Fr Borg believes responsibility cannot be laid at the door of the Church. Those elements calling for more militancy in the wake of the divorce referendum may be mistaken, he says, but equally priests cannot be denied the advocacy rights other citizens enjoy, and the aim of advocacy (by definition) is influencing policy. But is it fair to appeal to legislators’ conscience on issues of policy?

“Appealing to one’s conscience is not only fair,” he says, “but is the most humanly dignified option. A decision in conscience implies a free, enlightened and fully human decision as it is a decision which brings one in total harmony with themselves and, in the case of believers, with God.”

It’s a neat dualism, but politicians are elected, at least in principle, for their ideology, by voters who want to see that ideology represented in policy-making

“There’s no problem as long as MPs make a clear distinction between their private beliefs and the responsibility of their office. Several MPs do make this distinction, some do not, and it is there the threat arises.”

It’s a neat dualism, but politicians are elected, at least in principle, for their ideology, by voters who want to see that ideology represented in policy-making. Religious ideology is no different – what makes religious values different from, say, staunchly-held conservative or liberal principles? Is it reasonable to expect, then, a politician’s decisions to be fully independent of something as deeply pervasive as his religious faith? In which case, responsibility falls to the voter: those seeking to further edge religion out of the political sphere should elect candidates of a non-religious bent.

If the figures hold up, and society continues to move in a secular direction, it can only be a matter of time until the ideological landscape of parliament begins to look decidedly different.

Until then, however, the Church will continue to enjoy what influence it has. Would any other lobby do otherwise?

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In other words, it’s hardly the Church’s problem that its lobby resonates particularly strongly with Members of Parliament. And to a certain extent, the secularist argument is not too different. “It places the Church in a position of unfair advantage,” says Casha, “and while the church isn’t complaining too loudly, the onus is really on MPs to pay equal heed to other lobby groups.”

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MUSIC

ON AN ISLAND

Katryna Storace ShareS a quiet drinK with French muSicianS, Stanley BrinKS aKa andré herman-dune and clemence FreSchard, aS they open up aBout their muSic, their aFFinity with malta and why they Keep coming BacK… Photography by Nicky Scicluna For Stanley Brinks, aka André Herman-Dune, and Clemence Freschard, Malta has become a musical muse of sorts. Travelling to the islands several times over the years, between touring and recording, they spend their days hitting the bars and każini, mingling with the locals, and gathering inspiration for their songs.

Hailing from France, the couple now call the city of Berlin home. André was raised in Paris, and began his musical training in jazz at a young age, encouraged by his father. In his twenties, André hit it big on the international stage with folk rock band Herman Dune.

“People are so friendly here,” says André. “You go to a bar and strike up a conversation with someone and they can be 16 or 85, it doesn’t matter – they are so nice and interested. It’s not like that in the rest of the world.”

Following a successful stint, André called the quits, reforming himself as Stanley Brinks.

Since then, André has adopted an organic approach to song writing, surrounding himself with various sources for ideas.

58 Sunday Circle | February 2013

Music

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 59

MUSIC

With guitar in hand and crooning vocals, he breaks into simple, heartfelt and often catchy tunes, creating an intimate space between himself and his audience.

Clemence, who goes by the stage name Freschard, began her musical career after meeting André. “I met him when I was working as a waitress in a Paris restaurant,” she recounts. “He used to visit the restaurant regularly and one day, he asked me whether I’d sing a song he had written for me.” She went on to record an album with André, with songs he had written for her. Clemence eventually began writing her own music and learnt how to play the guitar.

Before that, however, she had never sang or played music. “My friends used to shut me up whenever I sang along to the radio,” she admits, and bursts into an infectious giggle.

Pastizzi”, “Good Morning Pastizzi”, and “JMC” – a song about Jean Marie Camilleri from Gzira, who likes her bigilla and ftira, and spends her time down by the harbour drinking Cisk and Hanini.

“It’s very inspiring. We come here in between tours, so it’s always a time when we write our music. My last album, Shh, was written entirely in Malta, even if the songs are not necessarily directly about it,” she adds.

André’s encounters usually work their way into his songs.

“It’s easy to meet interesting people here – a lot of the songs are about people I meet…”

He is especially attracted to their warmth, which, he says, is even more tangible when set against the people he encounters in Berlin. “Despite the warmth, there is still a kind of xenophobia, which is the only thing that bothers me… People feel threatened and are very protective of the Maltese identity. I find it strange because on a personal level, I feel you should be curious of other ways of life.

It’s the biggest dilemma. It’s always at the back of my mind…”

It’s difficult to record in Malta. You find you’re missing out on too much on the outside by staying indoors

Although André and Clemence have their own musical projects, they also collaborate regularly and travel and tour together. “André has played guitar on all my albums: two mini albums and four full-length,” says Clemence.

“We’ve also recorded four albums where we sing duets together, some of which are covers. These we’ve produced over the space of ten years.”

Among them is Ħafna Xita, recorded entirely in the space of an evening in a house in Rue D’Argens, Gzira using a hand-held recorder.

The album features the tracks “Goodnight 60 Sunday Circle | February 2013

André flew over to Malta and spent some time writing the songs for the album before Clemence and a group of Norwegian musicians joined him for the actual recording.

“It was hard to get them to stay inside the house to record, because they loved the bars so much,” says André. “It’s difficult to record in Malta. You find you’re missing out on too much on the outside by staying indoors.”

The album was called Ħafna Xita as it was recorded last February, where it rained and rained, day in, day out. “Everyday we’d hear people repeat this phrase, ‘ħafna xita’,” says Clemence. She and André prefer travelling to Malta during the winter months, as it offers an ideal respite from the harsh winters in Berlin.

Why Malta, though? “It was love at first sight,” says Clemence. Spurred by curiosity and interest, they visited for the first time in 2004.

Clemence and André will be in Malta until the end of the month, before they move on to their next musical adventure in New Orleans, Louisiana. Will they be returning any time soon? Probably – as long as there’s the music... and an eager ear with which to share it.

Stanley Brinks and Freschard will perform on 15 February at Coach and Horses, Msida.

Listen to Ħafna Xita on bandcamp.com/stanleybrinks

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HOTSPOT

Reaching foR the Sky

A few weeks into moving to the new skypArks premises in LuqA, mALtA’s vodAfone heAd office is the picture of modern technoLogy The entire floor and a half dedicated to Vodafone at Skyparks Business Centre is airy, spacious and hushed – quite a feat considering the sizeable team the company boasts and the nature of their work. The space is crisp and clean; not only in terms of colour and design but also in terms of work space.

Desks are in perfect order, stray papers are practically non-existent and the space surrounding desks and meeting areas is completely free from clutter. Such order, however, is not accidental – it is all part of Vodafone’s new approach to working concepts, including those of hot-desking in an open plan office and their ‘paperless office’ policy.

Their new concept of hot-desking promotes freedom of movement within the office – desks must be cleared at the end of each day as the same person might not occupy the same desk the following day. An employee’s ‘desk’ is mobile with all services, including voice and messaging systems, routed through the network connectivity wherever one is located in the office. In a bid to reduce the use of paper, all printing is centralised in two rooms per floor, and will only be printed if the employee physically goes to the printer with an access card.

“Moving our head office was not simply a change in address but it is a complete overhaul in the way we work, in our culture and employee mentality,” says Antoinette Camilleri, property manager at Vodafone Malta. “Our idea was to have a fluid concept, an open plan office with no boundaries between different teams because ultimately

we are one team working to address our customers’ needs and requirements.”

Every aspect of the office was planned with care and consideration, including the choice of furniture, specifically designed with factors in mind such as space, comfort, durability and the maintenance required. A variety of meeting rooms were set up bearing customers in mind, as well as a number of internal meeting areas and touch points, where employees can congregate and discuss issues in comfort. Adding to their intelligent design is attention to noise-reduction technology, such as fitted carpets, noiseabsorbing soffits and partitions between desks, making the environment peaceful and quiet.

Such attention to detail, however, follows an intensive research and development stage.

Antoinette says the entire process took two years to implement, from construction to the move. “Multiple projects and processes were undertaken to make the move a smooth one,” she says. “We have constantly promoted a culture of change in the run up to the move which has produced positive results. Team members are embracing this change and it’s really great to see that our people are happy with the smooth transition to the new offices and with their new working environment.”

With 360 degree views from the office, an energetic and buzzing environment and a modern approach to working and employment, it is not hard to see why Vodafone employees are indeed embracing the innovative approach.

DANIEL SPITERI

Business Sales Executive

“The first time I got to know that I will not be having my own desk I was shocked. However, now that we are all enjoying the new Vodafone Head Office, I feel much better in my day-to-day work experience. I believe that the new environment enhances our wellbeing and will result in giving an unmatched customer experience.”

ROBERTA SCHEMBRI Senior Internal Auditor

“Prior to our move to Skyparks we experienced weeks of anticipation, excitement and positive vibes. For many of us it felt like the first day of school. My experience in the new Head Office has been a very positive one; the premises feature the latest technology and make for a dynamic environment where every day we are experiencing working with a difference.”

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 63

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BEAUTY

THE SAFE APPROACH ...TO PlASTiC SuRgERy Consultant reConstruCtive and aesthetiC plastiC surgeon raymond debono on what to look out for when Considering CosmetiC surgery to guarantee the best results In many countries cosmetic surgery has unfortunately been commercialised and marketed as a ‘must have’ commodity or luxury. The patient has been converted into a client. In this environment it is of utmost importance for the patient looking for cosmetic treatments to be very careful with analysing information gathered from adverts and various marketing tools used to make cosmetic surgery look ‘risk-free’ and very desirable.

So what Should you do if you are conSidering coSmetic Surgery?

Analyse the reasons why you are considering cosmetic surgery It is important to be in a stable phase of your life when you are considering plastic surgery. One has to be very careful not to take decisions during difficult times such as during a relationship breakdown as your stressed mental state may direct your attention to your body unnecessarily. If you feel that a part of your body is not normal or not what you would like it to be, then you should soon check that your feelings are physically correct. To do so, you may ask close people around you to see what they think. If they agree with you then you are likely to be correct.

Gather as much knowledge as you can about the procedure you are considering The internet provides a vast range of information on cosmetic surgery. Be wise and choose sites that tell you the good and the potentially not so good aspects of the various cosmetic surgery procedures, and sites that belong to reputable plastic surgery societies such as www. bapras.org and www.plasticsurgery.org. There are also books written for potential cosmetic surgery patients, which you may find helpful.

Learn how to choose your doctor as your result and outcome will directly depend on the qualifications, skill and experience of your doctor As a starting point your family doctor may help you choose the surgeon. To further confirm the reputation and likelihood of a good result you should consider asking people that come in contact with many individuals that have undergone cosmetic surgery. Experienced beauty therapists are generally a good source of information for this matter. Be careful of individual recommendations by satisfied patients unless you collect similar evidence from some others, as a satisfactory result in one individual and in one type of surgery does not give you any reassurance of success.

Once you have done the above investigation it is important to check the medical register: https://ehealth.gov.mt/HealthPortal/others/ regulatory_councils/medical_council/ medicalcouncilregisters.aspx issued by the medical council and confirm the speciality and qualifications of the doctor. This official information, besides helping you keep safe, also gives you an indication of some of the world-renowned qualifications in plastic surgery, such as the UK qualification, FRCSPlast and the USA qualification, American Boards Certificate.

Conclusion You should only consider cosmetic surgery after you have gone through a series of safety checks. Never rush, as impulsive rushed decisions can cause lifetime problems. A poor cosmetic surgery result is not always possible to correct through revision surgery and may have adverse physical, psychological and interpersonal relationship effects in the long-term.

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 65

Bice, 32, Old Treasury Street, Valletta. Tel: 2123 9885

At Bice Boutique one finds a lovely selection of boys’ and girls’ Holy Communion and Confirmation outfits, characterised by striking styles, artisan workmanship and excellent fabrics. Besides the kids’ collections, from new-born to teenagers, the ladies’ collections also offer plenty of original styles.

MUCH MORE THEN JUST A WINE BAR Wine, Dine & Lounge, finally an original wine lounge on the Sliema Strand.

Malta’s most happening place for the mature crowd.

Dario’s offers over 60 varieties of wine, 16 of which are available by the glass through our innovative Italian Enomatic systems preserving the wines by means of a food friendly nitrogen gas, always at the optimum temperature and never exposed to oxygen.

Fine wine obviously opens the apetite for good hearty food, which is provided through a menu consisting of a variety of 20 small plates serving as a taster for 2, as well as 14 main course plates, and a selection of platters.

To finish the night off we up the volume on our state of the art sound & light system so as to offer a complete night out in the company of our DJs. 98, The Strand, Sliema | Mob: +356 9949 5408 | Tel. No: +356 2131 5677 Email: dariosmalta@gmail.com | www.facebook.com/Darioslounge 66 Sunday Circle | February 2013

STYLE & TECHNOLOGY

NEW TOYOTA AURIS has an all-new exterior design that is more confident, sleek and dynamic, maximising the benefits of its lower overall height and centre of gravity.

Standard features on all versions include seven airbags, air conditioning, in-car entertainment system, follow-me-home headlights, Hill-start Assist Control, Vehicle Stability Control and LED daytime running lights.

Optional Toyota Touch & Go multimedia system with full map navigation and access to online content and applications For more info please visit the Toyota Showroom, Zebbug or find us on Facebook at Toyota Malta

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Let’s fly Together

SURELY AN EXPERIENCE THAT YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONE WILL TREASURE FOREVER.

Experience the beauty of the Maltese Islands from on board our Cessna 206 six seat aircraft! Malta Wings regularly operates tours of 30 minutes around the islands and passengers benefit from a 3600 view whilst flying at an appropriate height and speed which will allow for pleasant sightseeing. For added excitement, it is possible for one passenger to sit next to the pilot during the flight!

Tel: 21647888 / 79705877 | Web: www.maltaflying.com

Space Saving PETROLEA SHOWROOM Valley Road Msida

OPEN ALL DAY

Gemco Ltd. Msida Valley Road, Msida Email: sales@gemco.com.mt Tel: 2148 8919

Tel: 2123 4501 Email: showroom@petroleamalta.com Web: www.petroleamalta.com Like us on Facebook

powered by www.shireburn.com/estore

visit our new e-store fast | easy | saves you money www.goldengate.com.mt February 2013 | Sunday Circle 67

The New MSV Child Savings Plan Start saving for your children’s future from as little as ₏1.32 per day

COM 210711

To find out more...

For more details about the MSV Child Savings Plan, you may contact MSV Life on freephone 8007 2220 or any of our Tied Intermediaries or visit any branch of Bank of Valletta p.l.c. or APS Bank Malta.

MSV Life p.l.c. is authorised by the Malta Financial Services Authority to carry on long term business under the Insurance Business Act 1998.

Ponsomby Street, Mosta MST 4032 2143 2571, 2143 6186, 2143 2951 info@vct.com.mt www.vct.com.mt Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 08.00 to 18.00 Thu 08.00 to 20.00 (Late Night) Sat 09.00 to 12.30

68 Sunday Circle | February 2013

PAINT masthead IT RED

CAMPARI RED PASSION For more than 150 years, Campari has been tasted and appreciated by many. The inimitable Campari recipe kept unchanged, a closelyguarded secret passed down through the years.

Campari’s most famous cocktail is the Negroni, made with Campari, Vermouth Rosso and gin, and dating back to 1919 in Florence, where the Count Camillo Negroni used to order his Americano cocktail with an extra shot of gin, lending the delicious new drink his name.

Farsons Beverage Imports Co. Ltd. Trade Enquiry | Tel: 2381 4400

SEAT MII

The new SEAT Mii is the perfect automobile for the urban lifestyle of today. The youthful and sporty city car makes life easier – with compelling utility, exceptional driving fun, high efficiency and innovative technology. As a true SEAT, the Mii combines sporty and youthful design with the very best craftsmanship and enormous scope for individualization. Moreover, the outstanding value for money and reasonable maintenance costs make the joy of driving a Mii attainable to all – in typical SEAT fashion.

The SEAT Mii starts at €9,990.

Book your test drive at Continental Cars Ltd Tel: 2347 6342.

KITCHENAID ARTISAN BLENDER Incredibly versatile. More than a mixer™. With all the available attachments, you can use the Kitchenaid Artisan mixer to make homemade pasta, stuff fresh sausage, whip up ice cream, and give fruit a squeeze. No wonder generations of cooks have cherished theirs. Isn’t it your turn?

Available in several colours including Empire Red. See the entire range of Kitchenaid appliances at the Forestals showroom, Mriehel Tel: 2343 6000 / www.forestals.com

Strand Palace Agencies Ltd., Calleja Buildings, Carob Street, St. Venera SVR 1705 Tel. 2144 1768, Fax. 2149 7593, Email. info@strand.com.mt Strand Palace Agencies Ltd., Calleja Buildings, Carob Street, St. Venera SVR 1705 February 2013 | Sunday Circle 69 Tel. 2144 1768, Fax. 2149 7593, Email. info@strand.com.mt

SERAC ELCRIC

PAINLESS VEIN REMOVAL Varicose veins are known to cause pain and discomfort, caused by the failure of valves in the veins to open and close properly resulting in unsightly bulging and painful swelling from bad circulation. Traditionally, they are removed from the leg by stripping them out and sealing off the ends; a painful procedure with a long recovery process. A new treatment means they can be removed by a simple small injection, with far less pain and inconvenience. This day surgery involves inserting a small needle and canula around the medial aspect of the knee and a thin catheter is fed into the leg veins until it reaches the area that needs treating. The catheter then delivers radio frequency or laser energy to the vein wall, causing it to heat, collapse and seal shut. It is quick and far less painful.

St.Mary’s Beauty Clinic, 9/11, Triq il-Barrieri, Mosta, MALTA. Tel: 2142 2888, 2742 2888 | Mob: 9942 2120 | Email: ffarugia@hotmail.com

CIRCLE CARES

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GIVE yOuR kIdS A hEALthy SMILE… wIth COLGAtE Depending on their age, children have different needs for dental hygiene. Colgate Smiles and Colgate Junior cover these necessities with specific products for each age, products developed with the help of paediatric dentists.

Colgate Smiles and Colgate Junior, help protect kids’ teeth against cavities and bad breath and come in fun and tasty flavours to encourage your young ones to brush regularly… at least twice a day.

Colgate toothpaste and toothbrushes, the best start for a lifetime of healthy smiles. distributed by von Brockdorff Imports Ltd. Tel: 2123 2141

NYDA - GooDbYe to heAD lice!

NYDA – The new, 100% effective treatment against head lice. The only product which guarantees a single application. It acts by suffocating the breathing system of lice so that resistance cannot develop. It is free of toxic insecticides and does not cause any irritation.

NYDA – Effective, Easy to use, Safe.

Pemix Limited, Tel: 2143 7962

NIVEA TEL: 2122 1094 www.NIVEA.com

Offer valid on products bearing the promotional sticker until stocks last.

February 2013 | Sunday Circle 71

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food & drink

This Valentine’s Day, get your loved one a gift from Farsonsdirect We have a vast selection of wines, champagne, deli, chocolates and special valentine’s baskets for him and for her... all at fantastic prices

Qu a ker Oats

Place your order online at www.farsonsdirect.com for free deliveries*

Oat So Simple Toppers – available in two variants, Chocolate Chunks and Strawberry Pieces – have an oat cluster topping that is packed separately in the lid and is added to the porridge once it has been made.

The oat cluster topping is made up of oats, crisped rice, multi-grain flakes and obviously strawberry or chocolate pieces.

There’s no need to cook or heat up in a microwave, just add hot water, stir, wait for two minutes and enjoy a creamy porridge! This quick and easy porridge means you can have a tasty breakfast to suit your mood and schedule!

Quaker Oats are a nourishing way to start the day, providing energy, fibre and lowering cholesterol.

Find us on Facebook: Go Healthy

72 Sunday Circle | February 2013

Great Value - Easy Parking - Wide Choice

The Brewery, Mdina Road, Mriehel BKR3000 (Just past the Farsons Brewery) Tel. 2381 4444 • e-mail. info@farsonsdirect.com • web. www.farsonsdirect.com *Terms and conditions apply

Buy any 2

boxes

to get your FREE Mug and

Collect all 4 mugs now!

Visit facebook.com/NESCAFEMalta

Offer is not valid with NescafĂŠ Cappuccino 250g Jar. Offer is valid till stock lasts.