T-21 MAY 2021 | EDITION 02
T H E T R A N S P O R T M A LTA Q UA R T E R LY
The Grand Harbour Grand Clean Up Special Feature The Land Transport Directorate
The Malta Hydrographic Unit - A Small Office that is....
Vocational Studies in the Maritime Sector
SCHEMES FOR MORE SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT BUDGET MEASURES 2021
Grants for purchase of vehicles which are more environment-friendly.
contents PUBLISHER
Transport Malta
02
A Note from the Editor
EDITOR
04
Foreword
10
Looking at the PostPandemic Years with Optimism, Continued Investment, and Renewal
14
In the News
18
Peter Paul Barbara DESIGN AND LAYOUT
Pure Concepts Design Studios
76
Introducing the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure
82
Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects launches the largest package ever of transport financial grants to promote sustainable mobility
Investing in Our Grand Harbour
88
9H-SUN…. A Flight of Relief to a Devastated City
22
The Grand Harbour Clean-Up In Full Swing
94
National Household Travel Survey 2021
38
The Malta Hydrographic Office
100
Updating the Highway Code
48
The Land Transport Directorate (LTD)
103
58
How To Become A Safe Driver For Life
Laying out the foundations for the Foundation for Transport
105
The Land Enforcement Unit of Transport Malta raising the bar on its Enforcement
108
Seafarer Certification, Training, and cooperation with Training Institutes
122
Empowering the Transport Sector with Geospatial Technology
PRINTER
iCreate In collaboration with the TM Marketing Department
Malta Transport Centre Triq Pantar, Ħal Lija, LJA 2021 Malta
info@transport.gov.mt www.transport.gov.mt
Copyright : All rights reserved Copyright of all the images used in this publication remains the right of the photographer. Images including cover – peterpaulbarbara
DISCLAIMER The contents of the articles in this publication is the responsibility of the respective author and it does not necessary mean that the views expressed therein are the same or reflect those of Transport Malta.
65
Get your number plate
72
Garaging or Scrapping Your Vehicle?
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
1
A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR PETER PAUL BARBARA Welcome to the second edition of T-21: The Transport Malta Quarterly. First of all, I would like to thank all those readers who sent their encouraging comments on this initiative as well as for their feedback, especially with regard to the publication’s format, design and content material, and for providing useful and valid suggestions.
currently being considered to improve our dissemination of information to the general public. We are starting with two articles from the compiled list of frequently asked questions, written in a quasi-questionand-answer format.. These two articles deal with issues relating to vehicle car number plates as well as the procedures one would need to follow when garaging a vehicle or when scrapping one. These two topics are important, especially to address arising issues in relation to unwanted vehicles and vehicles
The scope of this journal is to provide, first and foremost, information on work and services that Transport Malta carries out on a daily basis and in certain areas on a 24/7 basis, in order to keep our national transport system
which are not used and put in a garage, gathering dust. Sometimes owners do not pay their road licences in these situations and if this is not taken care of, it may result in
functioning in its entirety and as one would expect it to.
having to pay hefty amounts of money in unpaid license
As expected, especially in view of the regulatory function
procedures which one has to follow, either to garage a
of the Authority, Transport Malta receives hundreds of questions and requests for information on various issues and topics every day, mostly through our Customer Care Services, but also through our service counters and
fees and accumulated fines. In fact, there are simple vehicle or to scrap one, in order to avoid paying money which I am sure could be better spent. With regard to the issue of vehicle number plates, we have
offices.
a very interesting article which goes into detail on the
A database has been put in place to analyse the subjects
to follow. We also followed the process of number plate
and topics that people mostly ask about, both through our Customer Care Unit as well as through our offices and our
different types of number plates, costs, and procedures making, which I found very interesting, and I am sure you will too. Here I would like to thank the Deputy Chief Officer
social media.
of the Land Transport Directorate, Mr. Gilbert Agius, for
For this purpose, and as from this month, we will be
to commemorate this article.
the tour. A sample T-21 number plate was also produced
revisiting those topics and subjects that people frequently ask about, in hopes that we will address these questions
This month’s T-21 edition is mostly dedicated to the Land
over the upcoming editions of this publication. This, of
Transport Directorate, and we shall explain the various
course, is only one initiative from a number of others
units which make up this Directorate as well as services
2
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
associated with Land Transport that are offered, such as vehicle purchase and licensing, operating licences, and public transport, amongst others. Obviously, other features will also be published in the future because as you can imagine, land transport is a very engaging sector. We are also including a very interesting article on driving licences and tips which one could follow to successfully obtain a driving licence. small units, the GIS-Unit. I am sure
packed with interesting features
A very important topic which we are
that you will find these two articles
which I am sure will give you further
featuring in this edition is the general
very interesting.
insights on the work being carried out
clean up currently underway in our
by Transport Malta and its employees.
Grand Harbour, with the intention
Another interesting article featured
of improving its functionality and
is in the form of a human-story on
Similar to the first edition, the publication
accessibility. This is so that the
a relief flight to the capital city of
will be available for everyone to
country can make better use of its
Lebanon, Beirut, which was hit by
download as a soft copy from our official
main and unique port by maximising
a major explosion in its port area
Transport Malta Website, which can
its resources, and to improve its
last year, leaving many people dead
also be shared. For those who would
environment as well as that of its
and over 500,000 people displaced
want to own a printed version, this will
surrounding towns and villages.
without a roof.
be available in limited numbers from the Customer Care or Reception of the
This issue is also dealt with by our
The relief flight with supplies for those
Transport Minister, Hon. Dr. Ian Borg,
in need was the idea and brainchild of
in his kind contribution to this second
Director General for the Civil Aviation
Finally, I would like to thank Senior
edition for which we would like to
Directorate within Transport Malta,
Management for their support, the
thank him. This endeavour is also
Captain Charles Pace.
Marketing Unit for their assistance,
being addressed by the Authority’s Chairman
and
Chief
Authority’s Head Office in Ħal Lija.
as well as the Maritime Enforcement
Executive
In this edition we will also take a look at
Directorate for their patience and
Officer, Mr Joseph Bugeja in his usual
maritime related vocational courses
support they provided over the last
Foreword.
available, as well as certification and
few weeks to make the illustrations
a number of institutes that provide
for this edition possible.
In this second edition we are also
training. Another featured article is
looking at two important services
about a very important national survey
being offered by the Authority, with
on transport and travel behaviour,
regard to the Maritime and Shipping
which is a very strategic tool when
Industry on the one hand, and to
it comes to the development and
Land Transport on the other.
planning
of
transport
I hope you will enjoy it. The Editor. Peter Paul Barbara is Director within the Office of the Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO
policies. This survey will The first relates to a very small unit,
be rolled out very shortly.
namely, the Hydrography Unit, and
As one can see, this
the second relates to another of our
second edition is jam-
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
3
TAKING TRANSPORT BACK TO NORMALITY
FOREWORD MR. JOSEPH BUGEJA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Transport Malta
4
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Over a year has passed since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Apart from the fact that the country is rolling out a massive national vaccination programme, nothing much has changed since then, as restrictions are still in place. This means that people are still travelling less, both domestically and internationally, at least, at the time of writing. This state of affairs brought with it a crunch in the transport sector, as is evident enough from statistics being published by various transport operators in the beginning of the year.
Looking at the 2020 figures posted
highest-ever recorded passenger
also registered considerable drops in
by the Malta International Airport for
movements since 2002, that is 7,310,
activity when compared the previous
example, we have a good snapshot
289 passenger movements.
years of increasing economic growth.
of the domino effect that such a drop left and is still leaving on the whole
Similar
massive
drops
were
As we are entering the first quarter
country, since tourism is one of the
registered across European Airports
of 2021, we are still waiting for the
main pillars of the Maltese economy.
with an overall contraction of around
publication of figures for the first
79,6%.
quarter, but it isn’t expected that the
To put things into perspective, the year
situation will look any brighter during
2020 registered a 76.1% drop over
Similarly, a big hit was also registered
this period, which hopefully, will not
2019 in passenger movements. In
by the Valletta Cruise Port as far
be long.
fact, these are the lowest passenger
as incoming cruise passengers
movement figures ever released
are concerned. When compared
Everyone is looking optimistically at
by the company since it assumed
to 2019, the total number of cruise
the start of the upcoming summer
responsibility for the management of
passengers visiting Malta was that
season and we believe that the
our national air terminal back in 2002.
of 59,018. Approximately 906,000
industry will return to some form
At the time, passenger movements
cruise passengers were registered
of recovery. In the meantime, most
hovered around 2.6 million.
in 2019, which coincidentally was
companies are taking the opportunity
also a record. This translated into a
to continue with their preparations to
massive drop of 92.3%.
be able to re-start their businesses
By the end of 2020, passenger movement figures stood at 1,748,050 when
compared
to
the
when the situation permits. Such
7.4%
These drops have left hard and
preparations are also being done by
registered increase in 2019 over
negative impacts on other sectors
the Transport Authority at a National
the previous year, which saw the
such as land transport operators, who
Level.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
5
6
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Bolstering Transport Malta’s Modernisation Programme
being done as a collaboration with
as everyone may know, at the time of
Infrastructure Malta, the National
writing, these were already removed,
Agency responsible for national
thus restoring our skyline.
Transport
The Grand Harbour Clean-Up and regeneration
Malta
is
infrastructure delivery. But not only. Further inland, mainly in Marsa Creek and not so visible to
continuing
with its upgrading programme in place as well as a reform across all of its Directorates. The biggest investment
is
being
made
the general public, a good number of vessels lay idle in and around the creek, a good number of which are also half sunk. These vessels are taking important space which can
on and
In the last few moths Transport
otherwise be utilised in a better way. In
technology, particularly within the
Malta has been actively assisting
this respect, Transport Malta, through
Maritime Enforcement Unit. This
in the general clean up of our
its Port and Yachting Directorate
year, the Unit will see 5 new additional
Grand Harbour. Regulations were
and with the full cooperation of the
marine assets added to its fleet, not
updated and enforcement is being
Maritime Enforcement Department,
to mention the fact that towards the
stepped up to make sure that the
has started to take a look at each
end of last year, the staff compliment
various operators and other actors
case and has begun to enforce their
of the Maritime Enforcement Unit
operating within the harbour, do so
removal accordingly. This is not an
was also increased to be able to
in full respect of their obligations and
easy task as in a lot of cases, there
keep up with the workload.
responsibilities.
have been legal issues concerning
On the other hand, several projects
The recent review of the ‘Laid up’
with this clean up until we restore
are also being prepared with respect
policy within Transport Malta has also
these areas, in order to make way for
to traffic management as well as
led to the departure of the two ~Jack-
the continuation of the Regeneration
new infrastructure initiatives within
up Rigs~ that were idle at the Grand
of the Grand Harbour.
the Valletta Grand Harbour. This is
Harbour for more than four years and
its
infrastructure,
assets,
these vessels. Our aim is to continue
In this regard, the Government
ON THE OTHER HAND, SEVERAL PROJECTS ARE ALSO BEING PREPARED WITH RESPECT TO TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AS WELL AS NEW INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVES WITHIN THE VALLETTA GRAND HARBOUR.
has already made major strides, especially with the dismantling of the old Marsa Power Station as well as the Ship to Shore project, currently being implemented by Infrastructure Malta. This project will give the opportunity to visiting and berthing ships to connect directly to our National Electricity Grid instead of run on heavy fuel oil which is negatively affecting air quality in the Port Area. This project was first studied by Transport Malta with the commissioning of a Feasibility Study on the technology as part of the Port PVEV Project.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
7
8
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Land Transport
be an important tool to assist us in transport policy and planning.
This current edition of the T-21 Publication
is
also
giving
the
general public an insight on the work carried out by the Land Transport Directorate. With respect to Land Transport, we are currently proceeding with the second phase of the Mass Rapid Transport System
Additional resources, as can be seen in this publication, are also being given to our Hydrographic Unit within the Ports and Yachting Directorate. Despite the small size of this unit, its work is very important in terms of the services it provides to the maritime industry.
Study, as was announced last November during the 2021 Budget Estimates
Presentation
speech.
Currently, TM is in discussions with other Government Departments as well as with our Consultants in order to kick off the second phase of this study, so that the Government will be in a better position to take the necessary decisions on this project. This second phase in fact will see further detailed studies of technical, financial, economic, and environmental nature.
Modernisation and Technology Throughout
this
year,
the
authority will also continue with its modernisation and most notably, the full digitisation of Transport Malta across all of its Directorates. Continued investments are being made in our GIS system which, once
THE AUTHORITY IS COMMITTED TO WORKING IN THIS DIRECTION OVER THE COMING MONTHS AND YEARS SO THAT WE KEEP MODERNISING OURSELVES WITH THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES WHICH ULTIMATELY WILL REFLECT IN THE IMPROVED SERVICES TO OUR CLIENTS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC AT LARGE.
completed and fully functional, will
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
9
Welcome to the second edition of our official quarterly journal, T-21. The publication of this second edition is parallel with the presentation and publication of our Annual Report for 2020, which in a way mirrors what the whole country has been experiencing over the last 12 months or so. The current COVID-19 pandemic made everyone, including Transport Malta, adapt to a new and unprecedented way of life which we are constrained to living in, at least until the pandemic subsides and we return to some form of normality.
LOOKING AT THE POSTPANDEMIC YEARS WITH OPTIMISM, CONTINUED INVESTMENT, AND RENEWAL KEVIN FARRUGIA Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Transport Malta
The
COVID-19
Pandemic
has
brought to the Authority new challenges unlike ever experienced before.
Transport
operations
and activities subsided across all transport modes, and as this slowing down is expected to continue at least for the first few months of this year. Transport Malta was also called upon to assist the Public Health Authorities in the enforcement of the latest measures put in place by the Superintendent of Public Health to curtail the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
10
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
In this respect, our enforcement officers have been
In the meantime, like many other public organisations
deployed to give a helping hand in the endeavour to keep
and private companies, the Authority is continuing in
the public safe. In the meantime, however, the Authority
its endeavour to continue renewing its operations with
is continuing to streamline its operations across all
new work practices, such as teleworking for members
transport modes and make itself better prepared for the
of our staff who could easily work from home, as well as
post pandemic era, whenever this shall happen.
by making more investments to improve and upgrade
This slowing down and the fact that people are travelling
our resources and general assets. Continuing in the
less (at a local level) could be clearly seen by the data
development and investment of our GIS Platform is one
collected throughout 2020. A good indicator is the fact
such example, and so is the long-term training and re-
that throughout 2020, the number of contraventions
training of our staff.
issued by our Land Enforcement Department totalled to 15,287, when compared to the 16,512 issued in 2019.
In the first edition of the T-21 Publication we provided
Similarly, for example, the number of vehicles towed in
you with a window to our day-to-day operations of
2020 was that of 121, while those clamped amounted
our Enforcement Directorate, which includes, among
to 192. Comparatively, in 2019, 350 were towed and
other responsibilities, the enforcement of traffic and
547 were clamped. Whether this was a result of
maritime regulations as well as physical on-site traffic
the slowdown in transport services because of the
management at crucial road junctions and bottlenecks.
decrease in travelling or whether it is because people
In this edition however, we are giving the general public
are being more careful in the way they use their vehicles,
an insight on the work currently being carried out by the
will have to be seen once the pandemic is over. We hope
Authority on our GIS System. This is a very important
that the decrease in the number of contraventions given
tool in the provision of real-time information for road
is because people are being more careful on the road.
users, as well as in managing our assets and transport
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
11
12
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
infrastructure better, which will complement and improve the output of the Authority for the benefit of all road users alike. These investments and works will be coupled with additional investments in our Traffic Control Centre, which will make full use of our expanding GIS System to continue improving traffic flows and traffic management. We will take a closer look at the work of our Traffic Control Centre in this publication, later on this year. The building of our GIS platform will not happen overnight, especially since our infrastructure keeps on evolving and developing, as our assets continue to increase, as technology keeps advancing, as new Intelligent Transport Systems keep developing, and as new transport services are introduced. Our GIS system will continue to develop. Each system and each transport service with its respective infrastructure will need to be made to be layered into the GIS ecosystem in order to have the whole jigsaw puzzle in place. Similarly, we need to come to a situation where road closures and road works would also be mapped in the system, correctly and in good time, so that road users would be notified about them in real time. This would need the full cooperation of contractors, local councils, and other entities, which in some shape or form carry out activities on our streets. This is not an easy task, especially since the information required would need to be correct and timely. The GIS architecture will eventually see the infusion of local intelligence (at source) with Artificial Intelligence. It will be the basis and the architecture needed to achieve what is referred to as “The Smart City Concept”. It is a slow but a very interesting process which will take us to the next level.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
13
IN THE NEWS Sabrina Zahra As from this edition of T-21, we are introducing this new section with the latest news updates covering events and other news items which took place over the last few weeks and which are relevant to the transportation sector and related infrastructure.
Online Services in relation to yacht and boat registration under the Valletta Registry Online Services in relation to yacht and boat registration under the Valletta Registry, as of Monday 15th March 2021. In
an
effort
transmission
to of
reduce
the
COVID‑19,
Transport Malta has implemented measures
to
provide
online
services in relation to yacht and
All yacht and boat owners, including
the tag, shall still be valid and will
fishing vessels, are to make any
automatically be extended until the
requests for services under the
31st of October 2021.
Valletta Registry by email on shipreg.tm@transport.gov.mt.
This means that everyone who
Alternatively, customers may wish
holds this type of permit may still
to call on +356 21250360 for the
be able to operate in the coming
appropriate guidance on the nature
months. In spite of this, Transport
of service required.
Malta
New arrangements for the Extension for the Validity of Driver Permits and Driver Tag
boat registration under the Valletta Registry. These services include: • Renewal of the Certificate of Registry • Provisional
and
permanent
registration • Transfer of Ownership • Any other ancillary services
As a consequence of the COVID‑19 pandemic, and in order to reduce the length of time for the renewal of Driver Permits and Driver Tag, and since there is a need for related verifications from tertiary entities before these are renewed, Transport Malta is making arrangements so that any driver permit and driver
All payments are to be made by Debit or Credit Card.
14
will
still
be
renewing
Driver Permits and Driver Tag
tag which expired on the 1st of December 2020 or after, regardless of the expiry date which is found on
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
upon receiving the necessary verifications explained above. All
the
terms,
conditions
obligations
established
Passenger
Transport
Regulations,
Taxi
in
and the
Services Services
Regulations and Light Passenger Transport Services and Vehicle Hire Services Regulations shall be applicable to holders of these Driver Permits and Driver Tags. This arrangement has been made with the coming into force of the 2021 Regulations regarding the Extension of the Validity of Driver Permits and Driver Tag.
Government Commitment on the Aviation Industry Hon.
Minister
Infrastructure
for and
Framework Contact signed between the CAAi and Transport Malta
Transport, Capital
London,
United
Kingdom.
Projects, Dr. Ian Borg, said that
Tuesday 19th January 2021 – CAA
the
committed
International (CAAi), the technical
towards the Aviation Industry and
cooperation arm of the UK Civil
is encouraging youths to consider
Aviation Authority (UK CAA), has
taking up careers within the Industry.
been formally awarded an extensive
He said this during the launch of the
framework contract to deliver flight
Second Edition of the publication
simulator training device (FSTD)
Aviation Malta, which took place
evaluations and training services
on the 21st of February this year,
to the Civil Aviation Directorate of
on the premises of the Avion Group
Transport Malta.
Government
is
where amongst other commercial activities, operates a flight simulator
The two‑year contract will provide
designed on the Airbus A320, the
Transport
most used aircraft in the World,
to a wider range of regulatory
and which have been installed in
capabilities to support the rapid
Malta since 2018. Aviation Malta is a
growth
yearly publication specialising in the
Aircraft Register – 9H.
Malta
in
with
Malta’s
access
International
Aviation Sector and in this edition, with the collaboration of Transport
Present for the signing were Ms
Malta and the Directorate for Civil
Maria Rueda, Managing Director
Aviation, Government has spelled
of CAAi and Captain Charles Pace,
out its commitment and vision for
Director General for the Civil Aviation
the sector.
Directorate in Transport Malta. The framework contract is valid as from November 2020.
Some testimonials from our first set of candidates include:
“The exam was a straightforward one, with questions directly related to the drone operation and surroundings. Although this is the entry‑level examination, it is an essential exam to take as you’ll learn about safety and flight regulations.” – Stephen Wellman
“Applying and sitting for the exam was quite straight forward. All COVID‑related protocols were taken care of during the examination time. Overall, it must be ensured that all drone pilots operating in Malta need to pass some exams ensuring they know at least some health and safety measures for both themselves and other third parties, and also know basic aviation rules and policies with which one must abide to whilst flying.” – Julian Vella
Pilot Examinations, for both the A1/
“It is a straightforward multiple‑choice exam which relates directly to flying drones and knowledge of your equipment and surroundings. Studying for this exam makes you understand that when flying drones, we have to follow certain rules for the safety of any manned aircraft, uninvolved people, and even the subjects that we film.”
A3 as well as the A2 subcategories,
– Jurgen Aquilina
The Civil Aviation Directorate within Transport Malta has issued its first Remote Pilot Licences On
the
18th
of
January,
the
Civil Aviation Directorate within Transport Malta has issued its first Remote Pilot Licences. Remote pilots may apply to sit for Remote
on the TM‑CAD – IDRONECT. c. Rodrick Zerafa
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
15
The First Academy for Drone Operators Launched
Abandoned traditional Maltese Luzzu donated for restoration
Speed Cameras in Triq il‑Kosta Transport Malta has approved the
Earlier this year, the first academy specialising in training for Drone
Transport Malta has donated an
Operators was launched at the
abandoned
Hibernians Stadium in Kordin. The
Luzzu to the Cottonera Foundation.
training will take place during the
The vessel was recovered from
times when the stadium is not used
wreckage and was put up for sale
for football training and matches,
but with no success. Instead of
and the facility was made available
disposing of it, the Authority donated
after an agreement was reached
the vessel to the Foundation, in order
between the Malta Drone Centre
to be restored. Once restored, the
traditional
Maltese
installation of four speed cameras, two on each side of Triq il‑Kosta. The signs indicating speed cameras have been installed whilst plans to install the speed cameras are in an advanced stage. This road has seen many terrible accidents
as
well
as
deaths.
Because of this, a study to identify
and the Hibernians Football Club.
Foundation intends to give the vessel
The Malta Drone Centre is also the
to the Kalkara Local Council to be
first commercial company to be
placed as an attraction in the locality.
happened the most was carried
offer training on drone remote flying.
This traditional Luzzu is among other
installed in these black spots.
Until now, there are more than 1,000
abandoned vessels being lifted from
persons that registered their drone
the local waters. The Authority
with Transport Malta. Amongst
continues striving towards a better
others, the launch of the Academy
environment by removing wreckage
was also attended to by Hon.
and abandoned oil rigs.
awarded an operating licence to
Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects, Dr Ian Borg,
We are all connected to the sea so
as well as by Hon Minister for
let’s protect it and enjoy it.
Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development, Dr Miriam Dalli.
the locations where these accidents out. The speed cameras shall be
Biggest ever grants package for sustainable mobility launched On the 8th of April 2021, Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Project, Hon. Dr. Ian Borg announced and launched the largest package of transport financial grants and incentives ever awarded, through Transport Malta. The objective behind these grants is to further promote sustainable mobility and sustainable modes of transport. See the full story and details on these grants on page 8 2. Link to applications: https://www.transport.gov.mt/.../ transport‑schemes‑2021‑4647 https://www.gov.mt/.../ Pages/2021/April/08/ pr210668en.aspx
c. DOI - Clifton Grech
16
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
c. Omar Camilleri
Marsa Junction Project Official Inauguration The
Marsa
Junction
Project,
the biggest road project to date implemented
by
Infrastructure
Malta, was officially inaugurated on Thursday the 15th of April by Prime Minister Dr Robert Abela and Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Dr Ian Borg.
c. Pierre Sammut
The project, which cost 70 million
Cemetery. The walkways also serve
euros to complete include 12
as cycle lanes, allowing cyclists
kilometres of uninterrupted lanes
a reliable route to travel through
which are separated at three levels.
Marsa. Speeches for the occasion
The lanes have created creating
were also given by Parliamentary
direct northbound and southbound
Secretary
connections between Triq Aldo
Stefan
Moro, Vjal Sir Paul Boffa, Vjal Santa
Infrastructure Malta Chief Executive
Lucija, Triq Giuseppe Garibaldi and
Officer Fredrick Azzopardi.
for
Zrinzo
European
Funds
Azzopardi,
and
Triq il-Marsa (to Qormi). Alongside c. DOI - Darren Agius
the
Hon Minister Dr. Ian Borg and Chairman and CEO of TM, Mr Joseph Bugeja presenting the 2021 grants for greener vehicles.
kilometres of passageways have
lanes,
approximately
3.5
been erected to allow pedestrians easy access to the Adollorata
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
17
INVESTING IN OUR GRAND HARBOUR HON DR. IAN BORG Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects
c. MTIP
18
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Malta’s maritime industry is one pivoted on three main principles: quality, reputation, and confidence. Amidst the negative impact brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, changes were undoubtedly to occur, but one thing remained the same; our commitment to keep a high prolific maritime industry, an asset ingrained in this government’s holistic vision of a progressive, safer, and cleaner Malta.
As famous English poet Lord Byron
Well, as they say, history does in fact
Yet,
once said, “the best prophet of the
repeat itself and the Grand Harbour
and this government, with sheer
future is the past” and I truly believe
was yet again a main agent which
determination, never sits on the
in these words as the past has
helped our economic wheel keep on
fence. Transport Malta, together
time and time again showed us the
turning amidst this pandemic, since
with Infrastructure Malta, will be
importance of our island’s maritime
it has been the main driver for the
embarking on a number of projects
industry to not only the rest of
shipping of goods and additionally
set to regenerate the Grand Harbour,
Europe, but to the rest of the world.
kept a high degree of employment.
thus enhancing port capacity and
Taking our Grand Harbour as a point
This government is well-aware of the
the services that can be offered, not
of departure, one cannot disregard
island’s strong points and its motto is
to mention the flexibility the harbour
its reputable stance and its history.
to strengthen them more.
can offer to the shipping industry in
It was the base for the Knights of St.
our
vision
goes
beyond,
Malta as a whole.
John for 268 years and after their
The Grand Harbour Clean Air Project,
departure, it served as a strategic
a €50 million investment, is a clear
One initiative is the €5 million
base for the British empire for a
proof of this philosophy. This shore-
investment in maritime infrastructure
further 170 years. Furthermore, the
side electricity project will drastically
in order to liberalise the fast ferry
Grand Harbour was a recurring
cut 90% of the air pollution caused
service. The government, in the
first choice for various filmmakers
by cruise liners and Ro-ro ships
most transparent and complete way,
who captured its pristine beauty
when they visit the Grand Harbour.
gave freedom to all those interested
in
in
Furthermore, a total of 17,000 families
operators to provide the direct
turn pumped funds towards our
blockbuster
films
which
living in the vicinities will benefit from
Fast Ferry service for passengers
economy.
cleaner air and a greener lung.
wanting to travel between Mġarr
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
19
20 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Harbour, Gozo and the Grand Harbour, Valletta, in just 45
fully submerged, which adds to the need of specialised
minutes, starting from 1st June 2021.
equipment and experience. In addition, the circumstances surrounding each vessel, now considered un-seaworthy,
Another project decided upon after several assessments
vary to the extent that each vessel has to be treated
of the Grand Harbour and which is a complement to
differently, in terms of both the legal approach and works
the Grand Harbour Clean Air Project, is the removal
methodology. A number of operations have already
and departure of a number of inactive vessels and oil
been successfully completed and others are ongoing or
rigs from our Grand Harbour. These inactive vessels
planned for the coming weeks.
and oil rigs were interfering with our harbour’s unique aesthetic and further causing potential damage to the
In fact, on the 9th of March, the first oil rig, Rig Atwood
marine environment. For an environmentally friendly
Beacon was removed from our Grand Harbour, and in the
government this is completely unacceptable and the
coming weeks, a wider strategic plan will be revealed as
decision for these vessels to be removed had to be taken
to how we will stand behind our philosophy to safeguard
at the earliest.
our Grand Harbour’s pristine beauty and dynamicity. This government is committed to keep its discipline even if
The complexity of such operations is not to be
hard decisions need to be taken, yet, for the benefit of our
underestimated when considering the fact that a
nation, we are more than ready to take up the challenge.
number of these vessels, now considered wrecks, are
“FOR AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY GOVERNMENT THIS IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE AND THE DECISION FOR THESE VESSELS TO BE REMOVED HAD TO BE TAKEN AT THE EARLIEST.”
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
21
C a p t a i n Fr i t z Fa r r u g i a Deputy Chief Officer Deputy Harbour Master Ports a n d Ya c h t i n g D i r e c t o r a t e
Peter Paul Barbara Director O f f i c e o f D e p u t y C h i e f E xe c u t i v e Officer and Chief Operating Officer
S P E C I A L F E AT U R E
THE GRAND HARBOUR CLEAN-UP IN FULL SWING
22
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
March has been an eventful month
by
the
Ministry
Transport,
the Grand Harbour, particularly
for the Grand Harbour because of an
Infrastructure and Capital Projects,
complaining about the idle oil rigs in
ongoing general clean-up currently
where reference was made to
the harbour. In line with the above,
underway and in full swing, in an effort
the discussions with the Palumbo
Transport Malta introduced a Port
to make way for the continuation of our
Shipyards
agreement
Notice, which imposes a two-month
ongoing Grand Harbour Regeneration
reached, stating that both rigs will be
limit for ships being laid up in the
Programme, thus restoring our main
removed by the end of April of this
Grand Harbour, with extensions
port to its former glory.
year. In addition, as reported in the
provided on a case by case basis.
and
of
the
media, the Transport Ministry had As our natural harbour is marked with
also announced that an agreement
natural splendour and natural creeks,
was reached with Palumbo Shipyards
and adorned by unique cultural
to assist in the removal of half sunk
heritage dating back to the Middle
vessels in the Marsa Creek.
Ages, making it one of the most beautiful ports in the Mediterranean,
These rigs have been subject to
the Valletta Grand Harbour is indeed
controversy because they have
our window to the rest of the Maltese
been laid up and static for a number
Islands and our showcase for the
of years, brought about by the global
thousands of visitors, notably those
crisis in the oil and gas industry,
tourists visiting our islands through
combined with the outbreak of the
our unique and majestic port.
COVID-19
pandemic.
The two oil rigs were in fact towed out of the Grand Harbour this March, with the Atwood Beacon being towed out on 9th of March and the Atwood Aurora following suit on the 24th of March.
However,
following discussions with the rig
The planning for the removal of
This effort also saw at last, the
owners and local representatives
these rigs took several months to
removal of two oil rigs which were
who recognised the sensitivity
be drawn up, especially due to the
berthed at the Palumbo Shipyards for
and unique features of the Grand
travel restrictions brought about by
years on end; a scene which marred
Harbour and the relevance of
COVID-19. Their reactivation and
the Valletta skyline and tarnished its
the harbour to residents in the
mobilisation is even more complex
aesthetic beauty.
surrounding cities as well as the
due to the fact that the use of
public in general, it has been agreed
specialised machinery was needed,
The removal of the Atwood Beacon
that the rigs will be mobilised and
and this had to be imported from the
and the Atwood Aurora oilrigs was
plans have been drawn up for them
United Kingdom and other countries
sparked by a notice given to the
to leave Malta.
in Europe.
shipyard in question by the Transport Minister to shift operations on these
Both residents and activists, fronted
rigs. This operation was first made
by Azzjoni: Tuna Artna Lura, called
public on the 27th of January of this
on the Ombudsman to address a
year in a press statement published
number of issues taking place in
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
23
THE TWO JACK-UP RIGS WHICH WERE IN GRAND HARBOUR FOR A VERY LONG PERIOD OF TIME, HAVE NOW BEEN TOWED OUT OF GRAND HARBOUR.
24
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
In a press statement which was published following a ministerial press
During
conference, Hon. Minister Dr. Ian Borg said,
the Minister also made reference
that
press
conference,
to the initiative to remove laidup vessels in various parts of the
“THIS GOVERNMENT IS AWARE OF THE POTENTIAL
Harbour, an action which will also
AND REPUTATION THAT MALTA HAS IN THE MARITIME
serve to prevent potential damage
SECTOR AND WE ARE COMMITTED TO MAINTAIN
to the marine environment. He also
THIS STANDARD AS WELL AS TO IMPROVE IT. WITH
reiterated that both Government
THIS INITIATIVE AND POLICY TO CLEAN THE GRAND
and Transport Malta officials will be in contact with representatives
HARBOUR FROM THESE SHIPS, WE WILL ALSO BE
of
COMPLEMENTING OTHER INTERVENTIONS SUCH AS THE GRAND HARBOUR REGENERATION PLAN, AS WELL AS OTHER PROJECTS, SUCH AS THE GRAND HARBOUR CLEAN AIR PROJECT AND THE NEW WHARF AT RAS
industry,
NGOs,
and
all
stakeholders, so that the maritime sector flourishes whilst also being sensitive to social expectations and needs.
ĦANŻIR. WE ARE AWARE OF THE DEGREE THAT THE MARITIME INDUSTRY IN MALTA IS A PILLAR OF THE
The maritime and shipping industries
NATIONAL ECONOMY AND HOW IT GENERATES MANY
are two of the most important
JOBS, AND SO IT IS OUR DUTY TO SAFEGUARD IT AND
contributors
IMPROVE IT.”
through which it is ensured that
to
our
economy,
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
25
26 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
there is a continuous supply of most commodities to the islands, on which every local household and business is dependent for its well-being and to a certain extent, survival. It is for these reasons that the Authority for Transport in Malta together with Infrastructure Malta will be embarking on a number of projects set to regenerate the port of Valletta, thus enhancing the services that can be offered, not to mention the flexibility that the port can offer to the shipping and maritime industries in Malta as a whole. One of the projects will include the maintenance dredging of a number of areas within the port, thus providing deeper waters and providing additional flexibility to the types of vessels that can be accommodated within our harbour. Areas known as Ras Ħanżir, Church Wharf, and Bridge Wharf, together with other areas, are all earmarked for this intervention, which will
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
27
ATWOOD AURORA BEING TOWED OUT OF GRAND HARBOUR.
28 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
29
30 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
c. Captain Fritz Farrugia
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
31
c. Captain Fritz Farrugia
32 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
tailor made for each vessel. These preparations and processes are already underway, together with a number of operations through which, to date, have already recovered and removed, a number of vessels. These operations will continue taking place throughout the coming months until our objectives are reached, with related Notices to Mariners issued in the interest of safety of navigation, preservation of good order, and the prevention of pollution. This, together with the collaboration of all industry stakeholders, will result in a more efficient and multimodal port. By the time of printing, further enforcement notices were issued, and vessels have been taken out of the water to be scrapped. The last activity of this kind took place on the ATWOOD BEACON BEING TOWED OUT OF GRAND HARBOUR
operations to remove a number of
25th of March at the Mediterranean
vessels and wrecks scattered around
Maritime Hub, for which operations
various locations within the harbour.
were also observed by the Minister
Photo taken by Capt Fritz Farrugia
for Transport, Infrastructure and The complexity of these operations
Capital Projects Hon. Dr. Ian Borg,
ultimately maximise the operational
is
underestimated;
who was accompanied by High
options and efficiency of Industry
noting that a number of vessels,
Officials of Transport Malta, led
stakeholders.
now considered wrecks, are fully
by the Chairman and CEO, Mr.
submerged, which adds to the
Joseph
To make sure that these works
complexity of the equipment and
and Chief Operations Officer Mr.
proceed
not
to
be
Bugeja.
Deputy
CEO
experience required in their removal.
Kevin Farrugia was also present
scheduled to commence during
In
circumstances
on the quay side overseeing the
the first quarter of 2021, the Ports
surrounding each vessel, which are
Enforcement measures. At this
&
within
now considered as un-seaworthy,
stage, a total of 12 abandoned
Transport Malta, together with the
vary to the extent that each vessel
vessels have been removed from the
assistance of other Directorates
has to be looked at and treated
Grand Harbour.
of the Authority and in line with
differently, with processes ranging
legislation, have initiated several
from legal to strictly logistical,
without
Yachting
any
Directorate
delays,
addition,
the
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
33
34 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
35
36 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
37
Captain Mark A. Chapelle MNI Head - Hydrographic Office P o r t s & Ya c h t i n g D i r e c t o r a t e
THE MALTA HYDROGRAPHIC OFFICE
A Brief History
on encountered a severe storm and
Two Maltese authors (W. Soler
was shipwrecked on our island. Part
and A. Ganado) have successfully
The Republic of Malta is an
of the passage reads: “And they took
compiled
Archipelago, which for centuries
soundings and found it to be twenty
regarding ‘The Charting of Maltese
has served as crossroads between
fathoms; and when they had gone
Waters’.
Europe and North Africa, and
a little farther, they took soundings
between the Middle East and the
again and found it to be fifteen
One can only imagine the difficulty ship
Atlantic Sea. Located at the centre
fathoms.”
masters and pilots had to face when
of the Mediterranean Sea, the Island
a
historical
account
navigating in close proximity to the
has had more than its fair share of
Whilst a large amount of historical
Maltese shores and within the ports,
maritime history.
land mapping has been discovered,
with the additional hazards brought
recorded, and archived, the same
on by weather, restricted visibility,
Hydrography in Malta is mentioned
cannot be said about charts and
and worst of all, and daily ‘nighttime’.
in the Bible as early as the year 60
sailing directions. It is also quite
So, if not for lack of courage, how did
AD. In the Apostle’s Act 27:28-44,
amazing how only a small number
those mariners succeed in executing
St. Luke gives account of when the
of publications related to historical
voyages without running aground and
vessel he and St. Paul were travelling
hydrography have been printed.
wrecking their vessels?
38 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
It appears from history books that
Portuguese,
and
Turkish
line. Its main role was to survey
Sailing Directions known as Portolani
cartographers, and also from works
potential areas for development and
(from it. Ports) were manuscripts
of their own financing. The French,
dredging.
packed with information relating to
and eventually the British Admiralty,
depths or soundings, bearings, and
brought along huge developments
A maritime state requires a balanced
any other relevant information and
in the making of safe, reliable, and
national maritime policy designed
advice related to making a landfall
affordable navigational charts.
to obtain the national economic
and eventually entering ports. The
benefits that can be derived from
books eventually became charts,
The Malta Hydrographic Office
its sea area. One of the fundamental
and the information was drawn onto
(MHO)
supports to the maritime policy
parchment, vellum, or other animal skins.
is Since the 19th century, Malta had to
modern,
highly
developed
hydrographic services.
rely upon the British Admiralty for The making of charts evolved
charting the Maltese waters. It was in
The co-ordination of a nation’s
through the years with the Knights
1976 that the Maltese Hydrographic
hydrographic
of
information
unit was first established, equipped
highest level, requires a carefully
mainly from other Italian, Spanish,
only with a distance line and lead-
considered and properly established
Malta
obtaining
services,
on
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
the
39
National Hydrographic Structure. It
European Union Directives and
The
is through such a structure that the
Initiatives:
sophisticated computer technology
systematic data collection carried
development
of
highly
and software now makes it possible
out on the coast and at sea produces,
Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP);
for the use of data gathered for one
disseminates,
Marine
Framework
purpose to be used for many others.
information in support of maritime
Directive (MSFD); Water Framework
The cost of data gathering remains
navigation
Directive
and
safety
promulgates and
marine
Strategy
and
high but if national requirements
environment preservation, defence,
Habitats Directive (SHD); Strategic
(WFD);
Species
are co-ordinated and carefully
and exploitation. As an indication of
Environment Assessment Directive
managed through an effective
what might be gained, several studies
(SEA); and Infrastructure for Spatial
national hydrographic structure,
by the International Hydrographic
Information in the EU (INSPIRE).
the overall cost to the government
Organisation (IHO) Member States
can be minimised, and duplication
have suggested that there is a cost
Until comparatively recent times,
to benefit ratio of about 1:10 for major
hydrographic data was used almost
maritime nations.
exclusively to produce navigational
As a maritime state on a major
charts and associated publications.
shipping route, maritime affairs form
Data is expensive to collect and until
a key element of Malta’s national
the introduction of modern digital
structure. Malta relies on shipping to
visualisation
and
of effort negated.
manipulation
import the great majority of its needs;
tools, it was limited in its use. Today,
export of goods is at a relatively low
national governments look to the
level although transhipment is a key
sea for many reasons, some of which
element of maritime trade in Malta.
were not required a few decades
The container port at Marsaxlokk
There are clear benefits to a maritime
ago - sea level rise, tourism, fishing,
is a transhipment hub for a large
state in having an effective national
pollution control, sustainable energy,
number of feeder services to other
hydrographic structure; there are
tsunami warnings, integrated spatial
Mediterranean ports. One of Malta’s
also clear international obligations
planning as well as many others - the
main sources of income is the
that make such a structure a vital
list grows each year.
Tourism industry, which has activities
pillar of the government of a state. Maritime states have obligations and responsibilities under international agreements to provide adequate hydrographic data of their national waters. The following list, which is not exhaustive, serves to illustrate the breadth of these responsibilities and obligations: IMO Convention on the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
40 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
closely related to the sea. Besides
fish
farming;
Power
generation
that, another activity directly related
and
Reverse
plants;
maritime infrastructure. It has one
to Malta is the considerable amount
Archaeology and wreck research and
of the largest ship repair yards in the
of international shipping of all types
mapping; and Marine Spatial Planning.
Mediterranean, offshore bunkering
Osmosis
transiting through Maltese waters.
region that can boast a complete
facilities, a Maritime Institute and
The major areas of maritime interest
Tourism and Leisure activity:
training centres, an International
are summarised below:
Yachting;
Diving;
Freeport, a transhipment centre, and
swimming;
and
International activity:
Recreational Miscellaneous
grain and oil storage centres.
tourism related activity.
Container vessels; Bulk carriers
For
many observer
years,
Malta
including oil and gas;Feeder services
The list above demonstrates the
an
to Mediterranean ports; Ferries both
clear need for modern and effective
International
inter-island and on international
hydrographic data to support the
Organisation, however, in 2017, the
routes; Ship repair; Conveyance to
safe and efficient operation of
MHO became a full member. The
vessels at anchor offshore (awaiting
Malta’s maritime interests.
fact that Malta has the largest ship
instructions);
and
International
shipping transiting Maltese waters.
member
of
was the
Hydrographic
registry in Europe and fifth largest Role of the Hydrographic Office
in world means that the MHO
Today
has a ‘hydrographic Interest’ and
Local activity:
must make representation for a
Defence, Customs, and Immigration;
Malta has made great progress in
considerable number of ships on its
Bunkering
Coastal
the maritime sector and is one of the
registry. This has, since 2019, earned
Zone Development; Fishing and
few countries in the Mediterranean
Malta a Council seat at the IHO.
operations;
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
41
42 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
The PYD holds the responsibility
The MHO Staff
TODAY, THE
of all ports, harbours and territorial
HYDROGRAPHIC
waters as required by the First
The unit is made up of a small
OFFICE FORMS PART
Schedule (para. 2) of the Authority
number of professional experts,
OF TRANSPORT MALTA
for Transport in Malta Act CAP.499.
surveyors, and cartographers who
(PREVIOUSLY THE MALTA
The MHO assists the Harbour
are supported by an administrative
MARITIME AUTHORITY)
Master
AND NOW FALLS UNDER THE PORTS AND YACHTING DIRECTORATE (PYD) WHICH IS LED BY THE CHIEF OFFICER, WHO IS ALSO THE HARBOUR MASTER.
decision-making
section. For many years the MHO
regarding safe berthing and safety
with
team has worked harmoniously and
of Navigation into and out of ports
has tackled workloads diligently
and harbours. The Office also works
and in a timely manner. The MHO
closely with the ‘Port Operations’
has personnel who can carry out a
Officers and the ‘Vessel Traffic
variety of tasks and handle them with
Services’ (VTS).
unlimited flexibility and endurance. The MHO is an extremely important branch of Transport Malta as it is responsible for several of the maritime safety obligations of Malta. Nautical Charts The Maltese territorial waters are fully covered by 6 paper charts, which are published by the British Admiralty (UKHO). The MHO has now produced a total of 6 Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC) which are sold to Value Added Resellers (VARs) through the International Centre for Electronic Navigational Charts (IC-ENC). The MHO is a full member of the IC-ENC and participates in all its Technical Conferences, Steering Committees, and a variety of Capacity Building and Training Sessions. The ICENC
affords,
amongst
others,
validation of ENCs, product support, and
distribution
and
revenue
management. The Maltese Hydrographic Office has the responsibility to keep both paper and electronic charts up to
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
43
Dredging operations
date, ensuring that mariners can
drafted vessels need to dock in
correct their charts in the shortest
areas with little under keel clearance
time possible after the corrections
(UKC). Another important use of the
The involvement of the MHO in
have
The
tidal gauges is for precise calibration
every
corrections relate to information
and measurement when carrying
territorial waters, is invariable and
regarding developments, dredged
out hydrographic surveys. With the
always requires engagement from
areas, Notices to Mariners, tidal
envisaged projects at Valletta GH and
the beginning ‘in-surveys’ to the
changes, and Navigational Aids.
at the port of Mġarr, Gozo, the MHO
end ‘out-surveys’.
will be requesting the installation of
usually generated and developed
two more remote gauges.
by Infrastructure Malta and the
been
promulgated.
Tidal measurement - The MHO now has two fully functioning tidal gauges,
and
information
from
dredging
project,
within
Projects are
Planning Authority, meaning that the In order to satisfy the industries’
MHO has to maintain good lines of
them can be received remotely
requirements,
communication and good working
at the Hydrographic Office. The
endeavouring to make available
information from the gauges is
more online tidal information in ‘real
in ‘real time’ and tide values are
time’, and possibly the availability
The principal task of the MHO is
also recorded. Tidal information
of
verification of hydrographic surveys.
is essential when large and deep
information for the Maltese islands.
44 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
forecasting
the
MHO
(predicted)
is
tidal
relations with both entities.
All dredging projects need to be
Envisaged dredging projects are:
approved on completion and as a
usual way of calculating the total
representative of the Administration,
expenditure or the tendering price
the MHO is the body that can
for a project. Two types of dredging
Inner Grand Harbour; and
authorise the completeness of the
exist; capital dredging is carried
Freeport Marsaxlokk – approaches
works carried out. The ‘in-survey’
out when a depth deeper than
from Breakwaters to berthing areas.
serves as a starting point and
the existing is required, whereas
MHO and the promulgation of
the ‘out-survey’ confirms that the
maintenance
Marine Safety Information (MSI)
volume of mud, sand, rock and any
removal of sand and mud to return to
other debris, has effectively been
depths previously dredged.
dredging
is
the
The
removed from the seabed.
coastlines
of
both
Malta
and Gozo are well indented, thus The MHO is at present engaged
providing numerous harbours, bays,
The volumetric calculations are
in two major operations at the
creeks, sandy beaches, and rocky
also worked out by the MHO and if
following locations:
groves, all of which are extensively
this work is done by third parties, it
used by boaters all year round, and
is then verified. All financial aspects
Malta
-
by swimmers and divers in summer.
of dredging projects revolve around
(berthing areas); and Mġarr Gozo –
The coastline of Malta is 136 km (85
the volume that is to be removed,
Inner harbour.
miles) long and that of Gozo is 45
as a charge per cubic metre is the
Freeport
Marsaxlokk
km (29 miles) long. Continuously
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
45
monitoring
the
coast
and
its
connected waters is, on its own, a very time-consuming task requiring expert knowledge. The Maltese Hydrographic Office issues and promulgates notices to Mariners via radio. It now also makes them readily available and easily accessible online on the Transport Malta website. All water activities taking place inshore and offshore that may pose a threat to the safety of mariners are made public through the MHO.
the
Navigational warnings for shipping in the area are also promulgated through Malta Radio, the island’s Coastal Radio Station. The Radio Station promulgates these warnings by VHF (voice), NAVTEX (NBDP), and through Navarea broadcasts as required by the World-Wide Navigational
Warning
Service
(WWNWS). In this way, any hazard to navigation that has been reported will be immediately promulgated to navigating vessels, ensuring them a safe passage through the central Mediterranean region. https://www.transport.gov.mt/ maritime/notices-to-marinerscoastal-93
MHO in International Fora
International
Organisation
and
commissions.
In
Hydrographic
of availability, quality, organisation,
its
accessibility,
regional
addition,
and
sharing
of
it
spatial information are common
maintains strong links with UKHO to
to many policies and activities
maintain good chart coverage of the
and are experienced across the
Maltese Islands through regularly
various levels of public authority
reviewed bilateral agreements.
in Europe. In order to solve these problems, it is necessary to take
Despite the COVID-19 Pandemic,
measures of coordination between
the MHO has ‘virtually’ attended
the users and providers of spatial
all meetings organised by the
information. The Directive 2007/2/
IHO, IC-ENC, IALA WWNWS, and
EC of the European Parliament
the
related
and of the Council adopted on
meetings and webinars to which the
other
hydrography
the 14th of March 2007 aims at
MHO has been invited. The MHO
establishing
participates actively in all spheres,
for
both in policy matters as well as in
European Community (INSPIRE) for
the highly technical sessions. The
environmental policies, or policies
MHO is now also a full member
and activities that have an impact
of the Mediterranean and Black
on the environment. In line with the
Sea
Hydrographic
Spatial
an
Infrastructure
Information
in
the
Commission
requirements of the Directive, Malta
(MBSHC) and attends all meetings
will be participating in the sharing
accordingly.
of the relevant data in line with the Directive Requirements on data
Through TM’s Hydrographic Office,
EU - INSPIRE the sharing of
governance. The MHO, through
the Government of Malta maintains
Hydrographic Data and Datasets
European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet), and the
active links with the international hydrographic community through
The challenges regarding the lack
46 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
IHO EU Network Working Group
(IENWG), is actively participating
more than a reflection of its past.
most cases, the highest standard will
in discussions, the results of which
That does not seem to the be the
be that for the safety of navigation.
will be the establishment of the
case, as accelerated developments
The
hydrographic data that will be
in computer aided techniques are
Organisation has, over the years,
shared and in the standardisation of
being made available at a very fast
established standards and the one in
dataset metafiles.
rate. Hydrographic survey data is
place at present is the S-57 Standard.
International
Hydrographic
gathered to satisfy a wide variety What lies in the future?
of requirements and thus, to an
However, much work has already
equally wide variety of standards for
been done on the development of
It would be easy to believe that the
different applications – e.g., safety
a new standard which is far more
future of the MHO will be nothing
of navigation or habitat mapping. In
advanced than the S-57; this is the S-100 Universal Hydrographic Data Model (UHDM) Standard, which means that there will be different standards for different information made available to the Mariner’s
electronic
equipment.
The new standard has also taken into consideration the development of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), and the integration of derived information and data for their safe navigation.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
47
Pierre Montebello Chief Officer L a n d Tr a n s p o r t D i r e c t o r a t e
S P E C I A L F E AT U R E
THE LAND TRANSPORT DIRECTORATE (LTD)
48 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
The Land Transport Directorate within Transport Malta is one of the largest directorates of the Authority, and definitely the largest directorate in terms of transactions effected every year. It has the overall responsibility for licensing and regulating all forms of land transport, vehicles, driver licensing and licences, scheduled and unscheduled bus services, commercial road transport operators including haulage activities, and also for the provision of a properly integrated, safe, sustainable and efficient public transport system. The Directorate applies and develops an effective regulatory framework for land transport with road safety as a top priority, whilst simultaneously promoting socioeconomic development and the protection of the environment. The core strategic objectives of the Directorate are:
•
Achieving a Modal shift;Addressing Road safety;
•
Promotion of Eco-friendly transport; and
•
Customer service.
The Land Transport Directorate is headed by the Chief Officer and is divided into a number of Units or departments, each managed by the Deputy Chief Officer or the respective Director, as follows: 1. Driver and Vehicle Licensing Unit (DVLU), operating from TM offices in Paola and Ħal Lija 2. The Driver Permits Testing and Training Unit (DPTTU), operating from Floriana 3. Road Transport Licensing Unit 4. Legal and Regulatory Unit 5. The Public Transport Unit (PTU)
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
49
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Unit (DVLU), operating from offices in
•
Ħal Lija and Paola The Unit’s core competences are the registration and licensing of both vehicles and drivers, whilst ensuring compliance and safeguarding of the
• •
Government’s revenue. The Unit
licence renewals 10,000 changes to vehicles’ details and information 30,000 driving licence renewals 14,000 changes to driving licences
including scooters and mopeds. Newly registered USED Evs - 203 cars and 5 M/Cycles. While the number of scrapped vehicles was that of 8,165. Table
shows
Newly
registered
vehicles increase from 2014 to 2020.
also manages the several grants and road transport related schemes
*Approximate figures
The effects that Brexit will be having on this sector are not yet fully known,
issued annually by the Government.
but this advent may have a huge impact on newly registered secondhand vehicles in Malta, since the majority of second-hand vehicles were traditionally imported from the UK. The additional fees related to customs duty, value added tax (VAT) and other expenses, which can add up to more than 30% , may have a huge negative impact on the second-hand market in the country.
The number of transactions carried out annually is impressive to say the least, and in a typical year, such transactions include: *
In 2020, the number of newly registered vehicles in Malta was 19,479, the number of new imported vehicle registrations was that of 8,087, newly imported second-hand
•
•
25,000 newly registered vehicles55,000 change of vehicle ownership 15,000 garaging and de-garaging of vehicles10,000 scrapped vehicles400,000 road
vehicles amounted to 11,392 of which new EVs 228 cars, 355 motorcycles
50 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Table shows number of scrapped vehicles from 2014 to 2020.
In relation to schemes, the LTD was
and from paying any road licence
systems; a scrappage scheme
at the forefront (together with the
fees for the first five years, or from
for
MNEP as far as Electric Vehicles are
first year of registration in the case
grants for the purchase of electric
concerned) of implementing several
of imported second-hand electric
vehicles
schemes, such as promoting the
vehicles. Electric Vehicle types
by private individuals, registered
uptake of eco-friendly or ‘alternative’
include full Electric Vehicles, Plug-
NGOs and private companies), and
cleaner
conventional
cars;
(including
financial
motorcycles,
in Hybrid Electric Vehicles, electric
financial grants for the purchase
particularly electric vehicles. The
motorcycles,
of
schemes enable citizens to make
hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles,
passenger
the necessary leap into giving their
and others. This exemption is
Moreover, from the 1st of January
own contribution towards improved
applicable to individuals, companies,
2021, a new vehicle registration tax
air
NGOs,
and
and licence fee regime came into
ever popular scrappage scheme,
Governmental departments. This is
force for vehicles with new CO₂
subsidies (running into thousands
a clear sign that electromobility is
emission values. New cars certified
of euros) on the purchase of both
one of the main priorities.
by the manufacturer according to
means
quality.
of
These
transport,
include
the
local
electric
mopeds,
councils
new
wheelchair-accessible transport
vehicles.
the Worldwide Harmonized Light
new and used electric vehicles,
Source: https://www.wltpfacts.eu/
huge subsidisations on the yearly
At the time of writing, Transport
Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) and
running costs related to circulation
Malta is in the process of reissuing
having CO₂ emission values of WLTP
(the annual circulation licence fee is
financial grant schemes that were
can benefit from lower registration
free for the first five years), as well
in place last year, whilst introducing
tax and licence fee rates.
as grants related to Autogas/LPG
new ones. These shall include:
conversion of vehicles.
financial grants for the conversion
One needs to emphasise that every
of vehicles to Autogas and the
new or used electric vehicle is
retrofitting of heavy-duty vehicles
exempt from paying registration tax,
with Heavy Duty Duel Fuel (HDDF)
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
51
52
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
53
54 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
To this effect, from the start of year,
the
almost
and licensed car park attendants.
Transport Malta has introduced a
13,000 practical driving tests (a
Unit
conducted
The CVA system is also coordinated
new vehicle registration tax and
comparatively small decrease over
by this Unit.
licence fee regime based on CO₂
the previous years). These tests
WLTP values that will either have a
were carried out following stringent
During the past year, the Unit
neutral or positive impact (in terms
processes related to health and
was particularly active in the area
of lower registration tax and licence
safety, fully in-line with the directions
of goods transport and related
fees) on consumers.
issued by the health authorities
services, mainly due to changes
(Please also read separate article on
being brought about by Brexit.
6. The Driver Permits Testing and
driver testing, also published in this
Training Unit (DPTTU), operating
month’s edition).
from Floriana This Unit is responsible for the processing and scheduling of all driving test applications for the following licence categories: •
B1 (Quad bikes);
•
B (Cars);
•
A1, A2, A (Motorcycles);
•
C1, C (Heavy goods vehicles);
•
BE, CE (Trailers);
•
D1, D (Public transport vehicles);
•
TAXI tests;
•
CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)
Figure showing practical driving tests carried out between 2014 and 2020.
8. Legal and Regulatory Unit
7. Road Transport Licensing Unit
With
practical demonstration tests; and •
input
from
all
the
Legal
other
Driving and instructional ability
departments,
tests for prospective driving
The Road Transport Licensing
Regulatory Unit spearheads the
instructors.
Unit is primarily responsible for the
regulation of all transport by road,
regulation and policy development
the
registration,
licensing,
and
and
of vehicle and equipment standards,
use of vehicles, the licensing of all
The Unit provides other services
sustainable transport services, and
commercial operations connected
to the public, such as:
the registration and licensing of
to road transport, and makes
transport operators, with road safety
provisions for any legal matter in
Reading assistance at the
and modal shift as top priorities.
connection with transport by road.
Theory Test Centre; and
This includes the regulation of
All changes to laws and regulations
The processing and scheduling
passenger and goods transport
related to road transport pass
of translator-assisted theory
operators such as taxis, horse-
through this Unit.
tests.
drawn
• •
Throughout 2020, albeit amidst the height of the COVID-19 pandemic,
cabs
(karozzini),
goods
transport and dangerous goods
In fact, throughout 2020, the Land
transport operators, VRT stations,
Transport
Directorate
compiled
and processed amendments to
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
55
56 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
transport-related regulations and put
relationship with the scheduled public
Reliability,
into place administrative provisions
transport operator. The unit monitors
Unauthorised Route Diversions.
Leaving
Early
and
to bring into effect the relative
the various performance, service and
These are monitored through GPS
provisions.
quality indicators as outlined in the
data received from the Bus Operator.
agreement with the same operator These included:
(running up to January 2030).
•
Several amendments
Monitoring is broadly divided into two
takes the indicated action in cases of
to Driving Licences
categories, them being Quality and
non-compliance.
Regulations;Amendments to
Performance.
The contract regulates the service and its level and quality . The Unit
Taxi Services Regulations by
The Public Transport Unit, the Road Quality:
means of LN 416 of 2020. •
Amendments to the Motor
Legal and Regulatory Unit all operate
Vehicles (Driving Licences)
•
Transport Licensing Unit and the
•
Checks are carried out through
from Transport Malta’s offices in
Regulations by means of LN 193
Physical Inspections done by
Paola. The latter has just moved to
of 2020.
Public Transport Officers.
refurbished offices just opposite
Light Passenger Transport
There are 4 types of inspections,
the DVLU offices, where customers
Vehicles and Vehicle Hire
•
these being Safety (36 checks
are provided with an even better
Services Regulations LN 366
per inspection), Buses (30
customer experience.
of 2020.
checks
per
inspection), (17
Although each of the above Units
At the end of 2019, and following
Employees/Drivers
checks per inspection) and
has specific and distinct areas of
a
Infrastructure (10 checks per
responsibility, these work in unison
inspection).
to guarantee the highest level of
public
consultation
period,
the Land Transport Directorate also
18,000
service to their customers. The Land
e-KickScooters. The Micromobility
regularised
the
use
of
•
Typically,
inspections are carried out on a
around
Transport Directorate also works
Regulations (S.L. 499.67, LN 352 of
yearly basis.
very closely with third party entities,
2019) were in fact drawn following
including
government
a ‘new’ reality we are regularly
departments
experiencing on our roads.
well
and
as insurance
agencies and brokers, The Legal and Regulatory Unit also
guaranteeing the full
liaises on regular basis with Police
range
and other law enforcement agencies,
related services. This
both locally (including LESA, and our
aims towards fulfilling
own Enforcement Unit) and abroad.
the requirements of a
The Unit is also heavily involved in the
one-stop-shop concept.
of
transport-
certification of vintage vehicles. I take the opportunity 9. The Public Transport Unit (PTU) The PTU ensures the provision of
adequate,
environmentally
efficient friendly
and public
Figure shows number of physical inspections carried out from 2015 to 2020.
to thank the management and all employees for the fervour they show in fulfilling their job and the sterling work they carry out.
Performance:
transport systems. One of the main
There are 4 main performance
remits of the unit is to manage the
indicators, these being Punctuality,
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
57
HOW TO BECOME A SAFE DRIVER FOR LIFE Clint Mansueto, Director
DRIVER PERMITS, TESTING AND TRAINING UNITS
All the processes leading to the
test
experience,
even
though
acquisition of a driving licence within
decades may have passed since.
a
the Land Transport Directorate fall
How fondly we embraced the
test experience is of paramount
under the responsibility of the Driver
instant gratification, derived from
importance for us.
Permits, Testing and Training Unit,
the licensed driver status and the
based in Floriana. This Unit is of
level of independence it gives
To improve the overall effectiveness
strategic significance for Transport
us. Although trends have started
of the Land Transport Directorate,
Malta, since often it is the first
to shift, culturally speaking, the
the Unit recently expanded its
point of contact with the Authority
acquisition of a driving licence was
operations to adopt a ‘one stop shop’
for young Maltese citizens and
and still is a psychological right-of
concept. Since January of this year,
foreigners living in Malta alike, and
passage that marks the transition
all the administrative and technical
we all know that first impressions
from adolescence to adulthood.
processes related to driver testing
count. However, from a societal
hence, the commitment to providing memorable
and
fair
driving
and training are being executed
perspective, the work carried out by
Consequently, it is an undeniable
under one roof. This approach
this Unit encompasses people from
fact
candidate’s
was positively received, as it has
all walks of life.
expectations are relatively high. To
overcome various logistical and
this effect, the customer-centric
operational constraints, significantly
After all, every licensed driver may
approach adopted by the Unit is
improving the Authority’s level of
vividly recall his or her first driving
deeply rooted within these beliefs,
customer service. Currently, the
58 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
that
the
Driver Permits, Testing and Training
Driving and Instructional ability
technical measures are in place, like
Unit constitutes of a Director,
tests, Certificate of Professional
good road engineering and general
four administrative clerks, and a
Competence (CPC) tests, practical
enforcement,
complement of fourteen driving
demonstration
TAXI
of a road safety policy ultimately
examiners.
driving tests. Besides this, the Unit is
depends on driver behaviour, at least
tests
and
the
effectiveness
also responsible for the regulation of
most of the time. For this reason,
On a monthly basis the Unit
the Theory Testing Centre, Motoring
education and training are essential
schedules and performs around
Schools and Approved Training
variables to promote road safety, as
1,200 driving tests with an average
Providers.
a lifelong ‘educational continuum’.
pass rate of 57%, with category B (private vehicles) being the main
To this extent and against common
testing category, closely followed
The
by category A (motorcycle) tests
Towards Driver Training
Educational
Approach
belief, the practical driving test is not solely intended to assess
and categories C (goods carrying
driving skills and knowledge of the
vehicles) and D (passenger carrying
From an educational perspective, the
Highway Code, which is currently
vehicles).
Unit is firmly committed to extending
being updated, but also provides
the concept of driver training, since
a wider examination approach to
In addition, the Unit carries out
the road user is the first link in the
evaluate social values and behaviour
supplementary tests including the
road safety chain. In fact, whatever
in relation to road safety, including
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
59
energy-efficient driving, or Eco-
When it comes to driver training, self-
inadvisable. It is recommended that
Driving as it is usually called.
evaluation is key. Therefore, before
a person purchases a vehicle after
considering
driving
obtaining the driver licence, since
tuition, one needs to be mentally
this increases the motivation for
meaning when one considers the
prepared
committed
that person to pass the driving test.
national population size and the
to undertaking this effort with
The idea of purchasing a vehicle
number of licensed drivers, which,
perseverance and dedication, while
before passing the test should be
at the time of writing, stands at
keeping in mind and understanding
totally disregarded as it only serves
267,935, and the geographical area
the responsibilities that a driving
to create unnecessary financial and
of the Maltese islands, 316 km²
licence gives the holder. Reckless
mental pressure on the learner to
(Regional statistics 2020 edition -
driving, most of the time, may result
rush through the training process,
NSO, 2021).
in unnecessary damages in all
especially when learners are still
These
arguments
gain
ulterior
taking and
fully
any
shapes and forms and in unfortunate
very young and just starting out their
Although, when compared to other
instances even serious injuries,
adulthood.
European countries where road
disability, or even death to oneself or
fatalities are concerned, Malta has
others.
one of the lowest rates registered, there is still room for improvement
In
(Road safety: Europe’s roads are
is becoming one of the major
getting safer, but progress remains
contributing
too slow - Mobility and Transport -
accidents, hence, the use of mobile
European Commission, 2021).
phones and social media while
Obtaining a driving licence
driving is very imprudent, thus totally
60 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
addition,
distracted factors
of
driving road
AT THIS EARLY STAGE OF OBTAINING A DRIVING LICENCE, THE LEARNING PROCESS SHOULD PRIMARILY AND EXCLUSIVELY FOCUS ON THE
FAMILIARISATION, STUDYING, AND UNDERSTANDING THE CONTENT OF THE HIGHWAY CODE, AFTER WHICH ONE SHALL CHOOSE A REPUTABLE MOTORING SCHOOL.
private instructor, without being
and failure is poor preparation.
in possession of a valid learner’s
Hence, being well prepared for
permit issued by Transport Malta.
a driving test will boost one’s
Basically, the Learner’s Permit is
confidence and lower the stress
the only official legally recognised
levels, therefore achieving better
document issued by the Authority
results.
which legally authorises driving tuition. Moreover, once a copy of the
On the other hand, the kind of input
learner’s permit is issued, learners
from a reputable driving instructor
must carefully read and observe
can heavily contribute towards
It is to be kept in mind that the law
the terms and conditions, including
success or failure of the test.
clearly stipulates that no driving
the restrictions indicated in the
tuition shall be carried out by
document, especially those relating
The safest way to engage with a
candidates younger than 18 years
to medical conditions.
reputable Motoring School is to enquire about its reputation as
of age. If a person under the age of 18 is offered to undertake premature
When it comes to tuition, although
well as that of its instructors from
driving lessons, such an offer should
the number of driving lessons
reliable sources. Students must also
instantly be refused, as this practice
needed may vary from one person
observe the general upkeep (i.e.,
is against the law.
to another, we strongly recommend
roadworthiness) and cleanliness of
a good level of preparation which is
the vehicles used during training.
In addition, it is also illegal to
essential for passing the driving test.
In addition, they must make sure
undertake driving lessons, whether
In fact, studies show that one of the
that the Motoring School is fully
with a professional or a with
main causes of exam related stress
licensed to provide training and
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
61
that it is compliant with the current
whether enough proficiency has
For category A (motorcycles) tests,
Covid-19 guidelines. Other factors,
been achieved in order to apply for
the compulsory protective gear and
such as the level of punctuality
the driving test.
clothing must be worn; a motorcycle helmet with visor, appropriate and
and the training methods adopted, are all tell-tale signs of the level of
At this stage the student should
sturdy footwear, motorcycle gloves
professionality and reputation of a
pay a visit at the new Theory
and a reflective vest. On the other
Motoring School.
Testing Center which is located at
hand, in view of safety, shorts, skirts,
Gwardamangia Hill, in Pieta and
and flip-flops are not acceptable to
With regard to tuition fees charged,
or at St. Francis square in Rabat
be worn during the test.
it is being suggested that one must
Gozo, to obtain a Pass result which
carefully shop around as prices
is legally mandatory to undertake
Examiners
vary. One should specifically enquire
the practical driving test. The fee
the person sitting for the test is
whether the rates are per lesson
for sitting for the Theory Test is that
the actual candidate and hence
or per hour, as this might vary from
of €30.25 and the related studying
candidates must present a valid
school to school.
material, available in both Maltese
Maltese
and English, may be downloaded for
whereas foreign candidates must
free form the Authority’s website.
provide their respective residence
However, choosing a School based is not advisable, as good tuition
After
does not come cheap. It is advised
Theory Test, the applicant should
that a student should steer away
then proceed to apply for the
from Motoring Schools that promise
practical driving test.
quick
results,
ID
card
ensure
or
that
passport,
permit card issued and validated by
only on the cheapest fees charged
shortcuts,
must
successfully
passing
the
Identity Malta as an official means of identification. Although provisions are in place, it is highly advisable that these
and
quote unrealistic and exaggerated
Once a test date is scheduled, a
documents are presented when
first-time pass rates to impress
copy of the appointment notice is
requested. Also, if a candidate was
prospective clients.
directly sent to the student while
recommended the use of eyesight
another copy is sent to the Motoring
correction glasses by his medical
On the other hand, if a learner, after
School.
fee
practitioner, these glasses must be
choosing a school and starting his
charged by Transport Malta for a
brought along, otherwise the test
or her driving practice, notices a
learner’s permit is that of €23.25,
cannot be carried out.
lack of genuine commitment from
while the administrative fee for a
the instructor, the learner should
practical driving test is also €23.25,
In addition, prior to every test, the
not hesitate to change that School
except when this takes place on a
examiners will carry out the eyesight
for another, especially in view of
Saturday, where the fee charged is
test, which is done by requesting
the money and time being spent on
that of €40.00.
the candidate to read a clean and
The
administrative
standard number plate (i.e., type
tuition. It is important to note that
A — Length 52 cm by Height 11
the process of changing from one Motoring School to another should
Sitting for the practical driving test
cm) not more than 20.5m away. If the candidate fails to read such a
be free of charge. On the day of the test, candidates
number plate, the driving test cannot
Once the training syllabus reaches
are advised to be at the Testing
proceed any further.
its last stages of completion, it
Centre
Generally,
is advised that both the student
before the appointed time, wear
test constitutes of a selected test
and the driving instructor analyse
comfortable clothes that enable free
route that incorporates various
together and discuss the progress
movement, and wear proper and
environments to encompass as
achieved until then and agree
suitable footwear.
many real driving scenarios as
62 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
at
least
30
minutes
the
practical
driving
possible,
residential
and uncoupling exercise must be
Driver education should serve as
streets in built-up areas as well as
including
performed within the manoeuvring
a catalyst to improve the national
arterial roads, all done in a balanced
area. For category A (motorcycles)
level of driver training, which in
manner to evaluate driving skills.
candidates are expected to perform
turn will produce new generations
Furthermore, during every category
8 different exercises that simulate
of safe drivers. In conclusion, one
B test (private cars), candidates
different riding scenarios within the
must meticulously remark the fact
will be requested to perform two
manoeuvring area.
that a pass test result is not the
specific exercises, one of which will be in reverse gear while on the
end of the training process, but Conclusion
the beginning; the beginning of a
road. For category C1 and C (goods
life-long educational process, that
carrying vehicles) and category D1
One of the main responsibilities of
if correctly applied, will gradually
and D (passenger carrying vehicles)
Transport Malta is the promotion
develop the necessary safe driving
candidates
requested
of safe and responsible driving.
knowledge, behaviour and skills to
to perform a specific reversing
will
This objective can be achieved
transform drivers into ambassadors
exercise within the manoeuvring
through effective driver training and
of road safety for life.
area.
reversing
continuous education, as well as
exercise, for categories BE (cars
improved and well-engineered safe
with trailer) and CE (goods carrying
road infrastructure and regular law
vehicles with trailer), a coupling
enforcement.
Besides
be
the
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
63
64 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Gilbert Agius Deputy Chief Officer L a n d Tr a n s p o r t D i r e c t o r a t e
GET YOUR NUMBER PLATE NUMBER PLATES: “HOW CAN I GET MINE? WHAT ABOUT THE DIFFERENT SIZES, AND WHICH SHOULD I CHOOSE? CAN I GET A PERSONALISED ONE AND HOW MUCH DO THEY COST? WHAT ABOUT THE DIFFERENT FORMATS AND SCHEMES?”
our car’s number plates, and it’s important to know the difference between the formats and their respective uses. Here’s an easy guide to it all. Let’s start with the different sizes: apart from personal preference, the
In this article, we are going to
applications of and for all number
size you choose should complement
go through the whole cache of
plates fall under the responsibility of
your vehicle at all times – having the
situations where number plates are
the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Unit
right size that fits your vehicle’s front
concerned, such as when buying
of Transport Malta, which is the sole
and rear is important in terms of both
a new vehicle, upon transfer of a
point of reference for clients.
installation and visibility.
including personalised ones as well
As straightforward as the topic may
So, when and why should I have
as number plates issued according
seem, many such questions assail
the need to apply for number
to the respective vehicle’s specific
most of us when we see or need to
plates? The first instance would be
use.
get onto the process of obtaining
when you buy a new car from an
vehicle, types of number plates
Issuance
and
regulatory
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
65
authorized importer or dealer, and in this case two distinct situations may apply: if the vehicle is a new registration, you will need to choose both format and size by filling the VEH 06 application form when signing the contract or transfer. Your dealer will guide you and help you with this. If you have a valid E-ID, you can reserve a personalised vehicle
Type D - Length 34 cm Height 20 cm;
and numbers of your choice, and a
Type E - Length 24 cm Height 13 cm (for motorcycles); Type F - Length 30.5 cm Height 15.5 cm; Type G - Length 19 cm Height 13 cm (for motorcycles); and Type H - Length 30.5 cm Height 11 cm
form of custom word of your choice
registration number (3 letters and
personalised number may be in the up to 10 characters (depending, always, on whether the latter fully fits on the plate size which will be generated). And how much do these cost? Random plates will be €70.00, while a customised one will be €200.00.
3 numbers) from the following url:
Customised and Personalised
In the case of a personalised
https://ereg.gov.mt by clicking on
Plates?
number plate, the application costs
“Choose Registration Plate”.
€1500.00. All plates are subject Personalised number plates are
to
exclusive number plates purchased
at the Authority’s discretion –
by the vehicle owner if the latter
combinations which are deemed
You might also buy and transfer on
wishes to have his or her car
offensive or commercially sensitive
your name a vehicle from a dealer
distinguishable from others. Let’s
are not accepted. An extra third plate
or any other individual which is
start from when a person purchases
may also be applied for, for example
already plated. In this case, you can
a second-hand vehicle which already
in the instance of having a towing
either keep the plate already issued
has a personalised or a customised
attachment. This is done against a
or apply for a different size or a
number plate. What happens in
cost of €35.00 plus €10.00 for a new
personalised format of your choice.
such cases? The procedure is
logbook stating that this is in place.
This can be done by filling the VEH
quite easy as well: the seller, who
06 during the transfer. Plates will be
has the personalised number plate,
Types
generated and issued immediately.
may choose to relinquish his or her
according to the use of vehicle
Your insurance policy expiry should
personalised/customised
also coincide with a change in date.
when the vehicle is transferred; if he
In circulation, there are different
or she does not and intends to keep
types of number plates according to
them, you (the buyer) will need to
various schemes which indicate that
produce the plates (together with
the vehicle has a particular status or
are
the road licence if in hand or valid),
dedicated use: black plates show
available in the following eight
and you will have to apply for a new
that the car is a certified vintage, and
different sizes:
set of number plates yourself. These
red bordered ones are for ones that
also are issued on the spot.
can be driven only on weekends and
On Transfer of Vehicle
Types and Sizes The
registration
plates
Type A - Length 52 cm Height 11 cm; Type B - Length 25 cm Height 20 cm (for motorcycles); Type C - Length 28 cm Height 20 cm;
availability
of
and
are
Number
issued
Plates
number
public holidays. The latter are issued Now, in this case, you may decide
only against the owner’s choice to
either to go for a random registration
pay a reduced annual road tax, and
number,
therefore limit the use of such a
or
a
customised
or
personalised one. The customised number plate can have three letters
66 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
vehicle for the mentioned days.
Another important thing to keep in
(this can easily be found under the
mind is that your vehicle’s annual
hologram on the remaining plate).
road licence is also bound to the first letter of your registration number
So, as you can see, all that’s required
plate, and that this will expire
is this basic knowledge in the
accordingly – for example, plates
applicability and use of number
starting with an A will expire at the
plates in general – as always,
end of January, B end of February
all related information is easily
and so on. M and N will start the
accessible and obtained from our
same cycle back from January and
website, and any other related
February again, as will do X and Y
queries you might have can be
and so on.
easily answered through our official channels. Be informed and get in
The first letter of the registration
touch if needed!
FOR THE OCCASION OF THIS ARTICLE, WE ARE RE-PRODUCING A SET OF PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING HOW THE NUMBER PLATES ARE MADE IN OUR OWN WORKSHOP, BY PRODUCING A SAMPLE NUMBER PLATE FOR THE T-21: TM QUARTERLY PUBLICATION.
number shall indicate the month at the end of which the vehicle’s road licence expires, as per table below: Month of Expiry
First Letter of the Registration No.
January
A,M &Y
February
B,N & Z
March
C&O
April
D&P
May
E&Q
June
F&R
July
G&S
August
H&T
September
I&U
October
J&V
November
K&W
December
L&X
Lastly, damaged plates can also be easily replaced and reissued from either of our offices in Paola or Ħal Lija (at the cost of €35.00 each). For a lost plate, a declaration (VEH 39) must be filled in against a charge of €8.00 - in this case, you will also need to state the unique number of the plate still in your possession
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
67
68 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
69
70 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
71
Gilbert Agius Deputy Chief Officer L a n d Tr a n s p o r t D i r e c t o r a t e
Garaging or Scrapping Your Vehicle? One of the most frequently asked
By term garaging a vehicle, one
for the time the number plates are
questions related to vehicles is
implies that a vehicle will not be
returned to Transport Malta, the
“when and why do I need to garage
used on the road for an indefinite
owner will not have to pay neither
my car, and how do I go about it? And
time – whatever the reason is, for
the road licence (annual circulation
if I decide to scrap my car, what do I
example, it not being needed for a
tax) nor the insurance, although with
need to do, what is the procedure
particular period of time or because
respect to the latter, the owner may
that I should follow?”
it is undertaking modifications or
still wish to insure the vehicle.
repairs. In such cases, the owner There are different scenarios where
should
Malta
The process is simple: all the owner
either of the above is required,
that the vehicle will not be in use
is required to do is to download and
however, all processes are quick,
(and hence not on the road) from
fill in an application form named VEH
simple, and very accessible. Let’s go
that particular date and return the
67 from the Authority’s website,
through them and see to the basics.
vehicle’s plates. This means that
and present this at either the Paola
72
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
inform
Transport
or Ħal Lija offices together with the
By doing this, the vehicle will be
at our offices, where you will be given
Registration Certificate (logbook),
officially garaged for an unstipulated
a permit to drive to the VRT station
all number plates, as well as road
period of time and can be re-
and back. No extra fees will apply
licence (if this is still valid). In the
licenced
for this, but make sure that you book
case that the licence has expired, a
wishes; all that will be required is
monthly pro rata charge equivalent
to renew the insurance, download
to the annual circulation fee will be
and fill in the VEH 06 application
charged, together with any other
from website and call at one of the
pending fees (such as contravention
mentioned offices with the logbook,
When
or CVA dues). Another logbook
filled-in form and insurance policy.
a vehicle, the process is quite
with a ‘vehicle garaged’ note will be
The plates will be re-issued (at a
similar, with just a few extra steps
issued and a basic administrative fee
€70.00 charge) and the pro rate
required and to take note of. Let’s
of €10.00 will apply.
licence shall need to be paid.
start by specifying that by officially
whenever
the
owner
your test beforehand. Scrapping your vehicle? it
comes
to
scrapping
scrapping a vehicle, the owner is Company-owned or organisation-
If the VRT test is due, this should
acknowledging that this will be
owned vehicles follow this same
be done and passed beforehand -
destroyed and permanently put off,
process,
else
another common question in this
and will never be re-licenced again.
is requested or required if the
instance is “but how do I drive my car
application form is signed off by the
to do the test without a licence or a
The first step is to take your vehicle to
same contact person that is listed on
plate?” Again, the process I simple;
an official destruction facility of your
the vehicle’s logbook.
all you are required to do is pay the
choice, wherein upon scrapping, a
insurance fee and present the policy
destruction certificate will be issued
wherein
nothing
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
73
to the owner. This applies for all
authorised person to present an
effect on the 13th of November
private passenger cars (M1) or small
official statement stating, in the
2013, vehicles that where physically
goods carrying commercial (N1)
form of a board resolution and on
scrapped before this date and thus
vehicles only.
a letter head signed by either the
cannot be backed by this certificate
company secretary or all directors,
will also need the owner to produce
Once the certificate is in hand, the
that the vehicle is being written off
a sworn affidavit stating that vehicle
owner then needs to download
permanently.
in question was disposed of before
a form named VEH 13 and come
this date. An administration fee of
to our offices with this form, the
One also needs to keep in mind that
destruction certificate, the logbook,
there might be some restrictions
€150.00 will apply in this case.
all of the number plates, and the road
which could prevent a vehicle
What happens when someone
licence (if this is still valid), to officially
from being scrapped. Such cases
didn’t pay the road licences for
finalise the process.
might include: the need to prove
several years?
that a vehicle is not still under hire A scrapping receipt will be issued
purchase terms (a cancellation from
Another frequent question related
against the same administrative fee
the dealer will suffice) or has any
to garaging and scrapping concerns
of €10.00. Any outstanding fees or
pending Police and legal matters.
the possible accumulation of road
fines such as expired licences and
Any such pre-existing restrictions
licence arrears (over time): “what if
contraventions will need to be paid
can be found noted on the logbook
I didn’t know of these procedures
be as well to conclude the process.
unless these have been imposed
and haven’t garaged or scrapped my
after the latter has been issued.
vehicle officially? Will I have to pay all
In the case of a company-owned or
vehicle,
Since the requirement to submit a
scrapping will also require an
destruction certificate came into
74
organisation-owned
these arrears?!”
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
In such situations and for the benefit
of the public, Transport Malta has
and any related queries may be
deposit and collect documents and
a dedicated scheme (called the
communicated via a phone call or
plates from Ħal Lija.
Licence
Regularization
email to the Authority’s channels, so
Scheme) which is applicable until
know where to check, know what to
The list of services offered at Paola
the 15th of October 2022 and which
do, and if in doubt or need, just get in
and Ħal Lija are as follows:
applies to genuine cases only –
touch!
Arrears
• •
an owner may choose to either garage or scrap such vehicle by
A final Note
documenting the particular case and To reach the general public better,
related to this scheme is available on
it is to be noted that on the 4th of
the Authority’s website, and a future,
November 2019, Transport Malta
dedicated article will discuss this in
inaugurated a new office offering
further detail.
services in relation to the Driver and Vehicles Licensing Unit. This
Ownerships
Engine/Body types/Colour;
•
Re-Issue of Vehicle Registration Certificates
and/or
Vehicle
Licence Discs;
• •
Scrapping and Garaging; Payment of Licences in Arrears
new office operating from Transport
or scrapping a vehicle, it is a
Malta’s Head Office located in Ħal
straightforward process once you
Lija offers clients from the North
know the requirements beforehand.
and Central parts of the island an
The transaction takes only a few
alternative to having to travel to
minutes – all procedures, together
Paola. Although currently not all
International Driving Permits;
with
are
services are being offered from the
and
accessible from Transport Malta’s
Ħal Lija office, a deposit service was
www.transport.gov.mt,
launched through which clients can
website;
are
of
garaging
the
you
Change
requiring Plates, change of
paying a nominal fee. All information
Whether
Registration of Vehicles;
required
forms,
and Licence revocations;
•
Licence/Category
Renewals
and Driving Licence alterations;
• • •
Driver’s Tags; Exchange of driving licences,
Tachographs.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
75
Pierre Montebello Chief Officer L a n d Tr a n s p o r t D i r e c t o r a t e
INTRODUCING THE WORLDWIDE HARMONIZED LIGHT VEHICLE TEST PROCEDURE
FOR LOWER REGISTRATION TAX AND ROAD LICENCES
76
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
One of the announced budget
Procedure. It is a lab test that applies
Since
measures for 2021, effective from
to all new vehicles registered since
broke out in September 2015, the
the 1st of January 2021, relates to
September 2018, to check how
automotive industry has been under
a new vehicle registration tax and
they perform in everyday driving
increased media and regulatory
licence fee regime for vehicles with
conditions. It replaces what is called
scrutiny for its contribution to the
new CO₂ emission values.
the NEDC test (also known as the
urban air pollution in our cities.
the
‘Dieselgate’
scandal
‘New’ European Driving Cycle).
1
New
cars
certified
by
the
From the initial focus on the defeat
manufacturer according to the
Last revised in the late 90s, the
devices fitted to particular vehicles in
Worldwide
Light
NEDC has been widely criticised
the US, the scandal spread globally
Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) and
for delivering figures that are not
to almost every company, and every
having CO₂ emission values of WLTP
achievable in the real world. In fact,
market. In response, the EU has
are to benefit from lower registration
it is now established that the NEDC’s
strengthened regulations, including
tax and licence fee rates.
biggest flaws are its inclination
introducing
towards theoretical driving and
emissions test (a strengthened
The new vehicle registration tax and
the unrealistic figures it produces.
system for approving cars). For two
licence fee regime just introduced
NEDC fuel consumption ratings
years, the focus has understandably
by Transport Malta, based on CO₂
are close to impossible to achieve
been on how to tackle the noxious
WLTP values, will either have a
in real-life traffic and most criticism
emissions from exhausts.
neutral or positive impact (in terms
is coming from this direction. This
of lower registration tax and licence
is not saying that the tests are
The WLTP has been introduced
fees) on consumers.
intentionally misleading. It is that
in
they are not exactly reflective of how
process as from September 2017,
a car would be used on a day-to-day
in parallel with the introduction of
basis by an average driver.
the final Euro 6c emission limits.
Harmonized
But what does WLTP stand for? WLTP
stands
for
Worldwide
Harmonised Light Vehicle Test
Source: https://www. automotivetestingtechnologyinternational. com/ 1
the
a
new
European
real-world
type-approval
The WLTP test has been totally redesigned to provide a better
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
77
representation of ‘real-world’ CO2
The transition period from NEDC
This means that after September
emissions and fuel consumption.
to WLTP started in September
2017, when the switch from the old
That means that the figures of
2017. During the period of transition
NEDC test to WLTP was made, one
emissions and fuel economy should
from
cars
might come across two different
be more accurate. The WLTP test
approved before had their CO2
values for the same car. This might
takes place over a longer distance
values as measured under the old
be quite confusing, making it difficult
than the outgoing NEDC test, using
NEDC test. When a new car was
to compare cars.
higher top and average speeds, and
certified according to WLTP after
lasting a greater amount of time. And
September 2017, its official vehicle
From September 2018, all new
unlike the NEDC test, the impact
documents
cars must have WLTP-CO2 values.
of all available optional equipment
Conformity) will have CO2 emission
Manufacturers
(such as bigger wheels or panoramic
values from both the new lab test
ensure consistency between the
sunroofs) is considered in the WLTP
(WLTP) as well as the old one.
CO2 emissions recorded in the
cycle.
NEDC
to
(the
WLTP,
Certificate
of
are
required
to
certificates of conformity of their vehicles and the CO2 emissions of vehicles in-service measured according
to
the
Worldwide
Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).2 This consistency shall be verified by type-approval authorities, in selected vehicles. The authorities shall also verify the presence of any strategies artificially improving the vehicle’s performance in the typeapproval tests. On the basis of their findings, typeapproval authorities shall, where needed, ensure the correction of the certificates of conformity. They 2 Source: https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/ transport/vehicles/regulation_en
Source: https://www. wltpfacts.eu/from-nedcto-wltp-change/
Source: https://www. alphabet.com/en-lu/ worldwide-harmonizedlight-vehicles-testprocedure-wltp
78
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
may also take other necessary
shall be reported to the Commission,
Correlation between WLTP and
measures set out in the Type
which shall take them into account
NEDC figures
Approval Framework Regulation.
for the purpose of calculating the
It is to be noted that type-approval
average specific emissions of a
Passenger cars and vans (‘light
manufacturer.
commercial
is compulsory for all categories
vehicles’)
are
responsible for around 12% and
of whole vehicles, including those
The
built in several stages.3 The related
the
WLTP
directive4 lays down:
particular vehicle, and it is those
CO2
will
determine
emissions
for
a
2.5%, respectively, of total EU emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), the main greenhouse gas.5
CO2 emissions that determine
•
a harmonised framework with
how much registration tax upon
The new WLTP testing procedure
general technical requirements
purchase or circulation licence fees
has had a massive impact on CO2
for the type-approval of new
a vehicle is subject to.
emissions data but the disparity
vehicles
and
components
systems,
and
the
WLTP,
NEDC-
Technically, whether the change
correlated, and old NEDC data has
from NEDC values to WLTP values
further complicated the issue.
vehicles, so as to facilitate their
means a rise or fall in the fees band
registration, sale and entry into
a new vehicle falls into, will depend
Autovista Group analysis reveals that
service in the EU;
totally
WLTP
the average deviation between WLTP
rules regarding the sale and
CO2 emissions measurement is
and NEDC-correlated (NEDC-c) CO2
entry into service of vehicle
higher or lower than the previous
emissions figures now stands at 21%.6
parts and equipment.
NEDC measurement.
designed
technical
between
such
units
•
of
for
on
whether
the
The average mathematical deviation In turn, the certificate of conformity is
Though it was anticipated from
of 21% is calculated from the
a statement by the manufacturer
earlier on that most vehicles will
emission figures for individually
which shows that the vehicle
move up to a higher band after the
registered cars, and aligns with the
conforms
type-approval
switch, as explained above, the
expectations outlined in a European
requirements. The manufacturer
Government is committed to the
Commission study published early
has the responsibility to ensure the
fact that the new vehicle registration
in 2018. This is a more accurate
conformity of production with the
tax and licence fee regime based on
method than using manufacturers’
approved type.
CO₂ WLTP values will either have a
specifications, i.e., averaging the
neutral or positive impact (in terms
deviation of each model variant
of lower registration tax and licence
available on the market, as it would
fees) on consumers.
not factor in volume weighting.
Deviations
to
EU
found
in
the
CO2 emissions of vehicles in service
3
Source: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=LEGISSUM%3An26100
4
Directive 2007/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 September 2007
5
Source: https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/transport/vehicles/regulation_en
Source: https://autovistagroup.com/news-and-insights/wltp-focus-understanding-disparities-wltp-and-nedc-correlated-data, and https://publications. jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/bitstream/JRC107662/kjna28724enn.pdf 6
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
79
80 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
the new test system, customers are assured that the new vehicle registration tax and license fee regime based on CO₂ WLTP values, introduced by Transport Malta from the 1st of January 2021, will either have a neutral or positive impact in terms of lower registration tax and licence fees. All in all, the WLTP provides end customers with a more realistic Conclusion According
to
Association
of
the
cases where the WLTP figures
yardstick
for
comparing
the
will be lower than the NEDC ones.
consumption and emissions of
German
Especially in communications with
different vehicle models. For the
Automotive
customers, this has the drawback
manufacturer, it provides a legally
Industry (VDA)7, on average, across
of one and the same vehicle having
reliable basis for the certification
the EU (weighted by unit sales), the
apparently worse figures, although
of new vehicles. This test standard
switch from NEDC to WLTP will
there has been no change in
will also provide a significantly
mean a numerical increase of the
technology.
more realistic representation of the
the
CO2 values by 22% in comparison with
NEDC-certified
vehicles.
Nonetheless, there will be numerous
emissions and consumption of new Notwithstanding
the
overall
model series.
increase in CO2 figures due to
7
Source: https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/bitstream/JRC107662/kjna28724enn.pdf
8
Source: https://www.daimler.com/sustainability/climate/wltp/wltp-part-2.html
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
81
Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects launches the largest package ever of transport financial grants to promote sustainable mobility
82 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Peter Paul Barbara - Director within the Office of the Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO - TM
M
inister for Transport,
free public transport for many
This measure will see to it that
Infrastructure
and
sectors in society, the liberalisation
emissions from road traffic are
Capital Projects Dr
of the fast ferry service for the
reduced. For this measure, a person
Ian Borg announced
greater use of shipping, and also
can benefit from a grant of €400
the largest package of transport
the start of a direct route by sea and
per vehicle in category M1 or N1
financial
public transport between Cospicua
which is modified to be able to run
and Sliema.”
on autogas. Persons who have
grants
ever
awarded
through Transport Malta. These incentives are aimed to increase the
modified their vehicle in previous
shift towards more sustainable and
Minister Ian Borg explained how
years to run on autogas can apply
efficient means of transport. As far
these schemes are a demonstration
for the scheme.
as Electric Vehicles are concerned,
of
the 2021 grants are the highest ever
government, and added that, “As
- Scheme to incentivise the use of
offered, with an increase of €2,000
a government, we are committed
Dual Fuel Systems on Heavy Duty
for
electric
to continue making a difference
diesel vehicles
vehicles over the 2020 grants. When
in order to achieve our main goal,
Another
one adds free registration tax and
and to maintain our European
emissions from road traffic. For this
free circulation tax for the first five
commitment as well.”
measure, a person can benefit from
newly
purchased
an
environmentally
friendly
years from first registration, these
measure
to
reduce
a grant of €800 when a heavy-duty
make our grants comparable to the
A total of five grant schemes were
motor vehicle is equipped with this
best grants given by other countries
launched for which applications
system, which results in a reduction
in Europe.
could be submitted with immediate
in smoke emissions of at least 25%.
effect, with the applications made Minister Ian Borg said, “We are once
available and accessed from the
again here to continue offering
Transport Malta website.
Grant No. 2
more financial incentives to Maltese
Scheme to incentivise the purchase
families in order to make use of more
of environmentally friendly vehicles
sustainable and efficient means of
The five grants are based on
transport. It is worth recalling that
schemes which include:
The purchase of new M1 vehicles
this government is working seriously on
the
subject
of
alternative
that are environmentally friendly
Grant No. 1
and at the same time eliminating
transport, not only on the basis of
old vehicles from the road is being
these financial measures, but also
- Incentive scheme to enable the
encouraged. The grant amounts
through incentives that we have
public to change their car engines to
to a maximum of €1,500 awarded
taken and are still taking, including
make more vehicles run on autogas
when purchasing a new vehicle
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
83
c. Darren Agius
in category M1 and a grant of €
at least 10 years old from its year of
categories M1 or N1 and which is not
2,000 when purchasing a new
manufacture;
older than 6 months from date of first
hybrid vehicle in category M1, while
registration and does not exceed
cancelling the registration of an old
€8,000 when registering a new
6,000 km on the odometer without
vehicle in category M1 or N1.
electric
de-registering
vehicle
falling
under
category M1 or N1 without de-
and
scrapping
another ICE vehicle;
registering and scrapping an older
Grant No. 3
€3,000 when registering a used
ICE vehicle;
electric
vehicle
falling
under
€5,000 when registering a used
categories M1 or N1 and which is
scrapping of an old vehicle and the
electric
under
not older than 36 months from date
purchase of an electric vehicle or a
categories M1 or N1 and which is not
of first registration and does not
Plug-In Hybrid for individuals, local
older than 6 months from date of first
exceed 15,000 km on the odometer
councils, NGOs and businesses.
registration and does not exceed
while de-registering and scrapping
6,000 km on the odometer while de-
another M1, M2, N1 or N2 ICE vehicle
registering and scrapping another
which is at least 10 years old from its
M1, M2 ,N1 or N2 ICE vehicle which is
year of manufacture;
A
scheme
to
incentivise
the
In the case of Private Individuals:
vehicle
falling
€9,000 when registering a new
at least 10 years old from its year of
electric
manufacture;
vehicle
falling
under
€2,000 when registering a used
Category M1 or N1 while de-
electric
vehicle
falling
under
registering and scrapping another
€4,000 when registering a used
categories M1 or N1 and which is
M1, M2, N1 or N2 ICE vehicle which is
electric
not older than 36 months from date
84 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
vehicle
falling
under
of first registration and should not
category N1, N2, M2 or M3 and de-
exceed 15,000 km on the odometer
registering and scrapping another
€3,000 when registering a used
without
conventional M1, M2, N1 or N2 ICE
electric
vehicle which is at least 10 years old
categories M1, N1 or N2 and which is
from its year of manufacture;
not older than 36 months from date
de-registering
and
scrapping another ICE vehicle; €1,000 when registering a used
vehicle
falling
under
of first registration and does not
under
€11,000 when registering a new
exceed 15,000 km on the odometer
categories M1 or N1 and which
electric vehicle falling under the
while de-registering and scrapping
is older than 36 months but not
Category N1, N2, M2 or M3 without
another M1, M2 ,N1 or N2 ICE vehicle
exceeding 72 months from the date
de-registering
which is at least 10 years old from its
of first registration.
another ICE vehicle;
electric
vehicle
falling
and
scrapping
year of manufacture;
In the case of local councils,
€5,000 when registering a used
€2,000 when registering a used
NGOs, Registered Businesses and
electric
electric
Registered Private Companies:
categories M1, N1 or N2 and which
categories M1, N1 or N2 and which
is not older than 6 months from date
is not older than 36 months from
€9,000 when registering a new
of first registration and does not
date of first registration and should
electric
under
exceed 6,000km on the odometer
not
category M1 while de-registering
while de-registering and scrapping
odometer
and scrapping another M1, M2,
another M1, M2 or N1, N2 ICE vehicle
and scrapping another M1, M2 ,N1 or
N1 or N2 ICE vehicle which is at
which is at least 10 years old from its
N2 ICE vehicle ;
least 10 years old from its year of
year of manufacture;
€1,000 when registering a used
vehicle
falling
vehicle
falling
under
manufacture;
vehicle
exceed
falling
15,000km
under
on
the
without de-registering
electric vehicle falling under M1, €3,000 when registering a used
N1 or N2 and which is older than
€8,000 when registering a new
electric
under
36 months but not exceeding
electric
under
categories M1, N1 or N2 and
72 months from the date of first
category M1 without de-registering
which is not older than 6 months
registration.
and scrapping another ICE vehicle;
from date of first registration and
vehicle
falling
vehicle
falling
does not exceed 6,000 km on the €12,000 when registering a new
odometer without de-registering
electric
and scrapping another ICE vehicle;
vehicle
falling
under
Grant No. 4 A
scheme
which
covers
the
purchase of Pedelecs and Vehicles in Category L In this scheme two types of grants are being offered – Grant A and Grant B. An Applicant here refers to either the person, the local council, voluntary organisations or enterprises.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
85
Grant A 1
2
3
Type of Vehicle
Type
Electric
Petrol or LPG
Pedelecs
€400
€200
Pedelecs for the transport of goods
€2,000
€1,000
€750
High-performance side-car motorcycles;
25% of Car Value, up to € 6,000
Not applicable.
Motorized tricycles with a power exceeding 15kW
Heavy-weight quads
Motorised bicycles Two-wheel moped A three-wheeled moped for the transport of passengers and for utilitarian purposes Light-weight quads. Low performance motors Low-performance side-car motorcycles Motorised tricycles with a power exceeding 15kW. Medium performance motorcycles Medium performance motorcycles with a sidecar High performance motorcycles
86 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Grant B:
This scheme is open to vehicles used for the rental or compensation of passengers. For this measure, a person
€1,000 when a person registering a pedelec or a new
can benefit from a grant amounting to €10,000 when they
category L vehicle eligible for grant A removes from
license a new vehicle in category M1, or M2, or M3.
registration a vehicle in Category M1 or N1 that is at least ten (10) years old from the year of its manufacture;
Link to applications OR https://www.transport.gov.mt/.../transport€500 when a person registering a pedelec or a new
schemes-2021-4647
category L vehicle eligible for grant A removes from
https://www.gov.mt/.../Pages/2021/April/08/
registration a Category L vehicle that is at least ten (10)
pr210668en.aspx
years old from the year of its manufacture.
Grant No. 5 Purchase of vehicles that are accessible to people with disabilities by wheelchair
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
87
Interview with Capt. Charles Pace Director General for Civil Aviation Civil Aviation Directorate Interviewed by Captain Charles Pace and Peter Paul Barbara
9H-SUN…. A FLIGHT OF RELIEF TO A DEVASTATED CITY On the 25th of September 2020, flight Number 9H-SUN left Malta at 12.00 hours - destination - Beirut, Lebanon. The 2hr35min flight was carrying over 50 tonnes of food, water, medicine and other medical supplies as well as medical equipment, all donated by Maltese entities and the general public. T-21 caught up with Captain Charles Pace, General Director of the Civil Aviation Directorate within Transport Malta, who was the mastermind behind this noble and humanitarian initiative.
88 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Q.
this
and Mr. Sergio Bagorro for being
initiative came to your mind right
initiative possible. I contacted a few
so generous. In fact, the Mirpuri
after the explosion. How and why
friends of mine who volunteered
Foundation also directly donated
did this idea come about?
and immediately started working
over 1,800 individual doses of
on the mission. Ms. Melissa Lamb
medication as part of the cargo.
Captain, you told me that this
A. Well, the tragedy and devastation that hit the people of Beirut left a big impression on me. The Lebanese people have had to endure various challenges over the years and having such devastation in the middle of a pandemic required action. One also must remember that Lebanon was and still is also a country torn by internal conflicts. During my days at Air Malta, I had organised a similar relief flight to Colombo in Sri Lanka after the tsunami hit the area and therefore, I decided to give this a go as it was much simpler from a logistics point of view despite being of equal importance.
Q. Could you briefly describe what was needed in order to organise such a mission?
A. First of all, such a mission needs
hand
to
ultimately
make
and Ms. Kathryn Halstead from Aviation Malta jumped on the idea
The Mirpuri Foundation is a Lisbon
immediately when I discussed it with
based
them, such that they provided the
which was set up by Portuguese
project with a core team to deliver
businessman
the supplies.
Paulo Mirpuri, with the aim to
Non-Profit and
Organisation philanthropist,
contribute to a better world. It usually The most important factor in such
partners with governments, various
a mission is to have to access to an
businesses,
aircraft and a crew that can carry
individuals to address a range of
the food stuffs, other material,
projects in Aerospace and Medical
and equipment to the affected
Research, projects relating to Marine
destination, free of charge, of
Conservation,
course. This is a make or break
climate change, performing arts, and
for such a humanitarian project to
social responsibility. The main goals of
be successful. If one had to pay in
the Foundation are to make the world
excess of €200,000 to transport
a better place for future generations to
the cargo, the whole concept would
live in, and to aim to make a difference
then become unsustainable.
with respect to the most pressing
communities,
issues
relating
and
to
issues threatening our planet. Immediately, I reached out to various Malta AOC holders to which I got a
Q. How long did it take you to put
very positive reply. In the end, Hi Fly
up the mission together and receive
Malta and the Mirpuri Foundation
the donations?
to have a small team set up to work
offered an Airbus A-340 and crew,
hands-on on the project, so my
free of charge, to carry out the
It took us like a month or so to get
immediate task was to set up a
mission. Here I must personally
everything together, including the
team which could give a helping
thank
donations and the cargo itself.
the
Mirpuri
Foundation
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
89
90 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Q.
Were there other companies
A.
The second major expense
who assisted with donations or any
in the project was the fuel for the
other materials?
mission. Here, once again, we reached out to Enemed Company
A. Yes, there was, in fact. And here, apart from Aviation Malta, the Mirpuri Foundation, Hi Fly, Enemed, and the General Public who, as usual, has shown great solidarity to those in need when such situations
Ltd., who willingly powered the flight by providing the necessary aviation fuel. This allowed us to spend all the donations we received on food stuffs and equipment, rather than paying for the costs of the flight.
arise, I would also like to thank our Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malta
On its part, the Ministry for Foreign
International
Malta
Affairs also chipped in with aid and
and Airmalta Aviation Services,
Airport,
Air
assistance for making the flight a
General Soft Drinks Company Ltd.,
reality. With those major contributors
Playmobil, the Convenience Shop,
and assets in place it was now up to
Alliance Executive Jets, Corendon
the organisers to fill the large aircraft
Airlines, Emperor Aviation, the
cabin and holds, which we managed
Malta Red Cross, Air X, Magro
to do.
Brothers, Foster Clarks, Stanley Bugeja at the Malta Business Aviation
Association
(MBAA),
the Malta Red Cross, and Viana Hazzoury. I would also like to thank Transport Malta for giving me time off to work on this mission as well as for contributing directly with
Q.
What
about
Logistical
Challenges?
A.
A good number of Malta-based
companies donated food and money for the cause. This brought about
financial means.
the first logistic challenge as we
Q. What about Hi Fly Malta?
the items prior to loading. The
required space to store and prepare ground handling arm of Air Malta
A. Hi Fly Malta is an airline company registered under our flag. It also belongs to the directors of the Mirpuri Foundation. In fact, this mission was one of many that the Mirpuri Foundation and Hi Fly are also responding to in the Help Beirut Initiative, along with other relief projects.
did not hesitate to make their cargo stores available to store and prepare the cargo. Maronia Azzopardi from the Airmalta Aviation Services was a rock when it came to coordination with the airport and for this, I must express my gratitude. AAS also provided a full loading team to put the cargo on the aircraft and dispatch it to the destination.
Q. What came next? And what was the second biggest expense in the operation?
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
91
Q. Having now organised two relief missions, will you consider doing it all over again?
A.
Hopefully the world will be a
better place but if the need arises, we shall do our best to try and give a helping hand to those in need especially in difficult times. Just after 18.00 hours local time on Tuesday 4th August 2020, a massive explosion shook the port city of Beirut, the Capital City of Lebanon, killing more than 200 people, seriously
injuring
about
7,500
people while leaving an estimated 300,000
people
homeless
or
displaced. These numbers are not enough to describe the extent of the massive explosion, leaving the port area of Beirut and its neighbourhood flattened; scenes reminiscent of an aftermath of a nuclear detonation, as was the giant mushroom covering the whole city and its shockwaves of the second explosion, seconds after So, what about your arrival in
To answer your question, yes, I joined
a first explosion which detonated
Beirut? Did you join the flight to
the flight to contribute to the logistics
a massive stockpile of unsafely
Beirut, with this mission having
and loading end of the mission. The
stored Ammonium Nitrate. The
been your initiative?
flight was greeted by a delegation
explosion left a crater about 140m
from DAFA who expressed their
wide in diameter and 45 m deep,
gratitude towards the generosity
and it is considered to be one of the
of the Maltese people and the
largest ever non-nuclear, man-made
organisers. They stated that the aid
explosions in human history.
Q.
A.
During the planning phase we
also needed to coordinate with the Lebanese Authorities so that the cargo load would be transferred and distributed to those in need. After trying to contact a number of NGOs, it was decided that we would donate the food and equipment to the DAFA Campaign who work to bring support to under-privileged families
would be very much appreciated by those in need and that such efforts
The explosion of the Ammonium
fill them with courage to continue
Nitrate
their work to aid those in need. The
approximately
cargo was loaded off the aircraft and
substance, un-properly stored for
was then taken to one of the DAFA
about six years, was equivalent to
distribution points.
around 1.1 kilotons of TNT. The blast
in Lebanon.
92 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
stockpile, 2,750
which tonnes
was of
was heard and felt from as far as
war-torn Syria, Turkey, Israel, Cyprus,
Before the 4th of August Blast,
mark. Eight months after the Beirut
and even parts of Europe.
Lebanon was already going through
Port Explosion, the scale of the
an economic impasse and currently
economic recovery is a very daunting
States
is at its worst economic crises to-
challenge.
Geological Survey), the blast was
date. With the Covid-19 Pandemic
recorded as a seismic event of
ranging on to make matters worse,
magnitude 3.3 of the Richter Scale.
it has been reported that 45% of the
The blast accounts to an estimated
population is currently below the
US$ 15 billion in property and material
poverty line, while the unemployment
damage.
rate is hovering just above the 30%
On
the
USGS
(United
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
93
National Household Travel Survey 2021: Towards data driven transport planning
94 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Patrick Cachia March Transport Planner Integrated Transport Directorate
T
ransport
the
To take stock of the changes to
published by the National Statistics
centre of our lives. The
the transport system and how the
Office (NSO), and other granular
movement of people and
network is utilised, Malta has been
data that will be used by TM to model
goods through space and
undertaking a National Household
the transport network and forecast
time is fundamental to the operation
Travel Survey (NHTS) every 10 years
future demands for transport on a
of
Transport
since 1989. The survey is distributed
regional or national scale.
systems are therefore complex
to a statistically representative
and continuously evolving, and it is
sample of the population of Malta,
Indeed, the NHTS plays an integral
a constant challenge for transport
whereby respondents are provided
role
planners to assess, predict, and plan
with a series of questions about their
and maintenance of the National
current and potential changes to the
travel characteristics and habits.
Transport Model (NTM), a macro-
national transport network.
The NHTS provides valuable data in
level
two main ways.
simulates
human
is
society.
at
Indeed, there have been great
towards
the
transport
development
model
network
which
conditions
in present and future modelling
many changes over the past few
First, the NHTS provides information
scenarios. The NTM is a complex
years. Malta’s population alone has
about the ways in which the
multi-modal model that requires a
increased by 20% over the past
transport system is utilised. This
large amount of data to develop,
decade. During this period, new
includes
as
and to test and validate its results.
transport solutions, technologies,
the relative modal share of each
The NHTS is therefore one of the
and
have
travel mode, which demographic
most important sources of data for
emerged and revolutionised the
profiles utilise these modes, as
the NTM as it is used to develop
sector. It is fair to say that road users
well as time, origin, and destination
the NTM’s trip matrices, which
in Malta have more transport options
information about each trip. By
represent trip movements from one
at their literal and metaphorical
identifying patterns in survey data,
locality to another.
fingertips than ever before. However,
further analysis can be performed
this rapid growth in population
to identify the cause of these
While previous versions of the
and emergence of new mobility
patterns and develop transport
survey had been paper-based, the
solutions has also created new
policy, infrastructure, and services
upcoming NHTS will be carried
settlement and travel patterns that
accordingly.
out using online methods. Whilst
mobile
applications
information
such
must be accounted for. Furthermore,
analogue (i.e. paper-based) data
it has also created capacity issues
The second primary purpose of the
collection
for transport infrastructure in many
NHTS is to provide data for transport-
advantages (for example, ease of
methods
have
sections of the transport network.
related official statistics, namely;
comprehension), we believe that
passenger mobility statistics to be
digital surveys are the way forward.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
their
95
96 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
of manually collating, processing, and
verifying
data.
That
said,
certain demographics would need to be specifically targeted by using computer aided telephone or web interviews (CATI/CAWI) as the may not be conversant with online technologies. Indeed, Transport Malta will be collaborating
closely
with
the
National Statistics Office (NSO), which will bring to the project vast experience in conducting large surveys at a national level, as well MALTA POPULATION DENSITY AND WORKPLACE CONCENTRATION BY LOCALITY An
online
survey
has
as expertise in statistical analysis. Bringing the NSO on board will also
many
interactive questions (using a map
advantages over one that is paper-
interface) can be asked, and that
based. First, online surveys are easy
might not easily be possible using
to share and allow greater flexibility
analogue methods. Furthermore,
in design. For example, certain
they reduce a lot of work in terms
facilitate integration of other micro and macro statistical data which will enable deep analysis that was not possible in previous editions of the NHTS. The linking of survey data with NSO data will also reduce the length of the questionnaire, as a great number of socio-demographic variables can be extracted from
A RATHER LARGE ADVANTAGE OF ONLINE SURVEYS IS THE ABILITY TO EASILY LINK TO OTHER STATISTICAL DATA IF THE SURVEY IS DESIGNED IN SUCH A WAY TO DO SO. WHILST THIS IS THEORETICALLY POSSIBLE USING A PAPER-BASED SURVEY, THE TIME NEEDED TO DO THIS MAKES THE PROCESS UNFEASIBLE.
NSO’s micro-statistical databases. Furthermore, digital methods are not only more cost-efficient, but also provide the ability to make changes more easily to survey structure for future editions. Indeed, the new digital approach could pave the way for this decennial survey to be caried out more frequently, thereby capturing changes in our travel patterns and behaviour as they emerge. The
upcoming
distributed representative households.
NHTS
to
a
be
statistically
sample The
will of
7000
questionnaire
itself will be split into three parts. In the first part, respondents will be asked general questions about their
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
97
98 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
household size and composition as well as other variables, in order to enable better linking to NSO’s databases. The second part will consist of questions related to vehicle ownership, particularly the number, type and characteristics of vehicles owned by the household. The third and final part of the survey will consist of the Trip Diary. Here, each member of the household will fill out a diary of all trips undertaken during a designated
AM PEAK HOUR TRIPS, REGIONAL INBOUND AND OUTBOUND MOVEMENT.
‘Travel Day’. Respondents will also be able to assign privately owned vehicles defined in the previous section to specific trips. This last section in particular will provide a wealth of granular data about not only the origin and destination of each trip, but also which transport modes were used or were unavailable to the respondent. It will also seek views, opinions, and feedback on potential ideas for future transport policy, projects, and measures. The NHTS project has seen months of development and has involved the collaboration and feedback from several stakeholders from the public sector. Transport is one of the most fundamental sectors to human society, however, it may also have economic, social, health, and environmental consequences. In this respect, Transport Malta has been very careful to incorporate certain topics into the questionnaire which will provide vital information to policy areas covered by other government entities concerning the impact of travel and transport.
As
a
we to
Directorate, are
excited
undertake
upcoming Whilst in has
Malta DS2025 Scenario Urban Core Volume/Capacity Ratio
the
VC_1>1;V/C > 1.0 VC_1<=1;0.8 < V/C <= 1.0 VC_1<=0.8;0.6 < V/C <= 0.8 VC_1<=0.6;0.3 < V/C <= 0.6 VC_1<=0.3;0.3 <= V/C
NHTS.
the
change
methodology created
challenges,
new we
believe that the NHTS will provide valuable data that was not previously attainable. This data will allow us to create policy that is
better-informed
and therefore more effective. policy
Effective
development
is
especially
important
in
terms
(Licensed to Transport Malta)
of greenhouse gas emission reduction targets as part of the EU’s 2030 Climate Target Plan, as well as the wider European Green Deal.
NATIONAL TRANSPORT MODEL EXTRACT SHOWING CONGESTION EXPRESSED AS VOLUME/CAPACITY IN 2025 FORECAST SCENARIO
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
99
Pierre P. Vella Executive Chairman Malta Road Safety Council
Updating the Highway Code Malta can be applauded for its
the island’s population, the national
lessons, driving licence students
history; being, a small island in the
vehicle fleet is quite large. One cannot
have to sit for a Theory Test
Mediterranean which is adorned
deny the fact that the private car is
which in the current prevailing
with a historical event at every village
an essential commoditycommodity,
circumstances is being carried out
and town, the island boaostsfrom
but this brings with it a number
online. Acquiring knowledge on
of an array of rulers who over the
of responsibilities, especially on
driving skills,and getting familiar with
years wanted to make this jewel in
the driver. and tThe respective
our national traffic regulations, and
the ever blueever-blue sea, theirs
obligationsthat haves to be shown
ultimately studying for this test, is
to hold and rule. This is what made
towards the public, particularly
all based on a document or booklet
Malta famous over the years with
towards other road users, throughin
known as the Highway Code.
the history that was left behind,
being consciousence towards and
with most of it beingand most of it
contributinge towards road safety.
This document is considered to beas the “bible” for all road drivers
impressibllye preserved. But apart from this historical aspect, there
The figures in question do not
and road users. It is the point of
is also another historical fact, this
transcribe to the amountnumber of
reference
which iswas not tiedup to any ruler
drivers in our country because it is
where road markings and traffic
but emerged probably later in the
a known fact that a good number of
signs are listed and explained.
years, relating to , the means of
people own more than one motorcar,
And since the Code also explains
transportation known as, the motor
but. Ssomewhere in throughout
driving
car.
our life, likely and this happened
methodology and other relevant
mostly towards our eighteenthour
information for drivers including
Malta has one of the highest
eighteenth birthday, most of us felt
road ethics,definitely this is definitely
registered national vehicle fleet per
the desire or need to get ourselves a
a document that one has to look at
capita in the EU, such that by the end
driving licensce.
in great detail, especially when a
the
procedures,
document,
driving
driving licence studentts appliesy to
of 2020, the national vehicle fleet stood at 394, 955. Compared to
and
Besides
100 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
the
practical
driving
sit for a driving test.
also when driving or
over time. The Highway Code
riding a motorbike,
is a document which one needs
when paddling on
to refer to even after the driving
a bicycle or even
licencse is obtained. Similarly, the
when
on
document is to be updated from
the street. Most of
walking
time to -time to reflect any changes
what is written in the
in the regulations as well as general
Highway
is
updating that is carried out, such as
also reflected in our
in traffic signs and road markings,
traffic
new modes of transport, and new
Code
regulations,
by which one has to
transport-related
abide.
Because of The fact that Malta is
technologies.
also a member of the European Locally, document
is
the
Union, some changes also may
not
need to be made to reflected in this
l aw b i d d i n g l e g a l l y binding,
regard.
although
most of the content
It is for this purpose, that the Malta
included in it does
Road Safety Council andtogether
reflect
with
our
traffic
Transport
Malta
have
regulationssuch
embarked taken upon thea rigorous
as, for
examplefor
exercise to update and streamline
example, the One
the current Highway Code to reflect
Way or No Entry
the current realities of today. The
traffic sign means
consideration of whether it is also
But how did this document come
that one cannot drive through that
time to do away with this current,
around and what is its history?
street and if one does so and gets
affectionally
Our National Highway Code is an
caught, receives he shall get a hefty
that still links us to our colonial
inheritance from the British Highway
fine. Similarly, national speed limits
past, particularly in the absence
Code
originated
are also indicated and if one is
of highways as part of our road
in the 1930, and it was inherited
caught exceeding those limits, he is
network, is something to be still
due to the fact that Malta was a
finedfined, and points are deducted
discussed in this updating process.
British colonythrough which we
through the penalty point system.
also inherited on whichside of the
This and which canmay lead tofor
roadwe drive, what we call the right
the suspension of the driving licence
way, Malta kept its tiesour ties with
if such points are exceeded.
having
which
the British monarchy obyf driving like the British, on the left side of the
However, there have beenwere
road.
a few cases during court sittings where the magistrate referred to the
The of
Highway explanations,
Code
consists
advicse
Highway Code to pass judgement.
and
Unfortunately, this document is
mandatory rules on how one has to
only referred to or studied when
behave whilst driving on the road,
one is preparing to undertake the
and not; not just when sitting behind
driving licensce Theory Test and
thea steering wheel of a car, but
much of its content is forgotten
named
document
DRIVE WELL AND DRIVE SAFELY. YOUR ATTITUDE ON THE ROAD MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE TO KEEP YOURSELF AND OTHERS, STAY SAFE.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 101
102 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
LAYING OUT THE FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FOUNDATION FOR TRANSPORT Dr Jeanette Axisa Director General Fo u n d a t i o n f o r Tr a n s p o r t
THE FOUNDATION FOR TRANSPORT, THOUGH STILL IN ITS INFANCY STAGE, IS EITHER SPEARHEADING A NUMBER OF INITIATIVES OR WORKING JOINTLY WITH STAKEHOLDERS/COFOUNDERS TO COVER ALL MODES OF TRANSPORT. A survey has recently been rolled out jointly with two cofounders of the Foundation, MEA and Malta Chamber of SMEs, and the Gozo Business Chamber, to: •
Identify the sector’s investment appetite in new technologies
•
Gauge interest in pilot projects
•
Test its understanding/knowledge of national policies; and
•
Discover the extent of general knowledge of new technologies industry players have.
The survey is now in its final stages and its response analysis will be presented during the next Board Meeting of the Foundation. The Preliminary findings will be illustrated during the webinar Sustainable Transport and Business, organised in collaboration with Malta Employers Association. The Foundation is, at the moment, preparing various initiatives to create awareness, and explain/educate the general public and the business
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 103
community about new technologies
working to reach one of its primary
that are evolving in transport. It has
goals, that is, to keep stakeholders
become
and
to
increasingly
instil
important
confidence
in
cofounders
abreast
with
new
developments. Strong collaboration
technologies and act proactively
is key, and a lot of effort is being
rather than reacting to and chasing
made to receive timely updates and
set deadlines.
ensure that activities undertaken are fully in line with national strategies
In parallel, various focus groups
and policies.
with cofounders and stakeholders are being spearheaded to:
During the second quarter of this year, the Foundation will be
•
Devise and provide structured
signing a number of Memoranda of
training
Understanding that will formalise
possibilities
to
all
players in the ecosystem •
•
Actively
contribute
to
various ways of collaboration with the
various type of entities. Through
setting up of a framework
these Memoranda, the Foundation
for systematic and periodic
will be able to provide a series of
certification of various industry
complementary solutions to current
players
and upcoming challenges being
Offer participation mechanisms
faced by various transport industry
in various pilot projects in all
players.
modes of transport to identify
•
new commercial activities and
Finally, but very importantly, it
skills generated; and
gives the Foundation for Transport
Make sure everyone is involved
immense satisfaction and gratitude
and gets equal opportunity to
that 2030 objectives and targets
be well-prepared.
arising from the European Green Deal are some of the subjects
The Foundation is strengthening its
planned to be discussed in National
active participation in coordinating
Conferences organised by His
and presenting concerted position
Excellency the President of Malta.
papers on various strategies and
This will be another opportunity
policies. This is an essential part in
for the Foundation to form part
ascertaining its position as part of a
of
bigger holistic mechanism. It is also
propositions.
104 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
innovative
and
professional
Ke v i n Fa r r u g i a Chief Operating Officer and D e p u t y C h i e f E xe c u t i v e O f f i c e r, Tr a n s p o r t M a l t a
THE LAND ENFORCEMENT UNIT OF TRANSPORT MALTA RAISING THE BAR ON ITS ENFORCEMENT ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 105
The Land Enforcement Unit within
The courses were organised with
8th of March. The course covered
the Enforcement Directorate is
the aim to:
issues relating to the Carriage of
continuing with its investment in both its members of staff as well
Dangerous Goods by Road and •
as its assets. During the last few weeks, a number of specialised
improve their knowledge on the subject
•
keep up with both regulations
courses were organised for its
governing ADR and the Digital
Enforcement Officers specialising
Tachograph
in two fields of enforcement, namely,
covered the following topics:
•
•
vehicles •
improve the inspections being
those working within the Vehicle
done by the unit to ensure
Inspectorate Unit. The unit is made
consistency and proficiency.
the
inspection
on
driver
equipment •
the legislation (SL65.22) and EU Directive (95/50/EC) regulating
up of seven Enforcement Officers, and the courses specialised on the
inspections carried out on such
such inspection ADR Course
transport of dangerous goods as
•
the types of dangerous goods that can be carried and the
well as on the digital tachograph,
The ADR Course consisted of 5
specific requirements needed
both sectors being governed by EU
sessions of 7 hours each which
according to the respective type
Regulations.
were held on the 22nd and 23rd of
of materials, including gas and
February, and on the 1st, 2nd and
other fuels being transported
106 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
•
dos and don’ts in case of an
ways to identify infringements
Digital Tachograph is mandatory
emergency or accidents which
•
on tachographs by means of
across all EU Member States and
may occur when carrying such
using mechanical equipment.
for third country drivers driving on
hazardous goods.
European Union Roads, to make sure The
Course in the Digital Tachograph
Digital
important
Tachograph
piece
of
an
that drivers take their necessary their
equipment
is
rest periods in order to avoid road
installed in vehicles carrying both
accidents. Hefty fines are charged
The Tachograph course consisted
passengers and goods. While a
across EU roads for those drivers not
of 2 sessions of 3 hours each which
vehicle is being driven, it records,
abiding by the respective regulations.
were held on the 9th and 10th of
among other specific information,
March. The course consisted of:
driving speeds, driving distances, and
•
how to read the analogue and
driving hours done by a single driver.
digital tachograph
The Digital Tachograph has replaced
various EU Directives covering
the previous analogue Tachograph.
the Tachograph and Driver’s
Every driver driving a vehicle having
working and rest period
a digital tachograph installed, would
ways to identify infringements
need to punch in with a tachograph
of a tachograph by a driver
card before starting the journey. The
•
•
Additional courses will be organised over the coming few weeks regarding other elements of enforcement and including courses relating to Roadside inspections and VRT inspections.
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 107
D r I v a n Ta b o n e D e p u t y C h i e f O f f i c e r Merchant Shipping Directorate Alexandra Ellul – Manager in the Office of the CO Merchant Shipping Directorate Interviews - Peter Paul Barbara
Seafarer Certification, Training, and cooperation with Training Institutes
108 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 109
Earlier this year, an agreement was
signed
between
MCAST
and MaritimeMT, which aimed at exploring avenues of cooperation and collaboration between the two institutes in a bid to offer the best experience and the highest quality
“THIS IS ANOTHER STEP FORWARD THAT WILL CONTINUE TO SEAL MALTA’S POSITION AS A CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN MARITIME EDUCATION”
of training for seafarers. The signing of the agreement was presided by the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects, Hon. Dr. Ian Borg, together with the Minister for Education, Hon. Dr Justyne Caruana. During the signing ceremony, Hon. Dr. Borg stated that,
“IT IS THE GOVERNMENT’S PRIORITY TO INCENTIVISE MORE YOUNG PEOPLE TO TAKE THIS ROUTE, BE SUCCESSFUL, AND CONTINUE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THIS COUNTRY WITH A MARITIME INDUSTRY OF QUALITY, REPUTATION, AND RELIABILITY.”
110 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
The Government’s resolve on this
minimum standards and procedures
STCW Convention to fishing vessels
matter was further emphasised by
varied widely, leading to instances
over 24 metres in length.
Hon. Dr. Caruana who announced
where one country would not
that MCAST is investing more than
accept another’s training standards,
Qualifications required depend on
half a million euro for a state-of-the-
resulting in extended delays of
the rank desired by the seafarer and
art Maritime Unit, and that from the
vessels in ports.
the position to be assigned on board
next academic year MCAST will
the vessel. At the most basic level,
start offering an Advanced Diploma
Following the entry into force of the
training includes firefighting and
in Deck Operations.
STCW Convention, anyone wishing
fire prevention, personal and social
to work on commercial vessels larger
responsibilities, personal survival
This article shall take a look at
than twenty-four metres would
techniques, elementary first aid, and
the educational aspects within
need to obtain STCW qualifications
proficiency in security awareness.
the maritime sector, delve into
by following approved courses
Seafarer
and
known as Basic Safety Training
One particularly important feature of
training, and explore a number of
before seeking employment. The
the Convention is that it also applies
vocational institutions that provide
STCW Convention and code were
to when vessels flying flags of states
such training. It shall also look at
amended in 1995 and again in 2010,
who are not party to the Convention
how cooperation has developed
while a separate treaty, known as
visit ports of states which are party
between Transport Malta and these
STCW-F, came into force in 2012,
to the Convention. The difficulties
institutions over the past years.
thus extending the principles of the
which could arise for ships of
Certification
Standards
of
Training,
Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers Convention The
‘Standards
Certification,
of
and
Training,
Watchkeeping
for Seafarers’ (STCW) Convention came into force in 1978, setting for the first time uniform international standards in training requirements for seafarers engaged on merchant ships. The
adoption
of
the
STCW
Convention was part of an effort made by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to standardise maritime training across the world. Before
1978,
certification
and
watchkeeping of officers and ratings were
established
governments,
by
individual
usually
without
reference to practices in other countries, despite the global nature of the shipping sector. As a result,
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
111
states which have not acceded to
agreements with over 34 foreign
the Convention is one reason why
maritime administrations for the
the Convention has received such
recognition
a wide acceptance. By 2018, the
competence issued to seafarers
STCW Convention had 164 Parties,
in compliance with the STCW
representing 99.2 per cent of the
convention.
world shipping tonnage.
Department, on average, processes over
of
certificates
The
20,000
of
Seafarer endorsement
Malta acceded to the IMO STCW 1978
applications
Convention as amended. However,
officers serving or wanting to
Maltese ships are additionally subject
serve on Maltese ships attesting
to the provisions of the Merchant
the recognition of their certificate
Shipping Act and ancillary regulations
of competency issued by foreign
concerning
Administrations.
the
competency
of
per
annum
from
officers and seafarers. New STCW Courses The certification of seafarers falls within the responsibility of the
As of November 2020, the Merchant
Registrar General of Shipping and
Shipping
Seamen,
new
and
certification
and
Directorate
courses
developed
intended
for
training accreditation are handled
seafarers working on superyachts.
by the Seafarer Department within
Superyachts
the Merchant Shipping Directorate.
exceeding twenty-four meters in
are
luxury
yachts
length. Over the past five years, The
Directorate
issues
the Maltese Ship Register has seen
recognised
a 50% increase in the registration
certificates of competence after
of these luxury vessels, peaking in
successful completion of approved
2020 with 850 superyachts flying
courses
the Maltese eight-pointed cross,
internationally
conducted
and to
examinations very
rigorous
making the Maltese Ship Register
standards. Training is offered by
the largest superyachts Register in
twenty-six
the world.
accredited
training
Increased superyacht
providers overseen by the Seafarer
registrations also mean a higher
Department. Given the fact that
number of seafarers working on
there are no restrictions imposed
these vessels. Training programmes
on the nationality of the master,
have therefore been developed in
officers, and crew engaged on
conjunction with the industry and in
Maltese
registered
the
accordance to the provisions of the
Seafarer
Department
regulates
STCW Convention and the Laws of
ships,
training centres in both Malta and
Malta.
abroad with training centres located in Greece, Italy and Turkey.
The Merchant Shipping Directorate has also developed a framework
Further to the STCW Convention,
and syllabus, in accordance with
the Malta Maritime Administration
the STCW Convention, intended to
has
assist accredited training centres
entered
into
bilateral
112 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
in developing training programmes
hundred gross tonnage, carrying
leading to the certification of Officers
less than twelve passengers and
in Charge of Navigational Watch on
any other operational limitations.
yachts of less than three thousand
These new courses shall be added
gross tonnage (GT) and of Masters
to
on Yachts of less than 500GT.
maritime training courses already
the
one
hundred
sixty-five
approved and overseen by the New non-STCW Courses
Merchant Shipping Directorate. Vocational Institutions with strong
The
Maltese
registered
yacht
fleet exceeds 5000 vessels under
historical
cooperation
with
the
Transport Authority.
twenty-four metres in length. To certify the crew that works on
Over time, a number of vocational
these yachts and improve career
institutions came to the fore to
opportunities for these seafarers,
provide courses and training for
the Merchant Shipping Directorate
seafarers and mariners. T-21 caught
has developed five model courses
up with a number of institutes to
to assist accredited training centres
discover more what this sector is
in developing their own training
offering.
programmes leading to non-STCW certificates intended to be used on
MaritimeMT – Seafarers’
yachts and workboats.
Development
The
new
training
programmes
Derived from the Malta Maritime
include courses leading to the
Pilots
certification
(MMP) which had a long-standing
of
Recreational
Co-operative
Skippers competent to skipper
relationship
pleasure yachts up to thirty-five
Maritime Authority (MMA) now
nautical miles from safe haven
forming part of Transport Malta, the
within
Sea,
MaritimeMT brand was launched in
without any restriction on the engine
May 2018 and builds on the work and
horsepower.
experience of the Mediterranean
the
Mediterranean
Research
with
and
the
Society
Training
ex-Malta
Centre
Additionally, new Master certificates
(MMRTC), which was established in
have been introduced for Master
July 2010 as the training arm of the
on Yachts of less than two hundred
MMP. Mr. Joseph Meli, Marketing
gross tonnage for voyages limited
and Operations Manager within
to sixty nautical miles in non-tidal
MaritimeMT, gave T-21 an overview
waters, for voyages of one-hundred-
of the institute.
fifty nautical miles from safe haven, and for unlimited voyages. These
Officially set up in March of 2003
certificates may also be topped
and made up of 16 Master Mariners
up by a workboat training module,
and Pilots sharing common values,
which would give trainees the
the MMP Coop provides marine
essential education and training to
vessel pilot services in Malta’s main
skipper a workboat of less than two
ports; the Grand Harbour, the Port of
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 113
114 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Marsaxlokk, the Port of Marsamxett,
for recreational skippers, and any
and the Port of Mġarr in Gozo.
other bespoke training targeting both seafarers and shore-based
The
the
personnel. MaritimeMT’s objective
MMRTC Coop is to plan, develop,
main
is to provide a holistic maritime
prepare, and deliver courses and
curriculum
programmes that will enhance the
ongoing exercise with industry
knowledge, skills, and attitudes
stakeholders and the Authority of
of
Transport in Malta.
those
objective
of
endeavouring
within
development,
in
an
the maritime industry. Together, the
Cooperatives
also
provide
In
October
2019,
MaritimeMT
consultancies relevant to pilotage,
officially moved its operations into the
navigation, and seafaring.
newly built Training Centre facility in Ħal Far. It houses two Full
Since its inception, the MMRTC
Manoeuvring
Coop has obtained certification
that
through Det Norske Veritas (DNV)
consultancy, and training purposes.
as a certified facility, while Transport
These simulators, which are intuitive
Malta has fully accredited the
and offer real-time navigation, are run
organisation
as
an
are
Bridge
used
for
Simulators research,
accredited
in conjunction with MARIN (Maritime
maritime training centre. Today,
Research Institute Netherlands),
operating under the brand name
and are also approved by DNV.
of MaritimeMT, the centre is a onestop-shop for training, education,
At MaritimeMT, courses are carried
information, research, and ancillary
out by qualified training providers
services for seafarers and shore-
who are evaluated in line with the
based personnel.
demands of the maritime industry. Clients’ constructive feedback also
The MaritimeMT Training Centre
helps shape and update the training
provides vocational services, not
experience.
only for the Maltese Maritime Sector but also for the International
Training is offered via a Blended
Maritime Community. The Training
Learning approach with courses
Centre carries out STCW Training
offered to participants through
&
a Digital Learning Management
certification,
Ship
Handling
courses, accredited training on
System.
Commercial Vessels, Super Yacht
participants to either complete full
This
approach
allows
courses, basic maritime training
certificates remotely, either through
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 115
c. MCAST
e-Learning and/or guided learning,
Through continuous investment,
or else, to complete segments of
MaritimeMT aims to become an
their training remotely and only visit
international centre of excellency
the training centre facility for those
which will in turn help nurture and
modules which require practical
re-kindle a strong interest in the
training and/or examination.
Maltese maritime sector, both in
“FOR MANY DECADES AND SINCE THE AMALGAMATION OF MCAST WAY BACK IN 2001, THE MARITIME CENTRE HAS BEEN OFFERING A RANGE OF EDUCATIONAL MARITIME PROGRAMMES AT DIFFERENT QUALIFICATION LEVELS, SUPPORTING BOTH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL DEMANDS IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY THROUGH PROVEN QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED LECTURERS AND MENTORS.”
Malta as well as internationally.
The CMS offers both full-time and
The two Full Manoeuvre Bridge
The MCAST Centre for Maritime
part-time courses. Subjects taught
Simulators are complimented with
Studies
include a three-year introductory course leading to a Diploma in
a further four Kelvin Hughes ECDIS Simulators, a five-station GMDSS
The Centre for Maritime Studies
Deck Operations (MQF Level 3).
Simulator for Radio Communication
(CMS), or Maritime Centre as it is
This Diploma can be built upon by
training, and a three-station Liquid
commonly referred to, forms part
successful students, to progress to
Cargo Simulator for Advanced Oil
of the Institute of Engineering and
ranking officers such as Officer-in-
Tanker Training, installed and powered
Transport (IET) at the Malta College
Charge of Navigational Watch, Chief
by Konsberg, one of the sector’s
for Arts, Science and Technology
Mate, and even to Master Mariner
leading providers of equipment and
(MCAST),
main
(Captain), achieving the ultimate
technology on-board vessels. The
institution in Malta which provides
full qualification as required by the
new setup also houses six immersive
vocational education.
maritime industry.
Mr. Eugenio Busuttil, Deputy
Courses
hospitality training facility in the form
Director within the Centre for
at MCAST and training at sea
of a galley with a deck that mimics the
Maritime Studies, states that,
on
classrooms,
a
seamanship
which
is
the
and
engineering workshop, as well as a
realities found onboard super yachts.
116 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
include
board
around
the
local
ocean-going World.
training ships
Successful
completion of these courses leads
familiarising themselves with real-
and licences required to operate
to an internationally recognised
life situations and operations before
sea crafts in local waters. These
Certificate of Competence issued
moving out to actual life at sea. This
include licences for owners and
by Transport Malta’s Merchant
gives opportunities to practice
operators of all kinds of boats. Other
Shipping Directorate.
in
emergency
short courses are intended for port
situations where strict control of the
workers and local maritime entities
The Maritime Centre also offers
vessel comes into force. MCAST
where a significant training level is
Marine
courses
has invested and set up three
required.
where one can commence with
simulators, a state-of-the-art Bridge,
an Advanced Diploma in Marine
GMDSS, and ECDIS. The Maritime
Furthermore, the MCAST CMS
engineering and continue stepping
administration is now considering
is building capacity to be able
up to a BSc (Hons) in Maritime
setting up a maritime engine room
to deliver three suits of courses
Engineering. Each course is spread
simulator
related to the super yacht industry
over three academic years, during
department.
Engineering
difficult
and/or
for
the
engineering
with an Advanced Diploma in Deck
which workshops are also available
Operations, an Advanced Diploma
for students to carry out practical
A significant number of students,
in Marine Engineering, and an
exercises as well as their thesis.
averaging to 55 candidates, are
Advanced Diploma in Yacht Interior
currently reading the deck course,
and Hospitality Operations. These
Besides students spending time in
whereas 30 candidates read the
courses will be pegged at MQF
their classrooms attending regular
engineering courses annually.
Level 4 and will be delivered through
lectures, simulation exercises are
both face-to-face and blended
also offered as these are a crucial
In addition, the Maritime Centre
element
offers STCW ancillary short courses
to
understanding
and
learning modes.
c. Xone
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
117
The Centre for Maritime Studies is
instructors who have a recognised
the IMO member Flag States have
committed to support and deliver
academic
vast
mutually agreed that this activity is
careers
in
navigation,
marine,
background,
experience in yachting, teaching
to be regulated under requirements
engineering, management of ships,
qualifications,
and codes similar to Merchant
and exclusive positions within the
as well as being accredited by
maritime industry.
internationally recognised institutions,
and
certifications,
indicated below”.
Shipping. “Therefore, as days go by, it is
Xone Superyacht Academy
becoming absolute priority to comply Xone Superyacht Academy has held
with all the regulations, conventions,
On his part, Mr. Levent Baktir,
its Quality Management System ISO
and codes in place. Xone Superyacht
Managing
Xone
9001:2015 certification from the
Academy is one of a limited number
Superyacht Academy, told T-21
Director
of
Lloyds Register QA for more than 10
of
that, “Xone Superyacht Academy
years, separately for both Malta and
accredited to deliver courses leading
has aimed to acquire the highest,
Gocek branches.
to STCW Certificates of Competency
innovative, and creative standards
training
providers
presently
by the Flag Administrations of Malta,
of training in the Yachting Industry
As the world is now rediscovering
The Marshall Islands, and Turkey.
since 2011. To achieve this goal,
the Yachting Industry including all
At Xone Academy, we are actively
we have worked with distinctive
related commercial activities, all
offering and giving all these courses and training as we have been doing for the last 15 years”. On the other hand, apart from our Training Department and our valuable and experienced lecturing team
and
coordinators,
Xone
Superyacht Group is growing over time and approaching its target with each step taken. In addition to holding accreditation as Registrar of respected Flag States, Xone is a well-preferred Superyacht Management firm, that completed over 110 managementrelated projects, including new builds. It presently also holds full management of 19 Superyachts, accommodating 14 office employees including top-class surveyors, wellexperienced Project Managers, and Crewing Managers. Xone is also a yacht recruitment firm with more than 2,500 crew databases, and holds an MLC 2006 Compliance certificate from IACS member Class Society of Bureau Veritas. c. Xone
118 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
“At Xone we try to be all inclusive in
“Since expanding our company to
an industry that sometimes lacks
Malta in June 2019, Xone continued
diversity in its field. We support
to work closely with Transport Malta
and work with SheFarers and have
to develop and deliver premium
Superyacht Master Certificate
launched a SheXone campaign
superyacht courses and guidance to
of Competency (Malta);
where we strive to encourage
those new to the industry and to the
women to take the step towards the
more advanced ‘Salty Seadogs’”. “Along with Transport Malta, we also
becoming captains, engineers, and
provide qualifications/certifications
leading Crewmembers”.
and accreditations by internationally recognised institutions such as PYA,
“Our campaign also gives special
MCA, IYT Worldwide, QualSafe, and
discounts
for
our
• •
world where we see more women
women
of Competency (Malta); •
STCW II/2 Less than 500GT
TM 200 GT SUPERYACHT MASTER 150 nm
deck department and thus create a
to
Navigational Watch Certificate
AEC
–
Accredited
Engine
(Rating) Course •
GMDSS
-
GOC
(General
Operator Certificate) Course •
RADAR/
ARPA-
Automatic
Radar Plotting Aid; and
IMO white List flag states of Marshall
•
EDH – Efficient Deck Hand.
Superyacht Deckhand packages and
Islands and Turkey.”
•
“Xone is also in the process
strives to create a community where
Courses offered at
women, in a male driven department,
Xone Superyacht
become the new norm and diminish
Academy,
the sexualised gap that has been
accordance with
created in the industry, while allowing
Transport
support from other women in the
and approved by
industry through our Crew Zone.
the
We are establishing our Crew zone
State, include:
in Malta,
Malta
Flag
Facebook page to become a safe place where those interested can ask
•
STCW
II/1
all their questions, seek guidance,
Less
than
and allow for a community of support
3000
GT
in order to move forward”.
Officer
in
Charge of a c. Xone
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 119
120 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
of establishing, a soon-to-be-
procedures and personnel so
accredited
as to have a better working
Transport
Malta
Nautical Licence course which
relationship.
is aimed to be offered before Expected Learning outcomes
this summer.” The Malta Maritime Forum
Upon completion of this course, the candidates will have gained
In
the
Maritime with
meantime,
the
Forum
conjunction
in
MaritimeMT
and
Malta
the
the necessary knowledge in the following topics:
full
endorsement of Transport Malta, will
•
also be running a Marine Induction
industry, including vessel types,
Course over the month of April. It is aimed at attracting persons already
trades and terminology •
working in the Maritime Industry as well as people who are interested to
An introduction to the shipping
Health and Safety on board and in terminals
•
work in the Maritime Industry.
Security and safe movement in ports and ships
•
Legislation
The Course is designed for shore-
•
Environmental protection; and
based personnel working in the Port
•
Maintaining
Authority, in Ship Agency Services,
an
effective
working relationship.
or as Freight Forwarding Agents, Terminal
Operators,
and
other
maritime related service providers.
For further
information, contact
can be made on the following e-mail addresses/websites:
The objectives of this course are:
Maritime MT: •
To create awareness to newly employed personnel in landbased jobs of the shipping
www.maritimemt.edu.mt or send an email to info@maritimtemt.edu.mt.
industry •
To impart a sense of situational awareness in the candidates so as to reduce accidents
•
To familiarise new candidates with ships and port regulations
https://xonesuperyacht.com/ academy/
so as to avoid unnecessary
MCAST:
mistakes
MCAST – The Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology
and
to
increase
efficiency; and •
Xone Superyacht Academy:
To familiarise new candidates with
a
ship’s
working
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 121
Empowering the Transport Sector with Geospatial Technology
122 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
M a r i a G o v e’ M S c G I S c Senior Manager Policy Coordination and GIS Admin Enforcement Directorate
Advances in technology have made
The Unit strives to provide an
barriers within organisations, fluidly
GIS more valuable in almost every
integrative
whilst
integrating different disciplines, and
field, not least of all transport, and
leveraging the power of geospatial
simplifies the ability of sharing of
Transport Malta is making sure
technology to enable our individual
data within our Directorates of the
to keep abreast with technology.
systems to become part of a larger
Authority, as well as other entities
In 2011, Transport Malta sought
interconnected
The
and stakeholders. At Transport
EU funds to build the necessary
end result is an integrated service
Malta, through the GIS Architecture
Architecture required for the building
aligned with public policy and
we can scale up and integrate more
blocks to deploy an enterprise GIS.
dynamic needs of the Authority.
silo systems through dynamic linking
The embracing of such technology
and visual overlays.
approach
platform.
Over the years, the GIS Unit
into the Authority for Transport is
developed a robust GIS architecture
continuously evolving.
Through
to serve the Authority for Transport
business
process
reengineering we strive to achieve
by providing Geographic Information
a Single Source of Truth (a concept
Products and services through
Over the years, this technology has
to ensure that everyone within the
the development of GIS services,
seen the convergence between
Authority bases decisions on the
Databases,
geospatial
namely
same data) across Transport Malta
Analysis, Education, Consulting, and
GIS, GPS, and Remote Sensing
and facilitate communication with
Technical support to ensure that
technologies
satellite
stakeholders. By achieving the
we communicate, collaborate and
images, and nowadays’ LiDAR data.
Single Source of Truth, the data
coordinate through Technology.
This technology breaks down the
is aggregated from the various
Mapping,
Spatial
technologies, such
as
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 123
systems deployed across the Authority into a single
and streamline internal processes to fully integrate them
location which in turn can be disseminated to other
into an enterprise GIS is the steppingstone to achieve the
Stakeholders and other mediums i.e., Mobile users,
single Source of Truth, and most imperative to achieve real
Google Maps. and so on. The growing need to optimise
time data.
Figure 1 - Live Control Room Traffic Flow showing on the GIS Platform
124 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
Figure 2 - Live Vessel AIS in the Grand Harbour – a Ports
Figure 3- Current Locations of Live Road Permits issued in
Service within the GIS Platform
the GIS Platform
Location Intelligence
Evidence-based spatial analysis can inform policies and empower better decision-making. The maps below illustrate bus stops at different buffer zones. The buffer zones show, for example, 200 metres, 500 metres, and 800 metres of walking distance. The 800 metre buffer zones clearly show that within an 800 metre walking distance there is a bus stop. Figure 4 - Use of LiDAR DATA
Figure 5 - Use of LiDAR DATA
obtaining the height of Structures
obtaining the height of Street
and Street Levels
Levels
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 125
Gżira Msida Ta’ Xbiex Tas-Sliema St Julian’s Swieqi Pembroke San Ġwann Valletta Ħal Luqa (Airport) Marsaskala Birkirkara Buġibba Mellieħa Ħamrun Ċirkewwa Mġarr, Gozo Victoria, Gozo Figure 6 - The Heat Map shows the locations where this service is mostly used.
The Car Sharing Concession Project During the last quarter of 2020, the Unit took over the Project Management
of
the
service
concession for the operation of the National Car Sharing Program. Through this Concession agreement signed in 2017 after a call for tender, Transport Malta is promoting a shift from private car ownership to a car sharing option. In turn, this will reduce traffic congestion in urban centres and address the problem of on-street car parking whilst promoting electric mobility. The Car Sharing Concession Project puts the responsibility on the concession operator to deploy privately owned
and operated Electrical Charging
The
Journey
towards
Pillars (which will later also be open
Digitalisation of Permanent Traffic
for third party EV-owners wishing to
Management
charge their vehicle), as well as make
Refresh of the Temporary Traffic
provisions for the use of on-street
Management Projects
and
the
Technology
and off-street Public Parking Spaces for the exclusive use of car-sharing
As
and
obligations,
readily
accessible
parking
per
various Transport
national/EU Malta
is
spaces, thus limiting the need to drive
committed to upgrading Permanent
around to find an empty parking slot.
and Temporary Traffic Management Systems. The initial phases of
The Unit is currently working to
gathering the requirements for
proceed with the deployment of
both the Permanent and Temporary
the
Pillars
Traffic Management Systems is
to be installed, and to identify
currently underway. Transport Malta
additional parking spaces as part
is working towards a technology
of the concession. Statistics below
refresh of the Road Permitting
indicate that subscribers using such
System, with the added spatial
a service are increasing.
component to integrate the actual
126 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
remaining
Charging
interventions required within the
an AI engine to manage traffic flow
potential traffic bottlenecks on the
system.
on a particular junction or road
Network.
intersection. The solution will use This process shall digitalise the
real-time unanimous data feeds to
Through the Mobility Dashboard,
location of such intervention within
detect the number of vehicles on
Transport Malta would be able to:
the
disseminate
a particular road section, following
this information on the actual
which, the AI software will process
intervention, both internally and to
this information and adjust the traffic
other Stakeholders in real time.
lights in real time to keep traffic flow
System
and
•
Transform massive spatial data into insights;
•
Ingest real-time data from Bus Locations, Taxi Tracking, and
moving in the most optimal way.
other modes of transport;
Another important project currently
•
Derive mobility patterns and
underway is the completion of the
Another phase of this Project is the
digitalisation of the Permanent Traffic
introduction of a Mobility Analytics
improve the experience over
Management System. This project is
Dashboard
time;
streamlining the Permanent Traffic
location
Management process, such as in the
modes of transport in real time whilst
classification, and clustering
case for applications to introduce
leveraging the potential of anonymous
of data; and
various new Stop Signs, Reserved
Big Data derived from Malta Public
Parking Bays, Keep Clear signs,
Transport (MPT) data, Taxi location
to locations where Traffic bottle
Loading and Unloading Bays, Road
tracking, School Transport journeys,
necks will be accumulating
Humps or silent policemen measures,
and other available data feeds from
as visualised on the map, and
Bus Parking Bays, Bus Stops, One
other means of transport.
alerted in the Control Room:
that
can
intelligence
investigate of
different
• •
Automate
the
prediction,
Dispatch Enforcement Officers
Way Signs, Bus Shelters, and other Traffic Management related road signage measures. The
digitalisation
of
both
the
Permanent and Temporary Traffic Management shall facilitate the communication between internal and external stakeholders, but most importantly, this project aims to deliver information and analysis as per National, European Union, and other international requirements and standards. Infusing Location Intelligence with
The identification of a particular
Figure 7 - Mobility Dashboard
Artificial Intelligence
location
Bridging the Gap between the
A study is currently underway to use
data in real time from all transport
AI (Artificial Intelligence) to optimise
stakeholders make it pivotal to
traffic light control and waiting time
provide and reveal insights in traffic
In conjunction with the University
flows. This pilot project will deploy
flows and the identification of
of Malta, a course on using GIS
and
collating
location
Industry and the Academia
ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly 127
Figure 9 - Smart Street Furniture
technology
students
also designed the required Smart
part of the module on Transport
reading for a master’s degree to
Street Furniture for an area in San
Engineering within the Department
experience a hands-on approach
Ġwann as shown below:
of
and
to the technology used in the
Infrastructure within the Faculty for
Transport Sector. By leveraging
the Built Environment.
Street Furniture that the students
Spatial
was
introduced
Planning
as
This
course
allows
captured during the course, they
Figure 9 - Street Furniture of San Ġwann
128 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly
SCHEMES FOR MORE SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT BUDGET MEASURES 2021
Grants for the purchase of Pedelecs and Category L Vehicles.