T-21 April Edition

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

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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

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TAKING TRANSPORT BACK TO NORMALITY

FOREWORD MR. JOSEPH BUGEJA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Transport Malta

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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17

INVESTING IN OUR GRAND HARBOUR HON DR. IAN BORG Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects

c. MTIP

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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

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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

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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,

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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

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29

30 ISSUE 02 | T-21 The Transport Malta Quarterly

c. Captain Fritz Farrugia

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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

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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;

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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.

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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)

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51

52

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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

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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

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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.