These are this week's questions on euro information answered by Melvyn Mangion from the National Euro Changeover Committee:

Should I start converting my Maltese lira into euros now?

This is possible but, currently, you will be paying charges for that, resulting in loss of monetary value of your holdings. However with effect from December 1, 2007 (e-day) no charges will apply.

Is it worth it to invest in euros now?

It is always better to check with a financial consultant first. What is definite is that charges apply at this stage to deposit Maltese liri into euro-denominated accounts or investment funds. This means that the value of your holdings will decrease if you invest them into euro at this stage.

I am the owner of a small business. In what currency do I have to present an FS3 to my employees in January 2007 and January 2008?

In January 2007 (relating to employment in 2006), the FS3 needs to be presented in Maltese lira (dual display in euro is optional). In January 2008 (relating to employment in 2007), the FS3 needs to be presented in Maltese lira with euro amounts dual displayed. Dual display is mandatory. In January 2009 (relating to employment in 2008), the FS3 needs to be presented in euro.

I have some stamps in Maltese lira. Up till when can I use them?

You can use them till the end of the dual circulation period, that is January 31, 2008. Following that, you will have another two months, until the end of March, to exchange Maltese lira stamps for euro-denominated ones.

The FAIR Initiative has started operating, but I see some shops implementing dual display without having the FAIR logo. Is that acceptable?

Yes, joining FAIR is a voluntary commitment. However, in the case of dual display the same regulations apply, that is the correct exchange rate has to be used by everyone. You are kindly asked to report any incorrect dual display to the Euro Observatory, which is the entity responsible for ensuring that the provisions of the regulations are followed.

If the euro amount (dual display) is shown incorrectly on receipts, you are encouraged to send the receipt (or a copy of it) to the Euro Observatory, by post (Euro Observatory, Level 2, Mangion House, Dun Karm Psaila Street, Birkirkara), by e-mail (euro@gov.mt) or by fax: 2250-0001). The Euro Observatory will do its utmost to contact you and provide you with feedback on any developments. Your confidentiality is guaranteed.