25 years ago - The Times

Wednesday, April 20, 1994

April 4 storm hits Mnajdra

Maltese archaeological history has been dealt a savage blow by the violent storm of last April 4. Mnajdra Temples, which have withstood the ravages of nearly 6,000 years of existence, have suffered their worst damage ever. For a three-tonne stone slab in one of the temples was brought down by the wind and rain, and as it fell it partly dislodged some five or six others, causing according to an expert, severe damage.

Architect Alex Torpiano, who has been appointed to draw up a preliminary study on the extent of the damage, said as far as he knew there had never been damage “of such an extent at one go” but said he believes it can be put right. Museums director Tancred Gouder said yesterday Mr Torpiano’s report would be the first step towards restoring the temples.

86 suicides in five years

There were 86 suicides in Malta between 1989 and 1993, of which eight were of non-residents. The worst year was 1989 with 22 victims.

There were 13 victims in 1990, 14 in 1991, 19 in 1992 and 18 last year. The highest rate of victims aged up to 29 was eight in 1989 and there were nine victims aged over 60 in 1992.

The youngest victims were two 17-year-olds, one each in 1989 and 1990; the oldest two victims, aged 83 and 79, died in 1992.

Half a century ago - Sunday Times of Malta

Monday, April 21, 1969

Drydocks to build small ships

Malta Drydocks will start accepting contracts for the building of ships of a limited size in the near future. There is no indication yet that big ships will be taken in hand although this matter is being actively studied. Mr N. S. Thompson, overseas managing director of the Swan Hunter Group, has been to Malta to discuss the matter after a survey which revealed that the building of ships of a limited size was feasible.

Debut at Florence Fair

For the first time, Maltese handicrafts will be exhibited at the 33rd International Arts and Crafts Fair of Florence which will open from Thursday until May 8. The government has entrusted the organisation of this maiden participation to the Malta Trade Fairs Corporation.

Teenagers promise to safeguard national heritage

His Excellency the Governor General, patron of Din l-Art Ħelwa, yesterday morning presided over a promise ceremony organised by the association’s youth section at the old church of Bir Miftuħ in the limits of Gudja.

The edition of April 20, 1969, is unavailable.

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