25 years ago - The Times
Friday, April 22, 1994
Malta, Cyprus will join EU after institutional reforms are in place
The Greek Minister for European Affairs, Theodore Pangalos, on Wednesday would not be drawn into giving a date when EU membership talks with Malta and Cyprus would start, saying the issue will be discussed after January 1.
But he made it clear the two islands will join the EU only after institutional reforms in the community are in place.
Greek socialist MEP Karellis asked Mr Pangalos how the presidency of the EU planned to further the procedure for the accession of Malta and Cyprus so that a specific timetable for the opening of membership talks could be drawn up.
Mr Pangalos replied: “I refer to my statement to the Parliament on January 19, reaffirming that the Greek presidency feels that the accession of Cyprus and Malta is of the highest political importance.
“You are no doubt aware that the Commission has done everything possible to accelerate matters for both Cyprus and Malta.
“New financial protocols are currently being prepared to replace the third financial protocols for both Cyprus and Malta which expired at the end of 1993.”
Half a century ago - Times of Malta
Tuesday, April 22, 1969
Government makes progress on several housing projects
A call for tenders has been issued for the erection of housing blocks at Floriana, the first phase of an estate which, with the government flats already existing on the site, will comprise over 100 units.
A government spokesman said yesterday that the first phase will provide 24 flats. The planning of the second phase, which will provide 48 flats, is in a very advanced stage. The third phase will be undertaken shortly.
Meanwhile, housing projects have been started on government-owned land at San Ġwann, Rabat, Santa Venera, St Julian’s and Qormi.
Work will also be taken in hand on another housing block at Il-Ġnien tal-Kmand, Għaxaq.
The spokesman said that progress was thus being made on the implementation of the government’s plans to provide housing estates in all districts.
Departure for Australia
A group of 168 migrants – 61 men, 58 women and 49 children – will be leaving by air for Australia today. They are to report at Luqa Airport at 8.30pm.