Community

Bermondsey Project Space

Nine artists will be representing Gibraltar at a special exhibition in Bermondsey Project Space, in London, in September.

The event is organised by Gibraltar Cultural Services on behalf of the Ministry of Culture and is part of the National Week celebrations, aiming to put the Rock on the artistic map and provide a snapshot of what Gibraltar means to the community.

The nine is a mix of established artists and younger up and coming artists, many of whom have recently been recognised by international adjudicators in competitive exhibitions and who have been very active in the local scene over the past year. The exhibition is based on the theme “Gibraltar, Our Sacred Earth, A Sense of Space”.

Lorraine Buhagiar will be submitting two artworks which are inspired by the reminder of the sense of belonging to her ‘homeland and community’. The works evoke previous memories for the artist and comprise mixed media.

Shane Dalmedo’s sculptures depict her memories, a place she, “…yearned for, held, remembered…”. Her works feature mixed media sculptures, and a figure, one of which is titled “Llévame Donde Naci”.

Naomi Duarte will exhibit six scannographic photographs. Naomi comments that “Gibraltar has an ephemeral quality … timeless beauty and culture.”

Leslie Gaduzo will be exhibiting three of his paintings, two of which are of Gibraltar in times gone by. The artist commented, “… despite time, we inhabit the same spaces, same streets and feel the intensity of the sun falling as they did then.”

Alan Perez will be submitting a video installation piece which was a collaborative project with Stephane Dominicy and Aaron Yeandle one of the 2019 Island Games residency contributors.

The piece features, and is inspired by, The Queen’s Cinema.

Monica Popham, in her works, reflects Gibraltar and its densely packed architecture and recognisable features. On each wooden tile, the artist depicts a fragment of sunlight falling on Gibraltar’s urban landscape.

Sebastian Rodriguez will be submitting four artworks which convey the sacred and sense of space. Most of his works have been painted from life, including Trafalgar Cemetery, his personal place for respite.

Karl Ullger will be submitting five artworks, commenting that “wherever you stand in Gibraltar, you will be showered with cultural diversity”.

Zulaika Vallance will be exhibiting both a painting and video. Her piece “Surreal Childhood” won first prize in 2021 at The Young Artist competition. Gibraltar, she says has always been inspiration for her work, it is where she learnt to draw, paint and think creatively.

GCS believes the experience will be important in promoting Gibraltarian artists abroad. Bermondsey Project Space is a flagship venue for both emerging and established artists. Exhibiting at this key cultural venue in London will be beneficial to the artists, raising their artistic profile and showcasing the Rock’s high standard of artistic work.

NATIONAL HONOURS CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

The Gibraltar Honours Board (GHB), under the Chairmanship of the Governor, will meet in October to consider nominations for the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2023 and the Gibraltar Award, which is awarded by the Governor on behalf of the GHB and announced at the same time as the New Year Honours List 2023.

Nominations should be submitted to recognise those people, from any section of the Gibraltarian Community, who have made an exceptional contribution or given exceptional service in the progression of either the well-being, achievement or reputation of Gibraltar.

Nominations should be submitted no later than Friday 30th September on a Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Nomination Form for the attention of the GHB Secretary, Office of the Governor, The Convent, Main Street, Gibraltar GX11 1AA.

Nominations can be submitted by anyone.

A copy of the FCDO Nomination Form, along with detailed guidance on its completion, can be obtained from The Convent entrance on Main Street or from the GHB Secretary at enquiry.gibraltar@fcdo.gov.uk

Please note that the nomination form has been amended for this round and all nominations must be submitted on the new form.

Up to two letters of endorsement from those with a personal knowledge of the nominee’s contribution or service should support nominations.

Nominations will be considered by the GHB for the following Honours:

Companion of Saint Michael and Saint George (CMG) and Commander of the British Empire (CBE). Awarded for having a prominent national role, a conspicuous leading role in regional affairs through achievement or service to the community, or a distinguished and innovative contribution to his or her area of activity.

Officer of the British Empire (OBE). Awarded for a distinguished regional or national role in any field, through achievement or service to the community including notable practitioners known locally.

Member of the British Empire (MBE). Awarded for achievement or service in and to the community which is outstanding in its field and has delivered sustained and real impact which stands out as an example to others.

British Empire Medal (BEM). Awarded for achievement or contribution of a very hands-on service to the local community. This might take the form of sustained commitment in support of a local charitable and/or voluntary activity, or innovative work that has delivered real impact but that is relatively short (three to four years) in duration.

Gibraltar Award (GA). Awarded to residents of Gibraltar who have served and contributed to the interests of Gibraltar and its people in an exceptional manner that is particularly worthy of special recognition.

Golf Marathon Challenge Tournament Fundraising Presentations

Golf Marathon Man David Steele, well known in Gibraltar and along the Costa del Sol, presented cheques to the two charities that benefited from the Golf Marathon Challenge that took place at the San Roque Club in July when David undertook to play six rounds of marathon speed golf, the idea being that teams should not take more than two and a half hours per round. 

“I’m thrilled with the results of this fundraising tournament and it is astonishing how well everybody who took part did considering this speed marathon format challenge hasn’t been attempted at the San Roque Club before,” David says.

David smashed his fundraising goal of €10,000, with the final total raised being just over €20,000 for two very worthy charities: Cancer Research Spain and Centro Contigo in La Linea, a charity for disadvantaged children and their families.

David is pictured below with representatives from both charities

Fingers on the Pulse

As part of their Continuous Professional Training, two of the RGP’s Crime Scene Investigators have improved their ability to match fingerprints against databases of stored prints.

PCs Caitriana Parker and Amandine Vallee successfully passed a one-week training course run by Ladislav Brenvasser of Thales Group, the manufacturer of the RGP’s fingerprinting equipment.

A Visit to the RGP

Three youngsters were given a tour of the RGP’s Traffic Compound by PC Julian Cruz this morning.

Ashleigh, Amelia and Oliver tried on police uniforms and sat in some of the police vehicles are part of their visit.

An RGP spokesman said: “Judging by their smiles, it looks like they had a great time. Visits like this are a good way to introduce our police officers to children from a young age, so that they know we are here to help them.”

The Chief Minister delivered HM the Queen’s personal card to Mr Hector Cohen MBE on his 100th birthday. Mr Picardo conveyed the congratulations of the whole of Gibraltar in wishing Mr Cohen a happy birthday.

Heritage awards call for entries

The Gibraltar Heritage Trust has invited nominations from the public for this year’s round of Heritage Awards. 

The Heritage Awards have been presented annually by the Gibraltar Heritage Trust since 1993. The awards will be made for outstanding sensitivity or contribution to Gibraltar’s heritage. They may be made to an individual (including juniors under the age of 16), group, team, club, firm or company for a positive contribution, of any kind, that has enhanced Gibraltar’s heritage, or for exceptional, successful efforts in preserving a part of Gibraltar’s heritage.

The object of the awards is to recognise heritage conservation projects and developments and encourage the involvement of the community in achieving high standards of restoration of buildings, structures and monuments in Gibraltar, thereby promoting public recognition and awareness of Gibraltar’s rich heritage and history. 

Here are four categories of award:

1. Junior Heritage Award: for projects carried out by a school, youth group or individual under the age of 16
2. Group Heritage Award: Awarded to companies, groups or developers
3. Individual Heritage Award: Awarded to projects undertaken by private individuals
4. Special Commendation: Awarded at the discretion of the Board of the Heritage Trust to individuals, groups or companies felt to have contributed to the positive promotion of heritage issues

For entry forms or to find out more, visit gibraltarheritagetrust.org.gi 

Gibraltar Cultural Services on behalf of the Ministry of Culture has announced several cultural events in London as part of the National Week Celebrations. A Cultural Soiree to celebrate Gibraltar’s identity kicks off things on Monday 5th September.

This is being organised by GCS together with 2021 Cultural Ambassador recipient, Gabriel Moreno, bringing together musicians, poets, novelist, and creators amongst others to explore Gibraltar’s uniqueness. This event at Tower Theatre promises musical performances, shared ideas, poetry, and togetherness.

Tickets – which are free – can be obtained on Buytickets.gi

A networking breakfast follows the next morning at Gibraltar House. This is aimed at professionals working in the cultural and artistic fields so they may connect, share ideas, and possibly find ways to collaborate.

The evening of Tuesday 6th September will see the launch of a special art exhibition at Bermondsey Project Space. The Minister for Culture, The Hon Prof. John Cortes will open the show.

Nine artists have been selected to form part of the initiative, exploring Gibraltar under the title a ‘Sense of Place/ A Sacred Place’. The nine are a mixture of established and up and coming artists, providing a varied exhibition which includes paintings, photographs, sculpture, and video installations. The exhibition will run for three weeks putting Gibraltar on the map in the capital.

Whilst in London, the Minister will also visit art studios in Greenwich to see first-hand how this idea has been developed in the UK. He will be accompanied by GCS CEO Seamus Byrne. This will allow them to explore the concept of artists’ studios further in a bid to be able to deliver this on the Rock.

For more details, call 20041961 or email development@culture.gov.gi

Witham’s Cemetery

The Gibraltar Heritage Trust has officially reopened Witham’s Cemetery to the public following the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by the Hon Dr. John Cortes, Minister for Heritage. 

The project to restore and recover the cemetery from the point of dereliction began in 2015 and has taken 6 years of hard work and dedication from a team of volunteers led by Trustees Dr. Keith Farrell and Mr. Charlie Lugaro.

Over 16 regular volunteers have been involved throughout the project as well as occasional work parties from local firms or interest groups. Together, their formidable efforts have recovered this green space and given a dignified and respectful resting place for the over 233 individuals buried there.

Witham’s Cemetery, also known as The Officer’s Cemetery and Sandpits Cemetery, is located between Knight’s Court and St John’s Court in the south district (Witham’s Road/St. Joseph’s Road). Named after Captain Witham, an 18th Century British Officer who was involved in the Great Siege of Gibraltar, this cemetery is primarily the resting place for officers and their families, as well as members of the establishment of the time.

Although these burials date from the late 18th to early 20th Century, the majority of burials found here are from the first to the third quarter of the 19th Century. It is estimated that over 20% of the graves here are that of children. This high child mortality rate, low-life expectancy was typical of the period.

Queen’s Birthday Honours

Her Majesty The Queen has granted the following National Honours:

Mr Kishinchand Ladharam Alwani to be an Officer of The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to philanthropic and charitable work in Gibraltar.

Mr Gregory Miles Standish Butcher to be an Officer of The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to the economy and charitable work in Gibraltar.

Major Frederick John Pitto to be a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to Headquarters British Forces Gibraltar.

Mrs Susan Vallejo to be a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to leadership in healthcare in Gibraltar during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On behalf of the Gibraltar Honours Board, His Excellency the Governor, Vice Admiral Sir David Steel KBE DL, has granted the Gibraltar Award to:

Mr Norbert Sene for services to the Catholic Community in Gibraltar.

Mr Matthew Turnock for services to the Disabled Community in Gibraltar.

JUBILEE EXHIBITION

The Deputy Chief Minister, the Hon Dr Joseph Garcia CMG MP, opened an exhibition to mark the Platinum
Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The exhibition follows the excellent celebrations which have taken place across the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and Gibraltar over the long weekend and comes before the Royal Visit which starts tomorrow. It has been expertly curated by the archivist, Anthony Pitaluga MBE.

On display at the exhibition will be 303 captioned images, on 202 A1 Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) panels. The exhibition comprises four main sections entitled Heiress Presumptive, Accession & Coronation, Royal Tour & Gibraltar Visit, and Seventy Years of Reign. Entry is free of charge and members of the public are strongly encouraged to attend.

The Deputy Chief Minister, the Hon Dr Joseph Garcia CMG MP, said, “The link between the People of Gibraltar and their Sovereign is solid and unbreakable; as solid as the Rock itself. Her Majesty The Queen is Queen of Gibraltar also and so the Government felt it was right to open this exhibition as a tribute to Her Majesty on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee.

This is a truly historic and unprecedented occasion. No other British Monarch has ever reigned for 70 years. Her Majesty’s loyalty and devotion to duty has been exemplary and long may she continue to reign over us.”

Royal Gun Salute

To mark Her Majesty The Queen’s 96th birthday, a 21-Royal Gun Salute was fired by the Royal Gibraltar Regiment at Grand Battery House.

Special Olympics Reception

His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD hosted a reception for the athletes of the Special Olympics Gibraltar who will shortly be participating in The Special Olympics Malta Invitational Games.

15 athletes were selected to travel to Malta to compete in the Games amidst 550 athletes from 23 countries. They will be accompanied by National Director and Head of Delegation Annie Risso and the coaches of the four sports the Gibraltar athletes will compete in: swimming, athletics, bowling events and 5-a-side.

His Worship welcomed the athletes, coaches, the Executive Committee of Special Olympics Gibraltar, sponsors and guests to the Mayor’s Parlour. Also in attendance were the Minister for Equality, The Hon. Samantha Sacramento MP and Deputy Mayor Carmen Gomez, who joined His Worship in wishing the athletes the very best for the Malta Invitational Games.

Nico Goes back to school

GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition students at Bayside School were visited last week by Chef Patron Nico Fitzgerald, who demonstrated a number of high-skilled dishes. Nico is a London-based chef who was born and raised in Gibraltar. He recently reached the quarter finals in Masterchef: the Professionals and is currently in the process of opening his own restaurant in St Albans, Llanito by Nico Fitzgerald.

GCSE students work towards making 3 complex and layered dishes of this nature in just 3 hours at the end of their GCSE. Watching Nico cover some of the skills they have already been building and showing them how to put together attractively presented plates gives them the confidence that they can produce quality dishes at the end of the course.

This amazing opportunity saw Bayside’s Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE students watch Nico make confit chicken leg and pan-fried chicken breast with spiced celeriac purée along with boulangère potatoes and charred tender stem broccoli, accompanied by a chicken and madeira jus and tarragon oil. This was followed by an apple tarte tatin with vanilla ice cream and raspberry fluid gel.

During the demonstration Nico asked the students questions and offered explanations to link the cooking methods to the theory they are developing in their GCSE. Students were fascinated by the multiple layers of skills and the level of preparation that goes into making these dishes in a restaurant. The different career pathways in this valuable profession and the possible routes they could take should they wish to gain experience in this field were explained.

Senior Teacher Analise Benitez said, “This was a really valuable opportunity for students to learn first-hand from a professional in the field. Thank you Nico – it not only looked stunning but we can honestly say it tasted absolutely amazing!”

AMBULANCE STAFF ACE TEST

The GHA’s Ambulance Service recently held an Emergency Response Driving test for their three new Ambulance Care Assistant members of staff; Mr Francis Vallejo, Ms Joely Borda and Ms Naomi Martinez.

Stuart Ryan, Chief Ambulance Officer (Ag) said, “I am absolutely delighted that Francis, Joely and Naomi have all successfully completed and passed their Emergency Response Driving Test.

I would like to thank our driving instructors Mr Paul Watson and Mr Charlie Noguera for their continuous efforts in making this possible.”

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE MIDWIFE

The GHA marked the International Day of the Midwife with a stand in Cathedral Square that explores and celebrates the past, present and future of Midwifery. Director General Patrick Geoghegan also paid a visit.

Mayor’s Awards Ceremony

The annual Mayor’s Awards Ceremony was held on 5th April 2022. The Chief Minister, The Hon Fabian Picardo QC MP attended the Ceremony held at the Mayor’s Parlour in City Hall.

Following nominations from members of the public and endorsed by the Awards Board, His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD, conferred fifteen Mayor’s Awards to worthy recipients.

Well done everyone.

ROYAL VISIT TO THE ROCK. 

His Excellency The Governor Sir David Steel has welcomed the announcement that The Earl and Countess of Wessex will visit Gibraltar 7-9 June.

The Governor said, “The visit in Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year is a reminder of the unbreakable bond between the UK and Gibraltar. I look forward to receiving Their Royal Highnesses. They will be warmly welcomed.”

LATERAL FLOW TESTS

HM Government of Gibraltar has announced that COVID-19 Lateral Flow Tests will be made more widely available in Gibraltar and will provide people with greater options for self-testing.

ved by the Director of Public Health will be able to be imported into Gibraltar and sold in pharmacies and other retail shops. It is, however, important to note that only tests that appear on the Director of Public Health’s list of approved lateral flow tests and which can be found on the Public Health Website, will be allowed to be imported.

Members of the public are urged to share details of their lateral flow test result, whether negative or positive, using the online form setup by Public Health.

It will enable the Health Protection team to continue to identify outbreaks in vulnerable settings and implement control measures to prevent further spread.

Gibraltar Then & Now 

A book by Robert Santos focusing on Gibraltar’s landscape and streetscapes and how these have changed over the years is due to be launched in May. The initiative supported by Gibraltar Cultural Services will raise funds for the Prostate Cancer Gibraltar Charity. The retired senior civil servant explains his original interest was piqued during his time working in the Building Control Section. Since, he has been posting photographic comparisons of different areas of Gibraltar online over the years and was inspired to write the book after support and encouragement.

This illustrated book is divided into sections covering the entire territory of Gibraltar with a complete chapter on Main Street. Another section focuses on the bygone bars, restaurants and nightclubs of the Rock which are part of our social history.

Robert has researched historical landmarks and elaborated on them to generate interest and includes curious historical facts which he has discovered during this process. The author believes some of the anecdotal content will surprise some people and amuse others, with some “Yanito” terms included.

The book will be available for purchase as from Wednesday 11th May from the John Mackintosh Hall Reception, and the Gibraltar National Museum priced at twenty pounds.

To pre-order a copy call 20075669 or email jmhreception@culture.gov.gi

Pipes And Drums At The Convent

His Excellency, The Governor, Sir David Steel, was delighted to welcome the Band of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment to The Convent to perform a wide range of music in front of family members and friends.

GHITA Assembly At St Joseph’s Lower

St Joseph’s Lower Primary School hosted the GHITA Chairperson, Edgar Triay, at their assembly about raising awareness of hearing impairment. The children learned about the different causes of hearing loss, and also elements of the alphabet in sign language.

Mr Triay showed the children a model ear and the key parts of it. The children were very enthusiastic and took home information to share with their family members.

Blood Donor Drive

The GHA has called on members of the public to come forward and register their interest to donate blood, as part of its Brexit contingency planning to increase blood stock levels on the Rock.

The GHA’s blood department is also currently contacting all existing blood donors to start the process of apheresis – when the blood is passed through a machine separating platelets before returning the remaining blood back into the donor.

Members of the public can register as blood donors by email blooddonations@gha.gi or by calling 200 72266 ext. 2252, between 8am and 4pm Monday-Friday to speak to a Senior Donor Carer.

Blood donors must:

• Be between the ages of 18 and 60

• Have had no tattoos, piercings or acupuncture within the last year

• Have no any underlying medical health conditions

A full assessment will be carried out on an individual basis during the first appointment to determine the eligibility and compatibility of the donor.

Director of Nursing and Ambulance Services, Sandie Gracia, said, “It is very important that Gibraltar becomes self-sufficient when it comes to blood donations. I strongly encourage all of our existing and new donors to come forward and donate blood. This will help us save lives. Remember, it could be your neighbour, family or friend who may need your blood. Donate blood, save a life.”

AIRPORT FIRE SERVICE TRAINING

A number of Airport Fire and Rescue Service personnel were actively engaged in various specialist training courses during December. In the first instance FF Craig Bonnici, who recently qualified as a firefighter in October, returned to the UK for aviation specific training. This 2-week aircraft firefighting and rescue course took place at the International Fire Training Centre (IFTC) in Teesside where he was able to further develop his skills and knowledge at this specialist centre.

The IFTC has extensive facilities to allow very realistic aviation related fire and rescue scenarios. This intensive course covered all areas necessary to qualify him for his future role and provided an opportunity for FF Bonnici to widen his experience, working alongside colleagues from various UK airports. Following his return, he has now commenced a further local development training phase as an operational firefighter on crew at the AFRS.

NEW GHA CHARGE NURSES

The six new charge Nurses will take up the clinical managerial responsibilities of overseeing patient care which involves further developing the direct delivery of quality assured patient services, staff management and the day to day operational management of their respective clinical departments, within the wide range of the clinical services that the Gibraltar Health Authority provides.

This includes the Mental Health Services, Day Surgery, Night Services, the Accident & Emergency department and Medical Rehabilitation services. The newly appointed Charge Nurses will assist in the provision of an accessible and authoritative presence in the clinical areas, to whom patients, family members and staff can turn to for clinical leadership, advice and support.

Director of Nursing and the GHA’s Ambulance Services Ms Sandie Gracia RN, MBE, FRCN welcomed the six new Charge Nurses saying, “this is an important step in the continued hard work and enhancement of current service provision. This will be greatly beneficial to nurse led clinical services that will also prove beneficial towards ensuring that our service users and their relative’s experiences of care delivery are positive and responsive to their current and future needs.”

MAYOR’S AWARDS

His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD, would like to remind the public they are invited to submit nominations for the next conferral of the Mayor’s Awards to be held at the end of March.

The closing date to receive nominations is Friday 4th February 2022.

The Mayor’s Awards have become a permanent fixture in Gibraltar’s annual civic calendar and serve to highlight the extraordinary achievements of members of our community.

Having started as a lifesaving award for members of the essential services displaying a high degree of valour, the scope of the awards was later widened to include persons who have served Gibraltar in a distinguished manner, over a prolonged period and/or for a specific event or achievement.

The Nomination Form can be found at www.mayor.gi or collected from the Mayor’s Office in the City Hall.

For more information, please contact mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi or 200 47592.

CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING

The Department of the Environment, Sustainability, Climate Change and Heritage has indicated that it would like to remind people of the recycling programme for real Christmas trees.

The species generally used for Christmas trees, even if rooted, will not survive in Gibraltar’s climate. Recycling trees by turning them into mulch for use in planted areas helps to protect soils around Gibraltar and minimises the amount of waste going to landfill.

Members of the public are encouraged to recycle any real Christmas trees by removing all decorations and depositing them at the Civic Amenities Facility on Europa Advance Road. The facility is open seven days a week from 8am to 8 pm Monday – Friday and 9 am to 5pm at weekends. The trees will then be shredded for mulch by staff from the Department of the Environment and Climate Change and used in planted areas around Gibraltar.

Michael Danino Award Announced

The Gibraltar Live Music Society (GLMS) has announced the winner of this year’s Michael Danino Award.

The Award launched in 2017 is the brainchild of the GLMS Committee and is awarded to the musician whom they feel has had the most energy, passion and drive on and off the stage as well as acknowledging their accomplishments. Previous winners include James Montegriffo, Adrian Pisarello, Mark Muscat and Robin Fitzpatrick. Due to the world pandemic, no recipient was awarded the accolade in 2020.

A spokesperson for the GLMS said, “This year has been quite a challenge for musicians across the Gibraltar Music Scene but despite that, they have worked hard behind the scenes to work on new projects and this year’s recipient has definitely done just that. This musician has flown the Gibraltar flag everywhere with a lot of grace and we can’t wait to see where their career goes from here.”

The GLMS is therefore pleased to announce that this year’s recipient is Hollie Buhagiar.

Hollie is a multi award-winning Gibraltarian composer based in London, who specialises in crafting bespoke scores for film, TV and Theatre. She has worked on a plethora of projects including shorts, feature length films and series alongside Grammy and Academy Award winning engineers in the finest studios across London. 

Graduating from Leeds College of Music with first-class honours in Music production, Hollie continued on to complete a Masters at the National Film and Television School.

Throughout her career she has been hailed for her unique and varied sonic palette as well as her ability to create fascinating scores that approach traditional composition from a new and exciting perspective.

On being awarded this year’s Michael Danino Award, Hollie said, “It means a great deal to have been presented with this award. I’ve missed home so much, over these last couple of years most especially. You’re all always in my thoughts and it’s so wonderful to know I’m there in yours too. Thank you to everyone involved in choosing me for this wonderful honour, I am so excited for what’s to come, I’ll be flying our flag as high as I possibly can!”

Well done Hollie from everyone in Gibraltar and all your friends at Insight.

NEW YEAR HONOURS

Her Majesty The Queen has granted the following National Honours:

Ms Hazel Cumbo to be a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to Justice in Gibraltar.

Mr Lewis Stagnetto to be awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the Marine Environment in Gibraltar.

On behalf of the Gibraltar Honours Board, His Excellency the Governor, Vice Admiral Sir David Steel KBE DL, has granted the Gibraltar Award to:

Msgr Charles Azzopardi for services to the pastoral care of the community in Gibraltar.

Mrs Paulette Finlayson-Napoli for services to the promotion and teaching of dance in Gibraltar.

Calpe House for services to the people of Gibraltar.

EXTENSION OF BRIDGING MEASURES

On 31 December 2020, the Transition Period under the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement came to an end. This brought an end to what used to be the position prior to 1 January 2021 whereby Gibraltar, its citizens and its businesses, enjoyed EU rights. The end of the Transition Period brought about important changes.

However, certain provisions have been made to rollover the existing measures into the New Year.

Persons with a right of access to public healthcare in Gibraltar will continue to be able to access public healthcare in Spain, up to 30 June 2022, on terms equivalent to those which existed under EU law prior to 31 December 2020. This arrangement will therefore allow for persons entitled to healthcare provided by the GHA to be able to continue to access medically necessary, state- provided healthcare in Spain during a temporary stay in Spain. It will also allow for persons resident in Spain but covered by Gibraltar social security legislation (including frontier workers) to continue to access public healthcare in Spain.

The Gibraltar Government will provide reciprocal treatment, in Gibraltar, for visitors to Gibraltar or persons resident in Gibraltar, under the same terms.

The period which allows for persons legally resident in Spain to continue to have their Gibraltar driving licences recognised in Spain has been extended again up to 28 February 2022. For the avoidance of doubt, the public should note that this information is relevant only to holders of Gibraltar driving licences who are legally resident in Spain.

With respect to the recognition of Gibraltar driving licences for persons visiting Spain, the position remains as set out in the Government’s Technical Notice of 15 June 2021. Gibraltar driving licence holders who are not legally resident in Spain do not require an International Driving Permit when driving in Spain.

Again, the Gibraltar Government continues to provide reciprocal treatment, in Gibraltar, for visitors to Gibraltar or persons resident in Gibraltar, under the same terms.

GFRS Gearing back

Like most organisations, the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service’s training schedule, has been slowly returning to some form of normality, after being seriously disrupted by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

As soon as restrictions allowed, personnel were engaged in both local and overseas training events, resulting in a busy schedule of late.

Incident Command Course – ICL3

Station Officers Jason Mesilio and Adrian McComb completed the Advanced Tactical Incident Command course (ICL 3) at the Fire Service College (FSC) in Moreton-In-Marsh, Gloucestershire. The course provides delegates with the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding, to perform advanced tactical incident commander duties when managing larger and more serious incidents.

Tactical Ventilation Instructor Course

Also at The Fire Service College, Sub/Officer Jared Olivero and Leading Fire Fighter Martin Posso, together with colleagues from the Airport Fire and Rescue Service, attended Tactical Ventilation Instructor’s Course,

This course encapsulated “modern” firefighting techniques, whereby fires and products of combustion are mechanically and/or naturally managed, in order to create less arduous environments for fire fighters and survivable conditions for trapped occupants.

HM Naval Base Exercise – HMS Dragon

Closer to home, personnel took part in an exercise on board HMS Dragon. Simulating a fire on board the vessel, GFRS personnel, assisted by the vessel’s crew, conducted “search and rescue” and firefighting operations. This provided an excellent opportunity to test various aspects of our response, including JESIP interoperability principles.

A Time To Remember

A wreath was laid to commemorate the armistice and to honour The Fallen. Station Officer Jason Mesilio, proudly represented the GFRS at both events.

The Minister with responsibility for Fire and Rescue Services, the Hon Samantha Sacramento, also added “Training enables firefighters to learn new skills and techniques in order to make their jobs safer. Training days such as these keep firefighters active and engaged in this important field of work. It serves so many purposes that it is imperative for all firefighters to undertake as many courses and training events as possible to strengthen the capabilities of our Fire Service.”

Ultimate Goal

The Minister for Sport, the Hon Steven Linares met with local female footballer Shania Robba who is taking part in The Ultimate Goal Season 2, currently showing on BT Sports 1.

The Ultimate Goal, now in its second season, is a football academy programme in search for the next female football star, featuring 26 players recruited from around the globe. The academy is run by former and present superstars of football with the participants receiving masterclasses, guidance and mentorship assisting them in their football careers. The final stage of the competition is an 11- a-side football match against top class opposition in front of dozens of scouts from all around the world.

Each week the programme follows the life of one of the competitors, with Shania who is currently in the last 16 of the competition featuring in an episode filmed in Gibraltar.

Minister Linares said, “I wish to publicly congratulate Shania for her great achievement and joining so many Gibraltarian sportsmen and women in placing Gibraltar on the world stage of sports. Her hard work, determination and the many hours of training since a very young age is reflected in her success. I wish her all the best in the programme and in all her sporting endeavours.”

School Visits To HMS Dragon

Having just appeared on the big screen in the latest James Bond adventure, HMS Dragon provided the perfect venue for what turned out to be an action-packed adventure for Gibraltarian schoolchildren.

They had opportunities to find out more about the wide range of roles and equipment on board and to get hands-on with some very special activities.

From sitting in the Captain’s chair to working on their firefighting skills using hoses, the children were fascinated by all that they saw. They even used binoculars to try and spot their school from on board!

Vicky Stephens, St Christopher’s Early Years Foundation Stage Leader said, “It was brilliant to be able to provide an insight into the world in which some of their parents work.”

Sonia Lopez, headteacher from St Bernard’s added, “I can’t thank the crew of HMS Dragon enough for the simply phenomenal tour given to our children today. The children had an amazing time which I am sure they will hold dear in their memories for many, many years to come. The teachers who attended said it was the best educational visit they had ever been on.”

Lest We Forget

This ten metre veil, adorned with almost 5000 poppies, was created by members of the Arts and Crafts Association with help from residents of Mount Alvernia, Knit Gibraltar and other members of the public during lockdown.

His Worship the Mayor was extremely pleased to see this beautiful and creative tribute to the fallen, take pride of place at City Hall for all the community to see.

Minister for Culture John Cortes met with Chenille Brown, together with her Dance Teachers from The Showdance Company to congratulate her on her recent success abroad.

Chenille, who had come fourth in the International Dance Organisation European Jazz Championships, won representation at the prestigious Sussex Festival of Dance at this year’s Gibraltar International Dance Festival. She competed in the Sussex Festival recently and was placed 2nd in the Contemporary division and 4th in the Modern section.

The Minister, Chenille and the Showdance team discussed various aspects of Dance in Gibraltar, remarking on how successful dancers from Gibraltar have been at competitions, and professionally, abroad, and on the large number of young people who take part in the performing arts in Gibraltar.

The Minister wished Chenille, currently studying A levels at Westside, well for the future and success in pursuing Dance as a career.

Calpe House London Visit

His Worship the Mayor, Mr Christian Santos GMD was delighted to accept an invitation by Albert Poggio and the trustees of The Calpe House Charitable Trust to visit Calpe House in Norfolk Square, London.

His Worship had the opportunity to meet the staff and trustees, the people who work tirelessly to ensure this building lives up its motto of being ‘home from home’ for patients requiring medical treatment in the UK and their escorts.

He met current guests of the House and prepared a meal with them. An avid cook and host himself, His Worship can fully appreciate the importance of sitting around a table with friendly faces, especially at times when a family member or friend is not feeling their best.

For more information, please contact
mayor@gibraltar.gov.gi or call 200 47592.

48th Gibraltar International Art Exhibition 

The Gibraltar International Art Exhibition organised by Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture is being held at the Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery.

Artists from Gibraltar, Spain and Romania submitted a total of one hundred and twenty-eight works.

The Minister for Education and Culture, the Environment, Sustainability, Climate Change, Heritage and Public Health, The Hon Prof. John Cortes MBE JP MP officially opened the Exhibition and presented the awards on Tuesday 2nd November 2021. Mr John Maine RA RWA, a Royal Academician from the United Kingdom, carried out the adjudication.

The Prize winners included:

The Gustavo Bacarisas Prize

1st Prize Karl Ullger ‘Forgotten Patio’

The Jacobo Azagury Prize

2nd Prize Monica Popham ‘Blue Light’

The Leni Mifsud Prize

3rd Prize Cristina Lopez Ramirez ‘Carrusel’

The Rudesindo Mannia Prize

Best Gibraltar Theme Ronald Gingell ‘Majestic Rock’

The Mario Finlayson Prize

Best Young Artist Tyrone Anthony Vera ‘Disconnection’