The Self Determination for Gibraltar Group (SDGG), in conjunction with Gibraltar Cultural Services (GCS), is pleased to announce the programme of events for this year’s National Day, to be held on Tuesday 10th September at Casemates Square, John Mackintosh Square and Governor’s Parade.
Following a long Winter of work, the HMS Pickle replica, that initially sailed in to Ocean Village late last year after a number of engine complications, is set to open to the public this Saturday. The vessel will see a ‘soft launch’, allowing its first passengers on board. Later this month, a glamorous launch party will be held for the opening of the tourist attraction.
Visitors will be treated to a talk and guided tour of the vessel, allowing them a slight insight into what life was like on board a wooden warship during the Napoleonic wars. Passangers will of Lieutenant Lapenotiere’s endeavours commanding the vessel at the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar and how Pickle raced to London to give the King the bittersweet news of Lord Nelson’s death and British victory over the combined Spanish and French fleet.
As works to revamp Gibraltar’s Parliament chamber continue, it has been noted that no meeting of MPs will occur in April. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo yesterday visited the Chamber, along with Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Garcia and Clerk of the House, Melvyn Farrell.
The refurbishment involves the installation of an integrated digital sound and recording system with the cameras for on-line streaming of proceedings from which a live television feed can be obtained.
As part of the run up to the Miss Gibraltar 2013 Pageant, the 7 contestants yesterday chose their numbers determining the order in which they will parade during the final show. The reception was hosted at the Mayor’s office and brought together last year’s Miss Gibraltar Jessica Baldachino and Princesses Kerrianne Massetti and Christina Ainsworth, with this year’s eager contestants. Number one was chosen by 22-year-old Maroua Kharbouch.
This morning gaming giant KPMG held their third annual eGaming summit at the Caleta Hotel. Guests included a vast spectrum of representatives from the gaming sector, as well as a number of individuals working in local telecommunications and regulatory authorities.
The event has become particularly highly regarded as KPMG only host seminars in Gibraltar and the Isle of Mann. Introducing the event was Minister for Gaming Gilbert Licudi. Mr. Licudi touched upon a variety of issues from within the sector; including the proposed UK ’Point of Consumption’ tax.
The Minister insisted, during his speech, that the reputation and standing of Gibraltar’s operators is ‘absolutely first class’. He also suggested that there will soon be a possibility of agreement between US States and other jurisdictions, creating a global market of regulated jurisdictions. These opportunities, he insisted, are the ones that Gibraltar must continue to explore.