Work on the Genetic Resources Project is ongoing. During the period 11 to 19 January, Ms. Samanta Zelasco visited Malta to continue the process of collecting samples from old trees from the Bidni variety. The smples will be used in the scientific research being made by the contractor CREA in their facilities in Rende, Italy. The Cooperative has worked closely with the Plant Protection Department to satisfy the relative legislation on the matter. The Cooperative has been registered as a MOR station and also been provided with Plant Passport for the transfer of the samples from Malta to Italy.
The Cooperative wishes to thank Mr. Dennis Sciberras, Director; Ms. Yana Borg Debono Grech and Mr. Duncan Xuereb for their cooperation and support.
The Cooperative has recruited Mr. Kyle Spiteri as Technical Manager as from Monday 13th January, 2025.
The Contractor Jardinland has delivered the 1150 root stock at the Government Nursery. In the coming months the root stock will be grafted with the Bidni scion and when the trees have reached a planting stage, they will be distributed amongst the members of the Cooperative.
The Cooperative has also issued two Calls for Quotations: a call for the provision of technical services and a second Call for the provision of 500 Bidni Olive trees.
The educational and awareness campaign is ongoing and Facebook adverts have been posted. During January the Cooperative will have an article in local print media and one TV interview.
