Gibraltar

St Joseph's Schools Extension Contract Awarded to SITUS for £19.56M

HM Government of Gibraltar has awarded the construction contract for the extension to St Joseph's Upper and Lower Primary Schools to SITUS for £19,562,414.68 following a competitive tender process. Work commences immediately with completion targeted for the 2027/28 Academic Year. This represents a significant public infrastructure investment in Gibraltar's educational facilities.

Health Minister Defends Mental Health Record Against GSD Criticism

Gibraltar Health Minister Gemma Arias-Vasquez issued a press release on April 13, 2026 responding to GSD opposition criticism of mental health services. The Minister acknowledged the system needs improvement while defending the government's record, citing completion of Ocean Views and Hillsides facilities, increased mental health staffing, and 11 students training as Registered Mental Health Nurses. The statement contains no regulatory requirements, compliance obligations, or policy changes.

Ministry of Equality Holds Digital Inclusion Event for Older Persons

The Ministry of Equality, in collaboration with the Customer Care Hub, hosted a digital inclusion event for persons aged 65 and over. The event provided presentations on eGov services offered by HMGoG, a Q&A session, and one-to-one appointments with Customer Care Hub representatives. Minister for Equality Christian Santos stated the event responded to concerns raised at the first Age Symposium and aimed to reduce digital barriers experienced by older persons.

Gibraltar AFRS Completes First Three ERDT Accredited Courses

Gibraltar Airport Fire & Rescue Service (AFRS) has become the first fire service to complete Emergency Response Driver Training's SFJ Awards Certificate of Achievement-accredited courses across three specialist areas: Emergency Response Driving Instructor Training, High Reach Extendable Turret (HRET) Instructor Training, and Vehicle and Pump Instructor Training. Three newly qualified instructors will lead revalidation of all AFRS personnel and implement a revised maintenance of competence programme. The courses align with ICAO, CAA CAP 699, EASA, FAA, NFCC ERD, NFPA 1010, and GCAA CAR AGA Part TRG requirements.

Laguna Youth Club Educational Trip to London

The Government of Gibraltar announced that Laguna Youth Club organised an educational trip to London for ten young people from Gibraltar. The group visited the Science Museum, London Dungeon, Hyde Park, Westminster, Covent Garden and South Bank as part of the Gibraltar Youth Service's personal development programme. The trip focused on safeguarding, behaviour expectations and group cohesion.

Prison Amendment Bill 2026 Extends Sex Offender Incarceration Before Parole Eligibility

The Gibraltar Government has published the Prison (Amendment) Bill 2026, introducing legislation to require individuals convicted of serious sexual offences to serve a greater proportion of their sentence in custody before being eligible for parole consideration. The Bill addresses early release through the parole system rather than sentencing guidelines following consultation with the local judiciary. Release decisions would remain subject to a strict public protection test.

GHA Public Meeting Held at Charles Hunt Room

The Gibraltar Health Authority held a public meeting at the Charles Hunt Room hosted by Minister for Health Care and Business Gemma Arias-Vasquez. The meeting covered recent healthcare developments, priorities for service improvement, and innovations including robotic surgery and a urology one-stop shop service. The Minister announced plans to reestablish a Patient Voice Group to gather citizen suggestions for healthcare improvements.

Gibraltar Implements Comprehensive Security Measures

Gibraltar Implements Comprehensive Security Measures

Minister Feetham Attends Digital Asset Conference El Salvador

Gibraltar's Minister for Justice, Trade and Industry Nigel Feetham KC MP attended an international digital asset conference in El Salvador, meeting with officials from the Comisión Nacional de Activos Digitales (CNAD), the national digital asset regulator. Discussions focused on opportunities for mutual growth, cooperation and collaboration in digital asset regulation. The visit provided insights into El Salvador's digital asset ecosystem development and allowed networking with international stakeholders.

Gibraltar Delegates at 13th Commonwealth Youth Parliament, Sydney

The Government of Gibraltar announces that Ms Gianna Stanley and Mr Puneet Sabhnani will represent Gibraltar at the 13th Commonwealth Youth Parliament in Sydney, Australia from 26-31 July 2026. The event, hosted by the Parliament of New South Wales, brings together young people from across the Commonwealth to discuss parliamentary practice and democratic institutions. The theme for this year's session is 'Democracy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence'.

Minister Visits Local Companies Before Treaty Implementation

Gibraltar's Minister for Health, Care and Business, Hon Gemma Arias-Vasquez, visited local companies including Bassadone Automotive Group, Restsso, Saccone & Speed, and Peninsula Petroleum ahead of the expected provisional implementation of a treaty. The visits form part of the government's engagement programme to understand business operational concerns, discuss transitional arrangements, and ensure sector readiness. A business manual is also being prepared to address outstanding queries from businesses.

Norovirus Cases Rising, 48-Hour Hospital Visit Restriction

Gibraltar's Director of Public Health issued an advisory on April 10, 2026, warning of rising norovirus cases in the community and requesting that individuals with diarrhoea or vomiting symptoms refrain from visiting hospital or Elderly Residential Services (ERS) patients for 48 hours after symptoms cease. Outpatients with recent symptoms are asked to contact departments to reschedule appointments.

Minister for Business Defends Outreach to Businesses

The Minister for Business for Gibraltar issued a political statement defending the government's outreach efforts to businesses, responding to criticism from the GSD opposition party. The statement emphasizes that the government has been actively engaging with businesses during the extension period between April 10 and July 15. No regulatory changes or new compliance obligations are announced.

In Conversation With Sir Mo Farah Moves to Sunborn Hotel Aurora Ballroom

Gibraltar Cultural Services announced the relocation of the 'In Conversation With Sir Mo Farah' literary festival event to the Aurora Ballroom at Sunborn Hotel. The event, limited to 250 guests, now includes an after-show drinks and canapes reception. Remaining tickets are available for purchase through buytickets.gi.

Airport Fire and Rescue Service Promotions Announced

The Airport Fire and Rescue Service announced three promotions: Emerson Rovegno promoted to Leading Firefighter, Mitch Mifsud promoted to Sub Officer, and Daniel Cabezutto promoted to Station Officer. These promotions recognise professional development and succession planning within the service.

Minister Feetham Holds Constructive Meeting with MONEYVAL in Strasbourg

Gibraltar's Justice Minister Nigel Feetham met with MONEYVAL (Council of Europe Secretariat) in Strasbourg on April 7, 2026, as part of preparations for Gibraltar's upcoming mutual evaluation. The meeting focused on legislative and regulatory changes arising from the UK-EU Treaty concerning Gibraltar.

Minister Arias-Vasquez on Continued Business Engagement Ahead of Revised Treaty Implementation Date

Gibraltar's Minister for Business Gemma Arias-Vasquez announced the government will continue its extensive programme of business engagement following confirmation that the implementation date for new treaty arrangements has been revised to 15 July 2026. The government has been meeting with industry sectors to understand concerns and prepare businesses for the changes ahead. The Business Transition Advisory Group will be reconvened to provide continued updates and allow businesses to prepare in an orderly manner.

Government Defends Judicial Review Request on McGrail Inquiry

The Government of Gibraltar has issued a press statement defending its Chief Minister's application for permission to seek judicial review of the McGrail Inquiry Report findings. The Government asserts that seeking judicial review is a standard lawful process and a fundamental right within the legal system, not an attack on the Inquiry Chair.

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Gibraltar Funds GHA Robotic Surgery Training Programme

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Gibraltar has provided financial sponsorship for GHA surgeons to undergo robotic surgery training in Upper Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary procedures at an EU-approved specialist centre in Belgium. The five-day training course covers travel, accommodation, and procedural skill development. This advances the GHA's expanding robotic surgery programme following its recent implementation.

Gibraltar Youth Arts Jamboree - Engaging with the Arts

Gibraltar Cultural Services announced the completion of Youth Arts Jamboree 2026, a two-month arts and cultural initiative that engaged approximately 2,000 students and young people. The program featured guided tours of local galleries and street art, hands-on workshops in photography, theatre, and capoeira, and World Book Day activities reaching over 400 students.

GCC reviews security posture amid heightened tensions

The Gibraltar Contingency Council (GCC) conducted a security review assessing implications from heightened Middle East tensions following US-Israel strikes against Iran, continued Russian hybrid threats including cyber activity, and Gibraltar's strategic role as a UK defense operating base. The Council confirmed no specific or immediate threat to Gibraltar with the terrorism threat level remaining at MODERATE.

GHITA donates audiology equipment to GHA

GHITA (Gibraltar Hearing Issues and Tinnitus Association) donated specialized audiology equipment to the Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA), including an OPMI Pico System, KV-6 Suction Pump, and care-tray trolley. The donation also includes sponsorship of online Tinnitus adviser training through Tinnitus UK. The equipment will support the GHA's ear wax removal clinic and audiology services.

Commonwealth Essay Prize Winners Announced

HM Government of Gibraltar announced the winners of the Commonwealth Essay Prize competition and presented prizes to the winners. The announcement includes photographs from the prize ceremony held on April 1, 2026. This is a routine government press release celebrating student achievement.

Gibraltar launches first British Sign Language interpreter course

Gibraltar's Ministry of Equality has launched its first British Sign Language interpreter training course. BSL was recognised as an official language in Gibraltar in 2022, and the five-year course delivered by Sign Code UK will train eight selected candidates through Levels 1-6 to become qualified interpreters. Currently no Level 6-qualified BSL interpreters are resident in Gibraltar.

Gambling Amendment Bill 2026 - Speaking Notes

Gibraltar Government introduced the Gambling Amendment Bill 2026 as urgent legislation to rectify amendments that were omitted during Committee Stage of the original Bill. The Bill incorporates amendments from February 2026 that failed to be called and passed, requiring legislative correction. A new licence for prediction markets has been issued under existing legislation while the Act awaits full implementation.

Maritime Fire Fighting Unit Relocated to University

The Government of Gibraltar has relocated the Maritime Fire Fighting Unit from Gibraltar Airport to the University of Gibraltar. The unit, jointly used by the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service and Airport Fire and Rescue Service for nearly 20 years, will now support maritime training courses at the University. Both fire services expect a new Compartment Fire Behaviour Training facility in May 2026.

UK-Gibraltar Treaty Approval and July Implementation Date

The European Council has confirmed unanimous approval by all 27 EU member states of the UK-EU agreement concerning Gibraltar, with provisional application scheduled for 15th July 2026. Gibraltar businesses will have additional time to adapt to new customs procedures. The European Entry/Exit System will not apply to Gibraltar residents at the frontier with Spain.

Governor's Meadow Lower Primary Celebrates World Maths Day

Gibraltar Government's Press Office published an announcement that Governor's Meadow Lower Primary School celebrated World Maths Day on March 31, 2026. The event featured hands-on mathematics activities for Reception, Year 1, Year 2, and Nursery pupils, including themed T-shirts and crowns. This is a routine informational announcement with no regulatory implications.

St Anne's Primary Students Awarded Through Hoops for Schools Programme

The Gibraltar Department of Education and GABBA celebrated 300 Year 3-5 students at St Anne's Primary School for completing the FIBA/GABBA Hoops for Schools basketball programme. Each class reached the 1,000-point milestone and students received school bags as rewards for their participation in this global initiative targeting children aged 5-12.

Minister to Host Constituency Clinic

The Government of Gibraltar announced that Minister for Health, Care and Business Gemma Arias-Vasquez will host a constituency clinic on 29 April 2026 from 10am-12pm at Suite 971, Europort. The clinic is open to residents of the Westside Area to discuss personal or community matters with the Minister. Appointments can be booked via email at westsidearea@gibraltar.gov.gi.

Gibraltar AFRS completes specialised training programmes

The Government of Gibraltar announced that the Airport Fire and Rescue Service (AFRS) firefighters have completed three specialised training programmes: Ladder Servicing and Maintenance, Internal Auditor (Quality Management Systems), and Incident Command Level 1 (ICL1). The training enhances operational capabilities and compliance with aviation safety standards. No new regulatory requirements or compliance deadlines are established.

Minister Feetham Visits MONEYVAL to Discuss UK-EU Treaty Implications

Gibraltar's Justice Minister Nigel Feetham traveled to Strasbourg to meet with the MONEYVAL Secretariat to discuss the UK-EU Treaty's implications for Gibraltar's forthcoming AML evaluation. The Minister emphasized the Treaty's significance in removing physical borders and introducing legislative changes to Gibraltar's governance framework. Gibraltar reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and highest international standards in financial regulation.

Youth Symposium Session with the Governor

The Government of Gibraltar's Ministry for Youth hosted a session of the Gibraltar Youth Symposium at the Convent, featuring Governor Lieutenant General Sir Ben Bathurst. Forty attendees from schools and NGOs participated in the discussion covering the Governor's background, roles, and functions under the Gibraltar Constitution. Minister Christian Santos announced future sessions will use a smaller-group model to allow deeper exploration of specific topics.

Digital Inclusion Event for Older Persons

The Gibraltar Ministry of Equality, in partnership with the Customer Care Hub, announces a free digital skills event for residents aged 65 and over. The event, scheduled for April 13, 2026, aims to help older persons navigate HMGoG e-services. Registration is required via telephone (200 66819) or email.

Gibraltar co-ordinator attends Morocco teachers forum Rabat

Gibraltar co-ordinator attends Morocco teachers forum Rabat

Draft Law Published to Implement UK-EU Treaty

The Government of Gibraltar has published a draft law, the TREATY ON GIBRALTAR AND THE EUROPEAN UNION BILL 2026, to implement the UK-EU Treaty within Gibraltar's jurisdiction. The bill is extensive and grants the government powers to create subsidiary legislation to meet treaty obligations, aiming for provisional application by April 10, 2026.

Mayor's Awards Ceremony 2026

The Gibraltar Government has announced the recipients of the Mayor's Award for 2026. The awards recognized individuals for their significant contributions to the community, including charitable work, volunteerism, bravery, and dedication to various causes.

Gibraltar Tourist Board Wins 'Tourist Board of The Year - Silver' Award

The Gibraltar Tourist Board has received the 'Tourist Board of The Year - Silver' award from AITO, The Specialist Travel Association, during its 50th Anniversary Celebrations. This recognition highlights the board's impactful work and cemented relationships in the tourism sector.

Elysium Bayside Development Groundbreaking

The Chief Minister of Gibraltar marked the groundbreaking of the Elysium Bayside development project on March 26, 2026. This project is described as a landmark residential hub that will contribute to government income and beautify the area.

New Online Booking System for The Parasol Event Hall

The Gibraltar Ministry of Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism has launched a new online booking system for The Parasol Event Hall at The Mount. Additionally, a list of approved event planners has been established, and event hosts must engage one of these planners.

Gibraltar Welcomes Three Inaugural Cruise Calls, Boosting Tourism

The Gibraltar Tourist Board announced the welcoming of three inaugural cruise ship calls within a single week, highlighting Gibraltar's growing appeal as a cruise destination. The government anticipates approximately 260 cruise calls in 2026, an increase of over 18% from the previous year.

Minister for Justice Speaks at Inaugural Law Council Dinner

The Minister for Justice of Gibraltar delivered a speech at the Inaugural Law Council Dinner on March 25, 2026. The speech highlighted Gibraltar's commitment to strengthening its legal and regulatory framework, including upcoming legislation on civil penalties for sanctions enforcement and continued engagement with international partners like MONEYVAL.

Chief Minister Addresses Gibraltar Law Council Dinner

The Chief Minister of Gibraltar announced the publication of the Treaty on Gibraltar and the European Union Bill 2026, which implements a negotiated treaty for Gibraltar's future relationship with the EU. The bill is scheduled for provisional application on April 10, 2026.

GSD Opportunism Criticized Regarding Treaty Implementation

The Gibraltar Government issued a press release criticizing the GSD for defending entities allegedly using a new treaty to perpetrate fraud on consumers and justify unjustified price increases. The government asserts the treaty is a historic achievement that will bring opportunities.

GHA Condolences on Passing of Dr Michael Maskill

The Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA) has issued a notice expressing deep sadness over the passing of Dr Michael Maskill, a former Consultant General Medicine and Medical Director. Dr Maskill served the GHA for over three decades, retiring in 2014, and is remembered for his dedication, integrity, and mentorship.

Elite Insurance Company Limited Administration Update

Elite Insurance Company Limited (In Administration) has provided an update regarding its proposed scheme of arrangement. The Supreme Court of Gibraltar has granted permission for creditor meetings to be held on May 7, 2026, to vote on the scheme. If approved, the scheme will be binding on all creditors and is expected to facilitate an earlier distribution of claims.

Gibraltar FSC Consumer Alert: Phishing Attempt

The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC) has issued a consumer alert regarding a phishing attempt using a fraudulent domain name that impersonates GFSC employees. Consumers are warned not to engage with emails from the domain 'fsc.gi.cliopost.com' and to delete them immediately.

GFSC Chairman Re-appointment

The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC) announced the re-appointment of Stephen Haddrill as Chairman of its Board until July 2029. His reappointment follows his initial appointment in August 2020 and is intended to continue his leadership in transforming operational efficiency and strengthening partnerships.

TCSPs Cybersecurity, Data Protection, and Resilience Thematic Review

The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC) has published the findings of a thematic review on cybersecurity, data protection, and resilience within the Trust and Corporate Service Providers (TCSPs) sector. The publication outlines areas of strength and weakness, sets minimum standards, and provides clear expectations for TCSPs to enhance their frameworks.

Balls Limited - Registration Withdrawal

The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC) has withdrawn the registration of Balls Limited, an Initial Coin Offering (ICO) and Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP), for failing to comply with anti-money laundering regulations. The firm is no longer supervised or registered by the GFSC.