Malta University Press launched four new books on 1 July, at the Aula Magna, Valletta Campus.

The event was introduced by Prof. Henry Frendo, chairman of the Editorial Board of the University of Malta. Prof. Frendo welcomed the guests present and listed some of the major works published by MUP in the last few years.

Bernie Mizzi, the University’s outgoing pro-chancellor, chaired the launch and introduced the distinguished speakers.

President Emeritus Dr Ugo Mifsud Bonnici gave a learned talk on the book entitled Documents in the State Archives of Palermo Part II no. 4 in the series Documentary Sources of Maltese History, compiled and annotated by Professor Stanley Fiorini.

Dr Josette Attard, an expert on literary aesthetics, presented the book on the poetry of the famous 19th century personality Gan Anton Vassallo by Prof. Oliver Friggieri, the first such comprehensive anthology ever.

Prof. Maurice Cauchi, a pathologist and community activist, introduced the work by Prof. Savona Ventura on the history of care provided to women and their infants in Malta over the years, entitled Caring for Calypso’s Daughters: A History of Maternity Care in a Central Mediterranean Island.

Migration and Asylum in Malta and the European Union: Rights and Realities 2002-2011 edited by Prof. Peter Xuereb was presented by Prof. Salvinu Busuttil and Judge Giovanni Bonello, with the former highlighting socio-economic and diplomatic aspects, the latter juridical implications and human rights.

A lively open discussion between members of the public and the speakers followed, especially with regard to the whole question of mass illegal or “irregular” immigration, Refugee Convention requirements and random talk of “racism”.

A reception concluded a most interesting and enjoyable evening. The University’s new pro-chancellor, Dr Michael Sciriha, was in attendance and mixed informally with authors, speakers and guests.

The latest MUP publications were on sale at a discount by Sierra Book Distributors.