Opinion-writer J. G. Vassallo, who for years was a contributor to The Malta Independent, died today, aged 93.

Born in Sliema, Joseph George Vassallo was involved in the General Workers Union between 1944 and 1950.

He joined the editorial staff of Times of Malta in 1950 and in 1962 was appointed head of news at Rediffusion Malta and Television Service.

Between 1971 and 1990 he was director general of the Malta Chamber of Commerce.

In his later years, he was also a regular contributor to The Malta Independent.

The Institute of Journalists paid tribute to Mr Vassallo.