A fourth call for applications is expected to be issued presently.

PBS chief executive Andrew Psaila confirmed to The Malta Independent on Sunday that a new call for applications for the post has been issued. The new deadline for the applications is now set for 6 September.

Mr Psaila said the decision to issue a new call for applications was taken after the company conducted a preliminary assessment of the applications it had received.

As confirmed by Mr Psaila last week, there were seven applications for the third call which closed on 16 August.

An indication as to why it is so difficult for PBS to find suitable candidates is because of the heavy responsibilities and skills required.

According to the advert for the third call for applications, which appeared in the Sunday newspapers on 8 August, the selected candidate “will be responsible to ensure a fair, adequate and professional coverage of newsworthy events occurring locally and internationally and to fulfil the duties and obligations of Registered Editor as prescribed by law”.

The selected candidate “would also be responsible to actively monitor the entire output of news programmes to guarantee quality, impartiality and objectivity”.

He or she would also be responsible for providing coverage to local sporting events.

The ideal candidate would be expected to have “a degree in Journalism or one relevant to the post or at least seven years experience in a leading position in a Broadcasting and/or Print media environment”.

Mr Psaila also told The Malta Independent on Sunday that the number of applicants for the post of journalist/editor, was more than 20 but less than 30. There are four vacancies for this post. The call for applications closed on 26 August.