A target of 65,000 electric cars on Maltese roads by 2030

Nov 23 2021

The government’s target is to have up to 65,000 electric cars on the road by the year 2030, revealed Environment Minister Aaron Farrugia. As part of the government’s carbon reduction strategy, the Minister also added that the cash grant of €11,000 announced in the budget will assist in bringing about this cultural and sustainable change.

Speaking during a debate with Opposition environment spokesperson Robert Cutajar on TVM News Plus’ Xtra, Farrugia highlighted how experts have said that electric cars will reach price parity with conventional cars by the year 2025. This will make them more accessible but until then, the goal is to encourage change through a generous cash grant.

The Minister also defended Malta’s negotiating stance with the European Commission. This is to lower its target to reduce carbon emissions to 19% from 30% by 2030. The reduced target would cost Malta up to €2 billion to achieve. For Farrugia, the goal is not to risk burdening people and making the industry uncompetitive when ‘we are the least polluting member state in the EU.’

The Opposition MP disagreed, with Cutajar insisting that the target should be at a more ambitious 30%. Farrugia accused the Opposition of making declarations about carbon reduction targets without having a costed plan.

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Photo Source: Aaron Farrugia FB, Robert Cutajar FB, AZ Big Media

Home Affairs Minister convinced other MPs smoked weed but won’t admit

Nov 23 2021

Addressing parliament, Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri expressed how many MPS were not brave enough to admit that they smoked cannabis in the past. Referring to the second reading of the responsible use of cannabis bill, Camilleri recalled a Lovin Malta Vox pop which asked MPs whether they had ever smoked weed in their life last year. Only Camilleri and MP Rosianne Cutajar admitted to having done so.

The Home Affairs Minister said that the felt fortunate that he was never caught, unlike many other young people who were persecuted for the act. ‘I’m sure that not all MPs had the courage to tell the truth, including PN MPs who plan to vote against the proposed law. This is hypocritical.’

Camilleri revealed that, today, he would move away from someone with a cigarette because he doesn’t like the smell anymore. ‘I don’t need this law for myself’ he said. This also follows thoughts expressed by Prime Minister Robert Abela, who said that as a parent of a young child, he can ‘say hand on heart and with a sense of responsibility that [he] believe[s] this legal development is necessary.

He said he would prefer there be a firm legislative framework than take the easy way out and leave everything as it is. ‘I’ve lived this experience as a lawyer and it’s a traumatic experience that no child or parent should pass through.’

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Photo Source: Byron Camilleri FB, Live Science

Idris Elba in talks to star in the next James Bond film, reports say

Nov 22 2021

Reports have emerged that actor, rapper, DJ, producer and dearly beloved British icon Idris Elba may be in talks to star in the next James Bond film, just not as 007 himself.

Following the reveal that ‘No Time to Die’ would be Daniel Craig’s final big-screen appearance as the suave special agent James Bond, rumours ran rampant of the next potential bond, with Elba being a frontrunner for the role based on speculation alone. The 49-year-old recently shut down such speculation, with British news outlet The Sun reporting that he is currently engaging in discussions to take on a role in the upcoming Bond Film. While he will not occupy the role of the titular character, he commands enough pull and respect to make him a desirable addition to the cast.

While discussions are in early stages, with all the hype surrounding the Bond franchise and Elba touted as potentially the next Bond villain, we can’t wait to see what’s next for the blockbuster franchise.

Send this story to a James Bond fan.

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Village feast enthusiasts claim ‘double standards’ on COVID-19 restrictions after President’s Fun Run

Nov 22 2021

Enthusiasts of local village feast have sounded off following the President’s Fun Run held on Sunday, claiming double standards in the face of COVID-19 restrictions.

The annual fundraiser was held in an altered manner to comply with Malta’s current COVID-19 restrictions, with a number of different marathons held in separate towns across Malta as opposed to the traditional mass event which normally culminates with a mass gathering in Valletta. Despite these attempts at compliance with COVID-19 regulations, the festa enthusiasts have argued the unfairness of village feasts remaining where they are, despite restrictions being lifted in the past months.

Qormi Parish Priest Mario Mangion took to Facebook to share his opinion on the matter, concluding by stating that while understanding that the situation is not normal and he hopes for the best, he expects that every one is treated the same.

“What is the difference between 100 people walking to collect money for charity and 100 people walking behind a statue of baby Jesus during Christmas time?” the parish priest stated, to a wave of supporting messages and statements of agreement.

Do you agree with the feast enthusiasts?

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