Breeding, Importation, Sale Of Non-Pedigree Bully Dogs Illegal

Aug 6 2024

On Tuesday, new regulations were announced regarding non-pedigree bully dogs, set to take effect in December.

The rule specifically targets “backyard breeders” who do not provide pedigree certificates, which often results in dogs with unknown ancestry and potential behavioural issues. Pedigree bully breeds from registered kennel clubs remain permissible.

Animal Welfare Director Joseph John Vella clarified that this regulation is not a blanket ban but a measure to manage the problem of overcrowded animal shelters, which frequently house non-pedigree bully breeds.

Vella stressed that the regulation is not intended to discriminate against bully breeds but to address the issues faced by animal sanctuaries filled with these dogs, who are often abandoned when they become too difficult to handle.

Minister Anton Refalo emphasized that while some countries have imposed complete bans on bully breeds, Malta’s approach aims to strike a balance.

Refalo highlighted the need to manage the breeding of non-pedigree dogs without fully prohibiting the breed. He noted that the government plans to assess the impact of this regulation and consider further legislative measures on breeding practices in the future.

The dogs in question:

American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire bull Terrier, Bullmastiff, Dogo Argentino, Bull Terrier, American Bully, American Pitbull Terrier, Old English Bulldog, American Bulldog, English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Miniature Bull terrier, Cane Corso, Dogue De Bordeaux, Presa Canario, Neapolitan Mastiff, Boston Terrier, Tibetan Mastiff and South African Boerboel.

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Search For Man Who Went Missing In Għadira Bay

Aug 6 2024

On Tuesday morning, an army helicopter, along with police and Civil Protection teams, were dispatched to Għadira Bay following reports of a missing elderly man.

The man had set out in a small dinghy to board a larger boat anchored in the bay but failed to reach his destination, according to sources.

The dinghy was later discovered drifting and empty. No additional information was available at the time.

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Number Of Inbound Tourists Continues To Increase

Aug 6 2024

Continuing with the same trend of the recent post-Covid years, the number of inbound tourists coming to visit Malta has increased in the first half of 2024 compared to the same time frame in 2023.

For the first half of 2024 inbound tourists amounted to 1,590,867, an increase of 23.4 per cent over the same period in 2023.

The total nights spent by inbound tourists also went up, by 15.7 percent and surpassed 9.4 million total nights.

The total tourist expenditure for the first 6 months came t0 €1.3 billion, 24.5 percent higher than the total amount spent in 2023.

British, Italian and French tourists were the most common making up 46.4 percent of the total inbound tourists and the largest share of tourists were aged between 25 and 44.

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Malta’s 1st Ever Mobile Stage lVANt Successfully Wraps Up

Aug 6 2024

The Eastern Regional Council successfully wraps up the lVANt project, marking a milestone as Malta’s first-ever mobile stage initiative. From July 3rd to July 23rd, lVANt, showcased local artists across twelve localities in the Eastern Region. This initiative was notable not only for introducing Malta’s first mobile stage but also for being the first eco-friendly performance experience on a moving stage, utilizing battery-operated technology. The project delivered diverse performances to various communities, creating a unique and impactful cultural experience.

Organized by President Anthony Chircop, Executive Secretary Jeanette Galea, and Artistic Director Daniel Cauchi, lVANt set a new standard in entertainment. Inspired by the convenience of food delivery services, lVANt brought performances directly to communities, with a name that cleverly reflected its mobile nature. The sound and lighting systems for the performances were remotely controlled to maximize space and efficiency. Additionally, the van featured a custom-designed side structure for mounting equipment, enhanced acoustics, and a branded curtain, with the entire van being tailor-made for this innovative project.

The tour featured a stellar lineup of performers, including The Travellers, Subversive Collection, Skald, Krista Sujak, Reb and Jon, David Cauchi, Klinsmann, Chanel Monseigneur, Keith Kiko Muscat, Liam Mizzi Peplow, Gilbert Gauci, Lyndsay Pace, Tal-Fuklar Folk Group, and Red Electric. Comedian Matthew Sant Sultana added a touch of humour to the performances. Highlights included special outreach programmes with Villa Bianca and engaging performances with Skola Sajf, showcasing the project’s dedication to connecting with various community groups and creating unique cultural experiences, especially for younger audiences.

The feedback from participants and audiences was highly positive, with many artists praising the initiative on social media. Key themes included appreciation for the project’s innovative concept, with terms like “successful,” “amazing platform,” and “fantastic opportunity” frequently mentioned. Artists highlighted the project’s eco-friendly approach, noting the use of “renewable energy” and “battery-operated” technology. There was widespread recognition of the event’s role in promoting local talent, fostering community spirit, and creating unique cultural experiences. Terms such as “vibrant,” “supportive,” and “well-organized” underscored the overall impact and success of the lVANt project.

The Eastern Regional Council remains committed to supporting local arts and culture, building on the success of the lVANt project. As part of their ongoing efforts since being awarded the Region of Culture title for 2024, the Council is planning further monthly outreach programmes and projects throughout the year, with the aim to continue enriching the cultural landscape of the region until December 2024.

For more information and updates on upcoming events, visit https://www.regjunlvant.com/ or follow the Eastern Regional Council on Facebook.

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