Carer At Home Subsidy Increased To €8,500 For Full-Time Carers

Jan 6 2025

The Carer at Home scheme is set to see an increase in its annual subsidy, rising from €8,000 to €8,500 for full-time carers.

This enhancement was announced by Parliamentary Secretary for Active Aging Malcolm Paul Agius Galea as part of the 2025 Budget proposals.

Last year, the subsidy was raised by €1,000, bringing the total investment for this initiative in 2025 to €8 million.

The scheme provides financial assistance to elderly individuals who require carers for their daily needs, benefitting over 1,100 recipients to date. For those employing part-time carers, the subsidy will now be calculated on a pro-rata basis, offering added flexibility to meet different needs.

Funds are deposited directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts on a monthly basis following approval, ensuring prompt and reliable support. This efficient process aims to ease the financial burden on families and caregivers.

Parliamentary Secretary Agius Galea highlighted that the scheme enables the elderly to remain in the comfort of their own homes while offering families reassurance that their loved ones are cared for by qualified professionals.

Dr. Renzo De Gabriele, CEO of the Active Aging and Community Care Agency, emphasised the scheme’s role in helping elderly individuals retain their independence, calling it a vital support for the most vulnerable.

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Investigations Into Lions, Leopard In Naxxar Farm Ongoing

Jan 6 2025

The Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) within the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Animal Rights, in collaboration with the police, is investigating the housing of dangerous animals on a farm in Naxxar following a public report.

Several individuals, including the farm’s owners, have been questioned.

Preliminary findings reveal that the enclosure housing four lions and one leopard does not comply with Subsidiary Legislation 439.19, which regulates the ownership and care of dangerous animals.

This legislation requires such animals to be kept in safe, approved enclosures that meet their health and welfare needs. Written approval from the Director is mandatory before housing dangerous animals.

Veterinary professionals inspected the premises and assessed the animals, confirming they are generally in good condition. However, one lion has an orthopaedic condition requiring attention. Contrary to media claims, no dead lions were found.

The farm is being monitored to ensure the animals’ safety and welfare. They are being fed, housed in clean conditions, and efforts are underway to relocate them to appropriate facilities meeting all welfare and safety standards.

Legal proceedings against those responsible are being pursued under the Veterinary Services Act and Animal Welfare Act.

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Nicholas Dedicates MasterChef Malta Win To Late Wife

Jan 6 2025

In an emotional moment following his victory on MasterChef Malta Season 2, Nicholas dedicated his triumph to his late wife, whose memory served as a driving force throughout his culinary journey.

Nicholas moved viewers and judges alike earlier in the season when he shared the story of his wife’s passing and how her favourite recipes helped secure crucial challenge victories.

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His journey on MasterChef Malta Season 2 showcased the deep connection between his cooking and her memory, making his ultimate win even more poignant.

Nicholas’ story of love, loss, and resilience captured the hearts of the audience, adding a profound layer of meaning to his achievement.

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Crew Member Rescued By AFM Off Maltese Shore

Jan 6 2025

Yesterday afternoon, the Armed Forces of Malta conducted a rescue operation of a crew member on board a general cargo vessel after sustaining severe injuries.

The vessel was approximately 14 nautical miles off Malta, with an air asset of the AFM being deployed to the area to facilitate the rescue operation.

The casualty was safely transported to Malta and handed over to Mater Dei Hospital’s medical team for further treatment.

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