Celebrating 100 Years Of Films In Malta

Mar 26 2025

Malta has just celebrated a remarkable century of film, with the journey starting back in 1925 with Sons of the Sea, the first-ever movie filmed on the island. This silent film marked the beginning of Malta’s journey in cinema.

Over the years, Malta has blossomed into a global filming hub, attracting major investments and nurturing a thriving local film industry. With an ever-growing pool of talent and production expertise, the island has contributed significantly to both its economy and the international film scene.

#MaltaDaily

First-Time Buyers Scheme Now Accepting Applications

Mar 26 2025

The Minister for Social and Affordable Accommodation, Roderick Galdes, has announced that applications for the First-Time Buyers Scheme are now open.

Encouraging first-time buyers—especially young people—to apply, Minister Galdes highlighted that the scheme provides €1,000 annually for ten years, amounting to a total of €10,000. Since its launch in 2023, 4,909 families have already benefitted, with eligible recipients set to receive another €1,000 payment in June. These beneficiaries purchased their homes through a home loan in 2022 or 2023, with half having already received their first payment and the rest receiving two instalments.

For last year, 2,644 families qualify for the scheme for the first time, with 64% having already applied. Minister Galdes urged those who have yet to submit their application to do so by the end of April through the Housing Authority to secure their first payment in June.

Last year, the government invested €4,694,000 into the scheme, bringing the total funding since its inception to over €7 million. Minister Galdes emphasised that every euro invested strengthens the purchasing power of Maltese and Gozitan families.

He also noted that the First-Time Buyers Scheme is just one of several initiatives supporting homeownership. A study by the Housing Authority found that another widely used scheme is the Grant for First Residence, which helps first-time buyers complete their homes by covering 15% of documented finishing costs, up to a maximum of €5,824.

Additionally, the study revealed that even excluding the First-Time Buyers Scheme, over two families per day received financial support through other government initiatives, enabling them to improve their purchasing power and enhance their housing conditions.

Minister Galdes concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to affordable, high-quality housing, ensuring that all families have access to dignified and suitable homes throughout their lives.

#MaltaDaily

Mental Health Protection Discussed At Health Minister’s Council

Mar 26 2025

In Warsaw, Poland, Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela, is attending the Health Ministers’ Council meeting, organised under the Polish Presidency of the EU Council. Discussions have focused on the protection of mental health in children and young people and ensuring equal access to medicines for all.

During his intervention on mental health care for children and young people and the impact of social media, Minister Jo Etienne Abela emphasised that mental health protection and care have long been a priority for the Maltese Government, with several strategies and innovations being implemented in this field. He stressed that this issue should be high on the agenda of every European country.

“In recent years, Malta has launched several initiatives to safeguard mental health, including the introduction of the ‘Be Smart Online’ programme, the ‘Child Web Alert Hotline’, and the national mental health helpline 1579. However, this is not enough, and we remain committed to strengthening our efforts in this area, ensuring we continue to listen to young people and children themselves,” stated Minister Abela.

On the issue of medicine accessibility, Minister Abela reiterated the points raised by Prime Minister Robert Abela in Brussels, stressing the importance of ensuring fair access to all medicines at equal prices. He reaffirmed Malta’s position on fair access to medicines, advocating that all EU Member States should benefit equally from the Single Market. He insisted that Malta’s small size should not be a barrier to enjoying the advantages of the Single Market on equal terms.

“The health of our citizens is the driving force behind these crucial discussions. Equal and transparent access to essential medicines and the protection of young people’s mental health are the foundations of our commitment and work,” concluded Minister Abela.

#MaltaDaily

New AC System Installed At Zejtun Residential Home

Mar 26 2025

An investment of €400,000 has seen the installation of a new fan coil air conditioning system at Żejtun Residential Home, replacing the outdated system that had been causing discomfort for both residents and staff. The upgraded system is set to improve air quality, maintain a comfortable indoor climate throughout the year, and boost the home’s energy efficiency.

During a visit to the residential home, where he also engaged with the residents, Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, stressed the importance of ensuring that elderly care homes provide a safe, comfortable, and suitable environment. He remarked, “This investment is part of a broader series of projects aimed at enhancing our elderly care facilities. Our priority is to create high-quality living conditions that cater to residents’ needs while continuously improving residential care standards.”

As part of the visit, the Parliamentary Secretary also met with the Residents’ Committee to discuss key matters, including their concerns and the importance of ensuring their voices are heard.

Dr Renzo De Gabriele, Chief Executive of Active Ageing and Community Care, explained that the project entailed a complete overhaul of the previous system, replacing it with a more efficient and sustainable alternative. This included the installation of new units in communal areas and halls, alongside modern control systems that allow for more precise monitoring of temperature and energy usage.

This project forms part of a wider modernisation strategy for residential homes across Malta, including those in Mosta and Mtarfa, with the ultimate aim of elevating the quality of care while upholding dignity and respect for the elderly.

#MaltaDaily