COVID-19 mitigation measures for schools undergoing discussion

Aug 11 2021

Constant discussions are underway between schools, union representatives and health professionals in order to come up with COVID-19 measures. Education Minister Justyne Caruana confirmed the news, stating that authorities were in better position this year considering the successful vaccination programme amongst teachers and children aged 12-and-over. Given a year of experience in dealing with the pandemic, the Minister did not however disclose whether measures in place over the past year will remain in effect.

This update follows a call by the Nationalist Party for an immediate publishing of updated COVID-19 strategies in regards to the education sector. Caruana also stated that services will be strengthened and education will be provided to all, especially those children with disabilities whose support services were halted due to COVID-19 restrictions. As schools gear up for reopening next month, the Minister added that the pandemic affected everyone and catch-up classes in summer were provided to address the absenteeism issues.

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Photo Source: Pixabay, Justyne Caruana FB

6 ways to say ‘no’ without actually saying no | by Ed’s Common Sense

Aug 11 2021

1. That’s not really my thing but thanks for thinking of me.

2. Thanks but I’m not taking on any new projects right now.

3. I would love to but I’m overwhelmed with work right now

4. I can’t this weekend but I would consider it another time.

5. Unfortunately, this time of the year, I’ll just have to decline.

6. I really wish that I could because I know this would mean a lot to you but I can’t take on one more thing.

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Malta begin title defense by beating San Marino

Aug 11 2021

Yesterday, the Maltese basketball team began their title defense of the FIBA Basketball European Championship for Small Nations. They beat San Marino 96-65 in what was considered a blowout victory for the Maltese players.

The coach Andrea Paccarie started David Bugeja, Aaron Falzon, Tevin Falzon, Kurt Cassar and 18-year-old Jack Zammit. This was Jack’s first ever start for Malta. Zammit’s main position is point guard and he plays for Starlites B.C . The Falzon brothers, Aaron and Tevin stole the show. Aaron scored 33 points and came up with 9 rebounds and 2 assists, whilst Tevin finished the game with a double-double scoring 20 points and rebounding the ball 9 times.

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A post shared by Aaron Falzon (@aaronfalzon)

This win must be considered a good step towards winning the competition, they won back in 2018. We wish the team the best of luck!

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Chris Fearne welcomes new Mater Dei outpatient block

Aug 11 2021

Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Chris Fearne announced that the building of a new outpatient block at Mater Dei Hospital has been green lit by the Planning Authority. Rising to five storeys next to the hospital’s main entrance, the project is expected to cost €170 million. Replacing the disused helipad, an underground multi-storey car park will cater for around 700 cars and an underground bus terminus.

With the site totalling an area of 16,550sq., plans for the block were approved last March. The PA however had asked that the cart ruts on site be incorporated into the project. Featuring a cafeteria, two pharmacies, outpatient’s rooms for various departments, meeting rooms and other consultant rooms, Fearne welcomed the good news with open arms. The operations which normally occur in the existing outpatient block will be moved to the new building as the emptied up spaces will be occupied with more patient beds. A bridge connecting the main hospital to the block will be provide access to staff.

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Photo Source: Chris Fearne FB