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€42 Million Allocated to Strengthen Social Services in Malta

€42 Million Allocated to Strengthen Social Services in Malta
Nov 20 2024 Share

The Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS) will receive €42 million in funding for 2024, an increase of over €5 million from the previous year. This allocation aims to improve the delivery of social services in Malta and Gozo, with a focus on supporting individuals and families in need.

The funding will benefit key services, including Appoġġ, the Directorate for Alternative Care, and domestic violence programmes, as well as other support centres.

Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon noted efforts to address staffing shortages in the sector, including a legal amendment allowing MCAST to offer social work courses. This year saw the first 18 MCAST graduates in this field. He also highlighted a recent collective agreement that improved conditions and wages for social workers.

FSWS CEO Alfred Grixti shared that the organisation worked on 21,000 cases in 2023, with follow-ups continuing for 10,000 of them. Appoġġ handled 9,000 cases, while the Child Protection Directorate managed 4,360 cases.

This funding is expected to support ongoing work by professionals and enhance the reach of services offered by FSWS.

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Malta Highlights Sustainability Achievements at COP29

Malta Highlights Sustainability Achievements at COP29
Nov 20 2024 Share

Malta has set a new benchmark in water efficiency with its Gozo desalination plant, which operates using 23.5% less energy than traditional systems. The project was highlighted at COP29 in Baku, where Minister Miriam Dalli emphasised water’s role in tackling climate challenges.

“Our advanced water infrastructure reflects Malta’s dedication to building resilience against climate change,” Dalli said.

The Water Services Corporation (WSC) reported notable progress, with network efficiency improving from 52% in 2011 to 72.7% today. WSC CEO Karl Cilia also pointed to the success of the ‘New Water’ system, which reclaimed 1.6 million cubic metres in 2022 to support sustainable farming and reduce groundwater reliance.

Malta is pursuing innovative financing options, including a €25 million green bond framework and potential Blue Bonds to support marine infrastructure. Energy and Water Agency CEO Manuel Sapiano outlined plans for offshore renewable energy projects, which he said would provide broad economic and environmental benefits.

Gianni Chianetta of the Greening the Islands Foundation commended Malta’s achievements, particularly in desalination and offshore wind energy. His remarks were echoed by IRENA Director General Francesco La Camera, who recognised Malta’s growing reputation for sustainable water and energy solutions.

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Rossi Officially Joins Magic Mornings With JD, Abel & Martina

Rossi Officially Joins Magic Mornings With JD, Abel & Martina
Nov 20 2024 Share

‘We told you we had one more thing’, posted Magic Malta 91.7 as they unveiled that the iconic Valentina Rossi will be joining the trio of JD, Abel and Martina for Magic Mornings.

 

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The trio will be accompanied by the charismatic and bubbly Valentina Rossi, who will be bringing her unique character to an already energetic ensemble.

Will you be tuning in?

#MaltaDaily

New Schemes Introduced to Support Youth and Voluntary Organisations

New Schemes Introduced to Support Youth and Voluntary Organisations
Nov 20 2024 Share

The Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth, Research and Innovation has introduced two new schemes to provide more opportunities for young people in Malta and support voluntary organisations.

The BOOST Scheme, with a budget of €400,000, will offer €3,000 grants to eligible youth organisations to help them expand their activities and reach more participants. The Band Club Music Learning Scheme, with €80,000 in funding, is designed to promote Malta’s musical heritage and provide educational opportunities for young people.

The initiatives were launched during an event in collaboration with Aġenzija Żgħażagħ and the National Band Clubs Association. Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti described the schemes as part of the Government’s effort to support youth and their communities.

Miriam Teuma, CEO of Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, emphasised the importance of these schemes in supporting organisations that work with young people. She noted that they align with the National Youth Policy’s goals of encouraging youth participation and collaboration with voluntary organisations.

The application process has been simplified to ensure accessibility. These schemes aim to provide practical support for organisations while encouraging young people to participate in cultural and community initiatives.

#MaltaDaily