Enhancing service accessibility to victims of crimes who suffer from disability

Feb 16 2024

A recent pact between the Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Victim Support Agency (VSA) aims to enhance service accessibility for disabled individuals who fall victim to crimes.

Those with disabilities who experience crime will receive heightened assistance under this agreement between the CRPD and VSA. It outlines their joint efforts to aid victims via a unified referral system, ensuring more efficient support. Moreover, they pledge to boost awareness of victims’ rights, encourage reporting, and address the specific challenges faced by disabled individuals.

Minister for Inclusion and Voluntary work Julia Farrugia Portelli and Minister for Home Affairs, National Security, Reforms, and Equality Byron Camilleri were booth present and both hailed the agreement’s significance during the signing ceremony. Farrugia Portelli stressed its role in illuminating the struggles of disabled individuals, while Camilleri highlighted its potential to enhance services during vulnerable moments.

Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Disability, Rhoda Garland praised the agreement for its promise of increased support and accessibility for disabled victims. VSA CEO Brian Farrugia underscored the unique challenges faced by disabled crime victims and affirmed the commitment to improve inclusive support services. Through this collaboration, the CRPD will assist VSA in adopting a more inclusive approach, facilitating staff training and knowledge exchange. Meanwhile, VSA will provide tailored support, including assessments and emotional assistance, while advocating for victim rights.

Permanent Secretaries Nancy Caruana and Joyce Dimech were also present at the signing event.

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Results Of Malta Carnival 2024 Officially Announced

Feb 16 2024

Here are the top Malta Carnival 2024 prizes, followed by second and third place awards!

The Malta Carnival witnesses impressive floats, costumes and dance routines on a yearly basis, with this year being no exception.

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Festivals Malta have unveiled the official list of winners and runner ups which, after a year of preparation, took to the streets of Valletta to showcase their hard work.

Winner of ‘Konkors Nru 1 – Karrijiet Trijonfali Sezzjoni A’, Triton Carnival Company, posted to social media, congratulating the team behind the float and highlighting the immense effort and sacrifice that goes into such a craft.

Find out the results here.

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National Lottery PLC successfully achieves European Lotteries Responsible Gaming Certification

Feb 16 2024

National Lottery PLC is recognized as a national lottery operator that complies with European RG regulations.

On the 15th of February 2023, National Lottery plc, the principal lottery operator in Malta, proudly announced its successful completion of the European Lottery (EL) Responsible Gaming (RG) certification. This prestigious certification, also endorsed by the World Lotteries Association (WLA), highlights the steadfast dedication of IZI Group and National Lottery plc towards promoting responsible gaming practices, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants. The company’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and social responsibility within the lottery industry is evident through this achievement.

Following its recognition as a full member of the EL a few months prior, the company embarked on a rigorous journey to obtain RG certification. Spearheaded by Mr. Joseph Bonanno – Chief Operating Officer of National Lottery plc, this process involved meticulous assessment of all policies and procedures against predetermined standards and frameworks. Additionally, comprehensive training programs were conducted across the organization, encompassing agents and front-office personnel, coupled with the implementation of necessary tools.

The RG certification process entailed a rigorous external audit by TÜV NORD GROUP, an international certification entity, evaluating the company’s policies, procedures, and their implementation. Mr. Bonanno expressed his satisfaction with this milestone, stating, “Achieving the European Lotteries (EL) RG certification underscores our firm commitment to nurturing a secure and enjoyable gaming environment while mitigating the risks associated with problem gaming. We have collaborated closely with various stakeholders, including the Responsible Gaming Foundation (RGF) and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), to establish practices aligned with the most stringent international RG standards.”

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Greece makes history by legalising same-sex civil marriage

Feb 16 2024

Greece recently made history by legalizing same-sex marriage, marking a significant milestone as the first Orthodox Christian nation to do so. Despite facing staunch opposition from the Greek Orthodox Church, the parliament approved the bill with a 176-76 majority.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis lauded the law as a crucial step toward eliminating inequality. However, the decision has sparked division within the country, with local LGBTQ organizations supporting it while the Orthodox Church voiced concerns over its impact on traditional nuclear families and social cohesion.

Despite these divisions, polls indicate majority support for the bill among Greeks. The new law not only permits same-sex marriage but also allows for adoption by same-sex couples. Mitsotakis emphasized during parliamentary debates that the law will bring visibility to marginalized individuals and offer many children the opportunity to find loving homes.

This development is particularly noteworthy as Greece has historically lagged behind other European Union members in LGBTQ rights, signaling a positive shift not only for Greece but also for the broader Eastern European region where acceptance of gay rights has been slower to evolve.

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