Environment NGOs Back Birdlife Malta Push To Uphold Rule Of Law

Nov 4 2024

Eight environmental NGOs have backed BirdLife Malta’s call for the European Commissioner for Environment to enforce a European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling from September 19. The ECJ found Malta guilty of violating the EU Birds Directive by allowing finch trapping under a ‘research derogation’ in previous autumns. Despite a one-month deadline to comply, the government reopened the finch trapping season on October 20, permitting around 3,500 trappers to continue using clap nets until December 20—essentially disregarding the court’s decision.

This marks the second instance where the government has ignored legal rulings, with environmental groups also pointing to the legalisation of two illegally constructed penthouses in Gozo after a court ruling by Chief Justice Mark Chetcuti. Both finch trapping and the planning decisions fall under the remit of Minister Clint Camilleri, who the NGOs claim has been given excessive leeway by Prime Minister Robert Abela.

A legal notice related to the trapping derogation made only minor adjustments, arguing that research on finch migration necessitates continued trapping. The NGOs warn that Malta’s repeated defiance of environmental laws for political reasons jeopardises the country’s environmental future. They are urging the European Commission to act swiftly. BirdLife Malta’s call is supported by Din l-Art Ħelwa, Moviment Graffiti, Nature Trust Malta, Malta Rangers Unit, Friends of the Earth Malta, Ramblers Association, Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar, and Għawdix.

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MEPs Back Glen Micallef Candidacy For Key EU Role

Nov 4 2024

This morning, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) and European People’s Party (EPP) groups met with Maltese journalists to discuss the candidacy of Glenn Micallef for a key European Commission portfolio focused on the cultural and creative sectors. MEP Hannes Heide (S&D) and MEP Zoltan Tarr (EPP) both voiced strong support for Micallef, emphasising his qualifications and potential impact on European culture and youth initiatives.

Hannes Heide highlighted the significance of the cultural and creative sectors in Europe, noting that they indirectly support up to eight million jobs. He praised Micallef’s dedication and passion, describing him as an ideal candidate for the role. Heide underscored the importance of youth involvement in policy-making, stressing Micallef’s engagement and accessibility to the public, which he believes is crucial for fostering dialogue with future generations about Europe’s development.

Zoltan Tarr shared a similar sentiment, stating that the EPP group is eager for Micallef to take office promptly, especially given the relevance of projects like Erasmus+ to the EPP’s agenda. He expressed the EPP’s vested interest in Micallef’s vision for Erasmus+, a programme that has a significant impact on youth and education in Europe. Tarr also mentioned that the EPP has no preference for a gender-based re-nomination, even though European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had favoured a female candidate.

Both MEPs conveyed a broad consensus on Micallef’s suitability for the role, expressing hope for a swift approval process and optimism about his potential contributions to the Commission.

Later today, Glenn Micallef, Malta’s nominee for European Commissioner for Intergenerational Solidarity, Youth, Culture, and Sport, will undergo a rigorous questioning session before the European Parliament’s Committee on Culture and Education. This hearing will play a crucial role in determining Micallef’s suitability for the position, as he faces inquiries about his readiness and qualifications. Other members from committees on employment, civil liberties, and legal affairs will also attend, making it a high-stakes event. His performance today could shape his future role in the European Commission, with the committee’s feedback potentially influencing the final decision when the European Parliament votes on the new Commission later this month.

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eCabs Launches New Rides To Support Male Cancer Awareness

Nov 4 2024

Ride-hailing platform eCabs has introduced a new ride category called “Cab bil Bajd” to support male cancer awareness during November, as part of the Movember movement.

For every ride taken in this category, eCabs will donate 50 cents to the Male Cancer Awareness and Support Foundation (MCASF), a newly established organisation. The initiative aims to raise awareness for health issues like prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention, while making a meaningful impact.

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The “Cab bil Bajd” rides will be priced the same as the eCabs GO category, making it an affordable option for passengers who want to support the cause. eCabs Malta CEO Andrew Bezzina emphasised the importance of contributing to male health awareness, noting the need to open conversations about these often-overlooked health issues.

MCASF Chair Gavril Flores expressed gratitude for the collaboration, highlighting that the initiative’s value lies not just in financial support, but also in promoting early detection and providing emotional support for those facing cancer.

Prostate and testicular cancers are among the most common male cancers, and early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Through this initiative, eCabs hopes to raise awareness and help save lives.

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JD, Abel & Martina Announce Return To Radio

Nov 4 2024

Iconic trio JD, Abel and Martina have announced their official return to radio, now on Magic Malta 91.7.

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The trio will be returning on Monday at 7am, and will be bringing their iconic energy shared between them – upwards of 10 years of experience – together back on the radio.

Will you be tuning in?

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