European Parliament Approves A Resolution Signed By Daniel Attard On The Repression In Iran

Jun 19 2025

European Parliament has approved a powerful resolution condemning the systematic repression carried out by the Iranian regime and calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Professor Ahmadreza Jalali. The resolution, signed by Maltese Labour MEP Daniel Attard, who serves as Vice-President of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Iran, sends a clear message: Europe cannot turn a blind eye to blatant human rights abuses.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Daniel Attard (@daniel__attard)

Ahmadreza Jalali, a Swedish-Iranian academic, has been imprisoned since 2016 following a sham trial and a confession extracted under torture. He currently faces a serious risk of execution.

The resolution calls for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran to be designated as a terrorist organisation, an expansion of sanctions against officials responsible for acts of torture and killing, and increased diplomatic pressure to end Iran’s hostage-taking policies.

In his speech to the plenary, Attard warned that the European Union’s position must be based on solid principles, not political calculations, “We cannot allow some countries to act one way and others differently. That is not foreign policy; it is a moral failure. Human rights are universal, and Europe must not only speak out but act.”

The Labour MEP added that for Malta and Europe, credibility depends on consistency, “We must be clear and unwavering with Iran. But also with Israel’s brutality in Gaza, Russia’s barbarism in Ukraine, and anyone who resorts to killing and destroying innocent lives.”

On his social media Attard concluded saying, “Human rights are not negotiable. And the world’s war criminals must know: Europe sees you. Europe will call you out. And Europe will act.”

#MaltaDaily

6th Edition Of The Malta Architecture And Spatial Planning Awards

Jun 19 2025

The 6th edition of the Malta Architecture and Spatial Planning (MASP) Awards was held at the historic Verdala Palace, under the patronage of the President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono. Organised by the Planning Authority, the prestigious ceremony honoured excellence in the fields of architecture and spatial planning, recognising the outstanding contributions of architects, interior designers, university students, and others involved in architectural research, education, theory, and practice.

Addressing the event, Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri emphasised the government’s commitment to initiatives that promote creativity and sustainable, high-quality development aligned with the Malta 2050 Vision. He stressed that good design is not merely a choice but a cornerstone of national planning strategy and a foundation for sustainable growth.

Highlighting recent efforts to preserve Malta’s architectural heritage, Minister Camilleri referred to a newly announced €5 million restoration scheme targeting historic buildings in Rabat, Gozo. “This initiative demonstrates our dedication to safeguarding our architectural legacy and ensuring that these historic structures continue to breathe life into our urban environments,” he stated. The scheme is expected to expand to other localities in Gozo, with similar restoration and rehabilitation initiatives planned across Malta.

In her remarks, President Spiteri Debono described the evening as a celebration of professionals who express their creativity while respecting and preserving Malta’s architectural and natural heritage. She stressed the importance of fostering sustainable development and embracing a holistic, ethical approach that considers physical, mental, and psychological well-being.

While presenting the President’s Award to architect Joanna Spiteri Staines, the President also encouraged young professionals to actively engage in the sector, fostering a sense of passion and responsibility to protect the unique character of the Maltese Islands.

Planning Authority Executive Chairperson Johann Buttigieg highlighted that the MASP Awards are not just a recognition of past achievements, but also a platform for guiding the future of planning and architecture in Malta. He noted the Authority’s commitment to promoting high standards in design and planning, while encouraging innovation and respect for the cultural and natural context, ultimately contributing to a better built environment for future generations.

A key announcement during the event was the future amalgamation of the MASP Awards with the Galizia Awards, organised by the Chamber of Architects. From 2025, this unified national platform will increase visibility, impact, and synergy across the sector, further strengthening public appreciation for good practices, innovation, and professional integrity in planning and architecture.

Chair of the MASP Awards Jury, Helga Ellul, expressed that it was both an honour and a responsibility to serve in her role. This year’s submissions, she remarked, reflected a profession full of creativity and deeply attuned to today’s pressing challenges—from sustainability and heritage preservation to urban density and public spaces, with a strong focus on quality of life.

36 New Recruits Join the Malta Police Force

Jun 19 2025

New constables have officially joined the Malta Police Force after successfully completing a training course at the Academy for Disciplined Forces.

During the swearing-in ceremony, Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri reminded the new recruits that they were not simply taking up a job, but a vocation aimed at creating a safer society. He highlighted that their entry into the force comes at a time when the crime rate has decreased to 30 offences per 1,000 residents, down from 46 per 1,000 two decades ago, despite Malta’s population and economic activity having grown substantially since then.

Minister Camilleri reiterated the government’s commitment to continue supporting the police force through improved working conditions, rights, and tools. He referenced the recent signing of a second sectoral agreement for the force, in addition to increased pensions for officers serving 29 years or more and an extra allowance for those who serve longer. A new pension scheme for widows of police officers who die before reaching statutory retirement age was also introduced.

He urged the new constables to act with responsibility and dedication, always aiming to make the best decisions for the communities they will serve and, above all, to work tirelessly to strengthen public trust in the force.

Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà noted in his speech that due to the reforms carried out in recent years, Malta is now ranked among the ten safest countries in the world. He added that the Malta Police Force has consistently been recognised as the most trusted institution in the country.

#MaltaDaily

Public Consultation On Miscarriage Leave Enters Final Phase

Jun 19 2025

The public consultation process on the introduction of Miscarriage Leave in Malta has now entered its final phase, with the last consultation meeting taking place in Gozo.

During this closing session, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul emphasised that over the past three months, the Government has intensified discussions on this important topic. These sessions have not only served to gather personal experiences of miscarriage but have also allowed experts, social partners, and members of the public to share their feedback, suggestions, and proposals.

This final consultation meeting brought together Members of Parliament from both Government and Opposition, as well as a number of social partners, including the Gozo Regional Committee. Key speakers included Lara Sammut, an Allied Health Practitioner at Mater Dei Hospital and a lecturer at the University of Malta; Sarah Farrugia, a teacher who shared her personal experience; and Maria Grech Debono, a Systemic Family Psychotherapist at the Gozo General Hospital.

Dr Ellul underlined that holding the final session in Gozo was a deliberate effort to ensure that this national initiative is inclusive of all regions. He extended his thanks to the hundreds of professionals and individuals who participated and contributed to the consultation process.

“The next step,” said Dr Ellul, “is to give an opportunity to anyone who, for any reason, could not attend the in-person sessions but still wishes to share their thoughts and suggestions. These can now be submitted online.”

He also reiterated the Government’s commitment, “Malta will be one of the first countries to introduce fully-paid Miscarriage Leave covered by the state. This move strengthens workers’ rights and sends a clear message that this Government is here to provide support when people need it most.”

Lara Sammut referred to research by the University of Malta, which found that approximately 23% of women who experience a threatened miscarriage ultimately suffer pregnancy loss. Moreover, around 1,000 women per year seek medical support due to complications in the first trimester. She explained how the study has led to the creation of a scientific model that can predict pregnancy outcomes with 93% accuracy following a threatened miscarriage. This enables more effective and personalised medical interventions.

“Miscarriage leave should not be seen as a luxury or indulgence,” Sammut concluded. “It is a measure that acknowledges the need for physical, mental, and emotional recovery after the loss of a pregnancy. This public consultation is a crucial step towards giving dignity to experiences that, until now, have largely remained unspoken.”

#MaltaDaily