Former Dutch PM Dies With Wife In Duo Euthanasia

Feb 13 2024

Dries van Agt, a former Dutch prime minister and devout Catholic, passed away through euthanasia alongside his wife Eugenie, both aged 93.

Their joint euthanasia is part of a growing phenomenon in the Netherlands known as “duo euthanasia”.

This trend, while rare, has seen a steady increase since 2020, with 26 couples granted euthanasia that year, rising to 58 in 2022.

Van Agt, who led the Christian Democratic Appeal party and founded the pro-Palestinian group Rights Forum, passed away hand in hand with his wife, after both were in poor health.

The decision reflects their shared autonomy and long-standing commitment to each other.

Elke Swart, a spokesperson for the Expertisecentrum Euthanasie, highlighted that while interest in duo euthanasia is growing, it remains uncommon due to the stringent individual requirements and the rarity of couples experiencing unbearable suffering simultaneously.

Euthanasia and assisted suicide have been legal in the Netherlands since 2002 for specific conditions, with a second specialist’s confirmation required.

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Why Do We Give Chocolate On Valentine’s Day?

Feb 13 2024

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From being well known stimulating aphrodisiacs to just being so damn good, here are a few reasons why we give chocolates during the lovey-dovey period of Valentine’s.

With traditions going back to Victorian England and even all the way to the Aztecs, it seems as though chocolate has always had a special place in our hearts – and mouths!

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It is a well known aphrodisiac – i.e. a food that stimulates sexual desire!

Many believe the Aztecs influenced European royalty in using chocolate as a romance stimulant! In the Victorian Age, people exchanged Cupid-themed cards and gifts. Many popular chocolatiers produced different chocolates packaged in heart shaped boxes with rosebuds.

It’s also just very tasty! – a way to show another person how happy they make you!

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New Marine Fire Station Inaugurated: Here’s A Look!

Feb 13 2024

Prime Minister Robert Abela inaugurated the Maritime Section of Malta’s Civil Protection Department, emphasizing its transformation into a highly equipped and efficient entity.

With an investment nearing €500,000, this section now stands at its highest operational level, equipped not only for sea rescue but also for land emergencies.

The new facilities include advanced telecommunications systems, enhancing communication and response capabilities. The Prime Minister highlighted discussions with Civil Protection officials, noting their pride and dedication to service.

Minister Byron Camilleri underscored ongoing investments in infrastructure and personnel, ensuring a safer Malta. These investments include new firefighting vehicles, facilities for hazardous material response, and enhanced training for personnel.

Collective agreements prioritise workers’ rights and welfare, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to security. The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with sectoral agreements signed with all disciplined forces, fostering better conditions and career prospects.

The new facilities and initiatives aim to strengthen community resilience and ensure prompt emergency response, fostering greater peace of mind for citizens.

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Over 465,000 Travellers Through Malta Airport In January 2024

Feb 13 2024

In January 2024, Malta International Airport experienced a notable surge in passenger traffic, welcoming 465,482 passengers, marking the first time since 2020 that January’s numbers surpassed 400,000.

Passenger movements soared by 22.7% compared to 2023, peaking on January 6th, when 151 flights transported 23,923 passengers.

Although aircraft movements reached 3,511, up 23.4% from January 2023, the load factor dropped by 2.8 percentage points to 74%.

Italy led the traffic with a 24% increase, followed by the UK, Poland, Germany, and France. Notably, the Polish market showed significant growth, becoming the airport’s third-largest.

Additionally, Malta International Airport ranked fourth among European airports in 2023 performance, surpassing peers in Spain and Italy.

In 2023, Malta achieved its highest-ever tourist numbers, with over 3 million visitors spending 20.2 million nights and €2.7 billion in the country.

Despite Europe’s recovery to 96% of pre-pandemic levels, Malta surpassed its 2019 visitor count by 9%. Major markets included Italy, the UK, France, Germany, and Poland.

Minister Clayton Bartolo, speaking at a seminar titled ‘Writing History Together,’ stressed the need for continuous improvement in tourism quality.

#MaltaDaily