France Close To Constitutionalising Right To Abortion

Jan 31 2024

The French National Assembly has passed a groundbreaking bill taking a significant step towards constitutionally enshrining the right to abortion, with 493 votes in favour and 30 against.

This move comes in response to the US Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade in June 2022. If the bill becomes law, France would be the first country worldwide to include abortion rights in its constitution.

The legislation now heads to the Senate for further debate and voting, with a subsequent review by a joint parliamentary body for adoption.

Justice Minister Éric Dupont-Moretti highlighted the global context, citing the vulnerability of fundamental rights even in large democracies.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal hailed it as a “great victory for women’s rights,” and Gender Equality Minister Aurore Bergé called it “historic.” The bill, while approved by the National Assembly, faces additional votes in the Senate and the French Congress.

A three-fifths majority is needed for adoption, expected by March 8, 2024.

Opposition from the Senate president and right-wing lawmakers poses challenges, arguing that constitutionalization is unnecessary.

However, supporters stress the need to protect abortion rights amidst rising global anti-abortion movements.

#MaltaDaily

Squid Game The Challenge Winner Officially A Millionaire

Jan 31 2024

Mai Whelan, the winner of Netflix’s “Squid Game: The Challenge,” has finally received her awaited $4.56 million prize after triumphing over 455 competitors in challenges inspired by the Korean drama series.

Although Whelan previously mentioned a 10-month delay in funds, it’s now confirmed she was aware of a payment plan tied to the show’s season finale.

She compared her anticipation to Tom Cruise’s iconic line in “Jerry Maguire,” exclaiming, “Show me the money!” Whelan had already spent part of her expected winnings on a new look for the Squid Game gala.

Expressing plans for her prize, Whelan considered finding a retirement home while enjoying her peaceful life by the water in Virginia. Her victory came after a final game of Rock, Paper, Scissors with competitor Phill Cain, leading to an emotional admission of disbelief and joy. Whelan emphasized the possibilities of overcoming fears and achieving anything in a confessional interview.

Beyond personal goals, Whelan expressed a desire to contribute to charitable causes, including sponsoring children’s education, assisting the elderly with basic needs and healthcare, and supporting wildlife and climate initiatives.

Active on social media, she has begun the new year by helping animals and interacting with fans. Season 1 of “Squid Game: The Challenge” is available on Netflix, with recruitment for Season 2 open.

#MaltaDaily

48 Hour Extension For Suspect Arrest Of 12+ Year Imprisonment Crimes

Jan 31 2024

Parliament has granted approval for two legislative measures concerning arrest and detention, as well as the restructuring of procedures related to the proceeds of crime.

The legislation pertaining to arrest and detention enables the apprehension of individuals reasonably suspected of committing serious crimes carrying a penalty of 12 years imprisonment or more. The Magistrate is empowered to extend the detention by a maximum of 48 hours through an order. This law necessitated constitutional amendments.

According to Minister Jonathan Attard, the law aims to provide the police with more effective tools in cases requiring prolonged detention of individuals suspected of serious crimes. The applicability of this law is emphasized to be an exception rather than a rule. Minister Attard highlighted its alignment with global efforts to address evolving complex crimes.

Additionally, Parliament has endorsed an act amending various laws concerning the proceeds of crime. This bill seeks to establish a standardized procedure for attaching, freezing, and confiscating criminal proceeds while ensuring proportionality in line with the requests from Maltese and European Courts.

The parliamentary process, particularly during the Committee stage, resulted in strengthening the bill to achieve a fair balance between the public interest in issuing such orders and the rights of the suspected, accused, or charged individuals to avoid financial ruin without a guilty verdict.

These amendments do not lead to the dismissal of any crime or the mitigation of penalties. The existing procedure for crimes related to drugs, carrying a maximum life imprisonment sentence, remains unchanged.

Key provisions include the obligation to identify properties and specific assets subject to Seizure and Freezing Orders, empowering the Court to modify such orders at the Defendant’s or Prosecutor’s request. The legislation introduces the possibility of increasing the amount released to the accused for sustenance during the case’s pendency. The Criminal Court, post-guilt determination, will decide on the value and assets for confiscation.

Minister Jonathan Attard emphasized the commitment to creating a society where everyone is held accountable for their actions while ensuring that laws respect fundamental rights and require an objective justification for implemented measures. These legislations play a crucial role in advancing the efficiency of justice and the fight against crime.

#MaltaDaily

10,000 Applications For Free Tallinja Cards

Jan 31 2024

After it was announced that applications for Tallinja bus cards would be made free until the end of February, it was revealed that 10,000 took advantage of the scheme and applied.

Transport Minister Chris Bonett announced the milestone on social media, saying as of the week of the announcement, that of January 22nd, over 10,000 cards were applied for.

Transport Malta had revealed that the application fee was made free until the end of the second month of the year, but bus fares for non-card users were raised.

Non-card users will have prices raised from €2 to €2.50, with the 7 day bus card for kids reduced to €7 from €15. Meanwhile, the same 7 day card for adults will increase from €21 to €25.

This comes after the government announced complimentary ferry services at the Grand harbour as they expect an increase in maritime transport.

#MaltaDaily