Germany Plans To Legalise Cannabis By Spring

Feb 23 2024

German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach remains optimistic about the passage of the Cannabis Act by the Bundestag in February, with hopes for implementation by April, despite opposition from within the governing coalition. Despite resistance within Germany’s ruling coalition, Health Minister Karl Lauterbach is still pushing for the legalization of cannabis, aiming to introduce a bill to parliament next month.

“I am still hopeful that the Cannabis Act will be approved by the Bundestag between February 19 and 23, with enforcement beginning on April 1,” Lauterbach stated in an interview with Die Welt newspaper on Sunday, noting positive progress in discussions on the legislation.

What the legislation entails The coalition, comprised of the Social Democrats (SPD), including Lauterbach and Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the Greens, and the pro-business liberals of the FDP, reached an agreement in late November to remove cannabis from the list of prohibited substances under previous laws. The objective of legalizing cannabis is outlined in the coalition agreement.

Under the proposed bill, adults would be permitted to cultivate and possess limited amounts of cannabis as of April 1. Additionally, as of July 1, establishments established for collective cultivation would also be permitted. In an interview, Lauterbach emphasized the dangers of highly toxic concentrations in unauthorized cannabis products, advocating for the need to dismantle the illicit market.

“The regulated distribution of cannabis is the appropriate approach, coupled with specific safeguards for minors,” he added.

Who opposes the legalization of cannabis? Several of Germany’s 16 states, which are responsible for law enforcement, have voiced concerns regarding legalization.

The southern state of Bavaria, governed by the conservative Christian Social Union, has consistently called for blocking the liberalization.

Certain SPD politicians have also voiced reservations, particularly regarding cannabis use in proximity to schools.

In response, Lauterbach clarified to Die Welt: “We do not want cannabis consumption near schools or daycare centers, hence we have designated a 100-meter prohibition zone. I view this as a reasonable decision.”

While enforcement of the measure may pose challenges, Lauterbach pointed out that policing the current illicit market has also proven problematic.

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Malta Will Soon Have Its Very Own Veterinary Course

Feb 23 2024

During a Labour Youths event, Prime Minister Robert Abela unveiled plans to initiate a veterinary course in Malta.

This aims to address the current necessity for prospective veterinarians to pursue studies abroad, incurring significant financial burdens and separation from familial and social ties.

Robert Abela revealed ongoing negotiations between MCAST and an international university to establish this groundbreaking program.

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Cutting-edge Research Laboratories at University of Malta Inaugurated

Feb 23 2024

Prime Minister Robert Abela unveiled state-of-the-art research and innovation laboratories at the University of Malta, marking a significant stride towards positioning Malta at the forefront of technological advancements.

The inauguration of these laboratories, nestled within the TRAKE (Transdisciplinary Research and Knowledge Exchange) complex, underscores a strategic investment in educational infrastructure aimed at nurturing the next generation of innovators and researchers.

During the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Abela emphasised the pivotal role of education in preparing students for promising careers in emerging industries. He highlighted the importance of aligning educational resources with the demands of evolving industries, ensuring that Maltese youth are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

The TRAKE laboratories are poised to facilitate cutting-edge research in various fields, including manufacturing engineering, artificial intelligence, automation, and robotic engineering. By providing students with access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources, the University of Malta aims to foster a conducive environment for innovative research and knowledge exchange.

Prime Minister Abela underscored the collaborative effort between government entities and academic institutions in realising this ambitious initiative. He emphasised the significance of public and European funds in driving forward educational reforms and investments in the future workforce.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Abela reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting students pursuing studies in fields of the future, citing recent reforms to the stipend system as an example. By incentivising students to pursue careers in high-demand sectors, the government aims to bolster Malta’s competitiveness on the global stage.

In addition to fostering a culture of innovation within academic institutions, Prime Minister Abela emphasized the importance of vocational education in nurturing practical skills among students. He highlighted the government’s efforts to integrate science and technology into vocational courses, ensuring that students are equipped to meet the demands of modern industries.

The inauguration of the TRAKE laboratories represents a significant milestone in Malta’s journey towards becoming a hub for research and innovation.

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New simplification measures introduced for the Empowerment Scheme

Feb 23 2024

A simplified and easier process for people with disabilities applying for subsidies through the Empowerment scheme has been announced by the Support Agency, led by Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia Portelli.

The new measures will mean that applicants for subsidies will now need to submit a single estimate instead of three for assistive devices, ranging between €400 and €3,000. To also make life easier any items or devices in the price range of €100 and €300 can now be grouped together to reach the €400 threshold.

A medical report will no longer be needed as a valid medical certificate from the applicant’s doctor will now be enough. For subsidy applications on hearing aids, a medical certificate is also no longer needed.

Minister Farrugia Portelli emphasized that this simplification process will enable applicants to make use of the necessary devices more quickly due to reduced bureaucracy, making life easier for people with disabilities and avoiding discouragement due to excessive administrative hurdles.

Support Agency CEO Oliver Scicluna emphasized the agency’s commitment to improving the accessibility of services and programs while also strengthening accountability, transparency, and efficiency. He highlighted the significance of initiatives such as Empowerment in delivering essential support to individuals with disabilities and their families, ultimately enhancing their community life by facilitating access to assistive devices and improving their overall quality of life.

Between January and December 2023, over €782,000 in subsidies were granted to people with disabilities who applied for financial assistance through the Empowerment scheme, with a total of 1,385 applications approved.

One can apply for this scheme by submitting an electronic application through the Support Agency’s website.

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