Government Introduces IVF Support And Extended Paternity Leave For Self-Employed Parents

Apr 3 2025

Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue, Andy Ellul, described these two measures as a well-deserved boost for self-employed workers.

The first measure supports prospective parents who are self-employed and undergoing IVF treatment. The second measure involves extending paternity leave for self-employed individuals, allowing them to take more time off to support their families during significant life events.

As stated in the Budget, the Government will provide 100 hours of paid leave for each IVF treatment cycle to self-employed individuals. The prospective mother will be entitled to 60 hours of leave, while the partner or spouse will receive an additional 40 hours.

Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon, emphasized that the Government will continue to invest in regular therapy sessions and long-term psychological and academic support for families. “IVF is not just a medical procedure – it’s an emotional and social experience,” said Minister Falzon.

The application process for the IVF measure will begin by the end of this week, and the extension of paternity leave for self-employed workers will also be implemented soon.

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Pope Francis Visited Malta Three Years Ago

Apr 3 2025

Pope Francis visited Malta three years ago, on the 2nd and 3rd of April 2022.

The visit took place just six days after that year’s general election, and saw hundreds of Christians convene to hear Mass and see the Church leader.

‘During his apostolic visit, he visited the President’s Palace in Valletta, the Shrine of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu in Gozo, St Paul’s Grotto in Rabat, the Floriana Granaries to celebrate Sunday Mass, and the Peace Lab in Ħal Far’ (Archdiocese of Malta).

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Malta Scouts Set To Make History With Record 426 Contingent At 2027 World Scout Jamboree

Apr 3 2025

The Scout Association of Malta is set to make history by sending its largest-ever contingent, 426 Scouts, Guides and Leaders from 34 different local groups, to the 26th World Scout Jamboree in Poland in 2027.

This record marks a significant milestone for Malta’s Scouting movement.

Under the leadership of Timmy Cutugno and David Grech, the maltese group will be made up of 182 Adult Leaders and 244 young Scouts and Guides aged 14 to 18.

The Jamboree, the world’s largest Scouting event, brings together young people from over 175 countries for two weeks of cultural exchange, adventure, and skill-building.

“This is a proud moment for Malta,” said Cutugno. “We can’t wait to showcase our Scouting spirit on the global stage.”

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Here’s How The New Mellieha School Will Look Like

Apr 3 2025

The Mellieħa Primary School, part of Maria Regina College, was originally built in the 1940s to serve a small village. Over time, the locality expanded, increasing the need for a larger school.

This project involves demolishing the current school and constructing a new one to accommodate 600 students. The new building will be located on the existing site and an adjacent plot.

Given the area’s archaeological significance—due to underground shelters and military-related rock-cut features—demolition and excavation will be minimal and supervised by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage.

The project’s first phase includes excavating the adjacent site, followed by demolishing the old school and constructing the new one.

The four-story school will house 36 primary and 22 kindergarten classrooms.

Designed as a community hub, it will include a childcare centre, library, multipurpose hall (theatre/gym), rooftop garden, and parking for 204 cars. Separate entrances will allow community access after school hours.

The school will also integrate renewable energy for near-carbon neutrality. Estimated cost: €20 million.

Until completion, students will attend a temporary school in Selmun Family Park, using 36 prefabricated classrooms, each 45 sqm, with air conditioning, alarms, and double-glazed windows. Outdoor recreational areas will be preserved for public use.

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