HIV Treatment To Be Given For Free Next Year

Dec 9 2024

Free HIV prevention treatments, PrEP and PEP, will be available in Malta next year, Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela confirmed to Times of Malta.

Funds for the initiative, expected to cost millions, have been allocated in the 2025 budget.

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication taken before sexual activity to prevent HIV transmission, while PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is used within 72 hours after a high-risk encounter.

Currently, a 30-day supply of PrEP costs around €57, while PEP exceeds €600. Offering these treatments at no cost was a key promise in the Labour Party’s electoral manifesto.

Last week, activists, including groups like Checkpoint Malta, HIV Malta, and MGRM, urged the government to act on this commitment.

In a joint statement on World AIDS Day, they highlighted the benefits seen in countries that provide free or subsidised PrEP and PEP, where new HIV infections have dropped significantly, unlike Malta’s rising rates.

Abela also announced that a sexual health strategy will soon be open for public consultation.

He emphasised that making HIV preventive treatments free is a cornerstone of this plan, aimed at addressing Malta’s growing public health challenge and improving sexual health outcomes nationwide.

In a statement, a number of local NGOs such as Checkpoint Malta, HIV Malta, MGRM, Moviment Graffitti, LGBTI+ Gozo, ARC – Allied Rainbow Communities and aditus , welcomed the government’s decision, calling it a step in the right direction to mitigate the rising cases of HIV in Malta.

The coalition also called on the government to introduce free PrEP and PEP for all that require it, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, and immigration status.

They also urged the state, to follow the British healthcare system and introduce opt-out HIV testing for all those admitted to Hospital, or that require blood tests, to scale up HIV testing and diagnose possible HIV acquisition at an early stage.

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Source: @timesofmalta

New Lighting System Enhances Dock Number 1

Dec 9 2024

Dock Number 1, a historic and scenic landmark in Bormla, has been revitalized with a state-of-the-art lighting system installed by the Public Works Department.

This upgrade ensures the site remains a cherished destination for residents and visitors alike, blending its rich heritage with modern functionality.

During the project’s inauguration, Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia emphasized the importance of preserving historic spaces while making them accessible and safe for contemporary use.

The newly installed system features energy-efficient LED lights and advanced controls, significantly reducing energy consumption while showcasing the dock’s industrial architecture in its nighttime glory.

This initiative aligns with Malta’s sustainability goals, offering both environmental benefits and an enhanced visitor experience.

“Through this project, we breathe new life into one of our nation’s iconic maritime and industrial monuments, protecting its history while embracing modernity,” Farrugia stated.

As a hub for local and international visitors, Dock Number 1 offers a stunning view of Bormla’s harbour.

The improved lighting not only enhances safety and visibility but also transforms the area into a dynamic, vibrant space, particularly after dark.

This project celebrates Cottonera’s heritage while symbolizing Malta’s commitment to sustainable urban development for future generations.

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Beppe Grillo & Janet Richard Named Athletes Of The Year

Dec 9 2024

Beppe Grillo and Janet Richard were named Athletes of the Year at a ceremony hosted by Athletics Malta, celebrating the nation’s top-performing track and field athletes across all age categories.

Grillo had a stellar 2024, highlighted by a record-breaking performance at the Balkan Championships in Izmir, Turkey, where he set a new 100m national record of 10.23 seconds, earning bronze. He also represented Malta at the Paris Olympics, completing his 100m heat in 10.69 seconds.

Janet Richard claimed the Athlete of the Year title for the fifth time, underscoring her remarkable consistency. In 2024, she competed at the European Championships in Rome, clocking 2:04.34 in the 800m. She also secured a silver medal in the 400m and contributed to Malta’s gold in the women’s relay at the Athletics Championships of the Small States of Europe in Gibraltar.

Other senior category winners included Claire Azzopardi and Omar El Aida Chaffey (Sprints), Rebecca Sare and Armani James (Jumps), and Jordan Gusman and Gina McNamara (Long Distance).

Master Athlete of the Year awards went to Antonella Chouhal, for a 46.05m hammer throw, and Charles Cilia, for completing a 5km race in 16:17 in the Over-55 category. Junior athletes were also honored across categories from Under-14 to Under-23.

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Jay-Z Accused Of Raping 13 Year Old Girl Along With P-Diddy

Dec 9 2024

US rapper Jay-Z has denied allegations in a lawsuit accusing him, along with Sean “Diddy” Combs, of drugging and raping a 13-year-old girl at a party in 2000.

Filed under New York’s Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Act, the lawsuit alleges the incident occurred at a party following the MTV Video Music Awards.

The accuser, identified as “Jane Doe,” claims she was given a drink that made her feel woozy and then assaulted by the two men while an unnamed female celebrity watched.

Jay-Z dismissed the claims as a “blackmail attempt,” stating he refuses to settle and intends to expose the case as fraudulent. Combs’s legal team similarly called the allegations baseless and part of a “publicity stunt.”

The lawsuit, filed by Texas-based attorney Tony Buzbee, is one of many targeting Mr. Combs, who faces over 30 lawsuits and awaits trial on sex-trafficking charges.

The accuser alleges ongoing trauma from the event, including PTSD and depression, and is seeking damages.

Jay-Z, married to Beyoncé, expressed heartbreak for his family, citing concerns about explaining the allegations to his children. Both artists firmly deny the accusations, emphasising their intent to prove their innocence through the judicial process.

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