Human Interaction With Wild Zoo Animals Banned In Malta

Aug 27 2024

New regulations for zoos in Malta will soon ban human interaction with wild animals unless a permit is granted by the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD).

These regulations, covering animals like monkeys, tigers, and dolphins, aim to protect wildlife and biodiversity. Announced over four years after a White Paper was published, the rules address gaps in the 2002 law and will take effect in two months, introducing stricter controls on breeding, enclosures, and safety in zoos.

The regulations also aim to enhance the conservation role of zoos, ensure animal health and safety, and protect the public.

Although human interaction will be restricted, zoo owners can apply for special permits to allow it under VRD guidelines.

The regulations also address controversial practices like cub petting, introducing tighter breeding rules to reduce such activities, though permits could still allow them.

The new rules will require zoos to follow specific guidelines on animal care, health programs, and breeding practices, with measures to prevent inbreeding.

Zoo owners will also need to report animal births and deaths and contribute to the Animal Welfare Awareness and Research Fund. Licenses for zoos will be subject to an annual inspection, and fees for obtaining and renewing licenses have been introduced.

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Maltese Photojournalist In Ukraine Details Ongoing Raids

Aug 27 2024

Maltese photojournalist Rene Rossignaud recently shared on his Facebook account what he described as the most terrifying night of his life while on duty in war-torn Ukraine.

Rossignaud, who is currently collaborating with the humanitarian organization MOAS (Migrant Offshore Aid Station), recounted the harrowing experience of conducting multiple patient extractions in the embattled city of Bakhmut.

Under the cover of darkness, the team navigated through pitch-black conditions for hours, driving perilously close to Russian military positions. The tension was palpable as they worked tirelessly to transport vulnerable patients to safer locations.

Throughout the night, Rossignaud found himself anxiously counting down the hours, his thoughts filled with prayers for the safety of everyone involved in the operation.

The danger was ever-present, making the mission an incredibly nerve-wracking and close call. He concluded his post by expressing how unsettlingly close to disaster the operation had been, underscoring the immense risks taken to save lives in such a volatile environment.

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“Right To Disconnect” Rule Enforced For Workers In Australia

Aug 27 2024

Australia has introduced a “right to disconnect” rule, providing relief to employees who feel pressured to take calls or respond to messages from employers after work hours. The new law allows workers to ignore after-hours communications without fear of repercussions.

A survey from last year estimated that Australians put in an average of 281 hours of unpaid overtime annually. Similar regulations exist in over 20 countries, mainly in Europe and Latin America.

The law doesn’t prohibit employers from contacting employees after hours but gives workers the right to not respond unless their refusal is considered unreasonable. Disputes should first be resolved between the employer and employee; if unsuccessful, Australia’s Fair Work Commission (FWC) can intervene. The FWC can order employers to stop after-hours communication or, if an employee’s refusal is deemed unreasonable, mandate a response.

Non-compliance with FWC orders can result in fines up to A$19,000 ($12,897; £9,762) for employees or up to A$94,000 for companies. Worker organizations have praised the new rule, with the Australian Council of Trade Unions stating it will empower workers to reject unreasonable out-of-hours work contact and promote a better work-life balance.

Young Local Volunteers Step Up To Make A Difference

Aug 27 2024

Young local volunteers have well and truly stepped up to make a difference and give a helping hand in trying to clean up and improve the Maltese islands.

NGO Żibel decide to shine a bright spotlight on the youngsters who come to help out at their clean ups by posting several photos of these young heroes hard at work cleaning up.

On their Instagram post, Żibel stated “It is incredible to see kids getting involved in our clean-ups, proving that no one is too small to make a big difference.”

The NGO also revealed that the energy and enthusiasm that the kids bring to their many clean ups help everybody and that their passion proves that caring for the seas starts at any age.

They ended the post with a heartfelt message stating “We are so proud of our young volunteers and grateful for the example they set. Thank you for leading the way toward a more sustainable and cleaner world!”

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