Malta announced updates to its cannabis legislation, focusing on responsible use and stricter enforcement. One key change addresses public complaints about the smell of cannabis. Consumption must now be done in a way that avoids causing inconvenience to others, especially in densely populated areas.

A reporting system has been introduced via a freephone line (80002088) managed by the Authority for the Responsible Use of Cannabis (ARUC). Citizens can file complaints or request information. Complaints are initially handled through communication with the involved parties. If unresolved, the case may proceed to the Commissioner for Justice.

The reform also prohibits synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabis products, following incidents involving synthetic substances such as CC9, which resulted in hospitalisations. Although these products contain no THC, they have been found to cause psychoactive effects and raise health concerns.

The legal framework regulating harm reduction associations has also been revised. Serious breaches by association administrators will now be referred to the Criminal Court, with maximum fines raised from €10,000 to €50,000 or double the illicit gain.

Additionally, ARUC will receive expanded enforcement powers. Four inspectors are expected to join the Compliance and Enforcement Section to monitor and ensure adherence to the updated laws.

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Photo Source: DOI – Alan Saliba

On the 4th of July, San Tumas Bay from 6pm onwards, will host a special night to celebrate its regeneration. This popular spot will be filled with fun activities for everyone in the family.

One of the main attractions will be kayaking along the coast in boats that light up in the dark. Children can enjoy water games and face painting, while animators will keep the fun going all evening.

Music fans can look forward to live performances by singers Amber and Glen. More artists will be announced soon. For those who love excitement, there will be a rodeo show that promises plenty of action.

There is also a dress-up area and activities to teach about safety at sea. Visitors can even take photos with a real jet ski. Road safety will be highlighted too, with Tammy, the road safety mascot, at a special stand to help people learn how to stay safe on the streets.

Stalls will offer tasty food, cool drinks, and a range of local products to enjoy during the night.

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Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, was invited to visit the St Theresa Primary School in Ta’ Kerċem, Gozo, where he was presented with a project carried out by students and educators in collaboration with local Gozitan farmers and livestock breeders.

It was explained that the students conducted a survey with 33 farmers and breeders, through which they had the opportunity to closely observe their work and ask them what brings them the most satisfaction in their job. The students presented the minister with a number of suggestions that emerged from this research, focusing on how the sector could be further improved.

These students are also taking part in the Let’s Talk Farming programme, a government initiative aimed at promoting agriculture and food production in primary schools across the country.

Minister Anton Refalo emphasised the importance of children taking an interest in farming and livestock work from a young age. “This is why, as a Government, we are continuing to bring the sector closer to children within schools and even into their homes so that when they eat and drink fresh and delicious food and milk, they appreciate the hard work, which is often demanding, behind it all.”

Also present during the visit were members of the Milk Producers Cooperative, who spoke to the students about the dairy and livestock sectors.

During the same visit, Minister Refalo also inaugurated a newly renovated garden within the school grounds and planted a commemorative tree. In this garden, students are being taught how to cultivate agricultural products and care for certain animals.

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