Malta Could Soon Get A Pet Memorial Site

Nov 26 2024

Malta will soon have its first dedicated pet memorial site, giving grieving pet owners a place to honour and remember their beloved companions, announced Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said.

Speaking at a press conference marking a year of progress since the Animal Welfare Directorate reform, she emphasised the government’s commitment to upholding the dignity of animals, even after their passing.

Located in Ta’ Qali, the memorial will not be a pet cemetery but will offer a tranquil space where owners can leave tokens in memory of their pets. Benches will also be installed, providing a quiet area for reflection. The inauguration is expected in the coming weeks.

Bugeja Said highlighted the directorate’s advancements, noting over 15,000 calls for assistance, reports, and requests this year—a significant rise from 5,000 in 2022. She attributed this to the doubling of staff and investments in training and resources, including two new animal ambulances to improve response times.

Animal Rights Minister Anton Refalo added that animal welfare in Malta has greatly progressed, with plans for a public register of individuals convicted of animal cruelty. Magistrates will also notify the Animal Welfare Commissioner of such cases, reinforcing accountability and protection for animals.

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Malta Has The Highest Reporting Rates Of Domestic Violence In EU

Nov 26 2024

A recent survey conducted by Eurostat has revealed that Malta has the highest reporting rates of domestic violence in the whole of the European Union.

The Eurostat figures also showed that one in every four women in the EU, experienced some form of abuse in their lifetimes.

The findings emerged from a survey conducted between 2020 and 2024 by Eurostat, the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights, and the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE).

Across the EU-27, a total of 114,023 women participated in the survey, including over 3,000 women from Malta.

The data revealed that nearly one-third of women across the EU have experienced violence at home, in the workplace, or in public spaces. However, only one in four victims reported these incidents to the authorities.

In Malta, 24.4% of women reported experiencing physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives, below the EU average of 30.7%. Among these, 13% faced physical violence or threats (excluding sexual violence), while 11% experienced sexual violence.

An analysis of reporting trends revealed that Malta had the highest overall reporting rate, with 48.2% of women reaching out to health or social services, support services, or the police.

This means that almost half of the Maltese women who experienced violence, had the courage to speak up.

Specifically, 33.7% reported to health or social services, 18% sought assistance from support services, and 31.5% reported incidents to the police.

In terms of reporting to “close people,” such as friends or family, Malta ranked third at 76%, following Poland at 81.5% and Greece at 82.9%.

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Valletta Local Council Visits Cagliari, Sardinia

Nov 26 2024

The Valletta Local Council, under the leadership of Mayor Olaf McKay, recently visited Cagliari, Sardinia’s capital, to strengthen ties between the two Mediterranean cities. This initiative aimed to explore collaborations in culture, tourism, and economic development through meetings with local officials and business representatives.

Mayor McKay underscored the significance of closer cooperation between Malta and Cagliari, highlighting Valletta’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a leading cultural hub. He expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities such partnerships could offer both cities.

Discussions focused on projects such as youth cultural exchanges, educational partnerships between schools and universities, and initiatives to boost trade and tourism. Mayor McKay emphasized his vision for Valletta as a city that thrives on culture, sustainability, and regional growth.

“This visit demonstrates our commitment to advancing our community through global partnerships. It’s an opportunity to share our strengths, learn from others, and build a vibrant future for Valletta and its residents,” said Mayor McKay.

The visit not only reaffirmed the shared Mediterranean identity of Valletta and Cagliari but also highlighted the potential for meaningful collaboration. The council expressed gratitude to all contributors and looks forward to implementing initiatives that elevate Valletta’s standing internationally.

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Art In The Park: Unique Collective Exhibition On Inwadar National Park

Nov 26 2024

For the third consecutive year, 15 prominent Maltese artists are showcasing their work at the Rudy Buhler Art Gallery on Triq is-Salini, Marsaskala.

The exhibition, open to the public until Sunday, December 1, 2024, celebrates the theme ‘The Park and the People’.

Minister for the Environment Miriam Dalli, Dr. Steve Borg, chairperson of the Inwadar Park Governance Board, and Project Green CEO Joseph Cuschieri visited the gallery.

Minister Dalli praised the exhibition as a testament to how art fosters a connection with nature, emphasizing the transformation of the Inwadar National Park from a neglected dumping ground into a vibrant community space of recreation and inspiration.

This collective exhibition features 27 works reflecting the history and revitalization of the park, highlighting the harmony between people and nature.

Notable participating artists include Agius Alison, Ancilleri Frank, Bonnici Kurt, Borg Marika, Calleja Sarah, Camilleri Silvana, Fenech Josette, Fenech Portelli Joanne, Frendo Jean, Mercieca Audrey, Pavia Lawrence, Perini Ethelbert, Smith Andrew, Vella Anthony, and Vella Tanya. Each piece offers a unique interpretation of the park’s beauty and heritage.

The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free, with artwork sales supporting a philanthropic cause, blending art, community, and charity.

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