Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg, has condemned recent threats and disrespectful behaviour during public consultations on Assisted Voluntary Euthanasia (AVE).

Following an incident at a community consultation session, Ms Buttigieg expressed deep disappointment over a person who threatened both herself and members of the technical committee. She warned that such conduct could lead to criminal action. The individual also directed insults towards those sharing deeply personal and distressing experiences related to the suffering of relatives at the end of their lives.

Ms Buttigieg stressed that such behaviour is entirely unacceptable, particularly as there is no legal basis for the threats made.

The incident occurred during the third community consultation on voluntary assisted euthanasia, which saw emotional accounts dominate the proceedings. Held in the community hall in Mosta, the event attracted a large audience and featured 22 interventions from the public. Many participants shared stories of their relatives’ suffering, as well as their own fears of facing similar ordeals due to serious hereditary conditions.

Ms Buttigieg expressed her gratitude to those members of the public who, despite great personal sacrifice, openly shared their suffering and experiences during the consultation, including some who described years of hardship caused by terminal illnesses.

#MaltaDaily

A significant investment to strengthen Gozo’s electricity infrastructure with the installation of over 10 kilometres of new underground cables across the island. This major upgrade aims to improve the reliability and capacity of power supply for residents and businesses alike.

The announcement was made during a visit to ongoing works in Gozo by Minister for Energy Miriam Dalli and Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri, accompanied by Enemalta Executive Chairman Eng. Ryan Fava and his team.

In 2024, Enemalta commissioned seven new substations across Gozo and laid approximately 3.5 kilometres of medium-voltage cables in areas including Xagħra, Xlendi, Nadur, and Victoria. This momentum is set to continue in 2025 with five more substations coming online and plans to install 10 kilometres of new underground cables in Kerċem, Xagħra, Marsalforn, St. Lawrence, Sannat, Xewkija, and Għarb.

Minister Miriam Dalli said, “This substantial investment in Gozo’s energy infrastructure shows our commitment to providing reliable and modern electricity services. These upgrades will enhance the resilience of our national grid and reduce power disruptions for the people of Gozo.”

Minister Clint Camilleri added, “This investment is a clear sign of the government’s dedication to improving life for Gozitan residents. The new underground cables and substations will ensure a more stable and dependable electricity supply, strengthening the island’s connectivity and resilience. I would like to thank Enemalta and the Ministry for Energy for their continued cooperation on this important project.”

The ministers also visited Enemalta’s offices in Xewkija to meet staff working on upgrading Gozo’s energy distribution network.

Currently, Enemalta is installing 11-kilovolt underground cables in Żebbuġ (Marsalforn) and Victoria as part of a national effort to improve connectivity between distribution centres and substations across Malta and Gozo.

#MaltaDaily

Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, has officially launched the programme for Imnarja 2025.

This year’s festival will once again honour the hard work, dedication and vital contributions of farmers, herders, and workers in Malta’s agriculture and horticulture sectors.

Imnarja, celebrated on 29 June at the Buskett Gardens, features ancient traditions, animal shows, local agricultural products, folk music and rural culture all highlighting Malta’s agricultural heritage and identity.

During the launch, Minister Anton Refalo emphasised: “Imnarja is not just a festival but a living reminder of what it means to be Maltese and how fundamental farming and agriculture are to our identity. It gives us the chance to appreciate the tireless efforts of our farmers who every year provide fresh and sustainable food for the entire country. Imnarja also represents the Government’s clear commitment to preserving traditions and supporting those involved in the agricultural sector, especially the new generations choosing this field as a career.”

The Imnarja 2025 programme begins on Saturday 21 June with the traditional Imnarja horse race parade. On Saturday 28 June and on the main day, 29 June, various activities will take place including animal competitions, educational exhibitions for children and adults, promotion of local products, cultural events, and musical performances, all designed to enrich the experience for attendees.

#MaltaDaily