Malta’s Commitment To EU Space & Research Policies Highlighted In Brussels

Nov 29 2024

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti attended the Competitiveness (Research and Space) Council meeting in Brussels, where discussions entered on the EU’s space and research policies.

During the meeting, Azzopardi Tanti highlighted Malta’s commitment to advancing collaboration and addressing challenges in space and research, both of which are considered important for the Union’s innovation and long-term competitiveness.

In the area of research and innovation, Azzopardi Tanti discussed the need to address the innovation divide among EU member states, which he noted undermines the European Research Area.

He emphasised Malta’s support for initiatives aimed at reducing disparities in research and innovation capacities, believing that these efforts could help unlock the full potential of EU Member States.

Azzopardi Tanti also called for reduced fragmentation in Europe’s research landscape and stressed the importance of mobility and collaboration to address the issue of brain drain.

He reaffirmed Malta’s commitment to boosting research excellence at the national level and contributing to international partnerships aligned with EU goals.

On space policy, Azzopardi Tanti expressed Malta’s support for a balanced approach that ensures civilian oversight while fostering synergies with defence when appropriate.

He also highlighted the importance of securing space infrastructure and advocating for sustainable practices, including green technologies and debris mitigation. He emphasised that a coordinated EU space program would enhance the Union’s global competitiveness.

Throughout the meeting, Azzopardi Tanti emphasised the role of strategic investments in space and research for the EU’s future and expressed Malta’s support for the Council’s Conclusions.

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Heroic Rescue Transforms Burned Puppy into Firefighter Mascot

Nov 29 2024

A pit bull puppy named Jake, once trapped and badly burned in a garage fire, has become an unlikely hero at the Hanahan Fire Department in South Carolina. Last April, firefighter Bill Lindler responded to a fire at his neighbour’s garage and found Jake struggling to escape, injured after a piece of the ceiling collapsed on him.

After rescuing Jake, Lindler performed mouth-to-snout resuscitation and rushed him to a vet. Despite suffering burns over 70% of his body, Jake survived, but his owners did not return to claim him. Lindler decided to adopt Jake, and after weeks of recovery, he began bringing the puppy to the fire station.

Jake’s presence quickly lifted the spirits of the firefighters, and he became a fixture at the station, even donning a custom firefighter jacket. He also participated in local fire safety programs.

In December, Jake was officially sworn in as an honorary firefighter and named the department’s mascot. Lindler hopes Jake will eventually become a therapy dog for burn victims or an arson detection dog. “Jake’s scars are his badge,” said Lindler. “He’s a true survivor.”

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Resolution On Systemic Repression Of Women In Iran By MEP Approved

Nov 29 2024

The European Parliament approved a resolution led by Labour MEP Daniel Attard, in collaboration with members from other political groups, condemning the systematic repression of women in Iran.

The resolution demands unrestricted access for UN investigators, immediate justice for victims, and an end to oppression and intimidation.

During the plenary debate, Daniel Attard remarked, “When women in Iran refuse to comply with laws that strip them of their dignity, the regime labels them as dangerous or unstable. The problem is not the women who resist—it is the system that punishes them for refusing to bow their heads.”

Attard stressed that this issue transcends Iran, challenging universal values. “Indifference is complicity. We cannot compromise on human rights. The EU must go beyond statements, strengthen accountability mechanisms, and take a clear stand for life, freedom, and equality,” he said.

As Vice President of the European Parliament Delegation to Iran, Attard reaffirmed his commitment to being a strong advocate against human rights abuses, both in Iran and globally.

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New Collective Agreement To Benefit Over 33,000 Employees

Nov 29 2024

On Friday morning, a collective agreement for public service workers was signed at the Grandmaster’s Palace, benefiting 33,000 employees through salary increases and improvements in working conditions. This agreement provides additional increases to those already given to public service workers at the sectoral level.

The agreement, which takes effect at the beginning of next year and runs until 2030, involves an investment of €1.270 billion. It includes salary increases, new allowances, and the introduction of additional allowances. Employees not at the maximum of their respective pay scales will also be entitled to salary increments. The lowest government pay scale, previously €500 above the minimum wage, will now be €1,200 above the minimum wage.

Prime Minister Robert Abela highlighted that the agreement builds on previous sectoral agreements with educators, nurses, police, and civil protection workers. He emphasized that the agreement reflects the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all citizens, enabled by the country’s strong economy.

Public Service Head Tony Sultana noted that this agreement complements existing sectoral agreements and introduces new concepts, such as the Long Service Bonus, along with significant salary increases. He also mentioned the focus on work-life balance, mental health, and sustainability in the agreement.

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