Malta’s First Cat Café Opens In Żurrieq

Jun 2 2025

Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights, Alicia Bugeja Said, together with the Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works, Omar Farrugia, inaugurated the opening of the first Cat Café in Żurrieq.

In Triq il-Belt Valletta, Żurrieq, the Public Works Department completed maintenance work at the Cat Café in the area.

During a visit while the work was ongoing, the Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works, Omar Farrugia, explained that the work being done in the area creates a better environment both for those who visit and feed the cats and for the cats themselves.

The Mayor of Żurrieq, Rita Grima, said, “Today is a special occasion for the Żurrieq Local Council because after many months of work, the first Cat Café managed by the local council has opened. I thank various entities, volunteers, Councillor Marisa D’Amato, as well as Executive Secretary Josianne Cilia Munford, because without their efforts this project would not have been possible.”

Alicia Bugeja Said explained that through this Cat Café, the ministry continues to work on its electoral promises, including increasing the number of cat cafés and dog parks. She said, “Projects like these play an important role in the care and protection of stray cats. Today we opened this beautiful space where visitors can spend some time with these cats in a safe environment.”

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Second Public Consultation On Voluntary Assisted Euthanasia Concludes

Jun 2 2025

The second part of the consultation on voluntary assisted euthanasia was held in Xewkija, Gozo, where several people expressed their views on the document. Attendees from various backgrounds came together to share their opinions, including individuals who have experienced the suffering of relatives with terminal illnesses.

The session was led by the Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg, who is overseeing this consultative process on behalf of the Government, engaging both members of the public and civil society entities.

During the meeting, she reiterated the Government’s commitment to continue investing in palliative care. She referred to the strategy for strengthening palliative care launched earlier this year, which outlines the planned investments over the next ten years.

The document clearly states that every person with a terminal illness should be offered palliative care and that voluntary assisted euthanasia can only be requested by the person themselves, who has a terminal illness and meets the established criteria.

Rebecca Buttigieg explained that the Government is not willing to consider models used in some other countries and has therefore introduced safeguards to ensure this option is only available to adults.

She added that disability, mental health conditions, and old age can never be reasons for a person to request voluntary assisted euthanasia.

Parliamentary Secretary emphasised that the Government remains committed to considering all perspectives throughout the consultation process. She highlighted that more than 350 submissions have already been received via the website facts.gov.mt. The consultation will remain open until 2 July 2025, allowing further contributions from the public.

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Local Political Parties Raise €1M+ In TV Marathons

Jun 2 2025

Over €1 million was raised in total by Malta’s two main political parties during televised fundraising marathons held on Sunday.

The events were organised separately by the Labour Party (PL) and the Nationalist Party (PN), each aiming to gather public donations.

The Labour Party collected €721,318 during a marathon marking the 30th anniversary of the opening of the Labour National Centre in Ħamrun.

The sum was announced by the party’s Chief Executive, Leonid McKay, who noted it was the highest amount ever raised in this month outside of an election year.

Prime Minister and Labour Party Leader Robert Abela was present at the event’s conclusion, alongside Ian Borg and Alex Agius Saliba.

Meanwhile, the Nationalist Party raised €329,882 during its own fundraising marathon, held at its Central Headquarters.

PN Leader Bernard Grech addressed supporters, expressing gratitude for the public’s contributions and outlining recent policy proposals, including tax changes and constitutional reform.

Other party officials, including Secretary General Charles Bonello and Deputy Leader Alex Perici Calascione, also spoke during the event.

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World Milk Day: Educational Event Held at Gozo Farm

Jun 2 2025

Marking World Milk Day, celebrated on 1st of June, the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, the Malta Food Agency, the Milk Producers Cooperative (KPH) and Benna organised a special educational event on a farm in Gozo.

Children from Xewkija Primary School had the opportunity to learn first-hand where fresh milk comes from.

Through practical activities, the pupils discovered the role of cows in the milk production process, gaining a deeper understanding of how milk reaches their tables.

Minister Anton Refalo, who attended the event, said,
“A day like this reminds us that milk is not only essential for our health but also forms part of our agricultural identity. When we instil appreciation among children, we are building a future with greater respect for farming and local produce.”

Brian Vella, CEO of the Malta Food Agency, highlighted the importance of supporting local farmers and encouraging a culture of healthy, locally sourced eating from an early age.

He added, “When we buy and consume a Maltese product, we are giving value to what is truly ours, made with care and a sense of pride.”

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