Man Arrested After Stabbing Another In Paola

May 3 2024

On Thursday, a 37-year-old Libyan resident of Żurrieq was apprehended following a stabbing incident in Paola.

The altercation occurred on Triq Ħaż-Żabbar around 9:40 am, involving the suspect and a 47-year-old Syrian resident of Paola.

Subsequent to the dispute, the victim sustained stab wounds from a sharp object. Prompt police intervention led to the arrest of the assailant at Paola square shortly thereafter.

The injured individual was transported to Mater Dei Hospital, where he was diagnosed with severe injuries. Magistrate Ian Farrugia has initiated an inquiry, while police investigations remain ongoing.

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db Group Launches Free and Confidential Mental Health Support for Employees

May 3 2024

In a move to prioritize employee well-being, the db Group has teamed up with local NGO Caritas to offer free mental health support services to its workforce. Over 1,500 employees will benefit from this initiative, which aims to create a safe space for seeking counseling and social work assistance.

The partnership, led by the db Foundation, introduces an Employee Assistance Programme providing access to a wide range of support services. Employees can seek assistance anonymously, with all costs covered by the db Foundation.

In addition to individual counseling, the partnership includes psycho-social education through talks and workshops, fostering a culture of empowerment and understanding within the organization.

Dr. Sandra Sladden, head of the db Group Foundation, emphasized the importance of such programs in today’s world. “It’s both a pleasure and a source of pride to work with Caritas to find the right solution for all the employees of the db Group,” she commented.

Robert Debono, CEO of the db Group, highlighted the company’s commitment to employee well-being. “As a major employer in Malta, it is our responsibility to care for our employees and ensure they get all the support they need,” he said.

Anthony Gatt, Caritas Foundation Director, expressed gratitude for the partnership, stating, “Db Foundation’s support will help Caritas continue to reach the most vulnerable in our society.” With this partnership, the db Group reaffirms its commitment to employee well-being, setting an example for other employers to prioritize mental health support.

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Malta Climbs 11 Places In World Press Freedom Index as Other Countries Do Worse

May 3 2024

Malta has seen a notable improvement in its ranking on the World Press Freedom Index, climbing 11 places to 73rd out of 180 countries. The index, compiled by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), points out that this advancement is largely due to deteriorating press freedom situations in other nations.

While Malta’s position has improved, it still ranks second to last among EU member states, with only Greece below it in 88th place. Hungary, criticized for its government’s attempts to limit independent journalism, ranks third worst among EU countries.

Pavol Szalai, Head of the EU-Balkans Desk at RSF, noted that Malta’s progress is limited by the government’s failure to implement recommendations from the public inquiry into the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia. The situation is compounded by unresolved issues related to media independence and sustainability, as well as inadequate protection for journalists.

Despite being in a “problematic” situation according to the RSF ranking, Malta has seen some hope with the adoption of the European Media Freedom Act. This legislation raises expectations for improvements in press freedom.

The global picture painted by the index is bleak, with only eight countries enjoying a “good” situation for press freedom. Norway maintains its top spot, while Ireland slips six places to eighth. On the other end, Eritrea, Syria, Afghanistan, and North Korea are among the worst offenders, with Afghanistan seeing a significant decline in press freedom following Taliban rule.

The report underscores a worrying trend of governments worldwide failing to protect press freedom. RSF emphasizes the crucial role of journalism in any democratic system and warns against the increasing disempowerment of states and political forces in safeguarding this fundamental right.

Anne Bocandé, RSF’s editorial director, stresses that journalism is indispensable for the exercise of political freedoms, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to protect press freedom globally.

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‘A Plan For Every Locality’, Prime Minister Promises

May 3 2024

‘The 8th of June also means the approval of plans which we have for every locality to continue strengthening the Maltese and Gozitan people’, said Robert Abela as his primary message in a political event in Birżebbuġa.

Referencing some of the projects completed by the government in the locality – among them a community clinic and the Bengħajsa park – the Prime Minister highlighted the ongoing work to create a new civic centre.

The works to implement the shore-to-ship project are also taking place, which will lead to cleaner air and less noise pollution.

Dr. Abela addressed the magisterial inquiry initiated post the electoral campaign, emphasizing his refusal to stay silent, citing the preservation of people’s sovereignty as his motive.

He stressed his constitutional duty as Head of the Executive to uphold checks and balances on democracy’s pillars. Criticizing the inquiry for politicizing justice, he asserted any wrongdoing stemmed from the inquiry itself, indicating a departure from its intended purpose.

On inflation, Dr. Abela highlighted the Labour Government’s tax-free stance and stable energy prices. He outlined assistance for first-time homebuyers and the success of the Stability Scheme in reducing inflation, debunking opposition claims.

Reflecting on a recent Cabinet meeting, he noted diverse economic voices endorsing Malta’s investment appeal, affirming the economy’s resilience. Regarding European Parliament nominees, he praised their pro-Malta stance, citing their varied backgrounds and suitability for Gozo and Malta.

Dr. Abela concluded by underscoring his administration’s responsiveness to people’s realities, pledging continued dedication to addressing their needs.

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