Mental Health Protection Discussed At Health Minister’s Council

Mental Health Protection Discussed At Health Minister's Council
Mar 26 2025 Share

In Warsaw, Poland, Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela, is attending the Health Ministers’ Council meeting, organised under the Polish Presidency of the EU Council. Discussions have focused on the protection of mental health in children and young people and ensuring equal access to medicines for all.

During his intervention on mental health care for children and young people and the impact of social media, Minister Jo Etienne Abela emphasised that mental health protection and care have long been a priority for the Maltese Government, with several strategies and innovations being implemented in this field. He stressed that this issue should be high on the agenda of every European country.

“In recent years, Malta has launched several initiatives to safeguard mental health, including the introduction of the ‘Be Smart Online’ programme, the ‘Child Web Alert Hotline’, and the national mental health helpline 1579. However, this is not enough, and we remain committed to strengthening our efforts in this area, ensuring we continue to listen to young people and children themselves,” stated Minister Abela.

On the issue of medicine accessibility, Minister Abela reiterated the points raised by Prime Minister Robert Abela in Brussels, stressing the importance of ensuring fair access to all medicines at equal prices. He reaffirmed Malta’s position on fair access to medicines, advocating that all EU Member States should benefit equally from the Single Market. He insisted that Malta’s small size should not be a barrier to enjoying the advantages of the Single Market on equal terms.

“The health of our citizens is the driving force behind these crucial discussions. Equal and transparent access to essential medicines and the protection of young people’s mental health are the foundations of our commitment and work,” concluded Minister Abela.

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New AC System Installed At Zejtun Residential Home

New AC System Installed At Zejtun Residential Home
Mar 26 2025 Share

An investment of €400,000 has seen the installation of a new fan coil air conditioning system at Żejtun Residential Home, replacing the outdated system that had been causing discomfort for both residents and staff. The upgraded system is set to improve air quality, maintain a comfortable indoor climate throughout the year, and boost the home’s energy efficiency.

During a visit to the residential home, where he also engaged with the residents, Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing, Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, stressed the importance of ensuring that elderly care homes provide a safe, comfortable, and suitable environment. He remarked, “This investment is part of a broader series of projects aimed at enhancing our elderly care facilities. Our priority is to create high-quality living conditions that cater to residents’ needs while continuously improving residential care standards.”

As part of the visit, the Parliamentary Secretary also met with the Residents’ Committee to discuss key matters, including their concerns and the importance of ensuring their voices are heard.

Dr Renzo De Gabriele, Chief Executive of Active Ageing and Community Care, explained that the project entailed a complete overhaul of the previous system, replacing it with a more efficient and sustainable alternative. This included the installation of new units in communal areas and halls, alongside modern control systems that allow for more precise monitoring of temperature and energy usage.

This project forms part of a wider modernisation strategy for residential homes across Malta, including those in Mosta and Mtarfa, with the ultimate aim of elevating the quality of care while upholding dignity and respect for the elderly.

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Relationship Consent, Virtual Violence Discussed With Students

Relationship Consent, Virtual Violence Discussed With Students
Mar 26 2025 Share

As part of an educational campaign on consent in relationships, Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Rebecca Buttigieg, underlined the importance of cultivating respect within relationships. She stressed that fostering this culture is essential to challenging gender stereotypes, which frequently contribute to domestic violence.

Approximately 300 students from St Joseph School (Blata l-Bajda and Raħal Ġdid) and De La Salle College took part in these interactive workshops, which were organised by the National Commission on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence. The sessions explored various issues, including abusive behaviour in online spaces, particularly on social media platforms.

These workshops form part of the “Nieqfu Flimkien, Flimkien Infiqu” campaign, which was launched last year as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Violence.

An anonymous survey conducted during the sessions revealed a concerning trend: nearly one-third (30.52%) of students reported that they had been asked to share intimate photos of themselves online.

Samantha Pace Gasan, Commissioner for Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence, outlined the key principles of consent, emphasising that relationships should always be based on trust, respect, and safety. She also highlighted that these principles must be upheld in virtual interactions, ensuring that online relationships are built on the same foundations of mutual respect.

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Malta Airport Foundation Sponsors Valletta Siege Bell Memorial Restoration

Malta Airport Foundation Sponsors Valletta Siege Bell Memorial Restoration
Mar 26 2025 Share

The Malta Airport Foundation is partnering with Heritage Malta to restore Valletta’s Siege Bell Memorial, sponsoring the second phase of an ongoing restoration project.

This iconic monument, which honours over 7,000 victims of World War II in Malta, was inaugurated in 1992 and stands within Saint Christopher’s Bastion. Designed by British sculptor Michael Sandel, it houses Malta’s largest bell, which once tolled daily at noon in remembrance of the fallen. However, structural concerns forced the practice to cease in recent years.

The first phase of restoration focused on structural repairs and the bronze bell mechanism. Now, the second phase will enhance the monument’s surroundings and improve security. Works will include new safety railings, upgraded paving, CCTV installation, and designer lighting, ensuring the memorial remains visible and appreciated day and night. Additionally, the internal bastion walls, upper slopes, and the bronze sculpture of the unknown soldier will be restored.

Josef Formosa Gauci, Chairman of the Malta Airport Foundation, expressed pride in supporting this project, highlighting its role in preserving Malta’s wartime heritage. He noted that the embellishment works would enhance the area’s natural beauty, with breathtaking views of Grand Harbour and the fortifications.

Heritage Malta CEO, Noel Zammit, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a perfect match given the Foundation’s commitment to cultural heritage. He emphasised that such collaborations allow both locals and visitors to appreciate Malta’s history, which is central to the nation’s identity and tourism offering.

The Siege Bell Memorial project is one of several restoration initiatives supported by the Malta Airport Foundation. Between 2017 and 2020, it partnered with Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna to restore the Combined Operations Room, part of an extensive underground wartime complex. The Foundation has also contributed to the restoration of the Via Sagra at Ta’ Ġieżu Church and supported Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti in opening the Victor Pasmore Gallery on Saint Paul Street, further enriching Valletta’s cultural landscape.

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