More telework during 2021 quasi-lockdown than when COVID-19 first hit

Apr 30 2021

It seems that more people decided to work from home during 2021’s quasi-lockdown following the whopping 510 COVID-19 positive cases last month, than when the pandemic first hit last year. New Google data shows that visits to workplaces after the health authorities and government announced remote learning and teleworking due to a spike in cases dropped significantly by some 80%.

March 2020 only saw a 50% drop in the same category, with 2021’s statistic being significantly higher. To the contrary, drop in visits to retail and recreational outlets was at 40% last month despite the closure of non-essentials, whereas 2020 saw a significant 75% drop. Visits to open spaces such as beaches and parks increased 40% as many decided to get some fresh air due to the many hours spent inside – assuming, of course, they were not in mandatory quarantine.

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Photo Source: EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA

Two out of three youths have tried cannabis

Apr 30 2021

A research commissioned by the university student’s council KSU has revealed that around two-thirds of youth have tried smoking cannabis at some point in their life, with the majority still using the substance. MISCO International carried out the study and focused on drug use and regulation in Malta. Forming part of the awareness campaign called ‘Beyond the Influence’, the research was carried out in January and February.

67% of the 976 participants, with ages varying from 16 and 34, revealed that they have used drugs for recreational purposes, with 60% still using substances. A third of those who tried it were women, with a majority stating that they used it at the age of 17 to 19. Cannabis was mostly sought after as around 98%, with hallucinogens following at 46% and stimulants at 38%.

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Photo Source: chuangchoem, Sayles

Audience for Eurovision 2021 in Rotterdam confirmed

Apr 30 2021

Despite rumours making rounds about this very topic, the government in Holland has indeed confirmed that an audience will be allowed to attend and enjoy the Eurovision song contest live. Several party tests in various countries have had quite positive results with not much COVID-19 spread directly from the event itself.

Around 3500 Eurovision fans will be allowed to attend the contest as spectators, with safety measures being of utmost importance. Tickets will be available as of 8th May, with attendees required to present a negative COVID-19 test but also allowed to take off their masks. Malta’s very own Destiny Chukunyere will be competing with her song ‘Je Me Casse’ in the first semi-final, with the song already proving to be a crowd favourite.

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Photo Source: Eurovision Song Contest Wiki, The Island

Rabbit legs spread over pavement in Zebbug

Apr 30 2021

Animal Liberation Malta posted to Facebook gut-wrenching images of cut off rabbit legs strewn all over a pavement next to St Dorothy’s school in Zebbug. The act was described by the non-profit organisation as absolutely despicable. This is not the first time cut off animal parts were found laying around as, just a few days ago, ears of various animals were found carelessly thrown away.

The group went on to say; ‘A nation of ‘animal lovers’ who willingly pay for over 500,000 rabbits to be murdered on this island annually, with the evidence literally ALL around… SHAME!’. The direct origins of these legs is currently unknown but the act itself roused up all sort of criticism and angry reactions on social media platforms.

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Photo Source: Animal Liberation Malta FB