Neil Agius and Sean Meli receive Republic Day honours from President

Dec 14 2021

Among those awarded Republic Day honours by President George Vella on Monday were record-breaking swimmer Neil Agius and Sean Meli, who saved a boy from drowning last month. Back in November, 33-year-old former water polo swimmer Sean Meli was hailed a national hero after he rescued a 14-year-old boy from drowning in Sliema.

For his brave feat, Meli was awarded the ‘Midalja Ghall-Qlubija’ award, revealing that had he let the boy drown, he would have been traumatised for life. The ceremony saw two individuals awarded with the Medal for Bravery (one of whom was Meli) and 11 others awarded with the Medal for the Service of the Republic.

One of the winners of the latter award was ultra-distance swimmer Neil Agius, who completed a 125.75km swim in 52 hours back in July to raise awareness about plastic pollution. Agius told newsroom Times of Malta that ‘being awarded ensures me that I am doing the right thing and it drives me to continue advocating and doing what we do.’

Apart from Meli, doctor Raymond Grixti received the Bravery award for giving first to a person who was seriously injured in a hostile environment. As for the other awards, author Joe Zammit Cutajar, cancer patient and advocate Ethel Vento Zahra and veteran actress Jane Marshall were amongst those awarded.

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Photo Source: Neil Agius FB/IG, Steffie Cassar Torreggiani

Nine youth arrested for starting fires in abandoned St Philip’s Hospital

Dec 14 2021

Nine youth have been arrested for allegedly setting fire to the abandoned St Philip’s Hospital in Santa Venera.

A police statement revealed that Hamrun district police, assisted by Rapid Intervention Unit officers, were involved in the arrest of the teenagers, with ages ranging between 15 and 20.

At around 1500hrs yesterday 13th December 2021, police were informed of the entry by the youth in the abandoned hospital. They allegedly started to set fire to some rooms.

The fires were controlled by Civil Protection officers. Investigations are ongoing with an inquiry being opened by Magistrate Dr Monica Vella LL.D.

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Photo Source: MaltaToday

Looking to host a staff or family party this festive season? We have you covered!

Dec 14 2021

Setting up the location for your loved ones or your coworkers comes with a lot of challenges – finding the perfect dishes, the astounding area and… the bookings! So here is a list of possible options for you…

1. Marea

Kicking off our list is an option in the south of Malta. Marea is all about a chic and lavish experience.

Dominating in Asian cuisine and a great spot for sushi lovers, it’s got the views and great cocktails to bask in them with.

Marea also have a live DJ spinning tunes most nights, so it’s a definite certified experience.

2. Pastrocchio

Pastrocchio’s hearty portions in a chilled environment offers something for everyone and will leave your taste buds utterly satisfied.

It’s a central location in Mriehel, offering foodies genuine prices and an entire field of food possibility.

Whether it’s their Ravioli Prawn and Scallop or their signature Veal Saltimbicca, you won’t be disappointed.

3. Don Berto

If a great view of the picturesque grand harbour coupled with a hearty meal is what you’re looking for, then Don Berto definitely has you covered.

We cannot help but talk about their delicious portions with value for money. But given that we’ll be reuniting with lots of people we care about, Don Berto can cater for huge groups.

4. A Mano

Pizza lovers will go crazy at A Mano, given the restaurant’s authentic Italian pizza and even pasta dishes.

Yet another relaxed environment which captures stunning views of the Grand Harbour. A Mano offers set menus but just looking at their dishes ensures that everyone will leave with a happy stomach.

5. Cardini

Last but not least, Cardini is a dessert haven with free parking in Sliema. With prices that don’t break the bank, an experience at Cardini on the Sliema promenade is made even better with their Big Juicy Burgers.

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Cannabis could be made legal today in Malta in European first

Dec 14 2021

The last vote on the Cannabis bill will be taken today on 14th December 2021, confirming whether it will be made legal in Malta. The vote will be taken in parliament later this afternoon, with pro-cannabis legislation movement ‘ReLeaf’ announcing that they will be present at Parliament to monitor and provide updates.

The revolutionary vote was recognised internationally, with news portals such as the Guardian posting how Malta will be legalising cannabis in ‘European first.’ The Bill entails possession of up to seven grams of the drug for those aged over 18 made legal as well as growing up to four cannabis plants at home, with up to 50g of dried product storable.

The Guardian pointed out how Malta is likely to be followed by reform across Europe in 2022, as Germany recently announced a move to establish a legally regulated market. Switzerland, Luxembourg and the Netherlands also announced such goals.

Reforms Minister told the Guardian that the government did not want to encourage the use of recreational drugs but that there was no evidence of the argument that the use of cannabis was in itself a gateway to harder substances. He also highlighted how the ‘hard-fist’ approach against the use of cannabis was disproportionate and unjust. The Bill was met with considerable disagreement by many groups, with tonight’s vote setting the decision straight.

For those wondering, the Netherlands, despite being associated with a relaxed attitude towards cannabis use, still technically has possession and trade of cannabis kept illegal.

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Photo Source: Owen Bonnici FB, Business Insider, The Guardian