In a significant move to enhance parental support, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced on Sunday the extension of state-funded paternity leave to self-employed fathers and second parents. This new legislation aims to ensure that all parents have access to crucial time off during the early stages of parenthood.

The announcement follows Abela’s recent pledge of 100 days of state-funded leave for self-employed parents undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to supporting families during important life transitions.

During his address in St. Paul’s Bay, Abela also hinted at upcoming amendments to IVF legislation, acknowledging that while important reforms have been made, certain restrictions still exist. He emphasized the need for changes to ensure that the law accommodates all couples seeking to start or expand their families.

These initiatives represent a progressive step in Malta’s family policy, aiming to create a more inclusive environment for parents and promote a healthier work-life balance.

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A comprehensive study from the UK has revealed that “fussy eating” in children is primarily influenced by genetics rather than parenting styles. The research, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, examined the eating habits of 2,400 identical and non-identical twins from ages 16 months to 13 years.

The findings indicate that identical twins exhibited significantly similar food preferences, suggesting a strong genetic component to food fussiness. The study found that genetic differences accounted for about 60% of variations in food selectivity at 16 months, rising to 74% between ages three and 13.

While genetic factors play a major role, the research also emphasizes that parents can still make a difference, especially in early childhood, by introducing a variety of foods. Professor Clare Llewellyn, the study’s senior author, noted that these insights aim to alleviate parental anxiety regarding children’s eating habits, emphasizing that fussy eating is a common, inherited trait rather than a reflection of parenting quality.

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This afternoon, the Civil Protection Department of Malta responded to an emergency at Wied iż-Żurrieq, where two swimmers found themselves in difficulty while attempting to return to shore. The rescue operation involved teams from Fire Station 1 and Fire Station 5, who were quickly dispatched to assist the swimmers in distress.

The situation required immediate attention due to the swimmers’ inability to safely navigate back to land. The Civil Protection Department worked in collaboration with multiple agencies, including The Malta Police Force, the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM), and the Emergency Department of Mater Dei Hospital, to ensure the swift and safe resolution of the incident.

Thanks to the coordinated efforts of all involved, the swimmers were successfully rescued and transported for medical evaluation. The Civil Protection Department extended its gratitude to all the organizations that contributed to the rescue operation, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in such critical situations.

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