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New simplification measures introduced for the Empowerment Scheme

Feb 23 2024 Share

A simplified and easier process for people with disabilities applying for subsidies through the Empowerment scheme has been announced by the Support Agency, led by Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia Portelli.

The new measures will mean that applicants for subsidies will now need to submit a single estimate instead of three for assistive devices, ranging between €400 and €3,000.  To also make life easier any items or devices in the price range of €100 and €300 can now be grouped together to reach the €400 threshold.

A medical report will no longer be needed as a valid medical certificate from the applicant’s doctor will now be enough. For subsidy applications on hearing aids, a medical certificate is also no longer needed.

Minister Farrugia Portelli emphasized that this simplification process will enable applicants to make use of the necessary devices more quickly due to reduced bureaucracy, making life easier for people with disabilities and avoiding discouragement due to excessive administrative hurdles.

Support Agency CEO Oliver Scicluna emphasized the agency’s commitment to improving the accessibility of services and programs while also strengthening accountability, transparency, and efficiency. He highlighted the significance of initiatives such as Empowerment in delivering essential support to individuals with disabilities and their families, ultimately enhancing their community life by facilitating access to assistive devices and improving their overall quality of life.

Between January and December 2023, over €782,000 in subsidies were granted to people with disabilities who applied for financial assistance through the Empowerment scheme, with a total of 1,385 applications approved.

One can apply for this scheme by submitting an electronic application through the Support Agency’s website.

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Sarah Bajada Brings Back Figolli Decorating Kits: Raise For Puttinu

Sarah Bajada Brings Back Figolli Decorating Kits: Raise For Puttinu
Feb 23 2024 Share

Maltese TV Presenter and author Sarah Bajada has announced that, for the second consecutive year, she is bringing her figolli decorating kits back to raise money for Puttinu Cares. 

 

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‘This kit includes everything your little ones need to decorate delicious vanilla cookies at home, and it’s perfect for busy mums who want to spend quality time with their children during the holidays.’

All proceeds which come from the kits will be going to Puttinu Cares so that one would be helping those in need while having fun with the family. 

 

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Last year, Sarah managed to raise €1,000 for the NGO, presenting the cheque to the organisation. After such a success, Sarah hopes to bring more joy to not only kids decorating figolli but also those battling cancer. 

 

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Ian Borg Pushes for Stronger Collaboration at OSCE Assembly

Feb 23 2024 Share

Minister Ian Borg Addresses OSCE Parliamentary Assembly

Ian Borg, as the President of the OSCE, emphasized Malta’s belief in fostering strong collaboration between member countries’ governments and parliamentary structures to maintain the organization’s effectiveness. Speaking at the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Vienna, Austria, Borg highlighted the crucial role of this independent institution in promoting dialogue among parliamentarians from OSCE member states.

Reflecting on the current challenges facing the OSCE, Borg underscored the necessity for the organization to operate effectively, particularly in turbulent times. He emphasized the significance of the assembly’s potential and the critical importance of addressing parliamentary concerns.

Borg also addressed recent events, noting the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and affirming Malta’s commitment to prioritizing the cessation of the conflict. He reiterated that conflicts and tensions in the region and beyond will remain high on the OSCE agenda.

Regarding Malta’s presidency, Borg outlined priorities focused on “Strengthening Resilience and Enhancing Security” across all dimensions of the OSCE. Additionally, he engaged in meetings with various stakeholders, including the President and Secretary-General of the General Assembly, as well as with the Maltese Parliamentary delegation and internal OSCE officials.

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Kusi Dismark Deported From Malta After 13 Year Stay

Kusi Dismark Deported From Malta After 13 Year Stay
Feb 23 2024 Share

Kusi Dismark bid farewell to Malta on Friday morning, concluding a residency spanning 13 years in the country, despite pleas for reconsideration based on humanitarian grounds.

The protest happening this Sunday by a number of activist groups will still be taking place and calling for stability and an end to uncertainty for long-term migrants living and working in Malta. 

The activists, which include Moviment Graffitti, Dance Beyond Borders, SOS Malta, aditus foundation and others, will meet on Sunday 25th February at 15:00 at Ħamrun Square and will walk to Valletta to make demands to parliament. 

The 37-year-old reportedly made the decision to return voluntarily to Ghana after being detained on January 21 under a removal order. Although initially denied asylum upon arrival in Malta in 2011, he was permitted to work, pay taxes, and contribute socially.

Having invested in his education and established a hair salon in Ħamrun, Kusi had plans to expand his business until his recent arrest. Following a meeting with the Principal Immigration Officer alongside his lawyers Gianluca Cappitta and Adrian Sciberras, Kusi opted for voluntary return to Ghana, a decision made after careful consultation.

Despite enduring statelessness for over 12 years, Kusi won’t face a ban from re-entering Malta due to intervention from the Home Affairs Ministry. His departure underscores the plight of stateless individuals on the island, emphasizing the need for initiatives to regularize their legal status.

While his aspirations for Europe are temporarily on hold, Kusi finds solace in the prospect of reuniting with his mother, whom he’s been separated from during his time away from Ghana. Support remains steadfast for his journey ahead.

Various voices, including the Church’s Migrants Commission director and European Parliament president Roberta Metsola, have echoed support for Kusi, criticizing the decision to deport him. The call for compassionate immigration policies resonates strongly, emphasizing the human aspect behind legal frameworks.

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