PL Embraces Wasted Food Project Proposed By Pn Opposition State

Nov 7 2024

The Nationalist Opposition has expressed that, after proposing a bill on food waste over a year and a half ago, the Labour Government has now chosen to adopt it within the 2025 Budget.

During a press conference held by Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Toni Bezzina, alongside Shadow Minister for Social and Affordable Housing, Pensions, and the Fight Against Poverty Ivan Bartolo, the Opposition highlighted the timeline of their initiative.

They noted that in May 2023, they presented a bill to Parliament aimed at reducing food waste by reallocating unused food to those in need. This measure would not only address food insecurity but also mitigate the environmental impact of food waste.

The Nationalist Party claims that, rather than acting immediately on this proposal, the Government delayed its adoption, only now incorporating it into the upcoming budget plan.

#MaltaDaily

Water Services And Civil Protection Partner Up To Enhance Emergency Responses

Nov 7 2024

The Water Services Corporation (WSC) and the Civil Protection Department (CPD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance public safety and emergency response in Malta and Gozo.

This agreement focuses on two main objectives: the installation and upkeep of fire hydrants and specialized training for WSC staff.

Through this partnership, WSC will install and maintain fire hydrants at key locations, which will be managed by CPD in emergencies.

In return, CPD will offer essential firefighting and safety training to WSC personnel, creating a stronger, more coordinated response capability.

Minister for the Environment, Energy, and Regeneration Miriam Dalli praised the agreement, calling it a “commitment to public safety and operational efficiency.”

WSC CEO Karl Cilia and CPD Director General Peter Paul Coleiro highlighted the collaboration’s value in reducing emergency response times and preparing both agencies to work seamlessly together.

The MOU takes effect immediately and will initially run for two years, with automatic renewal provisions.

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Australia Set To Introduce Social Media Ban For Under 16s

Nov 7 2024

Australia plans to introduce legislation banning social media use for children under 16, aiming to protect young users from online harm.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasised the government’s responsibility to safeguard children, stating that the law is a response to parental concerns over online safety.

The ban will not apply retroactively to existing young users, and there will be no exemptions, even with parental consent. Social media platforms will be required to demonstrate compliance, enforced by the eSafety Commissioner.

The law, if passed, would be enacted a year later and reviewed over time.

The legislation has sparked debate. While some experts agree social media negatively affects adolescent mental health, others argue that an outright ban might only delay children’s exposure to these platforms, rather than preparing them to navigate them responsibly.

Advocacy groups, including the Australian Child Rights Taskforce, argue that enforcing safety standards rather than banning access could provide safer engagement with digital spaces, as recommended by the UN.

However, supporters, like the grassroots 36Months initiative, contend that a ban is necessary, citing concerns about mental health and exposure to harmful content. Albanese dismissed education-only approaches, highlighting the unequal influence of tech companies on young minds.

#MaltaDaily

Harris Called Trump & Conceded Election

Nov 7 2024

Kamala Harris addressed supporters at Howard University after losing the 2024 U.S. presidential election to Donald Trump.

In her concession speech, Harris expressed disappointment but reaffirmed her commitment to ongoing causes, stating that the fight for America’s values would continue. She acknowledged the emotional impact of the loss, encouraging young supporters to stay hopeful despite setbacks.

She also congratulated Trump, emphasising the importance of a peaceful transition of power—a pointed contrast to Trump’s own refusal to concede in 2020.

Harris’s campaign faced formidable challenges. Though she championed women’s reproductive rights and promised a positive future, many voters were more focused on economic concerns like high inflation and immigration, which ultimately swung key battleground states toward Trump.

Harris’s historic candidacy as the first Black and South Asian woman to seek the presidency inspired her base, but it wasn’t enough to overcome widespread voter dissatisfaction.

As vice president, Harris will oversee the certification of Trump’s victory in Congress, ensuring a smooth transition.

President Biden has also pledged to attend Trump’s inauguration, signalling a commitment to democratic norms after a divisive election season. Harris closed by thanking her husband and supporters, remaining hopeful about America’s future.

#MaltaDaily