Public Consultation Launched On Malta’s First National Alcohol Policy

Jun 25 2025

Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon has launched a public consultation on the National Alcohol Policy, aiming to address alcohol consumption through a coordinated and responsible approach. The policy document includes several proposals and is divided into three main pillars. The first priority focuses on reducing the acceptability, accessibility, and availability of alcohol. The consultation will remain open for five weeks, until 31st July.

Minister Falzon highlighted the need for a cultural shift, explaining that alcohol consumption should not be normalized, given the potential negative bio-psycho-social effects. “We need to show that alcohol consumption is not a normal part of our culture. This can be achieved through increased awareness, particularly in schools and workplaces,” the Minister stated.

The main priorities of the policy revolve around promoting a culture of responsibility, particularly by reducing alcohol use in specific locations, especially those frequented by children and young people. It also proposes mandatory training for shop owners and staff who serve or sell alcohol in licensed premises.

The second part of the policy addresses alcohol-related harms, including the impact on individual health, domestic violence, and road accidents linked to driving under the influence. The document also proposes the introduction of an alcohol use screening system.

The third section of the policy deals with cross-cutting issues such as monitoring and evaluation. It proposes the establishment of a National Focal Point on Alcohol, which would play a key role in coordinating and overseeing all related measures.

Anyone who wishes to submit recommendations can do so at: publicconsultation.gov.mt

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Maltese Designers Drop Iconic ‘Make Malta Chill Again’ Hat

Jun 25 2025

Maltese fashion designers Artist X Parascandalo and Stache Studios have teamed up to release a bold new statement piece, the “Make Malta Chill Again” cap, following a tense and eventful few weeks on the island.

The phrase, a clear twist on Donald Trump’s famous “Make America Great Again” slogan, was introduced on the designers’ social media pages, where they shared a video highlighting recent incidents that have shaken Malta.

These included scenes of public fights and the tragic collapse of the Tania Flats building in the heart of Paceville.

In their post, the designers wrote, “MMCA. Make Malta Chill Again. Let’s get the message across,” using fashion as a way to comment on the current state of the country.

The caps will be available in three colours: red, beige, and black. Each one will feature a curved visor, six embroidered eyelets, and an adjustable back strap, combining comfort with a streetwear edge.

What makes this drop special is that the caps are made to order. Each item is produced on demand, meaning every customer receives a unique, handcrafted piece.

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Athletics Team Malta In Fifth Place After Day 1 Of European Athletics Team Championships

Jun 25 2025

Athletics Team Malta kicked off their campaign at the European Athletics Team Championships in Maribor, Slovenia, with a strong showing, ending Day One in fifth position in the 15-nation Division Three competition.

Despite the absence of several key athletes, the Maltese contingent demonstrated remarkable resilience and depth, with standout performances across both track and field events particularly from a number of promising young talents.

Rachela Pace was among the day’s top performers, claiming maximum points for Malta with a superb victory in the long jump, leaping to an impressive 6.39m.

Middle-distance runner Gina McNamara continued her fine form, securing first place in the 800m with a time of 2:10.05, while Matthew Galea Soler impressed in the 400m, clocking 46.90s to take second place.

All three athletes are set to compete again today, aiming to add further points to Malta’s tally.

The women’s relay team also put in a commendable effort, securing third place with a solid time of 46.99s.

With 184 points accumulated, Malta sits in fifth place matching their result from two years ago in Poland. Iceland and Luxembourg currently lead the standings, with Moldova close behind in third on 197 points.

The championships conclude today, with Team Malta looking to capitalise on their strong start and climb further up the leaderboard.

The Maltese team in the European Athletics Team Championship is supported by SportMalta.

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Gozo Regional Council Holds 2025 Annual Meeting

Jun 25 2025

Gozo Regional Council successfully held its annual Plenary Meeting on Saturday, 21st June, at the Grand Hotel in Għajnsielem. The half-day event, running from 8:30am to 1:00pm, brought together mayors, local councillors, executive secretaries, regional officials, and key stakeholders to discuss pressing regional matters and foster collaborative efforts for Gozo’s future.

In his opening address, Dr Samuel Azzopardi, President of the Region, stated, “The Regional Plenary is an annual opportunity for dialogue and reflection on the role the Gozo Region plays within local governance and in shaping Gozitan identity. It serves as a vital platform for generating ideas and strengthening the region’s contribution to society.”

Ms Rita Mifsud Attard, Executive Secretary of the Gozo Regional Council, provided a strategic overview of the Council’s current initiatives and priorities. Her address underscored themes of innovation, sustainability, and inter-regional collaboration, setting a focused and aspirational tone for the proceedings.

Each of the six regional managers delivered presentations on their respective areas of responsibility, including environment, EU funding, culture, IT, project management, waste management, and administration. Key highlights included the Region of Gozo cultural events and the Gozo Region App Services (GRAS), both reinforcing the Council’s commitment to modernisation and improved quality of life for local communities.

A dedicated session led by Mr Pierre Louis Attard, Manager of the Gozo Action Group Foundation (GAGF), focused on four new measures being launched under the LEADER programme. Mr Attard encouraged local councils to actively seek funding through these measures, particularly in anticipation of Gozo’s designation as the European Region of Gastronomy 2026.