Screen Support Scheme Results Announced

Nov 28 2024

Minister Owen Bonnici, responsible for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government, unveiled the results of the Screen Support Scheme, now under the administration of the Malta Arts Council.

The scheme has allocated €1 million to support local productions across key areas. Its development followed a thorough process of research and consultation to pinpoint critical sectors in need of funding.

Designed to back projects aimed at theatrical release, festivals, and broadcasting (including VOD/SVOD platforms), the initiative prioritises productions that promote creativity and culture while meeting international standards. Eligible categories include animations, documentaries, and cultural programming.

The scheme supports scriptwriting, development, and production for short films, feature films, and cultural programs. Of 58 applications from independent audiovisual entities, 23 projects secured funding.

Minister Bonnici emphasised the importance of indigenous filmmaking as a cornerstone of the creative industry. He announced that the scheme’s budget will double to €2 million in 2025, reaffirming the government’s dedication to expanding the sector.

Mary Ann Cauchi, COO of Funds and Strategy at the Malta Arts Council, underscored the scheme’s role in nurturing cultural growth and building a sustainable creative economy. She also highlighted new mentorship opportunities to support emerging talent within the film industry.

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80% Of Gozitans Feel Local Persons With Disabilities Are Well Respected

Nov 28 2024

A recent survey by the Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD) found that 80% of Gozitans believe disability rights are well respected in Malta and Gozo.

Employment among Gozitans with disabilities has risen to nearly 600, a 7% increase in six months.

Additionally, 85% of respondents see the CRPD as highly effective, while 78% acknowledge unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Gozo compared to Malta.

The findings were presented by Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering, Julia Farrugia, during a CRPD conference in Gozo. She emphasized the importance of investing in employment, accessibility, and education resources for Gozitans with disabilities.

Upcoming initiatives include expanding Voice for Inclusion operations to Għajnsielem and ensuring Gozitan representation on two governmental boards: ENGAGE and the Autism Advisory Committee.

CRPD Commissioner Rhoda Garland stressed the need for direct involvement of persons with disabilities in policymaking.

Key areas identified for improvement include public awareness (90%), employment (85%), misuse of the blue badge (85%), physical accessibility (84%), and inclusive education (70%).

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‘Save Wied Mejxu’: Protest Against Nursing Home Development Today

Nov 28 2024

A planning application has been submitted to build a six-story elderly care home on land classified as Outside the Development Zone (ODZ) near Wied Mejxu in Swieqi, with a protest taking place today against the development.

The proposed site, bordering buildings on one side, is on the edge of a small valley separating Tal-Ibragg and Madliena. While part of Madliena is designated for residential use, the proposed development site is reportedly not included in this category.

However, protest posters with the title ‘Save Wied Mejxu: It’s The Only Green Area We Have’ popped up on social media, which are set to organise a demonstration against this proposed development.

Critics argue that ODZ land serves a vital purpose, providing green spaces essential for residents’ well-being.

The protest is scheduled for today, Thursday 28th November, at 1800hrs.

What do you think?

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Photo Source: RBMP Life Malta (Facebook)

€100,000 Fund Launched to Support Fight Against Domestic Violence

Nov 28 2024

Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg, together with the Commissioner Against Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence Samantha Pace Gasan, has launched a €100,000 fund to support voluntary organizations in their fight against domestic violence.

Rebecca Buttigieg emphasised that the initiative aims to involve voluntary organisations in efforts to strengthen the fight against gender-based and domestic violence.

She noted that the fund will ensure sustained actions and activism beyond the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign held around this time of year.

The Parliamentary Secretary expressed confidence that numerous impactful projects will be submitted, with the goal of making 2025 a year of activism that drives change in combating the scourge of domestic violence.

Samantha Pace Gasan explained that applications must adhere to the guidelines of the “Together We Empower” program. Projects should align with the program’s priorities and fit within the national strategy against gender-based and domestic violence.

Selected projects, which will run between April and October next year, can receive up to €10,000 each. The call is open to all organizations registered with the Commission for Voluntary Organisations, reflecting the campaign’s message: Together We Stand – Together We Heal.

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