Storm Boris Batters Italy After Devastating Central Europe

Sep 20 2024

Storm Boris Batters Italy After Devastating Central Europe
Storm Boris is striking the north-east and central regions of Italy, just days after triggering widespread flooding across central Europe.Over 1,000 residents in the north-eastern region of Emilia Romagna have been evacuated, while towns in the central region of Marche reported serious flooding and disruption. Two people remain missing.

On Thursday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced €10 billion (£8.4 billion) in EU funding for the affected countries. The announcement followed her meeting with the leaders of Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Austria to coordinate aid for the flood-stricken region.

Schools across Emilia Romagna have been closed, with some roads affected by landslides and severe disruptions to railway traffic. Authorities have urged residents to avoid basements and move to higher floors of their homes. In Ravenna, schools, libraries, and parks were shut, while the University of Bologna cancelled exams and classes.
Faenza has been the hardest hit, with the levels of its two rivers rising sharply overnight. Local media reported that some residents had to evacuate their homes in dinghies during the night. The high river levels have also led to sewage system overflows.

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New Volunteer Center In Kordin To Be Named After Jake Vella

Sep 20 2024

In an interview on the local television channel F Living, Minister for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector, Julia Farrugia Portelli, announced that the new volunteer center in Kordin will be named in honor of Jake Vella.

Jake tragically passed away a few weeks ago after battling the rare condition ROHHAD for most of his life.

Minister Farrugia Portelli began her interview by commending Jake’s powerful legacy, noting how he turned immense hardship into something incredibly meaningful and inspiring.

She highlighted Jake’s remarkable achievements, including the significant amounts of money he raised through swimming and athletics, his fundraising efforts for abandoned animals, and many other noble causes he championed.

Naming the new volunteer center after Jake was a surprise tribute from the Ministry to his parents, Josie and Maruska.

Currently, there are four volunteer centers across Malta—in Rabat, Birkirkara, Xewkija, and Valletta—with plans to open more, including the new center in Kordin.

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Sven Shares Footage Of Late Grandma Watching Him On Love Island

Sep 20 2024

Following the announcement that Love Island Malta Season 1’s Sven Fabri’s grandmother has passed away, the former contestant shared footage of her watching him on the TV show.

‘First time watching this heartwarming video of my grandma watching me on Love Island Malta’, wrote Sven.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sven Fabri (@sven_fabri)

‘I’m going to miss you so much nan’, wrote Sven.

Sven announced his grandma Lora’s passing in an emotional tribute, sharing a video of many moments she shared with her beloved family.

Condolences to all the family Sven.

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Video Source: Sven Fabri via @xenijs

National Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan 2030 Unveiled

Sep 20 2024

The National Biodiversity and Action Plan (NBSAP) for 2030 has been released, outlining a comprehensive approach to address biodiversity challenges and protect the environment.

Building on the success of the 2012-2020 plan, which surpassed its targets by 11%, it showcases progress in areas such as public awareness, land and marine conservation, policy-making, and the use of EU funds for major environmental initiatives.

Environment Minister Miriam Dalli emphasised, “This plan represents our commitment to preserving Malta’s natural heritage for future generations.

Together, we can ensure a sustainable and biodiverse nation,” stressing the importance of collaboration across government and society to meet these ambitious objectives.

The NBSAP 2030 sets 22 targets and 79 actions, in line with global and EU biodiversity goals, addressing areas like ecosystem restoration, genetic diversity, climate change, and sustainable agriculture.

Kevin Mercieca, CEO of the Environment and Resources Authority, added, “This strategy reflects extensive effort and builds on the success of its predecessor. The focus now shifts to working with other entities to ensure the achievement of positive outcomes.”

More information on the NBSAP 2030 can be found on the ERA website.

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