Strengthened Rent Benefit Scheme Announced

Jan 22 2025

Minister for Social and Affordable Accommodation, Roderick Galdes, has unveiled the implementation of a key measure from the 2025 Budget related to the Rent Benefit scheme.

Speaking at a press conference, Minister Galdes announced that the maximum annual income threshold for all categories within the scheme will increase by €1,000 this year.

“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to supporting families,” Galdes explained. “As a government, we promised to assist with rent payments, and we are delivering by enhancing the Rent Benefit.

This program has become a cornerstone of our social policy, benefiting approximately 3,100 families and translating to an annual investment of €11 million. These funds directly ease financial burdens, leaving €11 million in the pockets of our people.”

Galdes highlighted that 85% of Maltese citizens own their homes. However, he acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals and families who, due to social or economic circumstances, require assistance with renting.

“This benefit exemplifies the government’s pledge to address these realities. On average, we provide €3,500 annually per beneficiary, standing by those in need,” he stated.

The Minister detailed the assistance levels based on income and family structure:

Individuals earning up to €21,635 can receive up to €4,200 annually.

Single parents with two or more children earning up to €26,216 are entitled to a maximum of €6,000 annually.

Couples with two or more children and a combined income of up to €34,635 can also claim up to €6,000 annually.

“These measures are essential for improving residents’ quality of life, reflecting our deep commitment to affordable housing,” Galdes concluded.

Matthew Zerafa, CEO of the Housing Authority, emphasised a customer-focused approach, ensuring that families’ realities and aspirations remain central to the Authority’s operations.

#MaltaDaily

Ramona Attard To Be Co-Opted As Member Of Parliament

Jan 22 2025

The Labour Party’s Parliamentary Group and National Executive have approved the co-option of Dr. Ramona Attard as a Member of Parliament.

Dr. Attard, a qualified lawyer practicing in court, began her career in journalism, working as a ONE News journalist, presenter, and producer from 2010 to 2020.

In 2020, she was appointed President of the Labour Party, a role she held for four years. During her tenure, she collaborated closely with Prime Minister and Labour Leader Robert Abela, playing a key role in the party’s administration.

As Party President, Dr. Attard championed significant reforms, including the expansion of IVF access—a major promise in the 2022 General Election manifesto. This reform was implemented within the first 100 days of the Labour Government’s new term.

#MaltaDaily

25 Year Old Man At Risk Of Dying After Being Hit By Pipe In Sliema

Jan 22 2025

Late yesterday evening, at around 2100hrs, police were informed that their assistance was needed in Triq it-Torri, Sliema.

Preliminary investigations showed that a 25 year old man resident of Ħ’Attard had gotten injured after he was hit by a concrete apparatus pipe due to malfunctions.

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An ambulance was called on site and transported the man to Mater Dei Hospital where he was later certified as having suffered serious injuries.

An inquiry has been opened as police and the Authority for Workplace Health and Safety investigate.

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Couple Withdraw Kids From School After Learning Teacher Is Gay

Jan 22 2025

A couple withdrew their children from St Clare College Primary School in San Ġwann after learning their son’s Year 3 teacher was gay, Times of Malta reported.

The parents, citing their “personal Christian” values, objected to their children being taught by someone “who is not straight” and decided to transfer them to a “more suitable” environment, the newsroom reported.

Stefan Vassallo, a teacher with a decade of experience, told ToM this was the first time he faced such judgment based on his sexuality. While supported by his school, he expressed hurt and frustration, noting he often feels compelled to “tone down” his personality to avoid complaints.

In response to the incident, he wrote a letter to the parents, condemning the belief that LGBTQ+ individuals should be kept away from children, calling it “deeply harmful” and fostering stigma.

He emphasised that teaching diversity and inclusion helps children develop empathy, understanding, and resilience against prejudice.

The mother, speaking to Times of Malta, cited “personal reasons” for the transfer, claiming her children felt uncomfortable witnessing other students “kissing” at school.

She acknowledged Vassallo’s professionalism but insisted he was not suitable as her children’s teacher, saying, “We are a Christian family, and my children need a healthy environment.”

#MaltaDaily