Thunderstorm To Start The Weekend: Strong Winds Forecasted

Dec 19 2024

Weather forecasts for tomorrow, Friday 20th December, indicate a stormy start to the weekend as thundery showers with strong winds are being predicted.

The weekend is set to push through with isolated rain showers all the way to Tuesday, Christmas Eve.

Meanwhile, some weather reports indicate a strong wind Force 10 set to hit the islands, leading to Virtu Ferries to cancel Friday trips after 18:00 ahead of time.

Virtu Ferries announced extra voyages to be held on Thursday 19th, with further updates for Saturday also coming down the pipeline according to the weather development.

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Joseph Chetcuti & National Police Band Wish Pope Happy Birthday

Dec 18 2024

Local presenter and violinist Joseph Chetcuti, along with the National Police Band of Malta, this morning wished Pope Francis a warm Happy Birthday whilst in the Sala dei Papi, Vatican City.

The well-wishing took place in the presence of Malta’s Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri, as well as Police Commissioner Angelo Gaga and H.E. Frank Zammit, the Maltese Ambassador to the Holy See.

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A post shared by Pope Francis (@franciscus)

The Pope just turned 88 years old on December 17th, with a post on social media featuring the Maltese contingent during the special day.

On the day, the Pope invited everyone to ask God to grant the gift of peace to our world.

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Explore Launches “Santa’s STEM Factory” For Christmas 2024

Dec 18 2024

This Christmas, Esplora will transform into Santa Claus’s STEM Factory, an exciting destination packed with interactive shows, hands-on workshops, and engaging science exhibitions designed for visitors of all ages.

This festive initiative invites families to dive into the fascinating world of STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—while embracing the holiday spirit.

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, emphasised the importance of such events in nurturing curiosity and unlocking potential among younger generations.

He explained that making STEM accessible helps build a workforce that drives innovation, boosts economic growth, and paves the way for a brighter future.

The event offers a unique opportunity to experience Christmas from a scientific perspective. Visitors will uncover how science shapes various holiday traditions, from exploring the chemistry behind festive food to marvelling at robotics and space technology.

Featured activities include captivating shows like Be Our Guest: A Christmas Food Science Show, hands-on workshops such as Santa’s Sorting Bots, and creative sessions like the Festive 3D Printing Workshop.

Esplora’s CEO, Olaf McKay, expressed excitement about the event, describing it as a chance for families to create lasting memories while appreciating the relevance and versatility of STEM subjects. The event will run from December 21 to 31, with tickets available online through Showshappening.

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First Additional COLA Payments For 97,000 Families

Dec 18 2024

This weekend marks the distribution of the first of two payments under the additional cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) mechanism, designed to support families facing inflation. The initiative complements existing subsidies on energy and grain prices and aims to assist over 97,000 households.

The announcement was made by Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon, during a press conference on Wednesday. He explained that the expanded benefit will reach more families this year, with the government investing nearly €24 million in the first payment. “We are committed to helping people during challenging times. It is our responsibility to provide support in the best possible way,” said Minister Falzon.

Permanent Secretary Mark Musu outlined how the payment is calculated, factoring in family or individual income compared to 60% of the National Median Equivalized Income, as well as household size. The income considered is the net income for 2023, as reported by the Tax Department, after deductions for taxes and social security.

The benefit amount increases for lower-income families and larger households, with a maximum payment of €1,500 annually. This initiative highlights the government’s focus on easing financial burdens and ensuring long-term support for families most affected by inflation.

#MaltaDaily