Water Services And Civil Protection Partner Up To Enhance Emergency Responses

Nov 7 2024

The Water Services Corporation (WSC) and the Civil Protection Department (CPD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance public safety and emergency response in Malta and Gozo.

This agreement focuses on two main objectives: the installation and upkeep of fire hydrants and specialized training for WSC staff.

Through this partnership, WSC will install and maintain fire hydrants at key locations, which will be managed by CPD in emergencies.

In return, CPD will offer essential firefighting and safety training to WSC personnel, creating a stronger, more coordinated response capability.

Minister for the Environment, Energy, and Regeneration Miriam Dalli praised the agreement, calling it a “commitment to public safety and operational efficiency.”

WSC CEO Karl Cilia and CPD Director General Peter Paul Coleiro highlighted the collaboration’s value in reducing emergency response times and preparing both agencies to work seamlessly together.

The MOU takes effect immediately and will initially run for two years, with automatic renewal provisions.

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Australia Set To Introduce Social Media Ban For Under 16s

Nov 7 2024

Australia plans to introduce legislation banning social media use for children under 16, aiming to protect young users from online harm.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasised the government’s responsibility to safeguard children, stating that the law is a response to parental concerns over online safety.

The ban will not apply retroactively to existing young users, and there will be no exemptions, even with parental consent. Social media platforms will be required to demonstrate compliance, enforced by the eSafety Commissioner.

The law, if passed, would be enacted a year later and reviewed over time.

The legislation has sparked debate. While some experts agree social media negatively affects adolescent mental health, others argue that an outright ban might only delay children’s exposure to these platforms, rather than preparing them to navigate them responsibly.

Advocacy groups, including the Australian Child Rights Taskforce, argue that enforcing safety standards rather than banning access could provide safer engagement with digital spaces, as recommended by the UN.

However, supporters, like the grassroots 36Months initiative, contend that a ban is necessary, citing concerns about mental health and exposure to harmful content. Albanese dismissed education-only approaches, highlighting the unequal influence of tech companies on young minds.

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Harris Called Trump & Conceded Election

Nov 7 2024

Kamala Harris addressed supporters at Howard University after losing the 2024 U.S. presidential election to Donald Trump.

In her concession speech, Harris expressed disappointment but reaffirmed her commitment to ongoing causes, stating that the fight for America’s values would continue. She acknowledged the emotional impact of the loss, encouraging young supporters to stay hopeful despite setbacks.

She also congratulated Trump, emphasising the importance of a peaceful transition of power—a pointed contrast to Trump’s own refusal to concede in 2020.

Harris’s campaign faced formidable challenges. Though she championed women’s reproductive rights and promised a positive future, many voters were more focused on economic concerns like high inflation and immigration, which ultimately swung key battleground states toward Trump.

Harris’s historic candidacy as the first Black and South Asian woman to seek the presidency inspired her base, but it wasn’t enough to overcome widespread voter dissatisfaction.

As vice president, Harris will oversee the certification of Trump’s victory in Congress, ensuring a smooth transition.

President Biden has also pledged to attend Trump’s inauguration, signalling a commitment to democratic norms after a divisive election season. Harris closed by thanking her husband and supporters, remaining hopeful about America’s future.

#MaltaDaily

Fabian Demicoli & Wife Sarah Welcome Newborn Twins

Nov 7 2024

Local TV host Fabian Demicoli and his wife Sarah have welcomed baby twins!

Fabian took to social media to announce the birth of Giuliana and Filippa, whom their son Luigi has already met.

Their son ‘is stepping into his role as big brother with pride and love’, wrote Fabian.

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A post shared by Fabian Demicoli (@fabiandemicoli)

‘Sarah did an incredible job and is recovering well. Special thanks to all the incredible staff at Materi Dei.’

Congratulations were sent by many local personalities, including, of course, his brother Keith Demicoli:

‘Beyond proud of you both, brother and sister-in-law. Giuliana and Filippa have been welcomed into a world of pure love. Hats off to you, sis, for the incredible job. Here’s to double the joy, double the responsibility, and all the meaningful moments you’ll create together as a family. Can’t wait to share them with you all’, wrote Keith.

On behalf of Malta Daily, we wish the couple and this now extended family all the very best!

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