Times of Malta, 31 May 2010
Malta is "actively considering" joining a growing EU initiative intended to smoothen the application of divorce and separation rules across member states, after having initially opposed it.
If approved, the new legislation would provide domestic courts in the participating countries with criteria to determine which national law should apply in international divorce or separation cases. It would affect couples of different nationalities, those living apart in different countries or those living together somewhere other than in their home country.
However, in Malta's case, a recently amended version of the proposal means the new rules would only apply when it comes to separation cases, and not divorce, which the island does not allow.
In its original form, the proposal would have meant that, say, a Belgian couple living in Malta could have their divorce case heard on the island under Belgian law. Malta has now been exempted from hearing divorce cases and would only be expected to hear those involving separation.
This legislation would be the first ever to be enacted under the EU's so-called enhanced cooperation mechanism - an instrument of last resort that allows a group of member states to set standards within the EU framework without engaging all member states.
The government's position, along with that of a number of other member states such as the UK, was previously to oppose enhanced cooperation in matters concerning family law. However, more member states are now showing interest in the initiative. In the circumstances, the government is having second thoughts.
"We are currently actively considering the possibility that Malta joins this enhanced cooperation initiative," Home Affairs Minister Carm Mifsud Bonnici told The Times when contacted yesterday.
"This initiative is something new and it might make more sense to be on the inside to influence the process rather than remain outside and others can decide for you," he said.
Commission sources told The Times that Malta's shift in position was to be expected. Just a few days ago, another three member states - Germany, Belgium and Latvia - declared they would be joining the original nine member states proposing the new directive.
"It is clear that many member states will eventually join this initiative and Malta cannot risk being left as the only country outside the discussions on this important legislation."
In preliminary discussions about the proposal held so far, Malta has assured itself that the new legislation will have no bearing on its anti-divorce stance, according to the sources.
"Malta needs to stay at the negotiating table to defend the text already agreed in favour of its position. If the island is absent there might be changes which Malta would no longer be able to influence," the sources said.
The government has until Thursday to make up its mind as a formal political agreement, needing just a qualified majority, is expected to be reached during a meeting of EU Justice Ministers in Luxembourg on that day.
"It seems that we will be able to live with the current text of the proposed legislation," Dr Misfud Bonnici said, hinting that Malta will be voting in favour of the initiative.
Austria, Bulgaria, France, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Romania, Slovenia and Spain had taken up the initiative after various attempts made by the Commission to introduce similar legislation failed.
This was mainly due to opposition from a number of other member states, particularly the northern countries, which wanted to safeguard their liberal divorce processes.
Malta is the only EU member state that does not permit divorce and the EU has no competence in this area.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100531/local/malta-may-join-eu-divorce-law-initiative
Monday, May 31, 2010
Monday, May 17, 2010
Inclusion of persons with learning difficulties
The Independent, 17 May 2010
A seminar of the Equal Partners Foundation discussed the effect of the educational policies on the schooling and inclusion of persons with learning difficulties. There was a healthy discussion where parents showed their concern about some of the current policies, like withdrawing children from the classroom for long periods to resource rooms or learning zones and to attend resource centres during school time.
They also voiced concern over sending these children home if the LSA was absent from school. Parents would like to see teachers and LSA supported to include all children in the classrooms rather than offering them ways of having the children dealt with by others and out of class. Parents would like to see positive changes that would enhance the learning opportunities of their children.
The seminar preceded the foundation’s annual general meeting, during which an overview of the work carried out by the foundation was presented to the members. This year, three new members were co-opted into the committee to replace other members who had stepped down. The audited accounts of the Foundation were also presented to the members and approved.
The Equal Partners Foundation, a parent-run, non-profit organisation, works for and with persons with disability and/or learning difficulties.
Anyone wishing to know more about the foundation can visit the website at http://equalpartnersmalta.org/ , or send an email to info@equalpartners.org.mt or phone 2125 0400.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106235
A seminar of the Equal Partners Foundation discussed the effect of the educational policies on the schooling and inclusion of persons with learning difficulties. There was a healthy discussion where parents showed their concern about some of the current policies, like withdrawing children from the classroom for long periods to resource rooms or learning zones and to attend resource centres during school time.
They also voiced concern over sending these children home if the LSA was absent from school. Parents would like to see teachers and LSA supported to include all children in the classrooms rather than offering them ways of having the children dealt with by others and out of class. Parents would like to see positive changes that would enhance the learning opportunities of their children.
The seminar preceded the foundation’s annual general meeting, during which an overview of the work carried out by the foundation was presented to the members. This year, three new members were co-opted into the committee to replace other members who had stepped down. The audited accounts of the Foundation were also presented to the members and approved.
The Equal Partners Foundation, a parent-run, non-profit organisation, works for and with persons with disability and/or learning difficulties.
Anyone wishing to know more about the foundation can visit the website at http://equalpartnersmalta.org/ , or send an email to info@equalpartners.org.mt or phone 2125 0400.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106235
Introduction of new EU social security regulations
The Independet, 17 May 2010
New EU regulations on social security coordination entered into force on 1 May, replacing regulations which had been in place since the early 1970s, and which Malta has applied since it joined the EU in 2004.
The aim is to make life easier for Europeans on the move. The rules apply not only to workers and their families, but will also help pensioners, jobseekers and tourists.
The new regulations do not create any new entitlements to social security, but guarantee that rights in the area of sickness insurance, pensions, unemployment and family benefits are preserved in the event of moving within Europe, the Department of Information said.
The main changes guarantee more and better information which must be provided actively and delivered rapidly by the social security institutions in member states. Services provided must be user-friendly. Institutions should communicate with the citizen in a way that can be easily understood.
Simpler and more efficient procedures should lead to quicker and simpler services for citizens, cutting red tape and reducing the administrative burden for public services.
A major new information network, the EESSI (Electronic Exchange of Social Security Information) will be launched. This will enable institutions in different countries to exchange information electronically. The new system will eliminate around 2,000 paper forms and the formalities to be completed by citizens will be streamlined.
More people can benefit through this updated coordination system which has a broader scope since, besides workers and their families, it covers people who are currently out of work, not yet in work or no longer working – so more people will benefit.
The provisions cover anyone who moves to another EU country to settle permanently, work temporarily or study, and even those who are travelling for a holiday. Mobile workers, jobseekers, retired people and tourists alike will benefit from the system.
Work is now well under way on the creation of the EESSI network and the preparation of the electronic messages containing the information required for the calculation and payment of benefits. To take account of the needs of certain EU countries to adapt their own systems, provision has been made for a transition period of two years for the electronic exchange of data. By 1 May, 2012, however, all EU countries should be using this technique to exchange information between social security institutions and for all areas covered by coordination. Training activities are ongoing in Malta as in all of the member states. The European Commission is lending its support to these efforts.
Staff in the International Relations Unit at Malta’s Department of Social Security has undergone training in the new rules and work is progressing so that Malta will be fully integrated into the proposed EESSI system within the two-year time period allowed.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106229
New EU regulations on social security coordination entered into force on 1 May, replacing regulations which had been in place since the early 1970s, and which Malta has applied since it joined the EU in 2004.
The aim is to make life easier for Europeans on the move. The rules apply not only to workers and their families, but will also help pensioners, jobseekers and tourists.
The new regulations do not create any new entitlements to social security, but guarantee that rights in the area of sickness insurance, pensions, unemployment and family benefits are preserved in the event of moving within Europe, the Department of Information said.
The main changes guarantee more and better information which must be provided actively and delivered rapidly by the social security institutions in member states. Services provided must be user-friendly. Institutions should communicate with the citizen in a way that can be easily understood.
Simpler and more efficient procedures should lead to quicker and simpler services for citizens, cutting red tape and reducing the administrative burden for public services.
A major new information network, the EESSI (Electronic Exchange of Social Security Information) will be launched. This will enable institutions in different countries to exchange information electronically. The new system will eliminate around 2,000 paper forms and the formalities to be completed by citizens will be streamlined.
More people can benefit through this updated coordination system which has a broader scope since, besides workers and their families, it covers people who are currently out of work, not yet in work or no longer working – so more people will benefit.
The provisions cover anyone who moves to another EU country to settle permanently, work temporarily or study, and even those who are travelling for a holiday. Mobile workers, jobseekers, retired people and tourists alike will benefit from the system.
Work is now well under way on the creation of the EESSI network and the preparation of the electronic messages containing the information required for the calculation and payment of benefits. To take account of the needs of certain EU countries to adapt their own systems, provision has been made for a transition period of two years for the electronic exchange of data. By 1 May, 2012, however, all EU countries should be using this technique to exchange information between social security institutions and for all areas covered by coordination. Training activities are ongoing in Malta as in all of the member states. The European Commission is lending its support to these efforts.
Staff in the International Relations Unit at Malta’s Department of Social Security has undergone training in the new rules and work is progressing so that Malta will be fully integrated into the proposed EESSI system within the two-year time period allowed.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=106229
Friday, May 14, 2010
EU working on removing anti-discrimination directives
Di-Ve, 14 May 2010
The European Union is working to remove anti-discrimination directives amongst members states.
Ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia on 17 May, attention focuses on what can be done to end discrimination and stigmatisation of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) people within and outside EU borders.
Spanish Green MEP Raúl Romeva said that the most acute problem in this area in the EU is "the clash between, on one hand very liberal policies in some countries, where society, politicians and authorities have a tolerant, open and inclusive approach and on the other hand the member states where none of this is the case".
"The bottom line is that LGBT people in all EU member states should be protected from discrimination by the treaty, the Charter of Fundamental Rights, and where necessary, the Commission and Council should take action to inform and educate politicians and authorities to lead and show a good example," he added.
An informal intergroup on LGBT issues gathers MEPs from across the political spectrum. Members Michael Cashman, Ulrike Lunacek, Sophie in’t Veld and Christofer Fjellner took part in the Baltic Pride march in Vilnius on 8 May.
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=72544&newscategory=36
The European Union is working to remove anti-discrimination directives amongst members states.
Ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia on 17 May, attention focuses on what can be done to end discrimination and stigmatisation of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) people within and outside EU borders.
Spanish Green MEP Raúl Romeva said that the most acute problem in this area in the EU is "the clash between, on one hand very liberal policies in some countries, where society, politicians and authorities have a tolerant, open and inclusive approach and on the other hand the member states where none of this is the case".
"The bottom line is that LGBT people in all EU member states should be protected from discrimination by the treaty, the Charter of Fundamental Rights, and where necessary, the Commission and Council should take action to inform and educate politicians and authorities to lead and show a good example," he added.
An informal intergroup on LGBT issues gathers MEPs from across the political spectrum. Members Michael Cashman, Ulrike Lunacek, Sophie in’t Veld and Christofer Fjellner took part in the Baltic Pride march in Vilnius on 8 May.
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=72544&newscategory=36
New EU regulations on social security coordination
Times of Malta, 14 May 2010
New EU Regulations on social security coordination are replacing regulations which have been in place since the early 1970s, and which Malta has applied since it joined the EU in 2004.
The aim of the new regulation is to make life easier for Europeans on the move. The rules apply not only to workers and their families, but will also help pensioners, job seekers and tourists.
The new regulations do not create any new entitlements to social security, but guarantee that rights in the area of sickness insurance, pensions, unemployment and family benefits are preserved in the event of moving within Europe.
The main changes guarantee more and better information which must be provided actively and delivered rapidly by the social security institutions in member states. Services provided must be user-friendly. Institutions should communicate with the citizen in a way that could be easily understood.
Simpler and more efficient procedures should lead to quicker and simpler services for citizens, cutting red tape and reducing the administrative burden for public services.
A major new information network would be launched to enable institutions in different countries to exchange information electronically. The new system would eliminate around 2,000 paper forms and the formalities to be completed by citizens would be streamlined.
More people can benefit through this updated coordination system which has a broader scope since, besides workers and their families, it covers people who are currently out of work, not yet in work or no longer working – so more people will benefit.
The provisions cover anyone who moves to another EU country to settle permanently, work temporarily or study, and even those who are travelling for a holiday. Mobile workers, jobseekers, retired people and tourists would benefit from the system.
By May 1, 2012, all EU countries should be using this network to exchange information between social security institutions and for all areas covered by coordination. Training activities are ongoing in Malta as in all of the member states. The European Commission is lending its support to these efforts.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100514/local/new-eu-regulations-on-social-security-coordination
New EU Regulations on social security coordination are replacing regulations which have been in place since the early 1970s, and which Malta has applied since it joined the EU in 2004.
The aim of the new regulation is to make life easier for Europeans on the move. The rules apply not only to workers and their families, but will also help pensioners, job seekers and tourists.
The new regulations do not create any new entitlements to social security, but guarantee that rights in the area of sickness insurance, pensions, unemployment and family benefits are preserved in the event of moving within Europe.
The main changes guarantee more and better information which must be provided actively and delivered rapidly by the social security institutions in member states. Services provided must be user-friendly. Institutions should communicate with the citizen in a way that could be easily understood.
Simpler and more efficient procedures should lead to quicker and simpler services for citizens, cutting red tape and reducing the administrative burden for public services.
A major new information network would be launched to enable institutions in different countries to exchange information electronically. The new system would eliminate around 2,000 paper forms and the formalities to be completed by citizens would be streamlined.
More people can benefit through this updated coordination system which has a broader scope since, besides workers and their families, it covers people who are currently out of work, not yet in work or no longer working – so more people will benefit.
The provisions cover anyone who moves to another EU country to settle permanently, work temporarily or study, and even those who are travelling for a holiday. Mobile workers, jobseekers, retired people and tourists would benefit from the system.
By May 1, 2012, all EU countries should be using this network to exchange information between social security institutions and for all areas covered by coordination. Training activities are ongoing in Malta as in all of the member states. The European Commission is lending its support to these efforts.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100514/local/new-eu-regulations-on-social-security-coordination
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Percentage of men employed almost double that of women
The Independent, 13 May 2010
The percentage of employed men aged between 25 and 54 is almost double that of women of the same age, with 89.3 per cent of men and just 45.6 per cent of women, Antoinette Caruana, said yesterday.
Ms Caruana, Human Resources manager for Farsons Group of Companies, was speaking during “The Roadmap for Equality after 2010”, a seminar organised by the Spanish Embassy.
Parliamentary Secretary Chris Said said that only 67 per cent of women with young children in the EU are in employment, compared with 92 per cent of men.
“67 per cent of women with young children in the EU are in employment, compared with 92 per cent of men.”
The Spanish Presidency, Spanish Ambassador Maria Isabel Vicandi said, has fought for equality and the eradication of violence against women. In fact they have supported the Plan for Equality 2010-2015 and will continue to fight against violence.
They have also supported two initiatives; that of the EU centre for monitoring domestic violence and the adoption of the European Protection Order, she said. Dr Said said this represented significant process.
Among other things, eradicating inequality would be a factor for economic growth, and not a cost as some people seem to think, she said. A good work-life balance depends on sharing of responsibilities, and a major challenge is encouraging men to take on more familial responsibilities.
Doris Sammut, president of the Malta Association of Women in Business, said that the younger generation was better; in that they share home and family responsibilities, plan important decisions together, develop the potential of both and reach goals which would be otherwise impossible with one wage.
Dr Said said women entrepreneurs represent only eight per cent of the female population. Women often face bigger problems in accessing finances in order to launch and expand their own businesses, he said.
The EU believes women’s entrepreneurial talents can boost European prosperity, he said, and has been and has been giving practical support to women wanting to set up their own business since the 1980s.
Anna Borg, from the Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations, said the biggest hurdle is the assumptions many have that women are natural born carers who don’t mind being philanthropists all their life, whereas men only want to be breadwinners.
Social policies, she said, reflect these assumptions. The direction is clear, but if we want to get there it is another matter. Targets and deadlines are necessary, but a budget with an actual structure is also necessary.
There has to be commitment from the top to make it happen. A piecemeal approach is not enough, she said, but there has to be government, employees and employers’ commitment as well as change of mentalities at a personal level.
The most common reason for women not working, Ms Caruana said, is family responsibilities, with 47.3 per cent quoting this as a reason, quite a contrast from the only 1.4 per cent of men who do.
“47.3 per cent of women and 1.4 per cent of men don’t work due to family responsibilities.”
She said that in seven countries in the EU, in some areas women earn 20 per cent less than their male counterparts. In general however, Malta doesn’t suffer as badly from this gap in wages.
It is most common in the financial services, a relatively new sector. Dr Said said that in the last 10 years female workers have filled approximately three quarters of the millions of new jobs generated in Europe.
Despite the fact that girls do better than boys at school and women represent 59 per cent of university graduates in the whole of the European Union, and even at the University of Malta, on average European women still earn 17 per cent less than men. They remain a minority in political decision-making and senior management positions.
Women are still under represented in fields like architecture, engineering and the sciences, she said, and it is also the case that men tend to go on to postgraduate degrees more than women would.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105967
The percentage of employed men aged between 25 and 54 is almost double that of women of the same age, with 89.3 per cent of men and just 45.6 per cent of women, Antoinette Caruana, said yesterday.
Ms Caruana, Human Resources manager for Farsons Group of Companies, was speaking during “The Roadmap for Equality after 2010”, a seminar organised by the Spanish Embassy.
Parliamentary Secretary Chris Said said that only 67 per cent of women with young children in the EU are in employment, compared with 92 per cent of men.
“67 per cent of women with young children in the EU are in employment, compared with 92 per cent of men.”
The Spanish Presidency, Spanish Ambassador Maria Isabel Vicandi said, has fought for equality and the eradication of violence against women. In fact they have supported the Plan for Equality 2010-2015 and will continue to fight against violence.
They have also supported two initiatives; that of the EU centre for monitoring domestic violence and the adoption of the European Protection Order, she said. Dr Said said this represented significant process.
Among other things, eradicating inequality would be a factor for economic growth, and not a cost as some people seem to think, she said. A good work-life balance depends on sharing of responsibilities, and a major challenge is encouraging men to take on more familial responsibilities.
Doris Sammut, president of the Malta Association of Women in Business, said that the younger generation was better; in that they share home and family responsibilities, plan important decisions together, develop the potential of both and reach goals which would be otherwise impossible with one wage.
Dr Said said women entrepreneurs represent only eight per cent of the female population. Women often face bigger problems in accessing finances in order to launch and expand their own businesses, he said.
The EU believes women’s entrepreneurial talents can boost European prosperity, he said, and has been and has been giving practical support to women wanting to set up their own business since the 1980s.
Anna Borg, from the Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations, said the biggest hurdle is the assumptions many have that women are natural born carers who don’t mind being philanthropists all their life, whereas men only want to be breadwinners.
Social policies, she said, reflect these assumptions. The direction is clear, but if we want to get there it is another matter. Targets and deadlines are necessary, but a budget with an actual structure is also necessary.
There has to be commitment from the top to make it happen. A piecemeal approach is not enough, she said, but there has to be government, employees and employers’ commitment as well as change of mentalities at a personal level.
The most common reason for women not working, Ms Caruana said, is family responsibilities, with 47.3 per cent quoting this as a reason, quite a contrast from the only 1.4 per cent of men who do.
“47.3 per cent of women and 1.4 per cent of men don’t work due to family responsibilities.”
She said that in seven countries in the EU, in some areas women earn 20 per cent less than their male counterparts. In general however, Malta doesn’t suffer as badly from this gap in wages.
It is most common in the financial services, a relatively new sector. Dr Said said that in the last 10 years female workers have filled approximately three quarters of the millions of new jobs generated in Europe.
Despite the fact that girls do better than boys at school and women represent 59 per cent of university graduates in the whole of the European Union, and even at the University of Malta, on average European women still earn 17 per cent less than men. They remain a minority in political decision-making and senior management positions.
Women are still under represented in fields like architecture, engineering and the sciences, she said, and it is also the case that men tend to go on to postgraduate degrees more than women would.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105967
Public dialogue on the rights of cohabitation
The Independent, 13 May 2010
The Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations (MCWO) is holding a seminar to discuss cohabitation rights in the context of the government’s declared intention to introduce legislation to regulate such partnerships. The seminar is being held at Europa House, 254, St Paul Street, Valletta on 20 May at 5.45pm. Registration is at 5.30pm. The public is invited to attend.
Keynote speakers are Prof. Peter Serracino Inglott, Lorraine Schembri Orland and Yana Micallef Stafrace. The seminar will be opened by Anna Borg, MCWO chairperson, and chaired by Renee Laiviera, MCWO executive council member.
The chairman of the standing committee on social affairs, Edwin Vassallo, has called for public consultation in anticipation of the introduction of legislation to cover the rights of cohabiting couples who register under a ‘civil union’.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105993
The Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations (MCWO) is holding a seminar to discuss cohabitation rights in the context of the government’s declared intention to introduce legislation to regulate such partnerships. The seminar is being held at Europa House, 254, St Paul Street, Valletta on 20 May at 5.45pm. Registration is at 5.30pm. The public is invited to attend.
Keynote speakers are Prof. Peter Serracino Inglott, Lorraine Schembri Orland and Yana Micallef Stafrace. The seminar will be opened by Anna Borg, MCWO chairperson, and chaired by Renee Laiviera, MCWO executive council member.
The chairman of the standing committee on social affairs, Edwin Vassallo, has called for public consultation in anticipation of the introduction of legislation to cover the rights of cohabiting couples who register under a ‘civil union’.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105993
Spring Fair event for persons with disability
The Independent, 13 May 2010
Weeks of preparation by clients, carers and staff from the Day Centres for Persons with a Disability paid off today during a whole day of activities by and for clients attending these centres, with the participation of over 300 clients and around 200 carers.
Various sports activities and fun games formed part of the Spring Fair programme held today at Ta’ Qali National Park, as part of the integration programme for persons with a disability throughout the year.
These included also the traditional games of Passju and Tigers and Lions, also with a stall with cakes baked within the Centres to share between those present. The day started with the flying of a colourful kite from each Day Centre. Activities like this provide persons with a disability the opportunity to improve their socialising skills by interacting together and to showcase their various skills and abilities through their participation in the coordination and preparations of such events.
Currently there are nine different Day Centres, located in Paola, Santa Venera, Ħal Far, Fleur de-Lys, M’Scala, Swatar, Birgu and two at Imtarfa. The aim of the day programmes is both to assist persons with a disability developing their potential as well as giving support to their family thus permitting persons with a disability to continue living within the community. This helps in the integration process of persons with a disability within society, thus giving them more independence.
Weeks of preparation by clients, carers and staff from the Day Centres for Persons with a Disability paid off today during a whole day of activities by and for clients attending these centres, with the participation of over 300 clients and around 200 carers.
Various sports activities and fun games formed part of the Spring Fair programme held today at Ta’ Qali National Park, as part of the integration programme for persons with a disability throughout the year.
These included also the traditional games of Passju and Tigers and Lions, also with a stall with cakes baked within the Centres to share between those present. The day started with the flying of a colourful kite from each Day Centre. Activities like this provide persons with a disability the opportunity to improve their socialising skills by interacting together and to showcase their various skills and abilities through their participation in the coordination and preparations of such events.
Currently there are nine different Day Centres, located in Paola, Santa Venera, Ħal Far, Fleur de-Lys, M’Scala, Swatar, Birgu and two at Imtarfa. The aim of the day programmes is both to assist persons with a disability developing their potential as well as giving support to their family thus permitting persons with a disability to continue living within the community. This helps in the integration process of persons with a disability within society, thus giving them more independence.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105995
Weeks of preparation by clients, carers and staff from the Day Centres for Persons with a Disability paid off today during a whole day of activities by and for clients attending these centres, with the participation of over 300 clients and around 200 carers.
Various sports activities and fun games formed part of the Spring Fair programme held today at Ta’ Qali National Park, as part of the integration programme for persons with a disability throughout the year.
These included also the traditional games of Passju and Tigers and Lions, also with a stall with cakes baked within the Centres to share between those present. The day started with the flying of a colourful kite from each Day Centre. Activities like this provide persons with a disability the opportunity to improve their socialising skills by interacting together and to showcase their various skills and abilities through their participation in the coordination and preparations of such events.
Currently there are nine different Day Centres, located in Paola, Santa Venera, Ħal Far, Fleur de-Lys, M’Scala, Swatar, Birgu and two at Imtarfa. The aim of the day programmes is both to assist persons with a disability developing their potential as well as giving support to their family thus permitting persons with a disability to continue living within the community. This helps in the integration process of persons with a disability within society, thus giving them more independence.
Weeks of preparation by clients, carers and staff from the Day Centres for Persons with a Disability paid off today during a whole day of activities by and for clients attending these centres, with the participation of over 300 clients and around 200 carers.
Various sports activities and fun games formed part of the Spring Fair programme held today at Ta’ Qali National Park, as part of the integration programme for persons with a disability throughout the year.
These included also the traditional games of Passju and Tigers and Lions, also with a stall with cakes baked within the Centres to share between those present. The day started with the flying of a colourful kite from each Day Centre. Activities like this provide persons with a disability the opportunity to improve their socialising skills by interacting together and to showcase their various skills and abilities through their participation in the coordination and preparations of such events.
Currently there are nine different Day Centres, located in Paola, Santa Venera, Ħal Far, Fleur de-Lys, M’Scala, Swatar, Birgu and two at Imtarfa. The aim of the day programmes is both to assist persons with a disability developing their potential as well as giving support to their family thus permitting persons with a disability to continue living within the community. This helps in the integration process of persons with a disability within society, thus giving them more independence.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105995
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Week-long activities focus on poverty and social exclusion
Times of Malta, 12 May 2010
A number of activities are being held as part of the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion awareness campaign.
Focus Week, which opened yesterday and ends on Sunday, is organised by the National Implementing Body within the Ministry for Education, Employment and Family in collaboration with other ministries and government entities, with the involvement of non-governmental organisations and contributors who work closely with persons experiencing various forms of poverty and social exclusion.
The event is aimed to attract public attention towards the need to fight poverty and social exclusion.
An exhibition mounted for Focus Week is open daily throughout the Focus Week between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. till Friday and from 9 a.m. and noon on Saturday and Sunday at the ground floor of the Ministry for Education, Employment and the Family, Palazzo Ferreria, Valletta.
A series of drama episodes depicting various episodes of poverty and social exclusion will be produced in Republic Street, Valletta (opposite the law courts) today and on Saturday at 9.30 a.m. They will be presented again on Sunday at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. at Buskett Roadhouse Gardens, Rabat.
A conference, entitled Social Security - Information and Awareness, will be held today at the Oracle Conference Centre, Dolmen Resort Hotel, Qawra. Registrations open at 8.30 a.m. and the conference starts at 9 a.m.
The National Council of Women will be holding a public dialogue - Social Security Entitlement for Women - at the Museum of Archaeology, Valletta tomorrow at 6 p.m. and the National Commission for Persons with Disability will be holding a national conference on Saturday at the Victoria Hotel, George Borg Olivier Street, Sliema, starting at 9 a.m.
A number of outdoor activities will be held on Sunday. At the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Worldfest Day will be celebrated in collaboration with Arka Foundation and a Parent and Child Spring Fair will take place at Buskett Roadhouse Gardens.
More details can be obtained from the Foundation for Social Welfare Services on 2388 5128 or via noel.a.calleja@gov.mt.
For further information visit: European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion 2010 - http://www.2010againstpoverty.eu and www.EY2010.gov.mt.
Eurobarometer survey on attitudes to poverty and social exclusion (full report, summary report and country factsheets) - http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/eb_special_en.htm
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100512/local/week-long-activities-focus-on-poverty-and-social-exclusion
A number of activities are being held as part of the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion awareness campaign.
Focus Week, which opened yesterday and ends on Sunday, is organised by the National Implementing Body within the Ministry for Education, Employment and Family in collaboration with other ministries and government entities, with the involvement of non-governmental organisations and contributors who work closely with persons experiencing various forms of poverty and social exclusion.
The event is aimed to attract public attention towards the need to fight poverty and social exclusion.
An exhibition mounted for Focus Week is open daily throughout the Focus Week between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. till Friday and from 9 a.m. and noon on Saturday and Sunday at the ground floor of the Ministry for Education, Employment and the Family, Palazzo Ferreria, Valletta.
A series of drama episodes depicting various episodes of poverty and social exclusion will be produced in Republic Street, Valletta (opposite the law courts) today and on Saturday at 9.30 a.m. They will be presented again on Sunday at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. at Buskett Roadhouse Gardens, Rabat.
A conference, entitled Social Security - Information and Awareness, will be held today at the Oracle Conference Centre, Dolmen Resort Hotel, Qawra. Registrations open at 8.30 a.m. and the conference starts at 9 a.m.
The National Council of Women will be holding a public dialogue - Social Security Entitlement for Women - at the Museum of Archaeology, Valletta tomorrow at 6 p.m. and the National Commission for Persons with Disability will be holding a national conference on Saturday at the Victoria Hotel, George Borg Olivier Street, Sliema, starting at 9 a.m.
A number of outdoor activities will be held on Sunday. At the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Worldfest Day will be celebrated in collaboration with Arka Foundation and a Parent and Child Spring Fair will take place at Buskett Roadhouse Gardens.
More details can be obtained from the Foundation for Social Welfare Services on 2388 5128 or via noel.a.calleja@gov.mt.
For further information visit: European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion 2010 - http://www.2010againstpoverty.eu and www.EY2010.gov.mt.
Eurobarometer survey on attitudes to poverty and social exclusion (full report, summary report and country factsheets) - http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/eb_special_en.htm
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100512/local/week-long-activities-focus-on-poverty-and-social-exclusion
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Students address the House on poverty
The Times of Malta, 10 May 2010
They might be young but students speaking at a debate at the House of Representatives on Friday demonstrated keen awareness of serious issues such as poverty and social exclusion.
Students from St Joseph School Sliema, Stella Maris College and San Andrea School sat on the benches usually occupied by the opposition as they discussed the issues in a manner which an MP described as "better than some speeches one hears in Parliament".
Among those present at the debate were European Commissioner John Dalli, Education Minister Dolores Cristina, William Martin, head of the European Commission Representation in Malta, Julian Vassallo, head of the European Parliament Office in Malta, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Clyde Puli.
Poverty and social exclusion were words that sounded distant for many, a Form 3 student from San Andrea School said, but they might be closer than one might initially suspect.
"A year ago, my family hosted Andrea, an Italian friend of mine at home. As his family was visiting, they got the news that the Abruzzo earthquake had destroyed his home and his family, who lived relatively comfortably, was forced into poverty. It became even more of a problem as his father was embarrassed of writing the address of the shelter they were living in when applying for jobs," the student recounted.
Labour MP Michael Farrugia said Malta's 15 per cent rate of people living in poverty or at risk of doing so was below the EU average of 17 per cent. It was worrying, however, that 22 per cent of children were poor or at risk of poverty, Dr Farrugia said, with some families not sending their children to their first days of school because they could not afford copybooks.
The state, he added, had to give tools and avoid the "benefit trap" at all costs.
Speaker Michael Frendo said the EU had an already far-sighted view of the role it had to play in the world, with the 60-year-old Schuman Declaration reading: "With increased resources, Europe will be able to pursue the achievement of one of its essential tasks, namely, the development of the African continent."
Speaking on this, a girl from St Joseph School, Sliema, said it would be a better idea if instead of providing technological means to Third World countries the money was spent on education, adding it was also the key towards better family planning.
Labour MEP Edward Scicluna noted that, more often than not, the best help was given by NGOs who went to villages themselves and carried out specific projects for the community. A girl from San Andrea School said women were underrepresented in Parliament and in management positions, meaning their voice was not taken into account as much as it should be.
A boy from Stella Maris College took this point further, saying "schools should cater for our needs, not vice versa", adding that "inclusion is about all of us", moving Dr Farrugia to call for an applause.
Education Minister Dolores Cristina said investment in education was an investment in social policy. "Whatever career you choose, I urge you to seek the happiness and serenity you deserve," she told the students.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100510/local/students-address-the-house-on-poverty
They might be young but students speaking at a debate at the House of Representatives on Friday demonstrated keen awareness of serious issues such as poverty and social exclusion.
Students from St Joseph School Sliema, Stella Maris College and San Andrea School sat on the benches usually occupied by the opposition as they discussed the issues in a manner which an MP described as "better than some speeches one hears in Parliament".
Among those present at the debate were European Commissioner John Dalli, Education Minister Dolores Cristina, William Martin, head of the European Commission Representation in Malta, Julian Vassallo, head of the European Parliament Office in Malta, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Clyde Puli.
Poverty and social exclusion were words that sounded distant for many, a Form 3 student from San Andrea School said, but they might be closer than one might initially suspect.
"A year ago, my family hosted Andrea, an Italian friend of mine at home. As his family was visiting, they got the news that the Abruzzo earthquake had destroyed his home and his family, who lived relatively comfortably, was forced into poverty. It became even more of a problem as his father was embarrassed of writing the address of the shelter they were living in when applying for jobs," the student recounted.
Labour MP Michael Farrugia said Malta's 15 per cent rate of people living in poverty or at risk of doing so was below the EU average of 17 per cent. It was worrying, however, that 22 per cent of children were poor or at risk of poverty, Dr Farrugia said, with some families not sending their children to their first days of school because they could not afford copybooks.
The state, he added, had to give tools and avoid the "benefit trap" at all costs.
Speaker Michael Frendo said the EU had an already far-sighted view of the role it had to play in the world, with the 60-year-old Schuman Declaration reading: "With increased resources, Europe will be able to pursue the achievement of one of its essential tasks, namely, the development of the African continent."
Speaking on this, a girl from St Joseph School, Sliema, said it would be a better idea if instead of providing technological means to Third World countries the money was spent on education, adding it was also the key towards better family planning.
Labour MEP Edward Scicluna noted that, more often than not, the best help was given by NGOs who went to villages themselves and carried out specific projects for the community. A girl from San Andrea School said women were underrepresented in Parliament and in management positions, meaning their voice was not taken into account as much as it should be.
A boy from Stella Maris College took this point further, saying "schools should cater for our needs, not vice versa", adding that "inclusion is about all of us", moving Dr Farrugia to call for an applause.
Education Minister Dolores Cristina said investment in education was an investment in social policy. "Whatever career you choose, I urge you to seek the happiness and serenity you deserve," she told the students.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100510/local/students-address-the-house-on-poverty
FEBEA holds AGM and seminar on ethical banking
Tha Malta Independent Online, 10 May 2010
The European Federation of Ethical and Alternative Banks (FEBEA) has held its annual general meeting at the Radisson in St. Julian’s, preceded by a half-day international conference on ‘Microcredit as a Tool of Ethical Financing for Sustainable Development’. The events were organised in association with the local member of the federation, APS Bank Ltd, which this year is marking 100 years of community banking.
FEBEA is a Brussels-based non-profit organisation with members from 11 European Union and 2 EFTA countries.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105867
The European Federation of Ethical and Alternative Banks (FEBEA) has held its annual general meeting at the Radisson in St. Julian’s, preceded by a half-day international conference on ‘Microcredit as a Tool of Ethical Financing for Sustainable Development’. The events were organised in association with the local member of the federation, APS Bank Ltd, which this year is marking 100 years of community banking.
FEBEA is a Brussels-based non-profit organisation with members from 11 European Union and 2 EFTA countries.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105867
Spain to boost EU gender equality
The Malta Independent Online 10 May 2010
The Embassy of Spain in Malta is organising a seminar on “The Road Map for Equality after 2010”, in line with one of the priorities of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union – the promotion of equality between men and women and the elimination of all types of violence towards women.
To this end, Spain launched two new initiatives: the first is the establishment of an EU Centre for monitoring domestic violence, and the second is the adoption of the European Protection Order, so that the rules dictated by the national courts for the protection of victims of violence may be extended across the entire European territory. In addition to this, the Spanish Presidency supported the approval of the Plan for Equality 2010-2015 between men and women.
The Ambassador of Spain in Malta, María Isabel Vicandi, and Chris Said, Parliamentary Secretary for Consumers, Fair Competition, Local Councils and Public Dialogue, will inaugurate the seminar while María Jesús Alonso Jiménez, Spanish Ambassador for Gender Equality, will make the keynote speech.
Two panels will discuss two subjects, ‘Women and Work’ and ‘Violence against Women’. The last half hour will be dedicated to discussion from the floor.
The seminar will be taking place on Wednesday at the Corinthia Palace Hotel, Attard, between 9am and 12.45pm. NGOs working in the field as well as the public are invited to attend. Participation is free and continental breakfast will be offered. For participation send an email to irene.sacido@maec.es or telephone on 2131 7365.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105860
The Embassy of Spain in Malta is organising a seminar on “The Road Map for Equality after 2010”, in line with one of the priorities of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union – the promotion of equality between men and women and the elimination of all types of violence towards women.
To this end, Spain launched two new initiatives: the first is the establishment of an EU Centre for monitoring domestic violence, and the second is the adoption of the European Protection Order, so that the rules dictated by the national courts for the protection of victims of violence may be extended across the entire European territory. In addition to this, the Spanish Presidency supported the approval of the Plan for Equality 2010-2015 between men and women.
The Ambassador of Spain in Malta, María Isabel Vicandi, and Chris Said, Parliamentary Secretary for Consumers, Fair Competition, Local Councils and Public Dialogue, will inaugurate the seminar while María Jesús Alonso Jiménez, Spanish Ambassador for Gender Equality, will make the keynote speech.
Two panels will discuss two subjects, ‘Women and Work’ and ‘Violence against Women’. The last half hour will be dedicated to discussion from the floor.
The seminar will be taking place on Wednesday at the Corinthia Palace Hotel, Attard, between 9am and 12.45pm. NGOs working in the field as well as the public are invited to attend. Participation is free and continental breakfast will be offered. For participation send an email to irene.sacido@maec.es or telephone on 2131 7365.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=105860
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Update 1: NGOs object to sanctioning of Dwejra structures
Di-Ve.com
07 April 2010
- editorial@di-ve.com
Current Affairs -- 07 April 2010 -- 16:00CEST
A number of environmental NGOs are strongly objecting to the possible sanctioning of a number of illegal buildings at Dwejra in Gozo, which the MEPA board is set to decide on on Thursday morning.
In a statement released on Wednesday afternoon, Din l-Art Ħelwa maintained that these illegal buildings – most of them boathouses – degraded the natural beauty of the inland sea and the area’s unique landscape, and had already objected to the sanctioning of these buildings previously.
It lamented that recently, an “unnecessarily large” interpretation centre at Dwejra was given the green light by MEPA, following the approval of another oversized visitor centre at Ħaġar Qim.
DLĦ urged MEPA to “live up to the promises repeatedly made by government over the past 2 years, to protect the countryside and safeguard ecologically sensitive areas such as the landscape around Dwejra, which is also designated as a nature park.”
“The proposed reform of Mepa has clearly recognized the need to bring to an end the sanctioning of illegal developments, and it is now up to the authorities to put these words into action.”
In a subsequent joint statement, BirdLife Malta, Friends of the Earth (Malta), Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar, Gaia, Nature Trust Malta and the Ramblers Association also expressed their condemnation of the proposed sanctioning.
They noted that in February 2008, environment NGOs had strongly opposed the approval of approximately 20 applications to sanction abusive structures and accretions at Dwejra, a decision which they said was approved “on the pretext that it would allow the implementation of the Dwejra Action Plan to stop hunting, dumping and impose uniformity and aesthetic improvements in the area with the introduction of wooden apertures, walls painted with palette colours, the removal of all second floors and rooftop structures.”
However, the NGOs noted that in spite of the commitment to regulate the area “some of the boathouses already resemble small hangars, and 16 new applications are now presented for sanctioning.”
“It is unacceptable that MEPA had sanctioned boathouse abuse two years ago on the basis of drawing the line to prevent any more sanctioning, and is now considering more sanctioning when 5 years have passed since the Dwejra Heritage Park Action Plan was agreed to,” they lamented.
The NGOs added that these abusive tactics and MEPA’s “generally spineless response” were what they had recently protesting about.
They said that they would not be attending the MEPA hearing in protest at the MEPA board’s current processing of applications, and said that the hearing would test MEPA’s credentials.
“Approval of the Dwejra applications by MEPA will continue to reduce this supposedly protected area to a shanty-town, make a complete mockery of the MEPA reform, will tear to shreds the much-trumpeted New Policy for the Environment and will contribute to making a laughing-stock of Eco-Gozo,” the NGOs concluded.
The development applications to be determined by the MEPA board on Thursday are:
* PA 5738/00 To sanction extension to existing bar, site at Dwejra Bar, 75, Id-Dwejra, Limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5748/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 34, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5759/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 96, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 5765/00 To sanction boathouse, site at Boathouse 104, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5774/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 8, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 5776/00 To sanction different layout of boathouse and to sanction increase in height and subdivision in two levels, site at Boathouse 38, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5967/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 56, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 6541/00 To sanction the construction of concrete platform, to sanction change of use of land for outside tables and to sanction canopy in front of existing bar, site at Dwejra Bar, 75 Id-Dwejra, limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 6747/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at, Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 0273/01 To sanction additions within building cartilage, site at 107 Pjazza Tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 1548/01 To sanction existing fishery store, site at Id-Dwejra, limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 4829/02 Change of use from summer residence into a diving equipment rent out, site at Pjazza tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 5216/03 To sanction extension to existing boathouse, site at 98 Id-Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 3732/04 To sanction additions to existing summer residence consisting of room at ground floor, site at 106 Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 6904/04 To sanction minor works on the facade and on the interior of existing dwelling and subdivision into two separate units, site at 108 Pjazza Tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 0660/06 To sanction yard walls at back of boathouse, site at Boathouse 72, Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 0662/06 Biex jigu ssanzjonti x-xogholijiet, site at Id-Dwejra, Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
Di-Ve.com
07 April 2010
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=71275¤tPage=34&newscategory=31
Update 1: NGOs object to sanctioning of Dwejra structures
di-ve.com by di-ve.com - editorial@di-ve.com
Current Affairs -- 07 April 2010 -- 16:00CEST
A number of environmental NGOs are strongly objecting to the possible sanctioning of a number of illegal buildings at Dwejra in Gozo, which the MEPA board is set to decide on on Thursday morning.
In a statement released on Wednesday afternoon, Din l-Art Ħelwa maintained that these illegal buildings – most of them boathouses – degraded the natural beauty of the inland sea and the area’s unique landscape, and had already objected to the sanctioning of these buildings previously.
It lamented that recently, an “unnecessarily large” interpretation centre at Dwejra was given the green light by MEPA, following the approval of another oversized visitor centre at Ħaġar Qim.
DLĦ urged MEPA to “live up to the promises repeatedly made by government over the past 2 years, to protect the countryside and safeguard ecologically sensitive areas such as the landscape around Dwejra, which is also designated as a nature park.”
“The proposed reform of Mepa has clearly recognized the need to bring to an end the sanctioning of illegal developments, and it is now up to the authorities to put these words into action.”
In a subsequent joint statement, BirdLife Malta, Friends of the Earth (Malta), Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar, Gaia, Nature Trust Malta and the Ramblers Association also expressed their condemnation of the proposed sanctioning.
They noted that in February 2008, environment NGOs had strongly opposed the approval of approximately 20 applications to sanction abusive structures and accretions at Dwejra, a decision which they said was approved “on the pretext that it would allow the implementation of the Dwejra Action Plan to stop hunting, dumping and impose uniformity and aesthetic improvements in the area with the introduction of wooden apertures, walls painted with palette colours, the removal of all second floors and rooftop structures.”
However, the NGOs noted that in spite of the commitment to regulate the area “some of the boathouses already resemble small hangars, and 16 new applications are now presented for sanctioning.”
“It is unacceptable that MEPA had sanctioned boathouse abuse two years ago on the basis of drawing the line to prevent any more sanctioning, and is now considering more sanctioning when 5 years have passed since the Dwejra Heritage Park Action Plan was agreed to,” they lamented.
The NGOs added that these abusive tactics and MEPA’s “generally spineless response” were what they had recently protesting about.
They said that they would not be attending the MEPA hearing in protest at the MEPA board’s current processing of applications, and said that the hearing would test MEPA’s credentials.
“Approval of the Dwejra applications by MEPA will continue to reduce this supposedly protected area to a shanty-town, make a complete mockery of the MEPA reform, will tear to shreds the much-trumpeted New Policy for the Environment and will contribute to making a laughing-stock of Eco-Gozo,” the NGOs concluded.
The development applications to be determined by the MEPA board on Thursday are:
* PA 5738/00 To sanction extension to existing bar, site at Dwejra Bar, 75, Id-Dwejra, Limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5748/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 34, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5759/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 96, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 5765/00 To sanction boathouse, site at Boathouse 104, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5774/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 8, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 5776/00 To sanction different layout of boathouse and to sanction increase in height and subdivision in two levels, site at Boathouse 38, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5967/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 56, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 6541/00 To sanction the construction of concrete platform, to sanction change of use of land for outside tables and to sanction canopy in front of existing bar, site at Dwejra Bar, 75 Id-Dwejra, limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 6747/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at, Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 0273/01 To sanction additions within building cartilage, site at 107 Pjazza Tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 1548/01 To sanction existing fishery store, site at Id-Dwejra, limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 4829/02 Change of use from summer residence into a diving equipment rent out, site at Pjazza tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 5216/03 To sanction extension to existing boathouse, site at 98 Id-Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 3732/04 To sanction additions to existing summer residence consisting of room at ground floor, site at 106 Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 6904/04 To sanction minor works on the facade and on the interior of existing dwelling and subdivision into two separate units, site at 108 Pjazza Tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 0660/06 To sanction yard walls at back of boathouse, site at Boathouse 72, Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 0662/06 Biex jigu ssanzjonti x-xogholijiet, site at Id-Dwejra, Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=71275¤tPage=34&newscategory=31
07 April 2010
- editorial@di-ve.com
Current Affairs -- 07 April 2010 -- 16:00CEST
A number of environmental NGOs are strongly objecting to the possible sanctioning of a number of illegal buildings at Dwejra in Gozo, which the MEPA board is set to decide on on Thursday morning.
In a statement released on Wednesday afternoon, Din l-Art Ħelwa maintained that these illegal buildings – most of them boathouses – degraded the natural beauty of the inland sea and the area’s unique landscape, and had already objected to the sanctioning of these buildings previously.
It lamented that recently, an “unnecessarily large” interpretation centre at Dwejra was given the green light by MEPA, following the approval of another oversized visitor centre at Ħaġar Qim.
DLĦ urged MEPA to “live up to the promises repeatedly made by government over the past 2 years, to protect the countryside and safeguard ecologically sensitive areas such as the landscape around Dwejra, which is also designated as a nature park.”
“The proposed reform of Mepa has clearly recognized the need to bring to an end the sanctioning of illegal developments, and it is now up to the authorities to put these words into action.”
In a subsequent joint statement, BirdLife Malta, Friends of the Earth (Malta), Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar, Gaia, Nature Trust Malta and the Ramblers Association also expressed their condemnation of the proposed sanctioning.
They noted that in February 2008, environment NGOs had strongly opposed the approval of approximately 20 applications to sanction abusive structures and accretions at Dwejra, a decision which they said was approved “on the pretext that it would allow the implementation of the Dwejra Action Plan to stop hunting, dumping and impose uniformity and aesthetic improvements in the area with the introduction of wooden apertures, walls painted with palette colours, the removal of all second floors and rooftop structures.”
However, the NGOs noted that in spite of the commitment to regulate the area “some of the boathouses already resemble small hangars, and 16 new applications are now presented for sanctioning.”
“It is unacceptable that MEPA had sanctioned boathouse abuse two years ago on the basis of drawing the line to prevent any more sanctioning, and is now considering more sanctioning when 5 years have passed since the Dwejra Heritage Park Action Plan was agreed to,” they lamented.
The NGOs added that these abusive tactics and MEPA’s “generally spineless response” were what they had recently protesting about.
They said that they would not be attending the MEPA hearing in protest at the MEPA board’s current processing of applications, and said that the hearing would test MEPA’s credentials.
“Approval of the Dwejra applications by MEPA will continue to reduce this supposedly protected area to a shanty-town, make a complete mockery of the MEPA reform, will tear to shreds the much-trumpeted New Policy for the Environment and will contribute to making a laughing-stock of Eco-Gozo,” the NGOs concluded.
The development applications to be determined by the MEPA board on Thursday are:
* PA 5738/00 To sanction extension to existing bar, site at Dwejra Bar, 75, Id-Dwejra, Limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5748/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 34, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5759/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 96, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 5765/00 To sanction boathouse, site at Boathouse 104, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5774/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 8, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 5776/00 To sanction different layout of boathouse and to sanction increase in height and subdivision in two levels, site at Boathouse 38, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5967/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 56, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 6541/00 To sanction the construction of concrete platform, to sanction change of use of land for outside tables and to sanction canopy in front of existing bar, site at Dwejra Bar, 75 Id-Dwejra, limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 6747/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at, Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 0273/01 To sanction additions within building cartilage, site at 107 Pjazza Tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 1548/01 To sanction existing fishery store, site at Id-Dwejra, limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 4829/02 Change of use from summer residence into a diving equipment rent out, site at Pjazza tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 5216/03 To sanction extension to existing boathouse, site at 98 Id-Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 3732/04 To sanction additions to existing summer residence consisting of room at ground floor, site at 106 Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 6904/04 To sanction minor works on the facade and on the interior of existing dwelling and subdivision into two separate units, site at 108 Pjazza Tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 0660/06 To sanction yard walls at back of boathouse, site at Boathouse 72, Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 0662/06 Biex jigu ssanzjonti x-xogholijiet, site at Id-Dwejra, Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
Di-Ve.com
07 April 2010
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=71275¤tPage=34&newscategory=31
Update 1: NGOs object to sanctioning of Dwejra structures
di-ve.com by di-ve.com - editorial@di-ve.com
Current Affairs -- 07 April 2010 -- 16:00CEST
A number of environmental NGOs are strongly objecting to the possible sanctioning of a number of illegal buildings at Dwejra in Gozo, which the MEPA board is set to decide on on Thursday morning.
In a statement released on Wednesday afternoon, Din l-Art Ħelwa maintained that these illegal buildings – most of them boathouses – degraded the natural beauty of the inland sea and the area’s unique landscape, and had already objected to the sanctioning of these buildings previously.
It lamented that recently, an “unnecessarily large” interpretation centre at Dwejra was given the green light by MEPA, following the approval of another oversized visitor centre at Ħaġar Qim.
DLĦ urged MEPA to “live up to the promises repeatedly made by government over the past 2 years, to protect the countryside and safeguard ecologically sensitive areas such as the landscape around Dwejra, which is also designated as a nature park.”
“The proposed reform of Mepa has clearly recognized the need to bring to an end the sanctioning of illegal developments, and it is now up to the authorities to put these words into action.”
In a subsequent joint statement, BirdLife Malta, Friends of the Earth (Malta), Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar, Gaia, Nature Trust Malta and the Ramblers Association also expressed their condemnation of the proposed sanctioning.
They noted that in February 2008, environment NGOs had strongly opposed the approval of approximately 20 applications to sanction abusive structures and accretions at Dwejra, a decision which they said was approved “on the pretext that it would allow the implementation of the Dwejra Action Plan to stop hunting, dumping and impose uniformity and aesthetic improvements in the area with the introduction of wooden apertures, walls painted with palette colours, the removal of all second floors and rooftop structures.”
However, the NGOs noted that in spite of the commitment to regulate the area “some of the boathouses already resemble small hangars, and 16 new applications are now presented for sanctioning.”
“It is unacceptable that MEPA had sanctioned boathouse abuse two years ago on the basis of drawing the line to prevent any more sanctioning, and is now considering more sanctioning when 5 years have passed since the Dwejra Heritage Park Action Plan was agreed to,” they lamented.
The NGOs added that these abusive tactics and MEPA’s “generally spineless response” were what they had recently protesting about.
They said that they would not be attending the MEPA hearing in protest at the MEPA board’s current processing of applications, and said that the hearing would test MEPA’s credentials.
“Approval of the Dwejra applications by MEPA will continue to reduce this supposedly protected area to a shanty-town, make a complete mockery of the MEPA reform, will tear to shreds the much-trumpeted New Policy for the Environment and will contribute to making a laughing-stock of Eco-Gozo,” the NGOs concluded.
The development applications to be determined by the MEPA board on Thursday are:
* PA 5738/00 To sanction extension to existing bar, site at Dwejra Bar, 75, Id-Dwejra, Limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5748/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 34, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5759/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 96, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 5765/00 To sanction boathouse, site at Boathouse 104, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5774/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 8, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 5776/00 To sanction different layout of boathouse and to sanction increase in height and subdivision in two levels, site at Boathouse 38, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz (reconsideration)
* PA 5967/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at Boathouse 56, Id-Dwejra limits of, San Lawrenz
* PA 6541/00 To sanction the construction of concrete platform, to sanction change of use of land for outside tables and to sanction canopy in front of existing bar, site at Dwejra Bar, 75 Id-Dwejra, limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 6747/00 To sanction the construction of a boathouse, site at, Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 0273/01 To sanction additions within building cartilage, site at 107 Pjazza Tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 1548/01 To sanction existing fishery store, site at Id-Dwejra, limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 4829/02 Change of use from summer residence into a diving equipment rent out, site at Pjazza tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 5216/03 To sanction extension to existing boathouse, site at 98 Id-Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 3732/04 To sanction additions to existing summer residence consisting of room at ground floor, site at 106 Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 6904/04 To sanction minor works on the facade and on the interior of existing dwelling and subdivision into two separate units, site at 108 Pjazza Tad-Dwejra, Dwejra l/o San Lawrenz
* PA 0660/06 To sanction yard walls at back of boathouse, site at Boathouse 72, Id-Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
* PA 0662/06 Biex jigu ssanzjonti x-xogholijiet, site at Id-Dwejra, Dwejra limits of San Lawrenz
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=71275¤tPage=34&newscategory=31
Updated: NGOs object to sanctioning of illegal buildings at Dwejra "This hearing will be the test for MEPA to show its credentials."
The Times of Malta
Wednesday, 7th April 2010 - 16:10CET
Environment NGOs this afternoon strongly objected to the sanctioning of illegal buildings at Dwejra, Gozo.
In a statement, Din L-Art Helwa said it had noted that several applications for the sanctioning of illegal buildings in Dwejra are due to come up for a decision by the Mepa board tomorrow.
It said that some of these applications had been pending for around 10 years, and it had already objected to the sanctioning at the time.
"These illegal buildings degrade the natural beauty of the Inland Sea and unique landscape of this area with its rare geological features," DLH said.
"Only recently, an unnecessarily large interpretation centre at Dwejra was given the green light by Mepa. Following Hagar Qim, this was yet another over-sized visitor centre that is being allowed outside the development zone."
Din l-Art Helwa urged Mepa to live up to the promises made repeatedly by the government over the last two years, to protect the countryside and safeguard ecologically sensitive areas such as the landscape around Dwejra, which is also designated as a nature park.
"The proposed reform of Mepa has clearly recognized the need to bring to an end the sanctioning of illegal developments, and it is now up to the authorities to put these words into action," the NGO said.
In a separate statement, BirdLife Malta, Friends of the Earth Malta, Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar, Gaia, NatureTrust and Ramblers Association of Malta also expressed their concern.
"A request for sanctioning means that structures, which have already been built, are in breach of Mepa regulations. In February 2008, environment NGOs had strenuously opposed the approval of some 20 applications to sanction abusive structures and accretions at Dwejra. MEPA approved these on the pretext that it would allow implementation of the Dwejra Action Plan to stop hunting, dumping and impose uniformity and aesthetic improvements in the area with the introduction of wooden apertures, walls painted with palette colours, the removal of all second floors and roof top structures.
"In spite of this commitment to regulate the area, some of the 'boathouses' already resemble small hangars, and 16 new applications are now presented for sanctioning. It is unacceptable that MEPA had sanctioned boathouse abuse two years ago on the basis of drawing the line to prevent any more sanctioning, and it is now considering more sanctioning when five years have passed since the Dwejra Heritage Park Action Plan was agreed to," the NGOs said.
"These abusive tactics and the generally spineless response from Mepa, which have already been strongly condemned by the MEPA auditor in the case of the Ta' Baldu site, are exactly the "illegalities" that eNGOs were recently protesting about."
The NGOs said they would not be attending this MEPA hearing in protest at the current processing of applications by the MEPA Board.
"This hearing will be the test for MEPA to show its credentials. Approval of the Dwejra applications by MEPA will continue to reduce this supposedly protected area to a shanty-town, make a complete mockery of the MEPA reform, will tear to shreds the much-trumpeted new policy for the Environment and will contribute to making a laughing-stock of Eco-Gozo," the NGOs said.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100407/local/dlh-objects-to-sanctioning-of-illegal-buildings-at-dwejra
Wednesday, 7th April 2010 - 16:10CET
Environment NGOs this afternoon strongly objected to the sanctioning of illegal buildings at Dwejra, Gozo.
In a statement, Din L-Art Helwa said it had noted that several applications for the sanctioning of illegal buildings in Dwejra are due to come up for a decision by the Mepa board tomorrow.
It said that some of these applications had been pending for around 10 years, and it had already objected to the sanctioning at the time.
"These illegal buildings degrade the natural beauty of the Inland Sea and unique landscape of this area with its rare geological features," DLH said.
"Only recently, an unnecessarily large interpretation centre at Dwejra was given the green light by Mepa. Following Hagar Qim, this was yet another over-sized visitor centre that is being allowed outside the development zone."
Din l-Art Helwa urged Mepa to live up to the promises made repeatedly by the government over the last two years, to protect the countryside and safeguard ecologically sensitive areas such as the landscape around Dwejra, which is also designated as a nature park.
"The proposed reform of Mepa has clearly recognized the need to bring to an end the sanctioning of illegal developments, and it is now up to the authorities to put these words into action," the NGO said.
In a separate statement, BirdLife Malta, Friends of the Earth Malta, Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar, Gaia, NatureTrust and Ramblers Association of Malta also expressed their concern.
"A request for sanctioning means that structures, which have already been built, are in breach of Mepa regulations. In February 2008, environment NGOs had strenuously opposed the approval of some 20 applications to sanction abusive structures and accretions at Dwejra. MEPA approved these on the pretext that it would allow implementation of the Dwejra Action Plan to stop hunting, dumping and impose uniformity and aesthetic improvements in the area with the introduction of wooden apertures, walls painted with palette colours, the removal of all second floors and roof top structures.
"In spite of this commitment to regulate the area, some of the 'boathouses' already resemble small hangars, and 16 new applications are now presented for sanctioning. It is unacceptable that MEPA had sanctioned boathouse abuse two years ago on the basis of drawing the line to prevent any more sanctioning, and it is now considering more sanctioning when five years have passed since the Dwejra Heritage Park Action Plan was agreed to," the NGOs said.
"These abusive tactics and the generally spineless response from Mepa, which have already been strongly condemned by the MEPA auditor in the case of the Ta' Baldu site, are exactly the "illegalities" that eNGOs were recently protesting about."
The NGOs said they would not be attending this MEPA hearing in protest at the current processing of applications by the MEPA Board.
"This hearing will be the test for MEPA to show its credentials. Approval of the Dwejra applications by MEPA will continue to reduce this supposedly protected area to a shanty-town, make a complete mockery of the MEPA reform, will tear to shreds the much-trumpeted new policy for the Environment and will contribute to making a laughing-stock of Eco-Gozo," the NGOs said.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100407/local/dlh-objects-to-sanctioning-of-illegal-buildings-at-dwejra
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Wied il Lunzjata dumping raises NGO concern
di-ve.com
Current Affairs -- 06 April 2010 -- 12:15CEST
Nature Trust (Malta) has welcomed the authorities' quick response to the clean-up of oil at Lunzjata valley over the Easter weekend but it urged the authorities to do all possible to apprehend the culprit.
An estimated 400 litres of used oil or diesel are believed to have been illegally dumped in the public sewer system. When the pumping station in the valley stopped working during the power failure on Friday, the sewage and the dumped oil overflowed into the valley.
The clean-up – most of it manual – was undertaken by Water Services Corporation employees and members of the Civil Protection Department.
NTM said that the overflow was a double concern issue as it affected the ground water as well as the endemic freshwater crab found in this valley.
“This valley is a protected site, whilst the crab is also protected under Maltese law and therefore its protection merits top priority. The NGO calls on MEPA to issue a management plan for this site as well as to take concrete actions in order to stop further damage to the site. Over the years NTM has been reporting traces of sewage overflows into the valley, which have been noticed several times especially when taking tourists and members on nature walks,” the NGO said.
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=71183¤tPage=34&newscategory=31
Current Affairs -- 06 April 2010 -- 12:15CEST
Nature Trust (Malta) has welcomed the authorities' quick response to the clean-up of oil at Lunzjata valley over the Easter weekend but it urged the authorities to do all possible to apprehend the culprit.
An estimated 400 litres of used oil or diesel are believed to have been illegally dumped in the public sewer system. When the pumping station in the valley stopped working during the power failure on Friday, the sewage and the dumped oil overflowed into the valley.
The clean-up – most of it manual – was undertaken by Water Services Corporation employees and members of the Civil Protection Department.
NTM said that the overflow was a double concern issue as it affected the ground water as well as the endemic freshwater crab found in this valley.
“This valley is a protected site, whilst the crab is also protected under Maltese law and therefore its protection merits top priority. The NGO calls on MEPA to issue a management plan for this site as well as to take concrete actions in order to stop further damage to the site. Over the years NTM has been reporting traces of sewage overflows into the valley, which have been noticed several times especially when taking tourists and members on nature walks,” the NGO said.
http://www.di-ve.com/Default.aspx?ID=72&Action=1&NewsId=71183¤tPage=34&newscategory=31
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Swimathon 2010
The Malta Independent online
06 April 2010
Inspire, the Foundation for Inclusion is once again organising its annual charity fundraiser, Swimathon Challenge. Swimathon 2010 will take place between Monday 19 April and Sunday 25 April.
Swimathon Challenge aims to promote healthy living amongst the local community through organised sports whilst also offering a challenging activity for those who like to push themselves and reach a goal. This simultaneously allows Inspire to reach its goal, which is of enhancing the quality of lives of thousands of disabled persons through a range of professional services, including therapeutic, educational, recreational and inclusive programmes.
Inspire invites all colleagues, school mates, friends and families to have fun whilst challenging each other and above all help Inspire raise the much needed funds for persons with disabilities.
Funds can be raised through an easy method depending on the length one decides to swim. Donations can be given for one’s participation or alternatively a sponsor can be found to donate depending on the number of laps one swims. Sponsors can be gathered from relatives, partners, colleagues and acquaintances according to the length participants decide to swim. The minimum donation per hour and per lane is €25.
An official certificate will be handed out as proof of the achievement and support shown towards the organisation while various prizes will be won whether one is swimming on his own or as a group.
If you are up for the challenge call Inspire now on 2189-0000 or email on alexia.sammut@inspire.org.mt
Swimathon 2010 will take place at Inspire Marsascala’s indoor pool, the National Swimming Pool, tal-Qroqq and MFA Pool.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=104136
06 April 2010
Inspire, the Foundation for Inclusion is once again organising its annual charity fundraiser, Swimathon Challenge. Swimathon 2010 will take place between Monday 19 April and Sunday 25 April.
Swimathon Challenge aims to promote healthy living amongst the local community through organised sports whilst also offering a challenging activity for those who like to push themselves and reach a goal. This simultaneously allows Inspire to reach its goal, which is of enhancing the quality of lives of thousands of disabled persons through a range of professional services, including therapeutic, educational, recreational and inclusive programmes.
Inspire invites all colleagues, school mates, friends and families to have fun whilst challenging each other and above all help Inspire raise the much needed funds for persons with disabilities.
Funds can be raised through an easy method depending on the length one decides to swim. Donations can be given for one’s participation or alternatively a sponsor can be found to donate depending on the number of laps one swims. Sponsors can be gathered from relatives, partners, colleagues and acquaintances according to the length participants decide to swim. The minimum donation per hour and per lane is €25.
An official certificate will be handed out as proof of the achievement and support shown towards the organisation while various prizes will be won whether one is swimming on his own or as a group.
If you are up for the challenge call Inspire now on 2189-0000 or email on alexia.sammut@inspire.org.mt
Swimathon 2010 will take place at Inspire Marsascala’s indoor pool, the National Swimming Pool, tal-Qroqq and MFA Pool.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=104136
Ex-inmate’s overdose is ‘nobody’s and everybody’s fault’
The Malta Independent online
06 April 2010
by Elaine Attard
A former prisoner’s death due to an overdose just a few hours after he was out of prison is nobody’s and everybody’s fault, said a spokesperson from NGO Mid-Dlam ghad-Dawl (MDD) when contacted after the NGO issued a statement highlighting the problem of overcrowding in prison.
The prison services offer a limited number of rehabilitation programmes for convicted drug abusers, he said. Drug abuse is rife in prison yet just a few receive the necessary help to overcome their addiction, he added.
Prisoners should receive help from their first day in prison and not on their last day, he added while stressing although most prison officials have the will to help prisoners they lack the resources.
In its statement, the NGO said that the death of the young drug addicted prisoner is a human tragedy, which generates a number of questions on what is really happening within prison.
Despite the work done by those managing and working inside the prison the system is failing. Instead of reforming and improving the prisoner’s outlook on life, the system is in many cases increasing their problems. The prison is overcrowded and for the first time, some prisoners have to share a prison cell.
MDD appealed for effective reforms to help prisoners prepare themselves for life outside prison. The current situation allows the prison authorities to focus solely on the daily running of prison. There is a need for trained staff and prisoner empowering programmes to enable prison to reform inmates and not worsen their condition.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=104122
06 April 2010
by Elaine Attard
A former prisoner’s death due to an overdose just a few hours after he was out of prison is nobody’s and everybody’s fault, said a spokesperson from NGO Mid-Dlam ghad-Dawl (MDD) when contacted after the NGO issued a statement highlighting the problem of overcrowding in prison.
The prison services offer a limited number of rehabilitation programmes for convicted drug abusers, he said. Drug abuse is rife in prison yet just a few receive the necessary help to overcome their addiction, he added.
Prisoners should receive help from their first day in prison and not on their last day, he added while stressing although most prison officials have the will to help prisoners they lack the resources.
In its statement, the NGO said that the death of the young drug addicted prisoner is a human tragedy, which generates a number of questions on what is really happening within prison.
Despite the work done by those managing and working inside the prison the system is failing. Instead of reforming and improving the prisoner’s outlook on life, the system is in many cases increasing their problems. The prison is overcrowded and for the first time, some prisoners have to share a prison cell.
MDD appealed for effective reforms to help prisoners prepare themselves for life outside prison. The current situation allows the prison authorities to focus solely on the daily running of prison. There is a need for trained staff and prisoner empowering programmes to enable prison to reform inmates and not worsen their condition.
http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=104122
Help floods in for 'Maria'. Series of agreed conditions laid down for access to donations
The Times of Malta
Monday, 5th April 2010
Fiona Galea Debono
The story of single mum Maria and her five children living in a garage has drawn a warm reaction from readers, who pledged cash and help in kind in support of the family.
The story of a 27-year-old single mother of five living in a garage with her children has generated scores of pledges for the young family, including a cheque for €1,000 and free paediatric services and medicines.
The wave of support was mixed with some criticism for the mother, who had the children from three different men, none of them acknowledged as fathers.
But besides that, scores of e-mails and telephone calls flooded The Times after Maria* told the newspaper how she ended up living in a garage in Marsascala, acknowledging, to a certain extent, her blame for her circumstances.
The feedback - both positive and negative - was justified by the social worker who has been following Maria's case for over two years now and was overwhelmed by the unexpected response.
Pledges of money were accompanied by actual cheques, furniture, household appliances, including a TV and a PlayStation, offers to fix her rudimentary lodgings, food, clothes, nappies, as well as the free services of a paediatrician and medicines.
And while Vince Tonna, who is also the chairman of Caritas's Marsascala Diaconia Commission, is grateful, he also knows that these donations need to be managed and not simply handed over to Maria.
In fact he is acting as the middleman, as it were, knowing that the single mother might blow any funds on the wrong "needs". The idea is to find someone to administer the money and spread it over time.
"Last week, she did a nose ring, which I thought was extra if she is hassling about money. But she said it cost €2 and she did it for her birthday," he notes.
Any cheques are being addressed to the parish priest. And Mr Tonna has laid down a series of agreed conditions that Maria would have to adhere to for her own good to benefit from the charity. Should she not comply, the money would be diverted to other needy families.
Among the conditions is that she move her children to the Marsascala primary school, which would mean she has no excuses for them to be absent, such as lack of petrol.
Truancy and education are something Mr Tonna feels strongly about and he has been running after Maria to avoid absenteeism. Children from underprivileged backgrounds are exempt from paying for school outings and other costs once the authorities know about them, so she has no excuses to keep them at home, he insists.
The social worker is, in fact, most concerned about the welfare of Maria's children. They need to be educated not to follow in her footsteps, as too often happens, he points out.
"I understand that the mother's behaviour is unacceptable, having continued to have children despite being poor. I cannot interfere in her private life but I feel responsible for the kids; they are here now and they need to be catered for," he says, expressing his relief that Maria has "tied up her tubes".
Her own situation is a reflection of her unstable family background and her relatives have also gone down a similar path, he says, pointing to the downward spiral people like her often end up in.
"If Maria, who has promised me she is tackling this, sends her children to school in the locality, they can enjoy free transport and I will not turn up anymore to find them at home for some reason."
Mr Tonna is all for fining parents who break the law by not sending their children to school. However, he questions whether Maria was ever actually sent a fine, or made to pay it, and how many times social workers from the Education Division checked on her to see if she was keeping her children at home.
"This would serve as a deterrent; we cannot use poverty as an excuse," he says, insisting that education is the only way her children can improve their hopes for a better future.
Mr Tonna is also insisting that Maria applies for social housing for the benefit of her children, who need to live in more adequate conditions.
He fears she may not be willing to do so because she would lose the assistance she is enjoying from the Marsascala Diaconia Commission, and once housing is offered, it cannot be refused.
Having years of experience in the field, Mr Tonna has a realistic - not romantic - view of the situation, and also accepts the criticism that has targeted Maria.
Readers pointed out that if she were so poor, she would not be able to afford a car and pay the required licences and fuel.
While Mr Tonna admits that people in her position often get their priorities wrong, and he knows Maria bought her car with the government allowance for the birth of a child, he explains that it is hardly a luxury vehicle. It gives her more trouble than not but is essential to help her integrate into society.
"God forbid she did not have that either, and I can understand she saw it as a priority. However, I do know of cases where owning a car is not justified, and where deception is the order of the day," he says.
"Last week, I discovered that a man on the dole, who has been complaining to me about his dire situation - and to whom I have been giving food - bought a fancy car.
"That is simply not on," he says, adding that the man in question is asking for an invalidity pension but was also found to be fit as a fiddle, painting his flat.
Mr Tonna is calling for the Appoġġ social work agency to organise a care conference that would gather people close to Maria to come up with a plan of action aimed at sorting out her problem and not just tackling it superficially and temporarily. The conference would also raise any issues that have been neglected and the reasons why.
Mr Tonna is practically the woman's lifeline but it is his strict and long-term approach that is likely to help her and her children most - not the baskets of food he delivers to her every month.
Fathers and benefits
A father's social benefits should always be cut to pay for his children's maintenance, despite being unemployed, according to social worker Vince Tonna.
That is how to reduce abuse, he says, referring to unemployed fathers who do not maintain their children, especially those born out of wedlock.
Most fathers are registered as unknown because they are on the dole and it is easier for the mother to obtain money from the government, he maintains, apart from the fact that it stops them from interfering in the children's upbringing.
In some cases, even if the father is obliged to pay a sum of money, if he fails to do so, the single mother does not have the means and time to continue fighting the battle in court. Many end up giving up, Mr Tonna reports.
Mr Tonna also suggests cutting the children's allowance if a child misses school, education being the only way out of this vicious cycle.
"If we want to be serious about this, police should stop parents and question them if they are seen out with their children on school days."
While Mr Tonna dedicates most of his time to assisting such cases, he does not agree with increasing their social welfare benefits, believing it would just fuel more abuse and encourage them to have more children.
He believes money should go towards more services and not more benefits in hand.
Having said that, he does not agree that someone in Maria's shoes should get a full-time job, but should focus on bringing up her five children.
As things stand, the difference between the minimum wage and the social benefits is a measly €12, he points out.
This means full-time work is not feasible and a part-time job is definitely less so for Maria, despite the fact that she would like one.
While social benefits should remain what they are, the minimum wage should be increased to incentivise single mothers to go to work.
Only in that case, and if childcare facilities are stepped up, should these mothers consider working, he believes.
Maria's situation is also caused by society and the State, while the Church has a role to play too in his view. If the Church's priority is truly the poor, it should carry some of the burden, lead by example and open the doors of its schools to these families, he suggests.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100405/local/help-floods-in-for-maria
Monday, 5th April 2010
Fiona Galea Debono
The story of single mum Maria and her five children living in a garage has drawn a warm reaction from readers, who pledged cash and help in kind in support of the family.
The story of a 27-year-old single mother of five living in a garage with her children has generated scores of pledges for the young family, including a cheque for €1,000 and free paediatric services and medicines.
The wave of support was mixed with some criticism for the mother, who had the children from three different men, none of them acknowledged as fathers.
But besides that, scores of e-mails and telephone calls flooded The Times after Maria* told the newspaper how she ended up living in a garage in Marsascala, acknowledging, to a certain extent, her blame for her circumstances.
The feedback - both positive and negative - was justified by the social worker who has been following Maria's case for over two years now and was overwhelmed by the unexpected response.
Pledges of money were accompanied by actual cheques, furniture, household appliances, including a TV and a PlayStation, offers to fix her rudimentary lodgings, food, clothes, nappies, as well as the free services of a paediatrician and medicines.
And while Vince Tonna, who is also the chairman of Caritas's Marsascala Diaconia Commission, is grateful, he also knows that these donations need to be managed and not simply handed over to Maria.
In fact he is acting as the middleman, as it were, knowing that the single mother might blow any funds on the wrong "needs". The idea is to find someone to administer the money and spread it over time.
"Last week, she did a nose ring, which I thought was extra if she is hassling about money. But she said it cost €2 and she did it for her birthday," he notes.
Any cheques are being addressed to the parish priest. And Mr Tonna has laid down a series of agreed conditions that Maria would have to adhere to for her own good to benefit from the charity. Should she not comply, the money would be diverted to other needy families.
Among the conditions is that she move her children to the Marsascala primary school, which would mean she has no excuses for them to be absent, such as lack of petrol.
Truancy and education are something Mr Tonna feels strongly about and he has been running after Maria to avoid absenteeism. Children from underprivileged backgrounds are exempt from paying for school outings and other costs once the authorities know about them, so she has no excuses to keep them at home, he insists.
The social worker is, in fact, most concerned about the welfare of Maria's children. They need to be educated not to follow in her footsteps, as too often happens, he points out.
"I understand that the mother's behaviour is unacceptable, having continued to have children despite being poor. I cannot interfere in her private life but I feel responsible for the kids; they are here now and they need to be catered for," he says, expressing his relief that Maria has "tied up her tubes".
Her own situation is a reflection of her unstable family background and her relatives have also gone down a similar path, he says, pointing to the downward spiral people like her often end up in.
"If Maria, who has promised me she is tackling this, sends her children to school in the locality, they can enjoy free transport and I will not turn up anymore to find them at home for some reason."
Mr Tonna is all for fining parents who break the law by not sending their children to school. However, he questions whether Maria was ever actually sent a fine, or made to pay it, and how many times social workers from the Education Division checked on her to see if she was keeping her children at home.
"This would serve as a deterrent; we cannot use poverty as an excuse," he says, insisting that education is the only way her children can improve their hopes for a better future.
Mr Tonna is also insisting that Maria applies for social housing for the benefit of her children, who need to live in more adequate conditions.
He fears she may not be willing to do so because she would lose the assistance she is enjoying from the Marsascala Diaconia Commission, and once housing is offered, it cannot be refused.
Having years of experience in the field, Mr Tonna has a realistic - not romantic - view of the situation, and also accepts the criticism that has targeted Maria.
Readers pointed out that if she were so poor, she would not be able to afford a car and pay the required licences and fuel.
While Mr Tonna admits that people in her position often get their priorities wrong, and he knows Maria bought her car with the government allowance for the birth of a child, he explains that it is hardly a luxury vehicle. It gives her more trouble than not but is essential to help her integrate into society.
"God forbid she did not have that either, and I can understand she saw it as a priority. However, I do know of cases where owning a car is not justified, and where deception is the order of the day," he says.
"Last week, I discovered that a man on the dole, who has been complaining to me about his dire situation - and to whom I have been giving food - bought a fancy car.
"That is simply not on," he says, adding that the man in question is asking for an invalidity pension but was also found to be fit as a fiddle, painting his flat.
Mr Tonna is calling for the Appoġġ social work agency to organise a care conference that would gather people close to Maria to come up with a plan of action aimed at sorting out her problem and not just tackling it superficially and temporarily. The conference would also raise any issues that have been neglected and the reasons why.
Mr Tonna is practically the woman's lifeline but it is his strict and long-term approach that is likely to help her and her children most - not the baskets of food he delivers to her every month.
Fathers and benefits
A father's social benefits should always be cut to pay for his children's maintenance, despite being unemployed, according to social worker Vince Tonna.
That is how to reduce abuse, he says, referring to unemployed fathers who do not maintain their children, especially those born out of wedlock.
Most fathers are registered as unknown because they are on the dole and it is easier for the mother to obtain money from the government, he maintains, apart from the fact that it stops them from interfering in the children's upbringing.
In some cases, even if the father is obliged to pay a sum of money, if he fails to do so, the single mother does not have the means and time to continue fighting the battle in court. Many end up giving up, Mr Tonna reports.
Mr Tonna also suggests cutting the children's allowance if a child misses school, education being the only way out of this vicious cycle.
"If we want to be serious about this, police should stop parents and question them if they are seen out with their children on school days."
While Mr Tonna dedicates most of his time to assisting such cases, he does not agree with increasing their social welfare benefits, believing it would just fuel more abuse and encourage them to have more children.
He believes money should go towards more services and not more benefits in hand.
Having said that, he does not agree that someone in Maria's shoes should get a full-time job, but should focus on bringing up her five children.
As things stand, the difference between the minimum wage and the social benefits is a measly €12, he points out.
This means full-time work is not feasible and a part-time job is definitely less so for Maria, despite the fact that she would like one.
While social benefits should remain what they are, the minimum wage should be increased to incentivise single mothers to go to work.
Only in that case, and if childcare facilities are stepped up, should these mothers consider working, he believes.
Maria's situation is also caused by society and the State, while the Church has a role to play too in his view. If the Church's priority is truly the poor, it should carry some of the burden, lead by example and open the doors of its schools to these families, he suggests.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100405/local/help-floods-in-for-maria
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
