Miscarriage Leave Entitlement Announced Women who experience a miscarriage within the first 22 weeks of pregnancy will be entitled to seven consecutive days of miscarriage leave, along with their partner, under new government proposals. The cost will be covered by the state, with each person receiving the equivalent of the median wage — around €600. This leave will be separate from sick leave and is in addition to current entitlements. It will apply to public and private sector employees, including part-time workers on a pro-rata basis. Self-employed individuals and those working via employment agencies will also benefit. During the leave period, the government will pay the National Insurance contributions of both employer and employee. Couples will also have access to psychological support. The proposals, presented by Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul after four months of consultation, were approved by Cabinet. (Times of Malta)
Government Relaunches Media Reform Consultation The government has launched a new public consultation on media reform, following previous proposals in 2021 that were widely criticised for being inadequate. Presented by the Ministry for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector, the initiative aims to create a legal framework that protects freedom of expression while promoting journalistic responsibility. The earlier proposals failed to address key concerns raised by the public inquiry into the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Although three draft laws were presented to Parliament, they have remained undiscussed. This latest consultation is intended to ensure that the final legislation reflects society’s values and addresses the shortcomings of previous reform efforts. (The Malta Independent)
Activists Call for Action Ahead of Maccabi Tel Aviv Match Maltese activist groups including Ġustizzja għall-Palestina and Watermelon Warriors have urged authorities to review the upcoming UEFA Europa League qualifier between Ħamrun Spartans and Maccabi Tel Aviv, due to be held on 7 August. The groups argue that allowing Israeli teams to compete sends a troubling signal while Israel is under scrutiny by the International Court of Justice for alleged genocide in Palestine. They also raised concerns about past fan behaviour, noting violent incidents linked to Maccabi supporters in other European cities. While UEFA rules limit political interference, local authorities can still impose safety measures if public order is at risk. No official statement has been issued about changes to the match or expected fan attendance. Activists say the issue reflects a wider pattern of impunity and should not be ignored. (Maltatoday)
