Prime Minister Joseph Muscat this morning gave a broad deadline for the start of operations at the new gas-fired power plant, saying it would be available in the summer months.
Previously, the government had said that the plant would be operational by the end of June, which is 15 months later than the original deadline given for March 2015.
If the gas plant is not operational by end June, it would signify another delay on the project, which was the main pledge the Labour Party made before the election.
Dr Muscat was speaking at the start of a Cabinet meeting that is being held in Birzebbuga and included regional local council Mayors, who told government about problems faced in their localities..
The issue was raised by Birzebbuga mayor Kevin Barun, who is among the mayors attending the meeting
Energy Minister Konrad Mizzi was reluctant to give a specific date for electricity production when asked by journalists. He insisted construction works would be ready in May.
He said there will be a period of testing and commissioning before the plant becomes operational.
Siggiewi Mayor Karol Aquilina said that government should consider increasing the funds available to local councils. “The funding problem is a reality and is common among many councils across the islands. If we want the councils to succeed, you must invest more funds in them”.
He spoke of the need to protect the Dar tal-Providenza. He appealed that Mepa declare the area around the Dar tal-Providenza be considered as a specific zone that would not allow certain types of developments.
Kirkop Mayor Terence Agius, would like to know the timelines regarding the construction of a polyclinic. In this regard, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said that this was a priority, however said that a management system first needs to be put in place.
Mr Agius also spoke of the need to improve drainage systems, stating that problems arise everytime it rains.
Regional Council President Jesmond Aquilina said that he has held meetings with Parliamentary Secretary Stefan Buontempo, and that he has some ideas on how Regional Councils could be more hands on and help alleviate some of the financial problems faced by councils. One such idea, he said, would be to move lighting from being under local councils, to falling under the regional council.
Safi Mayor John Mula highlighted a possible "racket" of nurses, who were offering the elderly the possibility of taking blood samples at home against a €10 fee.
PL Whip Godfrey Farrugia, in response, said that this was a widespread practice. Dr Muscat asked for more details on the matter and that an investigation will take place.
Concluding, the Prime Minister spoke of the need to identify more green pockets in localities, as spaces where families can go and enjoy themselves. He asked local council to identify possible areas.
Photos Jonathan Borg