The government could step in to buy properties that are being leased to band clubs that are facing the threat of eviction, it was announced on Monday.

Parliamentary Secretary Alex Muscat and Culture Minister Jose Herrera said the properties would then be leased back to the band clubs at subsidised prices.

The scheme is aimed to help band clubs that are facing eviction as a result of recent court judgments that slammed old rent laws.

Funds from the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF) will be used to carry out the purchases.

A number of band clubs were placed at risk of eviction after a 2018 court judgment that ordered the De Paule band club in Paola to vacate its current rented premises.

PS Muscat said experts employed by the NDSF will carry out discussions with the property owners.

Once government becomes the owner, it will be renting out the premises to band clubs at a subsidised price.

Minister Herrera said the scheme would give peace of mind to the band clubs while also respecting the owners, who have a right to a fair price for their property.

The NSDF operates with funds made from Malta’s citizenship scheme.