Ian Castaldi Paris is another young mayor who was elected in last week’s Local Council elections. Charlot Zahra speaks to him about the new challenges he will be facing in his post as Lija mayor

Can you introduce yourself and your background?

I am 27 and work as a Notary Public. I attended De La Salle up to sixth form. After that I entered university graduating as Doctor of Laws in 2003. I have been living in Lija since my marriage to Francesca in 2004 and on the 28 January we had a baby girl, Elena.

What was your reaction at being elected Lija mayor at such a relatively young age?

I am extremely happy. However age is not important. What matters in life is to honour the commitments you make. And that is what I intend doing as a mayor. I am going to give 100 per cent to my locality and as work hard as I can. I want to always be close to the people of Lija. Since I was very young my parents always taught me that whatever I do I must always do well and give the maximum. Today as mayor of Lija, this is my first priority. I am very willing and indeed determined to commit myself to the full to work for my locality and the people of Lija.

Have you been involved in NGOs and other associations before contesting these elections?

I was involved in the Students Council when I was at university and now I am a member of the Notarial Council.

How will you cope with your professional and family life as mayor?

In life, the most important thing is to be organised. I try not to waste even one minute as every moment is precious. What is important is to find a balance in whatever you do. I must admit that I am very lucky to have a good set up at my office and very efficient people who work for me.. As for my family life, my wife is my backbone – very supportive and encouraging and very dedicated too. Therefore I feel yes – I can cope very well with my professional life and family life, and in my new role as mayor. However, I have to admit that there will no longer be time for a siesta!!

Many other young mayors and councillors have been elected in these last local elections. Is this a sign that people want a young, fresh outlook in local councils?

I don’t think so although I must admit that a new face means a fresh approach to things.

What are the first things that you would do as Mayor?

As mayor I will continue to carry out home visits as this is one of the best ways to keep a good relationship with the residents and it is the best way to get feedback. Obviously, there is an electoral programme I must follow together with my colleagues in the council. On the other hand, I must ensure that new issues that arise will be tackled immediately. I am adamant that the day-to-day things are done efficiently and with dedication. What is important for our locality is that we must work as a team, keeping in mind that everyone has an important contribution to make. If everyone does his part, I am more than sure that we will keep on obtaining positive results. The council must work hand-in- hand with the people, which is why sub-committees are of the utmost importance.

There is a general perception that young people are not interested in politics. Is this true?

No, I don’t think so – the very fact that I have been elected mayor is proof to the contrary.

Do you encourage other young people to take part in politics?

If you sincerely believe that you can serve your country or your locality, then politics is definitely the place for you. However, having said that, I believe that one is born to be a politician although one might not realize the potential one has, which is why it is important to encourage young people to take an active part in politics.