Given the density of its population and busy traffic, open recreational space is at a social premium in Paola.

Yet Pawlu Boffa garden has been allowed to fall into an unacceptable state of neglect and dilapidation.

Instead of redressing the situation, the council exacerbated it by unnecessarily constructing more buildings in this open public space rather than opting to avail of one of the many vacant premises in Paola.

Even the elementary matter of a fountain that has not functioned for years typifies the stagnant torpor that has engulfed a Paola local council beset for far too long by senseless zero-sum confrontational stances.

Alternattiva Demokratika does not seek a majority because it does not have to. Its role in Paola is twofold: to even-handedly defuse internecine tension and mediate between both warring partisan factions, constructively channelling our collective expertise to ensure sensible results and focused solutions for the benefit of the whole community.

AD will be a watchdog to assure Paola residents of accountability and transparency regarding decision making processes concerning what is after all, not just their council, but their own town too.

Martin Brincat

AD candidate for Paola