The pre-budget document presented by the Prime Minister gave local councils opportunities to develop their services, said the Nationalist Party College of Councillors. While the work of local councils and other government agencies had been directed towards the environment, it was now evolving to include other social and economic aspects which, said the college, was positive.

The document referred to the historical heritage and said local councils have a responsibility to take care of this. The councils that are proud of their locality’s heritage should see that it is safeguarded and restored, and that there is an awareness of its importance.The initiatives mentioned by Dr Gonzi were proof of the government’s vision. The government showed also that it was committed to developing Gozo and local councils there had a role to play, the college said.