From Mr N. Muscat

It now appears that everyone admits that Swieqi neither has an identity or even a community. Is all lost? Can something be done to save the locality from total doom and give it the lease of life it deserves?

Can anything be done to plan for the future of Swieqi for the next 30 years?

In my opinion all is not lost. However, the medicine it requires must be given immediately and in large doses. There is no time left for quibbling and bickering. Nor even time for never ending studies and projections.

In my opinion the real life-saver for Swieqi is the only remaining sizeable plot of land in Triq Il-Keffa.

I am of the opinion that at road level this land should be turned into a beautiful park, adorned with all the utilities required where residents can meet, socialise, unwind, relax and enjoy some open space. This area can serve as the locality’s much-needed piazza where cultural activities can be organised.

Indoor sports facilities should be constructed at basement level. These would include a basketball court, another multipurpose court where handball and volleyball can be played, two squash courts and a fitness area.

Thus our residents will be given the opportunity to practise sports. This will also contribute in no small way towards the formation of an identity.

Maybe at long last we will see Swieqi colours being donned and we can start competing in sports activities against other localities.

I truly believe that our locality deserves to receive this long awaited present from the government. This is a locality that has contributed tremendously to the State especially in property taxes. Moreover, our locality does not benefit from any social assistance in the form of housing, schooling, old peoples’ home and so on. Therefore there is no reason why such a project should not be given the green light.

I am aware that certain people in authority are projecting the construction of a civic centre on this land.

A civic centre is a very important utility, but it will not help establish an identity or create a community.

I have already identified an alternative site where the civic centre can be built.

I pray that the authorities will give heed to my suggestion and will act swiftly to give Swieqi the breath of life it truly needs and deserves.

Noel Muscat

SWIEQI