If anything, this government will be remembered for the large number of reforms that it has introduced which, ranging from the economic to the social sphere, are meant to improve the citizens’ way of life. As the state strives for more efficiency, transparency and social justice, it eventually positions itself to offer better services.

Needless to say, in a world that seems to be in a continuous state of flux, these reforms become essential, at least they do if we are to maintain, if not improve, our quality of life

But more often than not, reforms also mean uneasy choices and tough decisions. By their very nature, reforms uproot otherwise stable situations in what may be the working or the family environment and because of this, the tools of public consultation and dialogue with interested parties become even more relevant. However, following the necessary discussion, which in some cases takes months or years, it remains government’s duty to make decisions in the interests of the country and its people.

This principle is reflected in many cases of reform.

Transport System

Take the transport system as a clear example. The public demands the kind of effective transport that is found in modern cities and that serves the needs of those who use it. Local commuters and tourists deserve a system that ensures comfortable mobility.

It was announced recently that five submissions have satisfied the requirements of the Call for Expressions of Interest for a Service Concession Contract and this is encouraging news. The reforms will ensure that not all bus routes will begin and end in Valletta; they will be distributed between nodes to be established in several towns and villages such as Paola, Marsa, Rabat, Mosta Techno Park, Birkirkara, Mater Dei Hospital, Luxol and Bugibba and there will be connecting services between neighbouring villages.

An efficient service insists on punctuality and efficient ticketing. Hopefully, an efficient system will attract more people to make use of public transport instead of using their own vehicles, which means less pollution and fewer traffic jams.

Malta Drydocks

Reference must be made to the Malta Drydocks and Malta Shipyards, for long a drain on Government finances. Despite the restructuring and various initiatives that had been taken at regular intervals, government felt that it was pumping in millions of euros without ever achieving the desired result.

Negotiations for the sale of the Docks are ongoing and it is to be hoped that this delayed reform will finally reap benefits. This privatisation, even if it is only one amongst many, represents the downfall of the last symbol of militant resistance to senseless protectionism and we look forward to a flourishing and modern, albeit scaled-down, industry.

Local Councils

Fifteen years of local government have directed us towards legislating further improvements. The main objectives of the amended Local Councils Act are to offer the best services possible to the residents and satisfy the aspirations of the community.

The Local Councils legislation defines with greater clarity the opportunity for local governments to become involved in areas such as sport and culture, while asking for greater efficiency, transparency and accountability.

Mepa

Much has been written on the reform of Mepa. For the purpose of this article, suffice it to say that the reform has been built on a number of

pillars, namely consistency, efficiency and accountability, and through it, Government intends to promote further the concept of sustainable development.

However, it is clear that it will be extremely hard to please everybody. In every Mepa case, there will always be a developer that wanted more development and, on the other hand, those who were demanding less.

In the best interests of the country

Striking the right balance does not always equate to a happy solution for every involved party, which is why reforms generate disappointment and discontent. In situations like these, government should persist with dialogue until discussion is exhausted. But it cannot keep going round in circles and wasting precious time. It has to do its duty and take decisions in the best interests of the

country. Narrow interests must be kept aside.

In the short term, it might be painful – and this applies both to the people enduring the consequences of the reforms and to the government imposing them. But, in the end ‘truth will prevail’.