The curtain call has ended and the lights are out over 2009. All eyes were on Government as it acted out diligently its strenuous performance. The year has been exigent on many fronts for Government – from weathering the storm of a global recession to seeking innovative ways of retaining employment. 2009 has been a year where Government has really managed to turn challenges into opportunities, with a budget that saw no additional taxes but financially sound measures and an investment in our enterprises – in a year of economic crisis.

However Government was not facing its taxing tasks unaided. The significant contribution of the social partners and civil society has not gone unnoticed. A word of appreciation goes out to MEUSAC and MCESD in particular as Government has always found their backing in our consultations.

2009 was not at all morose in certain areas. It was an exceptional year for local government as the Local Council Reform took centre stage. The reform, through the amended Local Councils Act, is strengthening local councils’ effectiveness, thus resulting in better lived-in localities. We have set the ball rolling immediately, with over 80 per cent of the 120 proposals set out in the reform document already initiated.

Local Councils have plenty of gifts to unwrap way beyond the epiphany festivities this year. Government is not only responding well to the needs of local councils – in fact their direct funding this year has seen an increase of e3 million – but it is creating further incentives with the introduction of several tailor-made schemes with the aim of improving our localities. In 2010 we are presenting over 20 schemes of assistance for local councils to benefit from. The range is wide, varying from assistance on initiatives related to energy-efficiency, sustainable localities, physical accessibility in public spaces, and restoration of historical sites, to life-long learning initiatives, an EU-projects co-financing fund, and assistance on social initiatives. There will also be funding for around 60 unique events organised by local councils which help to attract audiences to different localities across Malta. Moreover, a number of historical centres and main squares will be embellished with the assistance of EU funding. The list continues with two new funds for residential roads; one is a pilot project for Madliena, Mqabba and Hal Kirkop, whereas the other fund is a e10 million public-private partnership initiative open to all local councils.

This year will also see the introduction of five regional committees which will enable close cooperation between neighbouring local councils. Furthermore, the residents of 16 hamlets will be voting in an election to elect administrative committees. These committees, which will be attached to their respective local councils, will be entrusted with the task of managing these small localities, enabling the residents to be actively involved in their localities.

Last but not least, we are also putting our vision into practice with the Local Enforcement System which has been given the green light, emphasising education, not fines. The document outlining the reforms to the Local Enforcement System had been finalised and this reform will be implemented this year.

These are not just New Year’s resolutions. As we greet 2010, we are also opening its doors to new prospects. Yes, I do look ahead with optimism this year as we have the strength to realise our potential, to improve our consultations and collaborations, to face challenges with dexterity. Government is geared up for a better performance.