Throughout the legislature of the Nationalist Government, so much negative propaganda was thrown by the opposition (and from its own backbenches) at any legislations, projects, initiatives and ministerial work, including Parliament, that the public distanced itself from listening with any commitment and allowed the Super One mission creep in to infiltrate its mind in a passive manner which eventually became entrenched as actuality.  Anything said and done by the PN government was perceived to carry an edge of menace. Eventually, the fears and suspicions became concrete judgements leading to a rejection of anything related to the government.  Also due to a lack of engagement with the public from the side of the PN administration, what we knew about the BWSC power station was that the builders of the system came out of the Yellow Pages and that more likely than anything corruption was behind it.   During the election campaign, however, we began to learn that there were very valid reasons behind the choice of that particular direction and that the whole energy plan also involved the connector and the pipe-line.  We learnt about the site, the regulations and limitations, and future prospects.  We learnt of the importance of Enemalta, its debt and the security of its employees.  None of this before had really filtered in our mind other than the bills we received.  Then, thanks to Konrad's scheme for LNG gas, we had press conferences, experts, opinionists and ministers explaining it all to us.  Today, we can come to our conclusions as to what is best for Malta's energy plan and what is realistic.

The same with the Local Councils.  Up until the measure to repeal them or postpone them or fade them away, we had but a passing interest in them.  We may go to vote or we may not.  They were not a big deal but like the corner grocer who is not missed until he pulls down the shutter for good, we suddenly realize that our councils are now part of our towns and communities and we are a part of them too.  Moreover, they constitute an important part of the democratic process and we will defend them.   So, once again, thanks to Labour's intentions, we now understand so much more about our Local Councils and the role they play and we will most probably turn out to vote in a way which we may not have done otherwise, whether or not the Hunting Referendum is held in combination with the same elections.

The 34 councils due for elections in March 2015 are Birżebbuġa, Floriana, Għajnsielem, Ħad-Dingli, Ħal Għargħur, Ħal Kirkop, Ħal Luqa, Ħal Safi, Ħal Balzan, Ħal Qormi, Ħ'Attard, Ħaż-Żebbuġ, il-Birgu, il-Gżira, il-Ħamrun, il-Marsa, il-Mosta, il-Munxar, il-Qala, in-Nadur, Is-Siġġiewi, is-Swieqi, ix-Xagħra, iż-Żebbuġ (Gozo), iż-Żurrieq, l-Iklin, l-Isla, Marsaxlokk, Paola, San Ġiljan, San Lawrenz, San Pawl il-Baħar, Santa Luċija, Ta' Kerċem. The enabling law is Chapter 363 of the Laws of Malta.

The functions of Local Councils provide for an A- Z of jobs.  Refuse and rubbish, we know.  Pavements we know. Maintenance of playgrounds, road signs, public gardens and sport, cultural or other centres.  But if you look into the subsections of the laws, (e) is quite important:  to propose to and, where applicable, be consulted by any competent authority prior to the competent authority making any changes in traffic schemes directly affecting the locality.  Another important function is (k) relating to the upkeep and maintenance of health and rehabilitation centre, government dispensaries, health district offices and Homes for Senior Citizens, Day Centres for Senior Citizens and Night Care Centres. Also, Councils shall promote social policy initiatives within their locality.  There is also a function for councils to extend assistance to artists, musicians and sports persons to develop their talent (is there an amendment here which should read "now in the hands of William Mangion"?), Also quite familiar with localities is the function of Councils to organise cultural activities that promote the locality.  The Council is also to encourage activities which promote trade.

 

So, before we begin to think that the Local Councils elections are about a mini-election or mid-term election and the whole campaign gets hijacked by the political parties, we should demand from the Candidates that they individually present their platform to us and their intentions on how to contribute to the good functioning of the Councils rather than just sit obediently under the tent, legs crossed and back straight, behind the party leaders.  A reception here and there organized by supporters is more of a social occasion.  There is no real connection or debate at these events. They are just an opportunity to be seen and get their name mentioned.  People are looking for responsible, honest and hard working councilors who will stand their ground and defend their principles against any threats.  They need to show that they have the good of the locality at heart and that they have come to know of the problems, realities and ambitions of each area.  Those candidates who choose to stand for election should do so because they would like to have the job of a councilor and not so that they can begin their political career there. 

The characteristics of a Councilor and those of a politician may be similar in some ways but are essentially different.  A Council must abide by the Local Councils Act and work within the framework of it in much the same way that a Civil Servant should.  A politician will be thinking of the policies and electoral manifest already presented to the public and how best to ensure they deliver those promises and how competent they can be.  Discipline, fiscal responsibility and honesty are common to both or should be.  Somebody who likes to achieve results quickly may soon become frustrated at the slow moving council meetings.  Projects take time and bureaucratic procedure can destroy many spirits, so those who want to project themselves above the council should avoid it altogether.  More aggressive attitudes are also unlikely to bring positive results to the Council but may be very much needed in the general election. 

As we have learnt from previous elections, nothing should be taken for granted.  Andrew Azzopardi has explained well to us that election fatigue is not the issue in itself but rather it is the overtones of the political feuds which have caused us stress and division. 

Noel Muscat, is Mayor of Swieqi Counci since becoming elected in March 2012.  He describes the job as an interesting experience with many challenges and mixed emotions.  The creative ideas have to be construed within financial and bureaucratic terms.  Support and the extent of power the council has to manage its own affairs is also a factor determining successful outcomes.   He confirms that it is a job that requires one's full competence and the administration of the council should be in the interest of the whole community.  Amongst several projects and initiatives undertaken by his council which have enhanced health and fitness and road resurfacing, together with cultural activities such as Swieqi Fest, Noel sees his proudest achievement in the opening of the long awaited and much needed Police Station.  Future projects include the opening of a regional Art & Culture Centre, the opening of a Day Centre, the opening of a Pjazza and other programmes of embellishment and upgrading.  So, quite a busy time ahead.  Emphasis is also being put on creating a sense of identity and belonging between residents and to find ways and means on how to integrate the several foreigners that live in the locality.  Infrastructure, managing the balance in development and improving traffic management are continuous topics for the council to deal with.  A good knowledge of the needs of the locality and much personal contact through hard work, served the Mayor well, both in becoming elected and in serving the needs of this ever growing community.

The good thing that can yet emerge from the proposed changes to the council elections is a new style of campaigning and a more positive debate on the issues facing each district and the validity of each candidate.  Some candidates are already well known to their community but others may not yet be.  Each should have the funds and the means to promote themselves and be supported.  Let no one assume that the people will just support a name.  They need to show commitment, good ideas and unbiased positions.  Above all, Councils and Councillors  are there to serve their community and to be relevant to the individual.

Now, what is next issue that was sabotaged in the past and we can appreciate better?  Ah, yes, the economy stupid.  Take aim ... fire!