The Victims of Crime Agency and the Association of Local Councils have collaborated to increase awareness about the rights of crime victims, which will be enhanced through training initiatives for local council employees. 

The agreement was signed at the Fgura Local Council by Executive Head of the Victims of Crime Agency Brian Farrugia and Executive Secretary of the Association of Local Councils Lianne Cassar. 

The signing took place in the presence of the Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli. 

The agreement ensures that local council employees will receive training to become reference points for residents in their towns and villages.  

Professionals in the field will provide the necessary training for local council workers to be well-versed in offering initial guidance to residents who may have fallen victim to criminal acts. 

Camilleri said that the Victims of Crime Agency has assisted over 3,000 victims in just under two years since its inception.  

He spoke about the importance of the expansion of these services to reach as many individuals as possible, and the agreement with the Association of Local Councils will further extend the reach of the agency's services, particularly for those who have experienced criminal victimization.  

Zerafa Civelli said that local councils serve as the primary point of reference for residents in the community.  

She said that this agreement will empower local councils to assist and support crime victims in the most effective and efficient manner possible.  

Zerafa Civelli said that the training will be valuable for local council members, enabling them to create new services and initiatives that benefit victims residing in Malta and Gozo. 

Executive Head of the Victims of Crime Agency Brian Farrugia said that the agency will provide information and training to officials and employees of local councils.  

This effort will ensure that those seeking assistance will also find support within their respective Local Councils, Farrugia said. 

Lianne Cassar from the Association of Local Councils said that through this agreement, the Association is committed to assisting both regional and local councils in being the first point of assistance for their residents.