Malta is set to be the first country in the whole European Union where a person at the age of sixteen has the possibility to not only vote and stand for Local Council election, but also, if he or she attracts the trust of the electorate, become a Mayor or Deputy Mayor.
My colleague, Hon. Alison Zerafa Civelli, and I presented a draft law proposing amendments to the Local Councils Act. These amendments aim to allow individuals under 18-years-old to serve as Mayor or Deputy Mayor, contingent upon gaining the confidence of the electorate. We are effectively implementing a clear Electoral Manifesto measure and in the process reaffirming, for the umpteenth time, that we deliver on our promises.
We are change agents. Once these amendments become law, Malta will be leading the way in this field.
In the European Union, Austria stands as the only other country where a person of sixteen can vote in Local Elections but is ineligible to run as a candidate. Malta, therefore, is making history as the first country in the EU where a person at the age of 16 can vote, run for Local Elections, and, upon the bill's approval in Parliament, if this person garners the highest number of votes from the Party winning the majority of votes, they will also be elected as Mayor.
We made our intentions clear both in our Electoral Manifesto as I have already explained, but also in the National Strategy for Local Government 2023-2030, promulgated last May.
This signifies a huge vote of confidence in our youth, and the Government will persist in building on important reforms that have already been implemented over the years, including the voting rights to 16-year-olds and the granting of the right for those under 18 years to contest Local Council elections.
We are pursuing these actions because we have immense confidence in our youth and in the active role they should play in shaping our democracy.
The Government has always believed in our young people, and through this legislative change in the domain of Local Government, we will continue to foster and reinforce that confidence because we believe in the potential and energy they can bring.
We encourage more young people to step forward and run for office, making a lasting impact on the societies and communities they reside in.
This draft will also encompass, among other consequential amendments, provisions allowing a Mayor or Deputy Mayor between the ages of 16 and 18 to partake in civil activities through legal emancipation while holding the position of Mayor or Deputy Mayor.
Restoring the Historic Priory of Navarre
It has been a truly fascinating experience to witness the ongoing restoration of Teartru Manoel's Priory of Navarre. The journey to revive this historic edifice has been a labor of love, with an investment of approximately €1.7 million pouring into the meticulous restoration project.
The restoration endeavor commenced a number of years ago, focusing on creating new spaces, improving visitors experience, renovating the upper floors to create a rehearsal room and administrative offices. The aim was to breathe new life into this historical building adjacent to our beloved Manoel Theatre, ensuring it could serve both its original purpose and modern needs.
A pivotal aspect of this revitalization journey is the Booking Office and Sala Isouard project, along with the introduction of luxury amenities like restrooms and accessible facilities, catering to diverse audiences. The Booking Office, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, aims to provide visitors with a seamless and efficient booking experience while preserving antique elements that hark back to the theater's roots.
The historical significance of Teartru Manoel cannot be overstated, and efforts are underway to preserve its legacy. A critical component of this effort is the forthcoming restoration of the Priory's facade and side structures, a project estimated to cost around half a million euros. This restoration will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the structure, but also ensures its historical integrity remains intact for generations to come.
Moreover, before Sala Isouard took its place, the Maria Ghirlando Hall existed, albeit on a smaller scale with limited amenities. The transformation to Sala Isouard signifies a quantum leap, as it is now able to accommodate a larger number of people and serves a myriad of functions, from theatrical events and receptions to conferences and intimate concerts.
The dedication and passion invested in the restoration of Teartru Manoel extend beyond improving facilities for the audience. The project also prioritizes the comfort and functionality of spaces for the artists, acknowledging their critical role in enriching the cultural experience.
As this phase of the restoration project has been completed and we are already looking towards the next phase, it is heartening to see how the Teartru Manoel team has strived to balance historical preservation with modernization. The integration of advanced facilities ensures that the theater is ready to cater to the contemporary needs of its diverse audience while staying true to its rich heritage.
The restoration of Teartru Manoel stands as a testament to the commitment to preserving history and culture. It rekindles the essence of a bygone era while paving the way for a vibrant future, where the arts and history coalesce to create an unparalleled experience for all who visit this hallowed space.
ŻIGUŻAJG
ŻiguŻajg Arts for Children & Young People 2023, organized by Fondazzjoni Kreattività, is set to dazzle Valletta once again with its 13th edition, scheduled to take place from November 10th to the 19th. This highly anticipated festival is all about celebrating the limitless potential of imagination and promoting inclusivity, seamlessly blending local talent with international artists for a truly unforgettable experience.
Over the span of 10 days, Valletta will metamorphose into a playground of creativity, hosting a plethora of inspiring performances and events. This artistic platform opens doors for children, inviting them to explore their emotions, enhance critical thinking skills, and develop a deeper comprehension of the world they inhabit. Moreover, ŻiguŻajg remains committed to embracing inclusivity, tolerance, and diversity by exposing young minds to a myriad of perspectives. The festival strives to engage children actively with the arts, encouraging them to evolve from mere consumers to active participants and creators. This approach enriches not only the lives of the youth but also contributes to the diverse and vibrant cultural fabric of society.
By providing an engaging and immersive arts experience, ŻiguŻajg Arts Festival for Children and Young People 2023 empowers the next generation, nurturing their creativity and fostering an appreciation for various artistic forms. The festival's ethos revolves around nurturing the artistic potential in every child and ensuring that the world of arts remains accessible and enriching for all, promoting a society where creativity and diversity flourish hand in hand. Mark your calendars for this exceptional celebration of art and imagination that promises to ignite the creative spark in the hearts of the young and the young at heart.