The Parliamentary Secretary for Public Cleanliness, Glenn Bedingfield said the Cleansing and Maintenance Division has been allocated a budget increase equivalent to just under one third of its previous annual budget.

Addressing media, Bedingfield stated that this heightened budget allocation is part of the government's wider commitment to make the Maltese islands a cleaner place where one can enjoy living in.

This decision was made with the intent to continue improving the cleanliness and appearance of the country to continue improving the quality of life locally.

During a press conference, the Parliamentary Secretary explained how this budget increase will mean that the Division is in a better position to work more efficiently, increase local cleanliness, and continue to bolster citizens' quality of life.

"We are making a direct investment in a cleaner and more organised Malta, where aesthetics, environmental wellbeing and public health are prioritised as central elements for a better quality of life," Parliamentary Secretary Bedingfield said.

While describing the impact of cleaning public spaces, the former Government Whip described that clean public spaces not only improve the aesthetics of a community area, but also help to create a healthier environment for residents and tourists.

"When the public environment is protected and clean, people have greater respect for their surroundings, and this helps to create a culture of collective responsibility," he said.

He also stated that since senses of order and cleanliness attract trade and yield wealth, "public cleaning serves as an important link for trade and the economy and makes the localities more attractive both for investment and for new jobs."

The Parliamentary Secretary concluded that this increased funding will allow the Division to continue its mission objectives with more investment in new technological equipment, modern resources, and more workers to ensure that the country is in a good aesthetic condition.