18 new projects at the heart of Maltese communities with funds allocated by LESA
€6 million in 113 projects that leave a positive and tangible impact in local communities
The Government remains committed to creating safe and sustainable communities across Malta and Gozo. With an investment of €1.1 million, 18 projects were approved this year to benefit from funds provided by the LESA agency. Funds that since 2021 have arrived to implement 113 projects with a collective investment of around €6 million.
This programme is clear evidence of the Government’s strategic commitment to creating positive and tangible changes in the lives of communities, and to improving local services, safety and the quality of life of residents.
The Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, Byron Camilleri, together with the Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, chaired this ceremony, where they highlighted how LESA funds are a central instrument to address real community needs and to support initiatives that leave an immediate and sustainable impact on citizens.
Minister Camilleri emphasised the importance of enforcement based on sense and balance, and said, “I believe in order because where there is order, society works better. I also believe that the just citizen, the one who follows the rules, should feel safe and respected. Meaningful enforcement is not about rejoicing in punishment, but about having more organised, stronger and safer towns and villages where we can live better together.”
The Minister recalled that with this in mind, shortly after assuming responsibility for the Ministry in 2020, discussions had begun with the Local Councils Association to establish a structured and fair scheme that would reinvest the revenue from citations in projects of direct benefit to communities — an initiative that has since continued to be consistently strengthened.
Parliamentary Secretary Alison Zerafa Civelli said that this scheme has borne fruit and its investment among communities over the years. She claimed that in this year’s scheme, over €1 million collected from traffic contraventions by LESA will have been distributed. “As a Local Government we are working hand in hand with the Local Enforcement Agency, LESA, so that the money collected from contraventions is not kept by the agency or the Government, but through them, good is done in our communities. In fact, in recent years dozens of Local Councils have benefited from these funds to carry out beautification projects and other initiatives that help citizens live a better quality of life,” said the Parliamentary Secretary.
The approved projects include: Projects in favour of greater security and include CCTV; Restoration and maintenance of historical sites to preserve cultural and historical heritage; Paving and sports facilities that improve the quality of life and offer opportunities for children and adults; Purchase of electric vehicles for Councils to promote sustainable and efficient transport; Environmental and inclusive initiatives that strengthen the participation and involvement of everyone.
These funds offer an opportunity for communities to continue to improve their environment and quality of life, while fostering a greater sense of participation and collaboration. The aim of the projects is to continue to strengthen communities and encourage the implementation of ideas that create a real and sustainable impact, while the Ministry’s approach gives everyone a chance to have a voice in their community. The initiative demonstrates the Government’s clear commitment to continue creating vibrant, safe and inclusive cities and towns, where every resident can feel part of an environment that improves their lives and that of their family.
The Minister thanked the mayors, councillors and executive secretaries for their cooperation and coordination, and mentioned how collaboration between the Ministry and Local Councils is essential to create a positive, sustainable and inclusive impact in every community.
