A site currently under the responsibility of the Lands Authority has been leased to the Mqabba Local Council for a period of five years, with the aim of eventually developing it into a civic centre.The site is located in Triq Karmen Ciantar, Mqabba and covers just over 84 square metres.The Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, said that this project is further confirmation of the Government’s trust in Local Councils.“The Government remains committed to strengthening and supporting Local Councils in carrying out their work for families and residents. The allocation of this new space for Council offices is clear proof of this commitment, improving services, reinforcing community presence and offering a more suitable and accessible environment for all, while continuing to build stronger and more inclusive communities for everyone’s benefit,” said Dr Bonnici.The Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, stated that the Government is ensuring that every devolution agreement is sustainable and does not place an additional burden on Local Councils.She explained that this commitment will continue to be strengthened to further enhance localities and improve the services provided both by Local Councils and the Government. “A clear example of this is the planned project in Mqabba, where, through this agreement, residents will have access to a centre from which they can obtain government services in one place,” she added.The Mayor of the Mqabba Local Council, Grace Marie Zerafa, explained that for several months the Council had been working to secure the devolution of this land.“This request was truly necessary for the Council to continue its work and ensure the implementation of a holistic project that will undoubtedly benefit the Mqabba community. Therefore, today is a very important day, as an agreement has been sealed that will certainly have a positive impact on residents, particularly as this land has now officially been devolved to the Local Council.”She also acknowledged the work being carried out by the Government and the ongoing support being given to Local Councils so that, together, they continue to make a tangible difference in local communities.The transfer agreement was signed by the Chief Executive of the Lands Authority, Robert Vella, the Mayor of the Mqabba Local Council, Grace Marie Zerafa and the Executive Secretary, Valarie Galea.What do you make of this?•