Beaches and Education (2)

Michael Briguglio

(This article appeared in the Sliema Local Council magazine, December 2012)

In the last edition of the Sliema Local Council magazine, I highlighted some of the work done by Sliema Local Council in areas under my responsibility as local councillor, namely maritime affairs and education respectively. In particular, as regards maritime affairs, I referred to issues such as beach cleaning, accessibility in beaches, bicycle racks, swimmers’ zones, enforcement against littering, and the proposed upgrading of the Taormina area.

As regards education, I referred to initiatives such the lifelong learning programme and storytelling for children at the Sliema public library.

In this article, I would like to discuss some recent developments in these two areas.

As regards maritime affairs, the Sliema Local Council approved the proposal of a bye-law to regulate Bar-b-ques. This was discussed in the maritime subcommittee which I chair, and I also invited residents to send me proposals.

In short, Sliema council is proposing that even though no prior authorization would be required from the council to authorize BBQs, due its unpractical nature, those organizing such events would be held responsible for their activities.

We are proposing the application of existing legislation regarding littering; that no loud music or excessive noise pollution would be allowed; that no cars would be allowed on the rocks/beaches; that no open fires would be permitted on rocks/beaches and that BBQs are to be held on BBQ equipment. If these proposals would be approved by the respective authorities, the bye-law would be in place Green wardens would then have better facility to enforce accordingly. Thus a balance between peoples’ recreational activities and responsible behaviour on public land would be reached.

As regards education, with pleasure I announce that the lifelong learning courses in German, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Italian, French, Maltese, English, Lace Making and Energy Saving are proving to be succesful, with high attendance. This only ecourages
Sliema Local Council to keep investing in education.

I am also proud to announce that the Sliema library hosted library day on 5th December, is being made more accessible through investment in a wi-fi system. The library area is also being given greater attention, for example through better signage. Story telling sessions for children are being held every Saturday morning from 9am to 10am and a variety books are being purchased, including for persons with special needs. The library has also benefitted from kind donations.

I encourage all those who would like to propose improvments with regard to maritime affairs and education to contact me. In the meantime I wish a merry Christmas and happy new year to all Sliema residents.

mbrig@hotmail.com