AD pushes for 'innovative ideas' and 'accountability' in local councils

In his concluding message on the final day of the Local council election campaign, Alternattiva Demokratika chairperson, Arnold Cassola said that AD councilors would be working to ensure more investment for cultural activities, public libraries, protection of open spaces and better accessibility for the elderly disabled and parents with young children.   

 "We are presenting candidates in the Local Councils of Ħ'Attard, St. Paul's Bay, Ħaż-Żebbuġ, St. Julian's, Qala, Ħal Qormi and Nadur, and all candidates have these qualities at heart,” Cassola said addressing journalists at a press conference in St. Julian's

 Other initiatives proposed by AD candidates include Increasing road space for cyclists and improving facilities for pedestrians.

“AD councillors will spur their councils to be more pro-active where waste is concerned. Therefore, as a party we are pushing for a wider recycling policy aside from encouraging better recycling practices,” Cassola added. 

Cassola said that a local plan is needed for the management of waste based on the national plan which sets as its target a zero waste society by 2050.

"Of course, in order to make things work more efficiently, it is necessary that, more money is provided for the Councils without introducing any new taxes.” 

 Cassola said that AD was proposing that a percentage of trading licences, permits to occupy public spaces, car licences and plastic bag taxes to go to the local community.

“It is these local communities that have to maintain roads and pavements in good shape,” he added.  

Cassola concluded that the election of AD councillors would not bring about miracles, but that it would ensure commitment, seriousness and transparency and would be a guarantee of innovative and fresh ideas.