Regional socio-economic development plan for the South of Malta : part 1 : executive report

Abstract

Regional Development is a new concept in the administration of the Maltese Islands, and Government is proposing three different models with the aim of finding the best way in which this development may take place. The three models contemplated are the ones for Gozo, Bugibba and the South. These models yield results through which one is better able to determine the ways in which this small country, in which regional diversity is nevertheless present, may make plans in the most serious and democratic manner. At the same time, planning should as far as possible be decentralised and not operate from an exclusively bureaucratic or technocratic base. It should also - as far as possible - come from below and, in this way, democratic planning should be more responsive, better reflecting the true needs of the people.

Whilst in the model for Gozo, this region is first placed under elective or consultative structures, which will then have the brief to implement a regional policy, in the model for the South of Malta a way should be found whereby structures are created which will be capable to commence directly from a regional perspective in the implementation of a regional plan.

This model will, through a form of assembly within a conference, encourage already existing bodies to launch the process for designing a regional policy. Government should put Gozo forward as a model of how a regional council may develop, and will encourage other councils of other regions to unite - in the first stages, through consultative regional councils. Within a background of regional co-operation, councils will be more able to plan their initiatives through a more effective use of resources. The aims of regional councils could be the co-ordination of initiatives which the councils take in particular regions, and the preparation of a development plan for the region. If through independent initiatives such regional councils can be set up and can thrive, they should be given official recognition, possibly even through ad hoc legislation. [excerpt]