Powers and limitations of Maltese local councils

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to analyse the powers and limitations of Maltese Local Councils which have been recently introduced in Virtue of Act XV of 1993. The Introduction highlights the historical background of Local Councils in Malta with special reference to the Local Government for Gozo which was in operation during the l 960's. Afterwards the background of Act VX is examined. In Chapter One looks at the composition of Local Councils in detail, with particular reference to the rights and duties of the Mayor, Secretary and Councillors. The functions entrusted to our Local Councils in virtue of Section 33 of Act VX of 1993 are examined in Chapter Two. The liability of Local Councils is discussed in Chapter Three with specific reference to the extent to which Local Councils can be held liable for their acts under both public and private law. One of the most important powers entrusted to Local Councils is that to enact bye-laws. This power and how it should be exercised is dealt with in Chapter Four while Chapter Five deals with the concept of law enforcement by Local Councils. Chapter Six examines Local Councils' sources of income and the financial regulations that should be followed in financial planning and expenditure. Finally, the last Chapter explores the power of Local Councils to issue tenders and the control exercised by Auditors on Local Councils.