I vividly recall myself 15 years ago, as a young child, running through alleys in Binja Buqana. Even then, I would quizzically scan newspaper cuttings stuck on residents’ front doors, defiantly displayed to highlight their plight.

Though I did not realise back then, the cuttings featured articles from a politically-affiliated publication. I am now able to understand that the same political party that reduced itself to vicious attacks on political rivals and national institutions, repeatedly ignored the residents’ quandary. It managed to perfect its tactics at silencing the truth behind the weak structures, that are still considered home by many.

Incompetence, a lack of professional surveillance and inferior material were among the shortcomings mentioned in the ARUP report – an international company commissioned to carry out investigations in November 2014.  One cannot help but automatically recall the low quality concrete used in Mater Dei’s emergency department.

Residents have seen the structures they live in and the value of their homes crumble

Political debates aside, the government’s decision to intervene by means of a three-million euro investment will provide solace to 80 families. This government is undertaking measures, despite their not falling under its civil responsibility.

The buildings’ administrator, lawyer Maria Azzopardi, said the residents had full faith that works will not only be carried out but will be done professionally and the results long-lasting. Such dedication will eradicate structural deficiencies and mark an end to the citizens’ nightmare.

Not to mention the quintessential fact that the value of the properties in question will be elevated to their full potential. For years, residents have not only seen the structures they live in crumble before their eyes, but also the value of their homes.

Understanding the dire needs laid the necessary foundations for dialogue between residents, the local council and the Ministry for Family and Social Solidarity. The Mtarfa local council fiercely protects the residents’ interests and has encouraged their efforts in voicing their needs and raising awareness.

Residents in other decadent government buildings may feel irritated upon hearing news that another building has taken precedence.  Such feelings are not conjured out of spite, but out of a genuine sense of negligence inherited from those responsible for erecting buildings in the 1990s.

Though not directly under the local council’s responsibility, we shall carry on beinga strong voice representing our residents and addressing relevant authorities.

Cases such as that of Binja Buqana highlight this government’s willingness to listen and our local councils’ ability to prove themselves worthy.

I am keen to witness the first urgent works being carried out in the coming days. The works will be done in the building’s basement, as announced earlier by Minister for the Family and Social Solidarity Michael Farrugia. A call for tenders will soon be issued for major interventions, so as to hopefully complete works within the coming months.

In conclusion, I reaffirm Mtarfa local council’s commitment to support its residents, while urging all those who may be disillusioned to pluck up courage. This is a government that listens. This is a council that works.

Daniel John Attard is mayor of Mtarfa.