The project ‘A Partnership for Creative Governance’ by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Councils, which aims to improve innovation and good governance at local council level, has reached its final stages, the government said in a statement yesterday.

Parliamentary Secretary Stefan Buontempo said the project should lead to improved services by local councils and ultimately to the councils receiving the European Label of Governance Excellence, ELoGE.

“This is a prestigious reward which proves that the service by the local councils is one of superior quality,” he said.

Dr Buontempo said the rigorous process that councils would be obliged to go through to receive such an award would in itself lead to improved services.

The ELoGE is accredited with the European Council and reflects the 12 principles of good democratic governance.

The project is financed by the Norway Grants 2009 to 2014 and those interested in joining the project are to express their interest by not later than December 31.