The Local Enforcement System
Woth reference to various letters complaining about the Local Enforcement System (LES) it is relevant to bring to the public's attention the stand taken by the Joint Committee for Local Enforcement (Group G) representing the local councils of Ghaxaq,...
Woth reference to various letters complaining about the Local Enforcement System (LES) it is relevant to bring to the public's attention the stand taken by the Joint Committee for Local Enforcement (Group G) representing the local councils of Ghaxaq, Gudja, Marsaxlokk, Paola, Santa Lucija, Tarxien and Zejtun.
This Joint Committee is of the opinion that a revision and reform of the LES is overdue. The system has been functioning for the last five years, during which no complete auditing of the system has ever been carried out. This proposal does not concern financial auditing which is carried out regularly, but requests an in depth analysis, detailed research, and review of the LES in its totality. While discipline has to be maintained and the law enforced, citizens should not find themselves in disadvantaged or unjust circumstances. On the other hand, law enforcers should be able to carry out their duties in a just, transparent and equitable manner.
These, along with other supporting proposals, were presented as a motion, during a meeting on April 8 of the LES management committee by the chairman of Group G Joint Committee, Zejtun mayor Joe Attard, to form an integral part of a report requested by the Minister of Justice and Home Affairs, Dr Tonio Borg.
The general audit of the LES, is being proposed because experience has clearly indicated that problems faced and complaints raised by citizens are the result of defects, faults and lacunae prevailing in delegated regulations. A study is also required concerning the mode such regulations are being applied and the problems emanating from the system itself. Often it is not the fault of enforcers, be they wardens or police officers who have to enforce the law as prescribed.
Any revisions of the system have to take into consideration all financial burdens, on citizens as well as the smaller local councils. All proposals have to be discussed with all stakeholders as well as the Local Councils Association. No one should feel that decisions taken have been imposed.