Partisan politics in Swieqi

During the first council meeting for this term on April 4, the newly elected mayor Carmen Said went against her own words (she said she wanted a unified council) and presented the list of responsibilities, which were divided solely among PN councillors, completely snubbing Mr Renè Rossignaud (AD) and myself. This was the opposite of creating a "familiar environment among all councillors".

May I remind Mrs Said that diversity is a huge benefit. Diversity means taking into account all differences. It values the different contributions different people can make. She must recognise that the strength of an organisation lies in having a diverse workforce.

This means that the council can use the skills, knowledge and life experiences of its different employees, councillors and volunteers from different backgrounds to help develop services appropriate to the needs of the wider community.

From what I heard about Mrs Said - but actions speak louder than words - I was looking forward to work with her in the coming months and years as we are likely to face a time of challenge and opportunity.

Councils must show leadership and determination to continue working in partnership with whoever is willing to provide and deliver services that best meet people's needs and aspirations.

Mrs Said should know better. I am sure that deep down she knows that as elected representatives, councillors have an important leadership and representational role in their communities because residents turn to them for help in dealing with bureaucracies and sorting out their problems, regardless of which party they come from. I sincerely hope, though, that others from outside the council are not making decisions on her behalf.

The commitment, enthusiasm and capability of all the councillors to tackle local problems can and do make a difference. Her senseless attitude is hugely disappointing and goes against the interest of our locality and its residents. I sincerely hope that Mrs Said withdraws her proposals if she really wants a unified council for the benefit of Swieqi residents