We welcome the decision taken by the government to make public playgrounds smoke-free zones. This will ensure that children can play in a safe and healthy environment. On the other hand we believe that the authorities should do more to enforce the law against smoking in bars and nightclubs, as this is of detriment to the workers and non-smokers.

Żminijietna – Voice of the Left, believes that the government should also consider making all five-a-side football pitches accessible to all children against payment, like the one adjacent to the Naxxar playing field, under the control of the local council.

The same can be said about the opening of state schools, after school hours, for the benefit of the community, as these can provide a possible venue for sports, recreation and cultural activities. The fact that the area is located inside a public building makes it safer for the community, especially children.

Localities in the harbour region are the ones most densely populated and developed. These localities should be given importance in the provision of free access to playgrounds and state schools after hours. Local councils and the civil society can contribute toward this aim by offering a helping hand to operate the system.