The Mayor of St Paul's Bay, Graziella Galea, has denied that the rent for the council's new administrative centre is excessive, or that €80,000 were issued in direct orders to complete the property.

Replying to comments made by the Labour Party yesterday, Ms Galea also denied that the property poses problems of accessibility and said its opening has been welcomed by most users.

In her statement, the Mayor pointed out that the rent is less than half what used to be paid before.

She said Labour deputy leader Toni Abela, who made yesterday's remarks, should recall how a Labour councillor had actually proposed that the council should convert a disused hotel into the administrative centre - an option which, if taken up, would have cost substantially more to the council.

She pointed out that although the council has an option to buy the new premises, this was a choice, not a condition.

The new administrative centre was inaugurated by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi yesterday evening.

In his address Dr Gonzi said the new administrative centre would consolidate the work of the council for the people of St Paul's Bay. The council would be better able to serve the residents through the centre, which includes new, accessible offices. It would also be a hive of activity and would welcome the elderly in a day day centre.  He also underlined work done by the central government in St Paul's Bay including the new promenade and the extension to Kennedy Grove.