Good local governance and the effective application of European standards in Maltese councils : a case of tangible innovation or low impact?

Abstract

This research seeks to establish whether the Local Council Act and subsequent reforms have delivered good local governance through the application of established benchmarks as in the case of the European Council's 12 principles. The paper considers research in the field and through interviews directed at council administration investigates the impact of local councils on governance systems in the Maltese Islands. The collation of data through a literature review and the gathering of qualitative and quantitative data through face-to-face interviews and questionnaire assist in launching the analysis of Maltese local councils. The focus has been directed to the effective implementation and applicability of subsidiarity in the Maltese context through; efficiency and effectiveness, sound financial management and accountability. The analysis from past studies and the reactions of administrators and officials who have an established experience in the sector points to a failure in the system and in the implementation of the Act and its obligations. The section on results and findings delineates the impact of elements inherited from central government that have stifled the possibility of good governance. As with previous reports and studies the stumbling blocks are connected to: polarisation, partisan and parochial interference, the incapability to maintain impartial decision making and the inability to sustain good financial management. The study considers and delves into the dichotomy of rising percentages of representation and falling standards in efficiency and services.