Parliament on Monday passed several bills in its last session before the Christmas holidays, including the law which will now allow youths between the ages of 16 and 17 years to occupy the role of mayor and deputy mayor, with a unanimous vote in its third reading.
Speaker Anglu Farrugia led the Parliamentary process this afternoon, which saw Parliament approve of the legal amendments making it possible for youths as young as 16 and 17 years old, to become mayor and deputy mayor if elected in their respective locality.
The initiative aimed at empowering youth representation in local governance, with the Minister for Local Government Owen Bonnici had said that allowing individuals at the age of 16 to become Mayors not only recognises the intelligence and capability of today’s youth, but also fosters a sense of responsibility and civic engagement from an early age.
Parliament also approved the second reading of the Bill amending the Various Laws relating to Proceeds of Crime, which passed with 42 votes in favour, and 34 votes against.
The bill is proposing that defendants in financial crime cases be allowed to file a single court application to allow for the payment of recurring fees, such as home loans and school fees, when a freezing order is issued. In the case of attachment orders, the bill proposes a new termination period of six months rather than the current one year.
The House, however, rejected the motion put forth by the Opposition to amend the legal notice on the Temporary Placing of Caravans in Localities, with 34 votes in favour, and 42 votes against.
It also shot down the PN’s recent motion which proposed amendments to the legal notice on the licensing of contractors, with 34 votes in favour, and 42 votes against.
The PN had presented their amendments to the legal notice on the licensing of contractors, saying that the new regulations should extend to further professions, such as those in the building services as well as finishing works. Government had said that it would not be backing the motion.
Parliament also passed the bill which amends the Employment and Industrial Relations Act, with unanimous votes.