A new scheme has been introduced to provide financial support for childminding services for the children of council members during statutory Local Council meetings. The aim is to help council members better balance their family responsibilities with their official duties, while encouraging equal participation in local governance.

We spoke with the Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, who explained how this initiative will make a real difference.

What is this initiative primarily about?

Many councillors, particularly women, have shared with us the difficulties they face in attending Council meetings when they have children with them and no one to care for them. This is a challenge I experienced myself during my time as Mayor. Naturally, now that I hold this position, I understand the needs of councillors, and addressing this concern was one of my priorities. It is important to note that this scheme will also apply to male councillors who require this service, as well as executive secretaries, not just female councillors.

One councillor asked, “Could meetings not be held online?” While some meetings can indeed be held virtually, many councillors argue that there are discussions and decisions that require their physical presence. The law regulating Local Councils does not permit formal Council meetings, which typically occur once a month, to be held virtually. This was only allowed during the pandemic.

How will it be operated?

The application process is straightforward and can be initiated by the Mayor, with confirmation from the Executive Secretary, followed by approval from the Council. The Council will assess its needs and hire a qualified individual or organisation to provide childcare services. For example, the childcare provider may also offer educational activities. The Council will also designate a location and may request any necessary equipment or resources.

This scheme will be fully funded by the Local Government Division, covering not only the payment for the carer or childminder but also any required resources.

Do we know how many female and male councillors there are, and do we aim to improve the balance?

There are 476 total councillors, 129 female, and 347 male. In the recent Local Council elections, female representation increased slightly (by 1%). Initiatives like this provide greater impetus for the participation of more women. While there is still an imbalance, this scheme alone will not address it; we need to work harder to encourage more women to seek representation in their localities.

What age should the children be?

There are no strict regulations associated with this service, as it is designed by each Council to meet its specific needs. In other words, children over three years old may receive educational support, such as help with homework, or be involved in arts and crafts activities. It will be up to the individual councils to ensure a balance of children attending the service.

What type of service will be provided? Will it involve supervision, or activities? And should the service be located near the Council offices?

The service will not be limited to supervision. This initiative is not just about childcare; children will have access to qualified teachers who can engage them in various activities.

Ideally, the service will be provided within the Council’s own building. However, if this proves problematic, a nearby location, such as a childcare centre, should be considered. Each Council will ensure an appropriate venue is secured. Moreover, although the rent for these spaces will be fully funded by the Government during these hours, the chosen location will be inspected by a health and safety officer to ensure it meets required standards.

What we take away from this interview is that By addressing the challenges that councillors face in balancing their personal and professional lives, this scheme shows a genuine effort to support equal participation in local governance. It’s a step in the right direction for ensuring that both men and women can contribute to their communities without sacrificing family responsibilities.