![Purchase Of Ħamrun Music Society HQ Finalised](https://maltadaily.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/owenweb.jpg)
The Ministry for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government has finalised the purchase of the headquarters of the San Gejtanu Music Association AD 1906 in Ħamrun, with an investment of €2.8 million.
This acquisition increases the number of music society headquarters owned by the government to eleven.
This property joins ten other buildings used by various music societies, including the Marija Reġina Music Society in Marsa, Stella Levantina in Ħ’Attard, Circolo San Giuseppe Filarmonika Sagra Familja in Kalkara, Santa Liena Band in Birkirkara, Antoine de Paule in Raħal Ġdid, Stella Maris in Tas-Sliema, San Pietru in Birżebbuġa, Anici in Ħal Qormi, Santa Marija Filarmonica in Mosta, and Sant`Andrija in Ħal Lija.
The government now owns the primary buildings from which these societies operate. Additionally, other properties are under agreement with private owners through the Maltese Council for Arts.
These twelve societies faced serious eviction risks due to legal issues related to pre-1995 rental laws.
Minister Owen Bonnici highlighted the vital role of music societies in fostering cultural and social development within communities, noting that eviction would jeopardise their operations and existence.
He stressed the importance of taking proactive measures to protect these societies and sustain cultural diversity and expression.
Eric Fenech Sevasta, Director of Corporate Affairs at the Maltese Council for Arts, stated that these initiatives align with their strategy to support cultural development and preserve Maltese traditions.
The government is expected to invest a total of €19 million, considering both the already invested amount and future contracts for additional properties.
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