MCESD Discusses the National Strategy for the Reform of the Land Registration System: 2025–2035

The Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) convened a meeting to discuss the National Strategy for the Reform of the Land Registration System, highlighting the importance of this initiative. The discussion was attended by Minister for Lands and Implementation of the Electoral Program Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul, and MCESD Chairperson David Xuereb, along with social partners.

During the meeting, an official from the Land Registration Agency presented the 18 key recommendations outlined in the document submitted for public consultation. One of the primary objectives is to update the Land Registry Act, ensuring that, within ten years, the entire territory of Malta is covered by property registration.

Additionally, the document proposes enhancing the quality and reliability of the title certificate for properties, implementing measures to define property boundaries more clearly, and establishing a mediation and arbitration framework for resolving disputes more efficiently.

Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi emphasised that the goal of this reform is to make all of Malta a property registration zone by 2035. He underscored the importance of an updated and efficient land registration system, ensuring better service for clients and professionals while leveraging Malta’s 41 years of experience in land registration. He stated that this is just the first step in raising awareness about the need and benefits of a transparent and modern land registry. Through consultation, the aim is to build the broadest possible consensus to ensure the system’s success and efficiency.

Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul highlighted the MCESD’s crucial role in facilitating dialogue on key reforms and government policies. He emphasised that this reform, like others recently discussed in the MCESD—including the Labour Migration Policy, Vision 2050, and the Reform of Magisterial Enquiries—demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening and engaging with stakeholders. He stated that these consultations are a clear demonstration of good governance and open social dialogue, ensuring that social partners play an integral role in decision-making. He added that only through such engagement can reforms be implemented that truly reflect Malta’s current realities and the needs of its people.

MCESD Chairperson Perit David Xuereb stressed the significance of this reform, explaining that it is not only a step towards greater clarity in land ownership but also a move towards a more transparent and efficient system that enhances confidence in the real estate market. The social partners welcomed the meeting as an opportunity to share their insights, concerns, and suggestions directly with the minister. These were taken into serious consideration to ensure that the final law truly reflects the needs of the country and society.

The discussion also underscored the importance of digitisation and data security, which are essential for a modern land registration system. The implementation timeline was also discussed to ensure a smooth transition aligned with present-day realities. This reform is expected to not only clarify property rights but also consolidate information into a centralised system, making it more accessible for professionals and citizens alike.

The public consultation remains open until 28th February 2025, and the ministry encourages all stakeholders and the general public to formally submit their feedback on the proposed strategy. The full document outlining the context and recommendations of this reform can be downloaded from https://www.gov.mt/en/publicconsultation/Pages/2024/NL-0036-2024.aspx.

Access the presentation here.

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