Government process of purchasing main premises of Qormi Anici Socio-Musical Society concluded

The Ministry for National Heritage has concluded the process of purchasing the premises of the Qormi Anici Socio-Musical Society.

This property joins seven other buildings occupied by other musical societies, namely the premise of the Marija Reġina Musical Society Marsa, the site of the Stella Levantina Musical Society Attard, the premises of the Circolo San Giuseppe Philharmonic Society of the Sacred Family Kalkara, the premises of the Santa Liena Band Duke of Connaught's Own Society Birkirkara, the premises of the Antoine de Paule Musical Society Paola, the premises of the Stella Maris Musical Society Sliema, and the premises of the Philharmonic Society of St Peter's Band Birżebbuġa.

Government is now the proprietor of the main buildings from which these societies operate, a statement read.

There are also four more premises of other musical societies for which the Ministry, through the Maltese Arts Council, is in the promise of sale process with their private owners. These twelve societies were at serious risk of eviction due to the legal situation related to the pre-1995 rent laws, the government said.

Culture Minister Owen Bonnici explained that government took the initiative to save these musical societies, which are the backbone of the Maltese festa in every community.

He emphasized that government is aware of the significant benefits derived from the contribution of Maltese feasts to the country, and said that it is crucial for these musical societies to continue to function and remain accessible to their respective communities.

Bonnici said government's decision to intervene was an important step towards strengthening the cultural sector, especially considering the recent recognition of the Maltese feasts by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Executive Chairperson of the Maltese Arts Council Albert Marshall said that through this process, volunteer leaders can now focus more on their cultural mission at the heart of the communities in which they live.

The premises of the Anici Socio-Musical Society Qormi, were acquired with a total expenditure of €700,000.

Altogether, government is expected to spend a total of €19 million when considering the amount already invested in the acquisition of the eight mentioned properties, and the amount required upon finalizing contracts for the remaining four properties.