Design & Build 06 | Page 26

Design WORKING TOGETHER TO LIVE IN PEACE AND TRANQUILLITY The MDA isn’t only proud of the very good turnout to this year’s Annual General Meeting held but also for the great sense of belonging that developed through it and from those present. During the reception that followed it there was good intermingling between the members and especially with the media, and I noticed the good rapport that was created between them, especially so by those who are not usually close to them. I presume this will reflect itself positively on the future relations between the MDA and the local media across the board. T his positive attitude also reflects itself on the members themselves who have reflected their serious optimism in the values of the MDA and also in their support for all that we have been trying to achieve. The association’s work has been quite extensive and has left its mark … not only because the industry is doing well and as a result developers are moving along in full swing with resultant sales, but also because they have begun to appreciate and live the code of ethics that has been put into place. 24 ISSUE 06 A lot of members – in increasing numbers – have realized the impor- tance of communicating with their neighbours where developments are taking place. Such that many MDA members are now well geared so as to not annoy those living next to their developments. But we are noting that there is more positivity in our mem- bers, like the growing numbers who are appreciating the value of taking out the relative insurance policies to cover their developments, the effects on neighbours and their workers, as well as on their development works as such. And many are insuring above the minimum requirements too. While also taking into consideration the criticism that we receive from time to time, nonetheless we note that many of our members are none- theless performing with high levels of professionalism. One must remem- ber that our industry is not factory based but happens in the open, what- ever the weather conditions and with having to face other problems on a daily basis because it happens in the roads, on sites which are visible. We are therefore happy that so many of our members are following our lead although we appreciate that there is still so much more that we can – and should - do. WWW.DESIGNANDBUILD.COM.MT