Cap. 477 Art. 4Objects and functions of the NationalArchives.

(1) The functions of the National Archives shall be:

(a) to safeguard the collective memory of the Maltese nation and protect the rights of citizens through the selection, preservation and access to the archives in whatever medium to the highest of standards;

(b) establish and maintain a register to be known as the National Register of Archives;

(c) to monitor with powers of inspection the record-keeping practices within public offices;

(d) accept and acquire private records of national significance by gift, purchase, bequest or deposit;

(e) provide leadership to Maltese archives in such areas as preservation of archival records, records management and national cooperation schemes;

(f) promote the professional training of archivists and

(i) archives open for public inspection and location of holdings;

(ii) records of national significance in private archives, after the necessary permission has been granted by the owner of the records; and

(iii) any other details or information which will benefit the promotion of the archives and the provision of research facilities to the general public.