RIGA, Dec 30 (LETA) - Ludza Region Council has won the title of the most family-friendly local government of the year and a cash prize of EUR 25,000, as Zane Jekabsone, public relations manager at the Society Integration Foundation, the organizer of the competition, told LETA.

The foundation's commission for evaluation of municipalities concluded that Ludza municipality, with its efforts to improve families' well-being, stands out with its openness to diversity of opinion, concern for well thought out infrastructure and its accessibility, motivation of students and young specialists, thus facilitating return of residents who have left the region.

In addition, the most family-friendly municipalities in each planning region have been announced: Adazi Region Council in Riga planning region, Koceni in Vidzeme, Livani in Latgale, Alsunga in Kurzeme, and Tervete in Zemgale. Each of these municipalities has also received a cash prize of EUR 12,500.

The Society Integration Foundation's Director Zaiga Puce said she was proud of the people who work at local governments. "We are also happy for residents who understand, appreciate and help local governments move toward the goal of creating conditions for a happier, more comfortable and safer life. And this can be achieved through regular interaction and cooperation," Puce believes.