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Ombudsman Joseph Zammit McKeon and Commissioner for Environment and Planning Alan Saliba welcomed the action taken by officials from the Malta Tourism Authority, Planning Authority, Land Management Authority and Police, who have acted to restore order in St George’s Square in Rabat, Gozo, ensuring that the square’s outdoor occupied area does not exceed the 111 square metres approved by the concession.
The Environment and Planning Commissioner has written to the Police Commissioner asking him to take immediate action with the assistance of the authority responsible for regulating and enforcing the use of outdoor tables and chairs by catering establishments.
The Ombudsman’s office has been active in addressing concerns about the lack of enforcement of outdoor dining regulations. “The Ombudsman and the Commissioner for Environment and Planning have called for a long-term solution to enforce regulations around outdoor tables and chairs,” the Ombudsman’s office said.
The Graffiti Movement, which coordinates protests against the concessions for St. George’s Square with groups including the local parish, the Ras Stella Philharmonic Orchestra and the Il-Ħaġar Museum, said it hopes authorities will continue to strictly monitor and enforce the concessions.
“Despite a master plan being drawn up to regulate the space in the square, it is still crowded with various institutions, greatly compromising people’s health and public circulation.
“This problem affects not only St George’s Square but many other places as well. Authorities need to step up their monitoring of other public spaces that are being overrun by commercial establishments.”
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