Deputy Prime Minister, Ian Borg Meets Valletta And Swieqi Councils On Tourism Pilot Project

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, met with the local councils of Valletta and Swieqi on Wednesday afternoon, inviting them to submit proposals for the recently launched tourism community support pilot project.

Valletta’s delegation, led by Mayor Olaf McKay, included councillor Ylenia Montfort (minority leader) and Executive Secretary Gabriella Agius. Swieqi Mayor Noel Muscat was accompanied by Deputy Mayor Jordan Galea Pace, councillor Miguel Balzan (minority leader), and Executive Secretary Clarissa Buhagiar.

The pilot project aims to assist localities in balancing tourism development with residents’ wellbeing, addressing issues such as waste management, public order, and the management of short-let and long-let accommodations.

During the meeting, Dr Borg highlighted that while some challenges can be managed through national legislation, others require tailored, locality-specific solutions. The initiative will provide local councils, especially in or near tourism zones, with targeted resources and administrative support to implement their chosen projects.

Both mayors welcomed the invitation and agreed to define their localities’ priorities by next month. “Once these targets are set, we will support you to reach them this will require shared responsibility and close collaboration across different entities,” Dr Borg said. He also confirmed that other ministries have pledged their support for the initiative.

Valletta Mayor Olaf McKay said, “Valletta experiences a high footfall, with many workers and tourists visiting the Capital. I believe this pilot project can solve several issues, for example waste management, parking and accessibility. It is encouraging that the Deputy Prime Minister heeded our concerns and will be taking action.”

Swieqi Mayor Noel Muscat added, “Today, we started the journey to resolve the challenges that Swieqi is facing. We have been raising these concerns for years, putting forward proposals, but failing to see them through. Tourism activity continues to grow, and short-let accommodations increase related issues. We are now agreeing that these issues exist, identifying their causes, and finding solutions – this is how we can move forward.”

#MaltaDaily