The Green Party emphasized the importance of electing representatives who prioritize constituents’ concerns over monetary interests in the forthcoming local council elections.
ADPD’s Brian Decelis highlighted the longstanding issue of catering establishments occupying state-owned land, previously protested by him in the 1990s. Now, public spaces like pavements are cluttered with tables and chairs, obstructing residents’ access. Decelis aims to restore balance between residents’ needs and business interests as a Marsaskala local council candidate. He even stated his reason for running saying “That is why I am running for local council candidate for Marsaskala, to see that this balance is maintained in all decisions taken”.
ADPD Chairperson Sandra Gauci supported Valletta residents’ frustration with excessive encroachment by commercial establishments into public spaces, a problem also faced by other localities. The lack of enforcement of regulations allows businesses to operate with impunity, facilitated by regulations favoring business interests over public welfare. Gauci also stated that residents from other localities, such as Sliema, St Paul’s Bay, Marsaskala, Birżebbuġa and Mellieħa, face the same problems on a daily basis.
This situation arises from decisions made without input from affected communities, highlighting the need for elected representatives who prioritize people over profit.