![Protest Against Take-Up Of Public Space In St George’s Square](https://maltadaily.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/grafweb.jpg)
On Saturday, demonstrators gathered in Victoria to protest against the takeover of streets and pavements by restaurants.
Activists from Moviment Graffitti, Għawdix, Din l-Art Ħelwa – Għawdex, and Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar were joined by local band clubs, Il-Ħaġar museum representatives, councillors, and parishioners.
They condemned the complete occupation of St George’s Square by restaurants, blocking all four entrances with tents, tables, and chairs while authorities failed to enforce regulations.
Frustration has been mounting for months, with the archpriest of St George’s Basilica publicly voicing grievances in March. Demonstrators decried the encroachment as prioritizing commercial interests over community needs.
This protest is part of Moviment Graffitti’s broader campaign, ‘Il-Bankini taċ-Ċittadini,’ which opposes rampant commercial encroachment in various towns, including Sliema, Valletta, and Marsaxlokk.
The excessive commercialisation has disrupted social and cultural life, making it difficult to hold weddings, funerals, and religious events.
Local band club Soċjetà Filarmonika La Stella also reported difficulties organizing the local feast. Despite Prime Minister Robert Abela’s statement on the issue, campaigners’ demands remain unanswered, and enforcement remains lax.
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