A new digital One-Stop-Shop platform has been launched to streamline the permit application process for traditional festivals across Malta and Gozo. Designed to ease the administrative burden on voluntary organisations and individuals planning these events, the platform consolidates all relevant applications—such as road closures, police assistance, and logistical arrangements—into a single online location.

The initiative, available at https://localpermits.gov.mt, is the result of a collaboration between the Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government and the Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment. It was developed in response to feedback from the festival community last year.

Minister for National Heritage, Owen Bonnici, said the platform stemmed from direct engagement with the public. “This Government has always made a point of listening to what the public has to say, and this initiative is further proof of the importance we attach to this,” he noted. “We have done the necessary research and work and invested in a solution that will make the lives of these organisations easier.”

He emphasised the collaborative nature of the project: “We did not act alone. Rather, we have made every effort to consult extensively with all stakeholders to ensure that we deliver the best possible solution.”

Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri highlighted the cultural significance of such festivals. “The festivals in towns and villages are one of the most beautiful things that make us Maltese,” he said. “This One-Stop-Shop… is the fruit of the dialogue that we had with you as a Government and from which this idea emerged.”