Jason Micallef Says Heads Must Roll Over Lack Of Blue Lagoon Umbrella And Deckchair Enforcement
People within the authorities should resign for continuously failing to stop the Blue Lagoon from being taken over by deckchairs and umbrellas in the summer months, Valletta Cultural Agency chairman Jason Micallef said.
“Authorities exist to regulate against abuse and illegalities on public land,” Micallef pointed out. “What is happening on the Comino beach is bare-faced abuse against the island’s natural beauty, which enjoys the highest level of environmental protection and is considered a Natura 2000 site.”
“It is also blatant abuse against the public who have a sacred right to swim and relax [at the Blue Lagoon] in peace.”
“Just like the majority of people, I am sick of the lack of action taken by the authorities, their leaders and their officials, against this longstanding bare-faced abuse of Comino.”
“The action taken today by a small group of people against this abuse should shame the authorities and their leaders… you know who you are and you should be ashamed of yourselves.”
“You failed the government which appointed you to do your job, and above all, you greatly failed the people of Malta. Your lack of action merits resignations.”
This morning, a small group of Moviment Graffitti activists descended on Blue Lagoon, removed deckchairs and umbrellas from the beach, and placed their own towels instead.
As it stands, deckchair vendors are covering every inch of the shoreline with deckchairs and umbrellas from the crack of dawn, making it practically impossible to enjoy the beach – one of Malta’s natural treasures – unless you’re ready to pay €12.50 per person.
Although Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo has publicly come out against this takeover of Comino by private operators, there hasn’t been much in the way of action.
A photo by Moviment Graffitti activist of people enjoying the beauty of Blue Lagoon without deckchairs and umbrellas generated almost 3,000 responses on Facebook.
Cover photo: Left: Jason Micallef, Right: Blue Lagoon following this morning’s direct aciton
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