Floating entertainment platforms 'subject to same rules as commercial vessels'

Floating entertainment platforms are subject to the same rules and obligations applicable to commercial vessels, the transport minister said on Monday.

He was replying to a series of questions by Nationalist MP Ivan Castillo.

Two mayors last week raised concerns about Noma Island, a floating entertainment platform currently in Malta, warning that it could place additional pressure on already busy coastal areas.

Sliema mayor John Pillow said Sliema’s waters were not suitable for such a vessel, while Mellieħa mayor Gabriel Micallef said his locality's coastline was too sensitive for such a venue.

The structure can accommodate up to 350 guests, who arrive via private yachts or dedicated speedboat shuttles from the shore. It is built across two large decks that house a restaurant, a bar-lounge and a freshwater swimming pool.

The minister in his replies to the parliamentary questions, pointed out that no vessel may enter swimming zones and operators are obliged to observe Notices to Mariners relating to noise levels so as to ensure that their operations do not inconvenience residents of the coast.  

He said that Transport Malta is collaborating with entities such as the Environment Authority to ensure that such regulations are observed, and enforced as necessary.

Castillo also asked whether studies had been made on the impact of such structures on maritime security and how the emergency forces could respond effectively in case of an emergency or incident on such operations.  

Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri said the security and emergency services worked according to the country's laws, while the nature and classification of the structures were regulated by the competent authorities.  

Bonnet said such a structure would operate in the same way as any other commercial vessel in Maltese waters and was subject to the same regulations as any other vessel in Maltese waters.