Momentum petition calls for action to fix short let chaos in residential areas
Party wants spot fines for rowdy tourists and illegal dumping
Momentum has launched a parliamentary petition calling on the government to take immediate action to address the ongoing disruption caused by short-term tourist rentals.
In a statement published on Wednesday Momentum said residents in popular tourist localities such as Swieqi, St Julian's, Sliema, and Buġibba are experiencing sleepless nights, mountains of rubbish and unacceptable disruptive behaviour.
"Our peace is being sold off, and we’re getting nothing but chaos in return," Momentum leader Arnold Cassola, who is a resident of Swieqi, said.
"It feels like the basic right to peace in your own home has been thrown out the window. The authorities have completely failed to act, leaving families to suffer the noise and disrespect. We all get that tourism is important, but we have to start putting residents first. This isn't about being anti-tourist; it's about being pro-resident and stopping the low-quality, 'anything goes' attitude that's wrecking our towns."
The petition comes at a time when residents have raised their concerns over unruly behaviour from tourists and frustration at growing rubbish piles left in the street.
The petition also comes days after it was announced that Italian officers will be assisting Maltese police officers on patrols of Paceville and other tourist areas.
Cassola proposed five points on how to take action and control the disruptive behaviour, including fining rowdy tourists and illegal waste dumping, and for there to be stronger enforcement present during late hours. He also called for accountability for property owners of problematic rentals and called for mandatory security deposits for short-term rentals.
He also called for a public campaign to inform tourists of Malta's rules and laws when they arrive on the island.
A similar idea was flagged by St Julian's mayor, Guido Dalli, who previously floated the idea that tourists should be handed garbage collection leaflets on their arrival at the airport.
"These are not radical ideas," Cassola said.
"This is about restoring basic order. It’s the only way to curb the behaviour that’s making life miserable for so many of us. If you’re fed up with the noise, the rubbish, and the total lack of respect, you need to sign this. Make your voice heard."