Momentum wants local councils to have resources to tackle bad tourists

Momentum spoke out about ongoing issues of overnight vandalism and noise disturbances in Sliema and Gżira as a consequence of tourists and partygoers.

The party pointed out that scenes of intoxicated people “knocked out of their senses” and sleeping on pavements have become a common occurrence, while car vandalism continues to persist.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Momentum said that locals are facing regular disturbances from revellers and Airbnbs, while landlords refuse to take responsibility for their guests.

The party asserted their belief that local councils should be given the authority and the proper financial means to tackle these issues, adding that the government must stop marketing Malta as a “party island” where anything goes.

Momentum leader and candidate in the ninth and 10th Districts Arnold Cassola explained that these situations are characteristic of places like Sliema and Gżira, and must be curbed by more preventive policing patrols at night, strong action against those who put out their waste on the wrong day, and fines handed out on the spot for those contravening noise disturbance laws.

“Quality tourism means marketing our country for its cultural and historical gems and for its natural beauty,” they said.