Momentum proposes AirBnb licence payments to help finance local councils

Momentum has proposed using Airbnb licence payments and traffic fines to help finance local councils.

In a press statement on Wednesday, the political party presented five wide-ranging electoral proposals which it says will strengthen democracy and protect the environment.

One of the proposals is to diversify local council income streams to reduce over-reliance on central government. New funding sources would include Airbnb licence payments, a share of traffic fines for road maintenance, and allocations based on tourism impact, traffic flow and environmental considerations.

Momentum also wants to enshrine in the Constitution the principle of non-discrimination based on age and disability, to address unequal pension treatment and forced retirement.

It also proposes extending two-thirds majority votes to other important public appointments to reduce political patronage. For roles not subject to parliamentary approval, all interviews would be recorded and documented, with clear competence criteria and published scoring systems.

Momentum would also create an independent media regulatory authority that would not include representatives of political parties.

It also committed itself to promoting flexible working, parental leave and access to childcare to allow people to pursue a career while raising a family.

Momentum Secretary General Mark Camilleri Gambin said these proposals “will contribute to a more transparent, inclusive, and environmentally responsible Malta, where institutions serve the people, and future generations are protected”.