WATCH | Robert Abela insists government struck balance in Comino

Prime Minister Robert Abela has insisted that his government has struck a balance when reforming Comino, stressing that the removal of a beachgoer from public land was an “isolated episode.”

Abela was speaking to journalists outside parliament after footage circulated online showing Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) officials ordering a man to leave a public area of the Blue Lagoon occupied by commercial sunbed and umbrella operators. The officials insisted the area was not public despite the man arguing that the coastline and bathing area should remain accessible to everyone.

READ ALSO | MTA confirms public access to Blue Lagoon but offers no explanation for officials’ actions

Abela pointed to a daily visitor cap on Comino and enforcement as evidence of government action to strike a balance between public and commercial interests on the island.

The prime minister said that it is up to the MTA to decide whether the public officials defending private interests went beyond their obligations. He praised the authority for its work in upholding discipline on the island.

Abela also refused to acknowledge the fact that Comino’s carrying capacity study was never published, insisting that the daily cap was inspired by the unseen study.

“Let’s be proud of the reform we did,” he stressed, reminding journalists of the chaos that was present on the island before the reform.

Prime minister wants balance for caravan enthusiasts around coast

Abela was also questioned on a statement by Naxxar’s mayor regarding the lack of enforcement on caravans in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq.

“Our bays are occupied by campers and caravans, to the detriment of residents who wish to enjoy them with their families,” the mayor said.

The prime minister could not say whether or not enforcement in the area exists, but he disapproved of those who are profiting off their occupation of public land.

Here too, Abela called for a balance, as he appealed for a measured way of enjoying Malta’s coastline.