Authorities took direct action in St George Square, Victoria on Thursday, ”with the aim of ensuring that the tables and chairs are only placed within the boundaries of the existing masterplan, the Government said.”

In a statement, the Ministry for Gozo and Planning said that the action was carried out in coordination between the Lands Authority, the Planning Authority, the Malta Tourism Authority and the Police.

”In the coming weeks there will be more coordinated enforcement between these entities, and if necessary other entities will be included, in order to find the balance that is so needed in relation to tables and chairs armed outside and regarding the -use of public spaces for commercial purpose.”

Activist group Moviment Graffitti said that it ”welcomes with satisfaction the news that action is finally being taken in St. George’s Square, Victoria, Gozo, following on from the protest held in the square a month ago with the Parish of St George, La Stella Philharmonic Society, Il-Hagar Museum and many residents, against the take-over by tables and chairs.”

Graffitti argued that ”despite the fact that there was a masterplan regulating the space in this square, the establishments choked the square with great detriment to the people and public access.”

”While we congratulate the community of Victoria that has come together with strength to fight for what is rightfully theirs, we hope that serious monitoring and enforcement will continue on the part of the authorities,” stated Graffitti.

Photo: George Cassar Facebook

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