Kamp Emergenza Ambjent (KEA) activists, in a statement this morning, pointed out the fact that several beaches around Gozo and Malta have been taken over by commercial entities, setting out their deckchairs and umbrellas from very early in the morning.

KEA remarked that “this is effectively rendering public beaches, important spaces that are to be enjoyed by all, into private spaces for profit-making. Consequently, people are forced to choose between staying in the few crammed remaining spaces or hiring an umbrella and deckchair.”

“It is very unjust that a few private companies are making huge profits at the expense of the rest of the population from places that are supposed to be accessed and enjoyed by everyone,” the activists said.

KEA added, “people are often unable to place their own towels and umbrellas and there is not enough space for children to play.”

Activists from Kamp Emergenza Ambjent demanded “that the companies which are engaging in these greedy practices immediately halt this takeover of public beaches, and that the relevant authorities ensure that the people’s right to enjoy these beaches is restored.”

“Should the current unacceptable situation persist, activists from Kamp Emergenza Ambjent are committed to organising citizens’ direct actions aimed at reclaiming our beaches,” it said.

Photograph by Alain Salvary

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