Another Summer lost for Restaurant owners in M’Xlokk

For
the past years, GRTU tried to find a solution with all concerned  to the problem that exists at The Marsaxlokk
Promenade. GRTU has now brought this issue to the attention of Mr Vincent
Cassar, Chairman, MEPA, asking for his intervention in the matter as another
summer is lost for restaurant owners namely from Bukkett Restaurant to Rizzu
Restaurant.

GRTU
insists that Government, in order to ensure a level playing field, should
proceed according to the proposed plan submitted to MEPA, and mathematically
calculate what size of stall will fit in the designated area when multiplied by
twenty one (21) Market Hawker Operators (daily market). GRTU can never accept
the arrogant attitude with which the Market Hawkers are addressing its members,
as well as the Marsaxlokk Local Council, when a suitable  solution has already been found.

GRTU
also cannot accept  the abusive imposition
by Market Hawkers of disproportionately and abusively operating from large
stall sizes which exceed the norm (1) contemplated by current legislation
regarding all open air markets that measure 2.5m by 6m except the market in
Merchant Street (Valletta) which measure 1.52m by 2.13m and not more than 2.44m
in height (Legal Notice 119 of 2002, as amended); and (2) the dimensions given
to Marsaxlokk Hawkers in their respective Market Hawkers Police Licenses.

Should
the stalls for the Market Hawkers in Marsaxlokk come close to these sizes, then
there would not be any issue regarding the Market Hawkers fitting comfortably
in the space earmarked on the plan submitted for the amendment of the Master
Plan.

GRTU
believes that this is the only fair and equitable solution. The current abuse,
with certain Market Hawker stalls exceeding 90 feet in length should never be
accepted by Government and the Local Council.

GRTU
insists that a level playing field for all must be sought, and that the
restaurants concerned will be allowed to place tables and chairs in accordance
with the submitted Plans, whilst Market Hawkers will be regulated with
appropriate interim stall-sizes.

GRTU
has also requested a meeting with MEPA 
with the aim to conclude this issue.