A few days ago I went

swimming at the rocky beach near Ta' Fra Ben in Qawra. I was astonished how much things have changed since last year. The sun beds and umbrellas cover practically all the beach with no space left for people that are not willing to pay for one.

Until last year the sun beds and umbrellas were placed on the outer part of the beach. However, this year we experienced a negative business expansion with both the outer part and the inner part of the beach being taken up by the sun-beds-and-umbrellas-for-hire business.

The sun beds are placed in the early morning, with no chance whatsoever for beach users to find a place where to put their belongings. I suggest that sun beds and umbrellas are set up when there is a request by a customer for them and not beforehand.

The use of beaches and seashores is and should always be a right of every person in Malta. We must speak up against this arrogant hijacking of our right to enjoy our beaches. The authorities should take action right away to stop this abuse. I expect that the Lands Department, Mepa and the Malta Tourism Authority to explain their policy and inform the public about the state of affairs at this spot.