On the Dot...

This column had complained about the dearth of 1c stamps. The problem still obtains, such that in order to utilise 7c stamps left over before the last increase in postage dues, one has to use 2c stamps to be able to post a letter locally. Would it not be possible for Maltapost to instate a system whereby 7c stamps are handed back to the staff, and, by adding 1c for each stamp, be given 8c stamps in return?

Shop Soiled

Some stores and shops look after the comfort of their clients by installing fans or air-conditioning units to keep temperatures pleasant and bearable. It is a pity, however, that some shops are not even equipped with ventilator fans. This, besides going against respect for staff and employees, must surely be against all health and safety regulations.

Garden Lore

Some time ago, a lot of ado was made about how the stationmaster's room at Old Railway Garden in Birkirkara was being renovated, and how the whole place was being spruced up to provide an open space for residents and visitors. Alas, these plans have fallen by the wayside. The place is once more abandoned, and the solitary light on the side of Villa Chelsea is only serving as a night light to a vehicle parked inside the gardens.

Speed Freaks

One place where there ought to be speed cameras is along Notabile Road, in Mriehel, on either side of the Wignacourt Aqueduct. Cars zip along as if there were no tomorrow, not heeding the fact that a good number of people walk their dogs or take their daily constitutional exercise in the area.

Human Error

Perhaps the Maltese side was not to blame for not inviting Maltese in Brussels for the euro celebrations there. But the Permanent Representation has a lot to answer for if it failed to check on the situation the moment its attention was drawn to the many complaints that were being made.

Break NECC

A NECC senior manager hastened to write to this newspaper that Lm3 amounts to €6.99 and not €7, as indicated in a printed photograph. Will he now kindly let us know whether NECC has fined the outlet that displayed such incorrect conversion. Or is it just bark and no bite?

Good Job

The Malta Tourism Authority and all involved deserve to be publicly commended for the job done on the St George's Bay extension. A one-day break and bathers had the beach back the following day.

Paper Chase

Last week this column complained about flyers strewn in porches of residences that are obviously uninhabited. This week it is time to speak about the mounds of confetti that litter streets whenever there is a band march or a festa procession. Does this not go counter to the Litter Act, too?

Expensive Ride

Host families often find that their charges are getting the raw ends of deals with taxi drivers. In one such instance, a ride in a white taxi from Paceville to the Birkirkara bus terminus cost two Swiss students Lm10 each. Although this happened in the dead of night (00:30 a.m.), it was also daylight robbery.

Hollow Slogans

A disquieting sign that the general election is drawing nearer is the revival of an old habit. Slogans are once more being written on blackboards and hung outside certain political party clubs. Often, they contain misspellings and words written by someone with a questionable sense of humour.

Loose Arrangement

One usually follows traffic signs and road markings not only as a sign of respect but also to avoid getting booked. Yet, in front of the cash office at the Inland Revenue Department, cars can be seen regularly parked on the "Keep Clear" line. Is it possible this practice is officially sanctioned?

Medicine Mien

Patients going to the Gzira health centre for free glaucoma medication were told to return within a fortnight's time, as it was out of stock. But such a medical condition cannot be put on hold. Other medications, too, have not been available, from time to time. What is the stock control and management section of the Department of Health doing about this?

Money Talks

It would seem that anyone caught overcharging the public on any service or product must reduce his rates in order to come into line. Apart from the fact that this line of action is not exactly logical, one wonders whether it is leading to more people striking while the iron is hot, as it were.

Dog Gone

Where are all the animal welfare organisations? Which of them is sending undercover agents to monitor the state of health and the daily conditions of the animals kept in captivity until they are sold into further captivity? The stench inside some pet shops is enough to turn the stomach. There is also overcrowding, and some animals are clearly unwell.

onthedot@timesofmalta.com