Church has lost control over feast celebrations (2)

I refer to the back page article 'Closing road for Msida feast could be dangerous' (The Sunday Times, July 6).

I (and many of your readers I'm sure) was astounded after reading it. It is incomprehensible in this day and age that there are people like Msida band club president Vince Azzopardi who see it fit to close the only north-south artery, so that a few hundred of his fanatical supporters can enjoy a fireworks display.

This selfish practice has been shamefully taking place for several years - with the authorities' blessing of course! To make matters worse, as from this year this artery is the only approach road to our new general hospital.

Emergencies apart, motorists attempting to make their way to Sliema/St Julian's and beyond end up turning back home in frustration, causing a tremendous loss of business to establishments in these areas.

Which department/authority is responsible for issuing permits for such road closures? On what basis are they issued? I trust that the relevant authority realises that this is 21st century, EU member Malta, where the rule of law should prevail over selfish decisions of the few. And Mr Azzopardi and his followers can then enjoy their ear-splitting spectacle elsewhere, while allowing traffic to flow normally.