Updated: Caravans to return to Bahar ic-Caghaq

Silvan Cutajar

May 22nd 2009, 20:08

Illegal Boathouse and Caravan owners STEALING PUBLIC LAND anywhere should be SEVERLY PUNISHED for their past and present bullying acts and NOT COMPENSATED by taxpayers money and this ridiculous arrangement.

Be sensible and REVERSE THIS WRONG BIZARRE AND ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING DECISION.

Pierre Attard

May 22nd 2009, 19:57

So this is not an election ploy, is the Euro40000 to be paid just once? if so each owner will have to fork out the grand sum of Euro 350 each for a prime, unobstructed,seafront public land? So we the rest of the Maltese population were so stupid not to steal a part of the public coastline for our own use! most of us do not afford buying this kind of real estate, BUT WE NEVER stole public land. Jason, you have let down the majority of the Maltese, stand down.

D Camilleri

May 22nd 2009, 19:35

Gonzi PN until ALL squatters are removed from public land I will vote against your party, and | invite everyone to do the same, so these favours to squatters will have an adverse effect, you might gain a few hundred votes. hopefully youll lose many many more and realise what the people want, not just thinking egoistically as usual.

carmel zammit

May 22nd 2009, 15:50

114 against 16 need we say more? U MR DIEDUN JAJJAT BIL U TURNS Jason dr you are in my black books i had the biggest admiration for you u issa ksirtli qalbi BIRDS OF A FEATHER SURELY FLOCK TOGETHER .SEE YOU

Maria Dolores Fenech

May 22nd 2009, 15:19

U ejja.........!

What next?

Dennis Zammit

May 22nd 2009, 15:16

The same old tune once again.

I had personally complained about shops stealing public areas in Bugibba by extending the pavement and placing tables and other objects. The objects have been removed but the pavement was not and the shops keep still keep the place to themselves. This is theft !!

Secondly, it is also theft of public area that shops such as souvenir outlets manage to obtain a round the clock no parking zone or a friend's double yellow line in front of their premises on the excuse of loading/unloading. My God!!! they load and unload all the time for 15 hours a day including Sundays!!! Then you report and nothing happens. The local council did not approve nor did the ADT but the lines are still there and the wardens' tickets are still issued.

This will NEVER change in Malta. It is all who you are, who you know and how much you feel a bully. Bullying is even this not just at school!!

Miriam Webster

May 22nd 2009, 12:51

Am I disappointed? Yes
Am I surprised? No
Do I feel betrayed? Yes
Do I benefit? No
Will I vote next month? Yes
Will I forget in four years? No

R FERRIGGI

May 22nd 2009, 12:06

can anyone inform me if the previous sqatters will have a preferential status??

thanks

J.ABELA

May 22nd 2009, 11:15

PAJJIZ TAL-MICKEY MOUSE, DIK DISKA MISSA TIDHOL,FIL-EUROVISON,ZGUR NIEHDU FULL POINTS.

David Attard

May 22nd 2009, 10:34

Pajjiz Tal Mickey Mouse fej ta fuq jigbdu lispaga u il il pupazzi jimmarcjaw

DANIEL MICALLEF

May 22nd 2009, 08:58

Proset Jason.....se tippremjaw lil min ilu jikser il ligi bil caravan tieghu l fuq minn 20 sena u qed tagixxi bil maqlub ta li ghedt fuq il programm gimgha u nofs ilu fuq favourite channel fej ghedt li rridu nnehhu l mentalita li min hu l aqwa jhawwel.....nahseb li ergajna back to square one!!!jista xi hadd jirrispondi jekk jien bhala cittadin li ghandi caravan ghandix dritt daqs dawn li ilhom hemm daz zmien kollu li mmur u nhallas u noqghod bahar ic caghaq wkoll?jew dawn in nies talli ilom daqshekk bla permess fl istess post huma privilleggati u huma biss jistaw jmorru bahar ic caghaq?

Cmuscat

May 21st 2009, 23:32

I have been a resident of Bahar ic-Caghaq for the last 28 years and I have never bathed there because it was unthinkable that the sea would be clean with all those squatters during the summer months. I was thinking of having my first dip this summer so this news is quite shocking to me.

We, residents of Bahar ic-Caghaq, are already disgruntled by the way we have been unfairly treated by the Naxxar Local Council, since the introduction of local council management. This u-turn by the central government is not only farcical but an additional stab in the back to us.

Contrary to what has been written so far I do not think it is an election ploy because the governemt stands to lose votes from us residents if it persists in going ahead with this comical tragedy.

Michael Pule'

May 21st 2009, 18:42

Well done Dr. Azzopardi. The people who are saying that yours was only an election ploy are the same people who supported the party locating people in ex-servicemen apartments by the airport runway! Can you believe it? Now that we have this gentleman who took the bull by its horns and is asking for payment for using gov property, we get these armchair critics to demonize his actions!! Keep it up Jason - the people appreciate your great efforts.

S. Cutajar

May 21st 2009, 18:33

Onorevoli Azzopardi,

Dawk li mhumiex squatters mhux ftit karawett bl iskuza ta encroachment permit u xi garanzija bankarja ridikoli kienu qed jistennew minghandek imma li ma tirrovinax l azzjoni TAJBA li GUSTAMENT kont hadt li tkeccihom minn hemm darba ghal dejjem.
Taghmilx bhal ta qablek li tweghdhom li ser thallihom hemm u tiftiehem maghhom u imbaghad ma tkun tista taghmel xejn. U azzjoni fuq ta l armier u postijiet ohra ghadna qed nistennewha!!!!

ART PUBBLIKA ma tistax tibqa tigi abbuzata hekk fl 2009. Anzi multi hemm bzonn li tqassam lil min abbuza u mhux pjaciri ghal voti Grazzi

Anthony Magri

May 21st 2009, 18:30

Mr. Jason Azzopardi to be genuine that it is not an election ploy, he should not have given the temporary use to former occupiers, but to every one applying until the maximum number is reached. Otherwise it is showing preferences to former squatters. Simple reasoning. No?
Let us hope that voters are not deceived.
According to Mr. Jason Azzopardi it is not an election ploy. Why should we believe him when facts are eloquent.

m attard

May 21st 2009, 18:01

Of course this is not an election ploy. Never crossed my mind for a moment. SIC !

Mike Magri

May 21st 2009, 17:45

Ahhh Jason.... When GonziPN Politicians wants to play a dirty 'Vote Catching' game on some of our simply naive electorate, they sure know how to do it, my friend....!! What you have done, (propably under GonziPN political pressure), is just sending your political credibility backwards, and as far back as all the others in the GonziPN group, and with NO chances for recuperation.... PERIOD...

noel darmnin

May 21st 2009, 17:30

ARA VERU MA JISTHIX DAL GVERN,TIDER LI GEJJA ELEZZJONI U ANDU BZONN L VOTI.TAL CARAVNS,FTAKRU T TROUBLE LI TAGHKOM U D DWEJJAQ LI AMLILKOM META NEHHILKOM KOLLOX U GGUDIKAW INTOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Raymond Sammut

May 21st 2009, 17:23

Is there a patch of coastline left in Malta where you can go to have a dip without having to feel like you are being watched by people in dwellings built so close to sea? I have trouble believing that this is a picture of Bahar-ic Caghaq I am looking at. And of course, the "caravans" are merely insult to injury.

Alex Tanti

May 21st 2009, 16:27

is there any reason left why not vote Alternattiva Demokratica???!!!!

Mario Mercieca

May 21st 2009, 15:07

For those of you who don`t know what a camping site is all about, there are several type of camping sites, and these are not necessarily tied up with the sea. Most large camping sites have four categories of dwelling.
a) bungalows which are hired for a short period of time (60 euro per day)
b) Permanent dwellers, those who have a fixed caravan and an area were to live for the whole summer (1000 euro per year)
c) Campers and Caravans which stop for a short vacation (25 euro per day)
d) Tenters Who pitch their tent against a fee of 15-20 euro per day
Now in Malta this was an excellent opportunity to get rid of the squatters who have occupied this beautiful site for 20 years, but the goverment has messed it all up by giving a direct order without any bidding by anyone who is interested in running a campsite and getting the best value for the land he is using. Why deal with people who have occupied this land for a long while? Why not giving opportunity to others who have a caravan but have stopped short of stealing public land?

J Martinelli

May 21st 2009, 12:58

@ Neville Debattista

"Taking the bull by the horns" is taking charge of a situation(s) which Jason Azzopardi is doing just fine.

Removing illegal 'boat houses' is taking the bull by the horns.
Ditto to forcing restaurants/cafes to remove furniture trespassing on public land.
Same for demolishing the original Bahar ic-Caghaq illegal self constructed caravan site and re-issuing a temporary permit against payment of rent.

If the above (for you) is not ample demonstration of 'taking the bull by the horns' nothing else will convince you.

Keep it up Jason and do not be discouraged by the bull !

R. Gatt

May 21st 2009, 12:46

@ Galea L - Jew trid ticcajta jew tqarraq.

@ the anti Jason group especially Daniel Micallef. Did any of you bother to read the conditions before jumping on to a band wagon of critisizm and insults. I'm not sure if Daniel Micallef is the same Daniel Micallef the ex politician who did not lift a finger when in the 70's and most of the 80's democracy was being threatened. When a zero vote prime minister was prepared to suspend democracy, when ministers decided who gets a decent job (not in some labour corp), a piece of land, when people where being shot at and murdered, when others were being framed of that murder. I could go on and on. Sixteen whole years of mayhem. Are you labourites ever attacked while having a political activity as the PN activities used to be. You name it, teargas, beatings, shooting into the crowd, a zero vote PM deciding PN cannot have a political manifestation in Zejtun, and we all know what happened then. The SMU and the labour bullies throwing teargas and shooting at the masses of us marching peacefully towards Zejtun. Why forget so easily. NEVER LABOUR AGAIN, NEVER.

nevil debattista

May 21st 2009, 11:18

Dear Jason, some days ago you gave me the impression and even made me beleive that you were going to take the bull by the horns.......that was not to be. Although deep down inside you may wish that the Caravans should have never made a comeback you obviously had to succumb to an overpowering force. When you say that all this is not an election ploy you know very well that you are only beating around the bush and will understand too that nobody in his right senses will beleive you. So long Jason Azzopardi ..............wellcome to the Machine.

Ronnie Gauci

May 21st 2009, 00:35

What about gazebo owners who take over almost half, the best half, of the beach epecially at Pretty Bay (Birzebbugia) while other bathers find no decent place where to place their towels, not the first time I had to put my towel inches from a garbage bin while they enjoy their 10m squared gazebo (including the ropes and other accessories). I'm not against them but they should have the decency to place their gazebos at least 20m aback from the water, for them its the same as they don't have to lay on the sand but are comfortably seated eating their bread and melons.

J Martinelli

May 21st 2009, 00:13

@ Mariella Galea

Caravan sites are designated sites with marked perimeters and any occupiers can use their space as they wish including the use of umbrellas. Your friends who have to move from site to site will no longer have to do that once enough sites are developed, but I suspect that your friends are averse to having to pay any rent at all.

If you are swimming close to the designated area, you are within your rights as the sea belongs to the public, but once you go ashore within the designated area and you are not a guest of a caravan owner renting the site, then you are technically trespassing.

You once again go on a racist tangent referring to 'a dark skinned foreigner' telling (asking?) you to move away because he is FISHING '. Does it matter whether he is white or dark skinned? If he was there first, you happen to be interfering with his simple pleasure. In any case this is a dispute between you and the unfortunate angler and has nothing to do with caravan sites.

Peter Bonnici

May 20th 2009, 23:43

whats this maltese dumb obsession with having a boathouse or caravan? why do some people feel they have have a sacrosanct right to take public land for their own use, and God help anyone who trespasses? For how long must this go on, here at Bahar ic-caghaq, Armier and mellieha, and God knows where else?
Why have we had successive governments who gave away public land to law breakers? Whats in it for honest taxpayers?

A Borg

May 20th 2009, 23:40

Not an election ploy!? Go tell it to the marines Jason.

Galea. L

May 20th 2009, 23:23

Matthew Frendo, J Farrugia
Nerga nirrepeti.
Il-hnizrijiet li tghiduli saru fi zmien il-labour huma n-nida hdejn id-dulluvju li saru u qed isiru taht il-Gvern Nazzjonalista.

j.spiteri

May 20th 2009, 22:37

So, Jason has lost his marbles on the eve of an election?

Thomas Grima

May 20th 2009, 22:03

Flahhar inkixfet il maskra ta Jason Azzopardi.

Jekk forsi hadd ma nduna, wara l gimmicks ta Ghajn Tuffieha, kullhadd rega qed jokkupa l barracks kif kienu qabel.

Pajjiz tal Mickey Mouse

Rachel Galea

May 20th 2009, 21:48

I never knew this country was populated with so many people who are not capable of reasoning without using politics. Dr. Azzopardi has stopped the illegal occupation of this government land and has, for the period between June and September transformed it into a camping site for anyone one who wishes to rent out one of the 114 spaces available for the period of time one wishes, be it 15 days or the whole four months.............. anything wrong with that?

As far as I am concerned this can be done every year as Johnny citizen has a right to enjoy his hobby, in this case camping. Also this specific site never encroached on the foreshore as there is a wide dust road between the caravan plots and the seashore.

nmifsud

May 20th 2009, 20:11

jista xi hadd jghidli jekk Gnejna Bay hux legali li tahhli il caravan tieghek ghal sajf shih?? ghax ghadna Mejju u diga hemm 12 -il caravan jihu nofs il parking tan nahha tal garages. Is-sena l-ohra kien hemm tabella li ma tistax thalli caravans il-Gnejna imma mid deher hadd ma qalilhom xejn ghax hemm kien u hemm baqghau sajf shih. Mhux seww jihdu nofs il parking ta gewwa!!!

J. Aquilina

May 20th 2009, 20:06

One has to understand that afterall organised caravan/camping is a civilised hobby. Those who enjoy it must love the environment since they want to spend some time closer to nature.
What we had at Bahar ic-Caghaq in the past years was niether a Caravan nor a Camping site, it was a filthy slum area with satelite antennas and all kinds of neaucances.
I hope that this time they will get it right and organised, preferably both sites (Zonqor and Bahar ic-caghaq) will be developed for caravans/camping.
What I am against is that a "club" of traspassers is recognised by my Government and an agreement is entered with. Tender out the areas to private organisations, get some income out of it for us the land owners, have the tenderers embelish the area and charge reasonable fees. This way all interested citizens can enjoy a couple of days in the 'Wild'.
What has happened now is giving preferential treatment to the past abusers. Can the Minister, for whom I used to admire (till now) guarantee a spot for my family to pitch a tent this Summer? against reasonable payment, of caourse! I believe my family wasn't considered. Please don't expect my Vote.

P Muscat

May 20th 2009, 19:32

@ Matthew Frendo

Zonqor Point is still at apllication stage at MEPA. By our standards we are 2 or 3 or maybe 4 summers away. Law breakers should not be allowed any concession let alone 2/3/4 more summers to enjoy.

We living in Bahar Ic-Caghaq village do not want this cheap influx.

Bridget Mifsud Pavia

May 20th 2009, 17:30

Why Zonqor Point? Why ruin such a beautiful place enjoyed by so many poeple seeking a peaceful stroll? Why is our country being sold so recklessly? SHAME!!!!

M.Attard

May 20th 2009, 15:56

There is another caravan site in St. Thomas Bay. Is it legal? There are already nine of them. The numbers will increase gradually up to twenty three! I have personally seen them throwing dirty dishwater in the sea. There are no adequate facilities. Will the sea be safe to swim in,in a few weeks time? Please someone take care of this health hazard.

Matthew Frendo

May 20th 2009, 15:51

@ Galea - veru kas ta l-ipizjar milli jkollu jtik. Stat ta fatt li l-akbar hnizrijiet saru fi zmien il-PL, meta l-ordni tal-gurnata kien jtihom Lorry Sant. U dan ma kienx jippublika rapport u stqarrija hekk fit-times ta. Skond kif jiddeciedi. Min kien li naddaf teba ta l-istess ministru lorry sant, gewwa Pjazza Sant'Anna? Xejn hadd Dr Jason Azzopardi flimkien ma l-Onor George Pullicino u grazzi ghalihom il-pjazza lura ghas-snin glorjuzi taghha. U dan ma ninsewx l-hnizrijiet morali li saru, swat u tkissir ta propjeta. U xi nghidu ghal dawk il-kazini li l-PL taghhom jhallas hmerija? U tant propjeta ohra li taghhom ghamel requisition? Dak mhux dulluvju ta ingustizzja? Jew jibqa nida?

J Farrugia

May 20th 2009, 15:36

@ Galea L - iddur kemm iddur, iddawwar kemm iddawwar l-istorja hija dik li hi. Maghrufa minn kulhadd u minn kull min ghex ir-realta u mhux il-holm ta' dan il-korrispondent. Jidher car li l-passat iwerwru lil Galea L. Min jaf? forsi ghandhu xi sehem mill-passat?

Mariella Galea

May 20th 2009, 15:34

@ J. Martinelli

What is the use of owning a Caravan, when there is no LEGAL spot where to put them... I have friends that own Caravans. They camp somewhere near the sea, when they become a nuisance the police comes and tell them to move along as this is illegal... they move someplace else and it all starts again.

Secondly... Have you ever been swimming there, apart from taking the land illegally, they also put camps or umbrellas 10 paces away from the sea, and just in case you put your bag 10 feet farther they come to check on you. Also have you ever gone swimming and a dark skinned foreigner, comes to tell you to move away because he is FISHING (a box shaped trap at the depth of 8 feet and 5 feet away from the water's edge with a rope and a FLIP FLOP tied to it to show it's position)

Galea. L

May 20th 2009, 14:57

J Farrugia
Il-hnizrijiet li inti qed tghid li saru fi zmien il-labour huma n-nida hdej id-dulluvju li saru u qed isiru taht il-Gvern Nazzjonalista.

Matthew Frendo

May 20th 2009, 14:55

@ P Muscat - Maybe you forgot to read that this is until the new caravan site is up an running in Zonqor Point

TWO - if you think that there are many Maltese who have that money to throw away, just think it twice. Mind you collectivism is a must in fact it is in BOLD THAT IF SOMEONE JUST DARES TO BREAK THE LAW NOT ONLY HE WILL SUFFER, BUT EVERYONE.

THREE - if you see something irregular you can bring things to light to the ministry concerned.

FOUR- THIS AGREEMENT IS NO SECRET BUT PUBLIC, SO WHY ARE YOU TRYING TO CAST DOUBTS? JUST FOR THE SAKE OF CRITICISING?

FIVE - WHATEVER THEIR POLITICAL BELIEFS RULES ARE THERE FOR EVERYONE

@ Albert Leone - FOR GOODNESS SAKE MAGHTAB IS BEING REHABILITATED, SOMEONE JUST HOVERED ABOVE IT WITH A HELICOPTER

TWO - DR JASON AZZOPARDI DOESN'T NEED TO SUFFER AT ALL. IF HE SEES THAT THINGS AREN'T WORKING AS THEY SHOULD, I TRUST HE WILL TAKE THE APPROPRIATE ACTION.

FOR EVERYONE - IF THIS WAS GIVEN FOR FREE, I UNDERSTAND FRUSTRTATION, BUT THIS ISN'T THE CASE AS THE GOVERNMENT STANDS TO GAIN RENTAL MONEY.

J Farrugia

May 20th 2009, 14:36

il veru hanzir taqtalu denbu hekk jibqa' u dawn il-kittieba kollha favur il-Labour u l-hnizrijiet li wettqu fi zmienhom meta hallew lill-pampaluni taghhom jaghmlu li jridu u jokkupaw l-art kif iridu u minghajr ma hallsu sold issa qed jghajru lil Jason Azzopardi li qed jipprova jsib tarf tal-kobob kollha li hallew warajhom il-lejber meta kienu fil-gvern. L-unika zball li ghamel il-gvern huwa li halla miljunarji u fanatici laburisti jpappuha a skapitu tal-poplu malti li jhallas it-taxxi.

albert leone

May 20th 2009, 14:07

When I think of the pristine beauty and clear sea that was bahar-ic- cahaq as the British left it in 1979 and reflect on the state it is now my heart just aches and bleeds.
The refuse mountain, the splash and fun park, the illegal. slummy and haphazard caravans and tents which made their appearance in the 90's actually sealed the fate of the place.
I have very nice family memories of enjoying days at the beach in bahar-ic-cahaq. However I wouldn't dream of going there today.
So adding a caravan site does not add much to the degradation of the place.
Perhaps it might help Dr. Jason Azzopardi from suffering the same fate as the former PN minister Dr Zammit whose love of the environment caused him to fall foul of the maltese self interested and egoistic electorate.

P Muscat

May 20th 2009, 13:47

Dear Jason and George,

- 40000 divided by 114 caravans = Euros 351 per caravan. So with this one concludes that it pays to break the law. This is simple mathematics and the amount is really small not as you stated.

- Can I the common citizen with one vote apply for a caravan site and pay Euros 351? Or is this scheme intended only for those cowboys who already broke the law?

- As if you are going to forfeit the guarantee!! Good joke

- You get 114 votes but you will loose my vote and all the votes coming from the Bahar ic-Caghaq village

Be sensible and REVERSE THIS WROND DECISION please

R. Borg

May 20th 2009, 13:43

40,000 + 12,000 = 52,000

52,000 Divided by 114 = 457Euros!

hmmm....

T Abela

May 20th 2009, 13:28

114 caravans - approx 250 votes half of which mlp. maybe gained 120 votes back
probaby lost 200 on this one
result - 80.

E Pulis

May 20th 2009, 13:20

I feel that JasonAzzopardi is doing a great job,and in these last months steps are finally being taken to safeguard what rightly belongs to all us Maltese citizens.However,no matter how you try to put this,it does really seem like something is wrong in this case.

Yes its true.For the first time they are being made to pay to setup the caravan for the summer months.But on what basis,was the Safari Camp Club given the management of this tempoarary project?Other than the fact that they where the association that represented the people that ILLEGALY took over the site for years below?

All most of you said is true.It is about time that caravan sites are set up in Malta, both for us Maltese citizens and for tourism purposes.But why should the first one be given to those who have illegally abused public land for years and years before?What about all us other Nazzjonalisti and Laburisti who have not breeched the law?Don't we deserve to be able to set up a caravan near the sea for a few months?And don't tell me that the Safari Camp Club has experience in keeping an organised caravan site.They surely never did a great job before!

KJ Tabone

May 20th 2009, 13:09

Why is it that a good move for this country cannot be called a good move regardless of who came up with it?

I, personally, think that it is a good idea to have a summer caravan site against payment. I know that several exist abroad for those who prefer this kind of holiday, so why not here?

What I do hope is that the users won't try to make the site into what it was before. The system is now there, let's please make good use of it.

J Martinelli

May 20th 2009, 13:09

@ Louis Spiteri et al

1. E3.50 a day is much better than a 'free for all'.

2. The 'Club' is the entity which will guarantee order and cleanliness. An owner is but one member of the club.

3. The 'Club' has no special privileges, in fact has been obliged to keep E12,000 on deposit as a performance guarantee.

4. The site comprising of 114 caravan lots will be on a first come first served basis, therefore there are no 'preferred' caravan owners.

5. It is clearly stated that no caravan will become a permanent fixture since tenancy is limited to between June and September.

Any criticism for such a scheme is made on a purely political basis by those who, when in power, encouraged encroachments in bastions and other locations and took over such sites and private properties as well, for political activities.

@ Mariella Galea

"Illegal Immigrants with Maltese wives and children" are NOT RIF-RAFF as you stated. That is a racist statement if ever was one!
"Camping should not be allowed for more than 15 days for each caravan". Would you bother to own one if you only had the use of it 15 days a year?

Matthew Frendo

May 20th 2009, 13:09

I don't know why some people are trying to put the government in bad light. Don't you realise that this is the first time since 1990 that the government will be getting a return from such lease? Based on such calculations had this system been adopted beforehand the government would have earned 760,000 euros thus well done Dr Jason for ensuring that government gets something in return. Elsewhere, it is pretty clear that a bank guarantee of 12000 euros is being asked and if JUST ONE dares to break the rules all will be evicted. This ensures the use of mobile caravans ONLY therefore one can put his mind to rest that no fixed structures will be put up again. If they dare to do so this means that they can forget the 12000 Euros and ALL will be sent home packing. Last but not least, everyone knows that this was turned into a private area without any-title to show in the past. This time round it has been made clear that the foreshore is to be open for the general public, thus NOTHING has been taken from the general public.

Galea. L

May 20th 2009, 13:08

Ian Bugeja
Not by depriving others of parking spaces and littering the area.
Where do they empty their toilets etc?

George Attard
Iddahhaqx nies.

Mario gauci
How many hours drive do you have to undertake in foreign countries togo to the seashore gauci? The sea is never more than 10-15 minutes from any place in Malta.

CHARLES ZAMMIT
It's all a question of TIMING zammit, apart from a puerile attempt to get some money for Malta's empty coffer.

Vince Buhagiar

May 20th 2009, 13:07

Why not make them pay this amount in arrears for using the site for so long - & simply avoid such a U-turn - keep ON the eviction! If these are relocated, there is the likelihood of becoming 'temporarily permanent'../ What is not highlighted enough, is that invariably, the same destiny lies ahead for the Zonqor site - one of the scenic less spoilt areas around Marsascala. Apart form the parking problem already mentioned, the next best thing we will get 'to relieve traffic congestion' is the opening up of the road to Xghajra, extendable to SMARTcity....Residents BEWARE!...Where are the environmentalists now??...Truly one good reason for refraining from voting!..

Mary Zarb

May 20th 2009, 12:59

Is it true that the government has met the Armier boathouse owners again a few days ago?? If yes can someone please tell me what is so special about these Armier people that merits 'kid gloves" attitude with them? And if the answer is in the affirmative would you still think that this country is run by just people?? I think it is all a political mess of injustices and Jason should be ashamed of himself to treat people like this and others as if they were \Kings!!!! Well done my foot!!

Chris Bonello

May 20th 2009, 12:45

So some are calling this as an act of favoritism before the European Elections, evidently these “some” have short memory and forgot what favors before elections are like!
On the contrary here, those that till last year were occupying everyone’s land, without any permission, are being now asked to pay a considerable amount to use the land following a set of strict regulations for the stipulated months. Above that, the Club representing them is being held responsible for the overall thing and will be required to make a €12,000 bank guarantee to ensure that contract conditions including cleanliness and order.
To me this is no electoral move but simply a good solution to make everyone happy until the proper Caravan site is done.
Unfortunately in this country everyone tries to take a ride on every situation, and this is exactly what the “objectors” are doing. Keep it up Dr Azoppardi…

Charles Abela

May 20th 2009, 12:29

I think there is a lot of fuss being said about this issue. It is very clear in the Gov words that the agreement is temporary and against a considerable payment. (40,000 Euro) It also states clearly the period of time June till September the Safari camping Club will be held fully responsible for every thing, and so for me it looks like a reasonable decision until a more adequate site is set. If it were an Electoral maneuver there would have been no charge, and everyone would have been left free to do whatever he pleases, as the situation was before.
Well done Dr Azzopardi,

Francesco Bonello

May 20th 2009, 12:25

I think this is a just alternative. After all, its temporary. I would like to remind you, that these people are not staying there on a free basis. Might I remind you that they are paying 40,000 euro to make use of the sight. Further more, and most importantly, if any infringement occours, like in the past, the 12,000 euro bank guarantee will be lost!

Louis Spiteri

May 20th 2009, 12:11

To encroach means (cfr Oxford Dictionary) "to gradually intrude on a person's territory, rights etc., advance gradually beyond expected limits". So, can we be given an explanation how the figure of 40,000 euros was arrived at. Is it a one time payment or is it payable annually. Even if it were payable annually each of the caravan owners (114 in all) would be paying a mere 350 euros say, for a period of 100 days (summer months) i.e. 3.50 euros per day. Less than half the average price of a meal in a restaurant!

Besides, why has the Safari Club been so privileged to the exclusion of other prospective caravan owners?

R Grech

May 20th 2009, 12:02

Should we ever have job vacancies for Critics, Malta would be the place to be!!!!!! Xeba nies isahhnu s-siggijiet hawn f'dal-pajjiz!!! I think it's a good initiative Dr. Azzopardi - keep 'em coming! I think you wouldn't be talking this way had you really known how the real situation was prior to Dr.Azzopardi taking office, so I ask you to be careful what you allege.

Bernard Mamo

May 20th 2009, 12:01

why are you moving the caravans from bahar ic-caghaq to marsascala? what's the point? if they already like that place why not keep them there? i surely don't want all the rabble rabble they bring along to zonqor. wouldn't you leave a part of the south undeveloped?!? caravans bring trash. WE DON'T WANT THEM AT MARSASCALA! there already is another caravan site between st.thomas bay and munxar, most probably illegal, (where the fully legal boathouses with satellites and 3 double bedrooms with ensuites are). Is this a democratic country? where is democracy? who was asked about the zonqor caravan site? come on PLEASE dr.Gonzi don't do this dont destroy Zonqor point! :(

Jeff Daley

May 20th 2009, 11:48

You should all be thankful that you have MPs like Jason Azzopardi who work for the common interest...it is shameful of all those treathening not to vote, espescially when considering such a good action an electoral gimmick! Way to go Hon. Azzopardi!

godwin scerri

May 20th 2009, 11:45

yes the fee is steep. But is there anything to stop one from subletting his caravan throughout the summer, with all that this implies?

George Pace

May 20th 2009, 11:40

Jason, I had a much better opinion of you.

r ferriggi

May 20th 2009, 11:39

MA NISTAX NIFHEM certa kritika ingusta li qeda issir.

jien immur sqallija u hemm hafna caravan u camping sites. sbieh hafna. ma fihom xejn hazin. mizmumin nodfa.

il hazin hu jekk ,,,,,,,,((ala Maltija)) =

1. JEW il karavans jitilfu is saqajn u isiru permanenti
2. jinzammu xi prezzijiet fenomenali
3. xi nies jinghataw preferenzi
4. il post isir isu mizbla

meta tqis li hafna maltin ma jaffordjawx xi summer house,,,, hemm bzonn ta caravan sites organizzati u kontrollati f'areas maghzula.

ejjew ma nikkritikawx bl'addocc,,, jew politikament.

Mariella Galea

May 20th 2009, 11:34

Of course they will be coming back... there's the EU parliament election coming!(whatever Jason Azzopardi is saying) Those who are familiar with the area know better!

I think A Gypsy village would be more an appropriate name for this site. These caravans will end up as homes for illegal Immigrants with Maltese wives and children and other RIF RAF, as it was before. Social workers should do rounds and see what really happens and the state that children are left in

Camping should not be allowed for more than 15 days for each caravan. Today everyone owns a car, if not, then there are the buses. It's a silly excuse that someone from B'kara or even better from Gharghur, loves the sea so much that they camp wherever for the whole Summer, when you can smell the sea from everywhere in the Island.

Ismael Dalli

May 20th 2009, 11:33

A Step in the right direction.

Government is there to regulate.

For the first time there is some form of agreement between the Maltese Citizens to which the site and the foreshore belongs and the campers. One should remind up to a couple of years ago public land and foreshore were abusively used by private campers. This agreement binds the campers to their civil duties, hence the bank guarantees to mantain the place clean, and to respect the right of other citizens to enjoy the foreshore.

At last after years of abuse, the concept of civil resposibility is introduced.
It is augured that government operates in this spirit to guarantee the rights of everyone and the abuse of a part of society against another.

b.vella

May 20th 2009, 11:33

Another reason for not voting....dahk fil-wicc....Prosit!!!!! another U turn !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

James Cachia

May 20th 2009, 11:32

Ara vera ma tista' taghmel xejn bikom il-Laburisti! Mhux ta' b'xejn zammejtuna 200 sena lura! Prosit Jason!!

D. Xerri

May 20th 2009, 11:27

Proset Tassew - Mela min seraq l-Ambjent tal-Poplu Malti kollhu ghall dawk is-snin kollha f`Bahar ic-Caghak issa se ntuh ir-Rigal biex ikompli jisraq dak li hu tal-Poplu Malti u Ghawdxi kollhu. U ghall Kuntrarju dawk li qatt ma abbuzaw u ramaw caravan f`Bahar ic-caghak dawk joqghodu jharsu lejhom. Jien aktar kont nistenna li l-Gvern jaghti dik l-art jekk iridha ghall caravans lill nies li qatt ma kellhom caravan mhux lill dawk li kissru l-ligi u hadu l-ligi b`idhom u ilhom 20 sena shah igawdu illegalment minn fuq l-ambjent Malti u se jergaw igawdu l-istess nies. il-Gvern b`din id-decizzjoni qed jghidlek JEKK INTI TRID Villaggjatura u caravan ghamel bhalom ibni illegalment hdejn il-bahar - u jekk ghall kuntrarju inti tibza tibni illegali oqghod hares lejn min gie jaqa u jqum mill-ambjent u mill-ligijiet u bena illegali.
Ara vera Malta Banana Republic in Europe !!

Franco Farrugia

May 20th 2009, 11:06

@ Dr Jason Azzopardi: If the Government of which you are part had to be half as considerate towards animal-carers as you are in your election ploys, this country would be much more animal-friendly than it is now.

Robert Zammit

May 20th 2009, 11:05

as the saying goes, 'tell it to the Marines' Jason !!! PN go to all sort of extremes just to bet a few votes, they did this last year, now again, they must be so scared of being given a bashing by the electorate!!! This is what should be scandalizing the PM, well i'm sure that many electors are scandalized by this move !! remember the 'Carry On' films, this is what Malta has come to, shame on us !!!

Dr Emmy Bezzina,EU Candidate

May 20th 2009, 11:04

THIS IS RIDICULOUS AND SHOWS HOW POLITICAL CREDIBILITY IN OUR COUNTRY IS NON-EXISTENT.

JASON AZZOPARDI WAS DOING A GOOD JOB,OBVIOUSLY PARTY PRESSURE IS NOW HAVING ITS TOLL ON HIM.HE IS A COLLEAGUE FOR WHOM I HAVE LOTS OF RESPECT 7 HE KNOWS IT, BUT THESE HAPHAZARD DEVELOPMENTS IRK ME TO THE LIMITS,CONSIDERING THE MEDIA EXPOSURE & STATEMENTS MADE IN THE PROCESS OF DISMANTLING THE CARAVANS. WHEN WILL WE GROW UP - WILL EVENTS SEE ANY DIFFERENCE AFTER JUNE 6TH,2009? THE PEOPLE ARE SCANDALIZED & INCREDULOUS - AS A CONTRIBUTOR STATED IN LIMBO-ROCK TRADITION:HOW LOW CAN WE GO? WHY AS A MATTER OF COURTESY WERE THE PEOPLE NOT INFORMED ABOUT THE CHANGE OF HEART? Ha..ha!

Chris Mifsud

May 20th 2009, 10:33

It seems like now Zonqor point is being made into an official dumping ground.

Galea. L

May 20th 2009, 10:32

Leave Marsascala FREE of any caravans.
There are enough parking problems without more spaces being allocated for caravans.
All people have to to travel are a few minutes to get to the sea from any part of Malta and we don't need any caravans to take up parking space and pollute the locality.
This is another plan by the Gonzi government to continuing ruining the South of Malta together with the proposed development of a marina in Marsascala.
Gonzi and developers keep your hands off Marsascala.

K. Anastasi

May 20th 2009, 10:09

U-Turn !! How pathetic can you get!

Tony Caruana

May 20th 2009, 10:04

Giving the countryside back to the People eh Jason ? Hallina.

To all Nationalists open your eyes !!

I did and i feel a whole lot better.

CHARLES ZAMMIT

May 20th 2009, 09:43

SURELY, IF IT WAS AN ELECTION GIMMICK, IT WOULD HAVE BEEN GIVEN FREE OF CHARGE, AND NOT AGAINST A PAYMENT.

r ferriggi

May 20th 2009, 09:42

I bet my bottom dollar that the safari club owners are blue-eyed, that it will become a private mega- business and that the owners/administrators will become rich.

wanna bet??

i am not against genuine caravan owners who use the area TEMPORARILY, or the owners, for that matter. LIKE YOU FIND ALL OVER THE WORLD!!!!!!!

but in this island such things become an IMPERU zghir for a small group of people only. lets see what happens.

Richard Cassar

May 20th 2009, 09:42

We don't want caravans on our beaches.I thought that we had made that clear.I had also foolishly hoped that Government understood our concerns and had started to take action against these illegal land grabbers. By this action, along with the Armier squatters ,the authorities are in fact condoning crime. How can they justify lawbreakers by making their crime legal?.It seems that the thing to do is grab and steal as much as you can because there are no consequences only rewards.

Has the Government not realised that we are being victimised each year that goes by?. If it isn't the squatters stealing the few beaches we have left it's private enterprise. It has reached the point where unless you pay you cannot swim.

Carmel Xerri

May 20th 2009, 09:39

"This is the first time that the owners are being charged an encroachment fee, and a total of €40,000 is not small." Thats only about 88 Euro per caravan each month. Won't make good for the services given. Viva l-Elezzjoni.

Mario gauci

May 20th 2009, 09:34

Permanent Caravan Parks abroad are also allowed and Caravan Sites are a source of tourist attraction. However Caravans in permanent sites have to observe strict rules like all caravans have to be the same and caravans are sold and bought only from whoever is the owner / manager, in this way the price is controlled and every one can get a piece of the cake. The facilities provided are second to none.

Christian Azzopardi

May 20th 2009, 09:33

Hahaha.... This is getting ridiculous big time..

Aronne Micallef

May 20th 2009, 09:29

Naqbel ma dakk li qalu Qabli mela L-ewwel Kecina min Bahar ic-Caghaq u issa ghax Gejja l elezzjoni ux sa rargaw titfawna fl post li kona ghal hafna Zmien ara vera dejjem Lists storia

S Fenech

May 20th 2009, 09:29

Why don't our govt follow the way other countries deal with caravan sites? The caravan owners are still going to squat on the area, a caravan should be a MOBILE vehicle. How it is being drawn up in the article, I can get a caravan and 'buy' my place in the site. Even business it to others if I want ... nothing fair in all this!

John Micallef

May 20th 2009, 09:28

Eh....what a sad country we live in ! where are all the people that praised the government for removing the caravans now ? no posts from them ? LOL vera pajjiz tal mickey mouse !

GEORGE CUTAJAR

May 20th 2009, 09:23

So much for giving public land back to the public. Come on Jason stop taking us for a ride. Months back I honestly believed that things had got on the right track in so far as public property is concerned but now we are back to where it all started.
Claiming that eviction orders have been issued on other sites simply shows the political expediencey of this ploy.
Keep it up. By the way any chance of me getting a caravan site? That would be really cooooooooool.

George Attard

May 20th 2009, 09:23

Intom tirragunaw jew?? Mela jekk inhallas xi €40000 ha jaghmilli pjacir xi hadd?? Kif kollox tridu twaqqghu fuq livell politiku?? Ahsbu ftit b'mohhkom!

Joe Cassar

May 20th 2009, 09:22

Even if (I say IF) we were to accept that the decison itself is not an election ploy, the timing certainly is!

J. Cassar

May 20th 2009, 09:19

What a shameful decision ! The more time passes, the more we look like a banana republic.

J. Cassar

Jane Bartolo

May 20th 2009, 09:18

How can anyone say that PS Azzopardi is doing election favours? He's doing what he's been doing for a whole year now! Well Done Jason!

C.Sammut

May 20th 2009, 09:14

Thank you Minister for taking decisions without consulting with the local residents.

C Calleja

May 20th 2009, 09:13

Tlift il-kredibbilta' kollha b'din il-U-Turn Dr Azzopardi...

Lanqas haqq il-kummiedja li saret

David Borg

May 20th 2009, 09:09

Welcome to Disney land.......another reason for not voting!

Benjamin Pule'

May 20th 2009, 09:09

I beg to differ with most of the comments already submitted. The works on this caravan site have started last year with the removal of several caravans which apart from having developed in immobile "flatlets", they were occupying land illegally. Besides, how can one speak of "election favours" when you see that a first-time payment of €40,000 is being requested and a Bank Guarantee of €12,000 is needed as security?? Are you all ready to pay a sum of the sort all of a sudden just because an election is round the corner? I think not... These are not the only safeguards being imposed as you can gather from the PR issued by the Lands Dept. I say well done Dr. Azzopardi - this land was reclaimed by Government in the public's best interest!

R. Borg

May 20th 2009, 09:05

Back to square one....

go see the horrible mess they left after them....

lgalea

May 20th 2009, 09:02

The people in the southern area do not want caravans at Zonqor point.
The parking in Marsaskala must be left for cars and not for caravans.
There is already a great parking problem and drivers do not need to see the parking problems exacerbated.
The sea is not more than 10-15 minutes away from any point in Malta so those using caravans have no problem in going for a swim anywhere.
Stop the destruction and the dumping of everything undesirable in the south of Malta.

Julian Zarb

May 20th 2009, 09:02

This is Good News because we need to see better regulation in the leisure industry that should enhance our product, our environment and our own civic behaviour. There is a niche opportunity for camping in Malta and Gozo both for the domestic market as well as the international trade but without proper regulations we cannot expect to compete with other sites on the continent. This precendent should help us look further afield to the mainstream tourism industry that we have followed for the past forty years.

Patrick Cilia

May 20th 2009, 08:56

The decision to have a MANAGED camp site at bahar ic-cahaq creates an important milestone in the way that we do things in these islands....no more the clutter and litter from illegal camp sites but an orderly and regulated activity that does justice to our environment and our tourism industry. Whether this comes before a EP elction and a local election or not, the point is is that is it comes at the beginning of a Government Legislature that will deliver on its manifesto, despite the panic comments and destructuve criticism by the Opposition labour party...and, incidentally, after the 6th June they will STILL be the OPPOSITION Labour party until they change their attitude and strategy. I last voted for the labour party in 1981, my firsat experience of election participation - and I have not looked back since!

C Mabngion

May 20th 2009, 08:51

Now I hope that those who have been occupying this site illegally, will not be given any preference. On the contrary, those who have been abiding by the law, must be given priority when applying for a place in this caravan site.

Joe Galea

May 20th 2009, 08:39

Utterly ridicilous vote hunting manouvre!!!

Where is Alan Deidun the green candidate? What a joke!!

Herbert J. Grech

May 20th 2009, 08:39

Unbelievable!! ONLY IN MALTA. I really cannot believe that the Caravans will return to Bahar ic-Caghaq, just a
couple of weeks before election!!

Once again the election fever has done the trick on this island; and our PM has shown the "par idejn sodi".

Sur Prime Minister are you serious!!

Jane Bartolo

May 20th 2009, 08:38

Charging a 40,000 euro administration fee, backed by a 12,000 euro bank guarantee that can be lost at the first infringement is hardly a pre-election gesture.

Michael Vella

May 20th 2009, 08:32

Absolultely DISGUSTING!!!!

DANIEL MICALLEF

May 20th 2009, 08:31

Proset Jason kont qed taghtina l impressjoni li int mp denju ta pajjizna u li l interess ta malta jigi l ewwel u qabel kollox....pero zgur li wara dan il kas jidher bic car kemm konna zbaljati u li l voti fl elezzjoni huma izjed importanti mill interess nazzjonali !

Daren Cassar

May 20th 2009, 08:30

LOOOOOL hehehehehe good one can't stop laughing.
Issues have become so evident that they generate humour.
We should produce a TV series in the form of Monty Phyton or Some mothers do have them in this country.

Mike Magri

May 20th 2009, 08:25

....aaaaannnnnnd..... how loooooooooooooong this so called 'Temporary Arrangement' is really going to take, my Dear Jason.......!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I think i have a hunch... OH YESSSSSSS.... until when the next general election is announced... I BET YOU ALL GUYS.........!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hallina Jason.... As far as i am concerned, your Political Credibility and Accountability is just as foggy and unworthy to even mention it anymore, as any other in the GonziPN Group.......!!!!

IL-VERU MA TAFUX TISTHU....

A.Debono

May 20th 2009, 08:25

So if the govt didn't take the land used illegaly in his hand, all the labourites complaining here would say that the govt is full of 'hbieb tal-hbieb'.
If we want to move forward in this islet we have to learn to congratulate the govt when it does well, & vice versa. Instead we let the party propoganda take our reason from us, & we reason in the name of our party instead of our country.
In my opinion the govt especially Jason did an excellent job to reclaim public land used illegally & cleaned it up. But then instead of playing childish, the land was given back to the people that want to use it subject to a guarantee of leaving the area as found & a small payment (approximatley 350euros/caravan).
This is the way it should be.
Well done & keep up the good work

laurence schembri

May 20th 2009, 08:17

Another piece of our coast given away to ceate more pollution.

P. Schembri

May 20th 2009, 08:15

Just as I thought. Balloons of hot air and nothing else.

J Farrugia

May 20th 2009, 08:07

what tradiment are you talking about? Ginving government and public land for peanuts is not on any more. At least the caravan owners will have to pay for using government land @ €2.50 per day each – for the use of the site from June 1 to September 30. That is the way forward and if they abuse of all the stringent conditions imposed by the Government they will lose their monetary guarantee which is not peanuts. That is seriousness by the Ministry ably managed by no-nonsense Jason Azzopardi. Jason you're an imortant asset to the government and you dont look at faces. But at the end of the day it is the people who will win by getting back what is theirs by right. Time's up for those who think that they can get away with murder by occupying government and public land for their own egoistic pleasures.

Ian Bugeja

May 20th 2009, 08:03

I don't think there is anything wrong with caravans as long as they are movable structures and not built using bricks. Summer is round the corner and everybody has the right to enjoy it the way he likes.

Joss Galea

May 20th 2009, 07:58

Basta, paroli biss!

Muscat.Pat

May 20th 2009, 07:57

Criticising the Opposition heeding of "public perception"! I bet Dr Gonzi had in mind the environment and not the votes! And, I presume, Dr Deidun, the "catch 22" of the environment totally agrees! The "limbo" rock slogan comes to mind;" HOW LOW CAN WE GO"!

C Xuereb

May 20th 2009, 07:51

Tradiment iehor.

Joe Cassar

May 20th 2009, 07:46

Yes We Can (meta tkun waslet xi elezzjoni).

John Attard

May 20th 2009, 07:42

I hope zonqor point you are not refering to remove the parking space we normal human beings use near the pool complex .... the only place were one can park in summer free of charge, take their kids to the sea or pool . And the photo by the times of the unruly caravans does not augur well.We residents and frequenters will surely object for this....all the hustle and bustle on a marina that would have amelorated Marsascala and now we end up with a caravan site...no marinas are not good for the south part of malta but closing of Jerma Palaces and caravan sites ok. please refrain of using political antics please I am no labour supporter. I am speaking my mind out....if I am not correct i expect that some one answers my e mail

I.Cilia

May 20th 2009, 07:37

rather evident that an election is round the corner!!!!!..

why throw them out of there and then let them use it again, whilst at the same time applying for a permit somewhere else...

why not just let them be in the first place, but then charge them money to use the site and set conditions to ensure that the area is kept clean etc

Ludwig Flask

May 20th 2009, 07:35

Definitely we suffer from 'elections fever'. Hoping all caravan enthusiasts would be given a fair uncostly deal!

Ronald Cauchi

May 20th 2009, 07:26

Did someone say election?

michael gauci

May 20th 2009, 07:14

bla bla bla Jason !! gejja l elezzjoni ux !!