Action taken against timeshare touts

With reference to Peter Wognum's letter Dishonest Timeshare Touts Spoiling Malta (June 25), I would like to clarify a few of the points that were raised.

Over the past two to three years legislation and rules regulating timeshare vendors, or OPCs as they are referred to, have been stepped up considerably. Today, the behaviour of all OPCs is subject to intense scrutiny, while the few less-than-ethical timeshare sales reps, along with the companies they represent, are liable to pay significant fines as well as, in certain cases, the suspension of their license for breaking these regulations. Moreover, the number of OPCs and/or timeshare companies that have been charged in this regard has increased consistently.

In 2006, the Malta Tourism Authority's Quality Assurance (Enforcement) division pressed charges on 21 occasions, increasing to 62 last year. In the first few months of this year 33 charges have so far been issued.

The MTA will continue to remain vigilant in ensuring that the OPC code of conduct and regulations are adhered to at all times, taking all the necessary measures to charge those individuals and companies who flaunt the rules.

Anyone witnessing or being at the receiving end of unacceptable behaviour by timeshare reps may report such incidents to the MTA (info@visitmalta.com or 2291 5400) or by lodging a complaint at the nearest police station.