Floriana street party to go ahead in spite of police objections
Floriana local council will be forging ahead and closing St Anne Street for tomorrow’s New Year’s Eve street party in spite of police objections and the absence of a public transport service after hours.
The bash, which the local council says is expected to attract more than 10,000 people, is intended to be a national event run on the lines of celebrations in London’s Trafalgar Square and Times Square in New York.
However, with barely 24 hours to go, the organisers face obstacles, mainly due to a dispute over the main road’s closure and the availability of public transport to take people home after the event.
Police sources said when contacted that the council was issued with an objection letter last week because closing a main artery tomorrow between at 9 a.m. and 2 a.m. on New Year’s Day was unacceptable.
“In principle, we have nothing against the street party. The police only objected to having St Anne Street closed for so long. We cannot have a situation of two weights and two measures where we prevent Msida from letting off fireworks in a main artery and then giving Floriana the go-ahead,” the sources said.
For the first time in over a decade, Msida was last year not allowed to close the Sta Venera bypass and Regional Road to let off fireworks, a practice that used to cause havoc for motorists.
“The police proposed that the council hold the party on the Granaries, which would not have caused any problems, but it remained keen on the street party in St Anne Street,” the sources added.
The police objection, however, seems not to have disheartened the Floriana council and mayor Nigel Holland said that, after talks with the police yesterday, the council planned to go ahead and close the road using wardens instead of police officers.
“We have been verbally informed that, as a council, we had the authority to close the road for a one-off national event. We will use wardens instead of police officers, who are overstretched on the night,” Mr Holland said.
“I’ve been dreaming about holding such an event for years. This year, the council and I decided to take the plunge,” he added.
The event is planned to kick off at 6.30 p.m. with a parade. Dancers, comedians and singers are scheduled to perform and there will be a fireworks display just before midnight. The council is being assisted by the parliamentary secretaries for dialogue and for tourism.
Another problem remains. A deal has not yet been struck with the Public Transport Association for route buses to keep running late into the night.
Association president Victor Spiteri said: “With every activity such as this, compensation is given to the drivers for their work. In this case, the council doesn’t want to pay and neither does the Malta Transport Authority nor the Ministry for Culture. At the end of the day, no-one works for free.”
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Lucia Dacies
Jan 2nd 2010, 10:41
Lucia davies @ Mr. Pulis, Read today's paper and you will know if the event was or was not sponsored by the government, and police gave their go ahead, I would not have written about sponsorship if I was not sure of it . People are ready to comment and put others down before they find out what is going on,. And to those who wrote about not being interested in this event, I am sorry but from all the events held in Floriana you are going to find a percentage of people wether they are from Floriana or not who are not interested and annoyed by the traffic havoc caused. Apart from all thid HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL
Chris Cauchi
Jan 1st 2010, 19:50
@Charlie Gauci i am from floriana & live out of floriana - i arrived at floriana around 2130hrs (peak time) & found NO problem to get into floriana / both myself & my brother found a parking area without any hesitation thus cannot see your point....parallel roads with St Anne street where also accessible & you could have easily 'escaped' from Floriana from any other road, ....like for eg cappucini str & then towards st.anne (fejn l-iljun) OR from next to the Police H.Q & then towards Pieta.... // rest assured that yesterday's venue was not a waste of money and everyone enjoyed it...... Well done to all Floriana Local Council especially Nigel Holland - keep it up!!!!
G. Mangion
Jan 1st 2010, 18:47
@Floriana local council, Now that you showed us that you are Over and Above the Police, no wonder you don't at least, take a micro note of the Residents complaints ( not on this street party lot's of us don't give a darn for it ) are you still not gonna get them iron water pipes OFF the pavements ? that are of great Obstruction to, Wheelchairs, prams, ecc, ecc. or you too don't give a darn for the SAFETY OF THE RESIDENTS ? HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYBODY.
victor pulis
Jan 1st 2010, 12:15
@ Lucia Davis
Do these people know that this event was sponsored by the government?
This gets batter by the second. if it's true that this event was sponsored by the government (which I very much doubt) then it means that the government is guilty of ignoring police orders along with the counci!
everything was done legally and in order except for the last two days when the permit was held.
If the permit waswithdrawn (if it was issued in the first place) then the event was held against the law.
I'm only commenting because of the absurd situation prevailing which can result in more serious decisions in the future and I have absolutely no interest if the party was held or not.
Some commented about the police order regarding the letting off of petards during the feast of Msida. What if come the feast whoever is in charge of the fireworks ignores the police order?
Lucia Davies
Jan 1st 2010, 11:42
Do these people that are still complaining know it's 2010, get a life and enjoy it. we have enjoyed and made the most of it even though we have had a bad 2009 for family ilnesses and loss. My goodness let the police decide what they have to do. always we have to put people down, police government etc, Do these people know that this event was sponsored by the government everything was done legally and inorder except for the last two days when the permit was held. thanks Nigel for going ahead you have guts, but people should know what a responsibility it was for him to make this decision, knowing he might have to pay the conseguences. so to these poepke again I say get a life and HAPPY NEW YEAR to everybody
amanda smith
Jan 1st 2010, 10:41
thanks to the floriana council for making it possible for us to finally celebrate the new year in the streets!!! it was fantastic!!!! happy new year!!
laurence schembri
Jan 1st 2010, 10:26
Oil prices are published daily on good and well-read newspapers. It is estimated that the price will drop to $25 in the coming days.
You talk about observing the law, I will ask. Show me a person that does on this blessed Isle?
What I do not understand is; how can you spend the rest of your life in the 70`s, life goes on, things change some for better, some for worse, like the cost of living for example.
S Vella
Jan 1st 2010, 09:54
A big Thank You for all the organisers for such a lovely event and for having the guts to go on with the plans after so many objections from so many spoilsports!
victor pulis
Jan 1st 2010, 09:05
Without entering into the merits of whether the police were right in 'objecting' to the street party in St. Anne's street. Now thet the order has been ignored by the council what is the police's next step? Do they take action or do they let everything fizzle out in the hope that the people will forget how they were tossed aside by a local council? What happens now if, in the future another local coucil ignores another 'objection' by the police? Will Malta turn into an anarchic state where everyone, if he's strong enough can do whatever he pleases?
This party may have created a dangerous precedent.
GiovDeMartino@ Law. Schembri
Jan 1st 2010, 08:58
NAQBEL PERFETTAMENT mas-sur Schembri: Illum qeghdin fl-2010 u mhyx fis-70 ijiet u 80 ijiet. Illum hemm il-ligi biex tkun osservata, qabel kulhadd kien jaghmel li jrid:ikisser, jahraq, joqtol, jittortura....konna bil-ligi tal-gungla. Illum imma le. Sewwa ghedt Sur Schembri. Mnejkn gibt il-prezz taz-zejt ma nafx.
Julian Holland
Jan 1st 2010, 03:04
Juts arrived home from St Anne Street in Floriana, and the good vibe still lingers on. I had the happy expeience of watching so many people sharing the magical moment of seeing the new year in. So many happy faces, so many new faces, mingling in joy and happiness and I did say to myself in quite reflection - maybe the year 2010 will be for many a long and happy and joyful experience too, so with much love and affection I wish all Maltese and Gozitans a most Prosperosu New Year to you and all your loved ones.
laurence schembri
Dec 31st 2009, 22:43
Why must people oppose everything that goes on on this Isle?
The party is in Floriana is in full swing, people are enjoying themselves, forgetting that on the morrow the price of E&W rates will explode by the rate of some 185%, while the price of oil is below $45 dollars a barrel. We even have an open invitation to people from Mosta, providing that they will realise that tomorrow is AD2010 and not 1970-80.
GiovDeMartino@ Christian Abdilla
Dec 31st 2009, 19:44
Taqbel int, Sur Abdilla, li jkun hemm min jiddeciedi HU jekk ghandux mjisfida l-awtorita jew le? Iva jew le.
Christian Abdilla
Dec 31st 2009, 19:07
@GiovDeMartino
This event will be attended by nationalists, labourites and also by people who don't give a toss about local politics (like the undersigned). Please come out of your time warp and do try and enjoy new year's eve without wearing blue or red-tinted glasses.
a attard
Dec 31st 2009, 18:55
Well done with this initiative. Such an event should be held EVERY year as a National one, preferably in Valletta (round the harbour maybe?) as Malta's Capital city.
Charles Saliba
Dec 31st 2009, 18:34
Well done for the great initiative in organising such a huge event by the Floriana Local Council, especially the Mayor Nigel Holland. I really hope that this event will be a yearly one and not just a one-time initiavtive. See you all there!!!
Charlie Gauci
Dec 31st 2009, 16:45
Well I live in Floriana and my only comment is that the Council, and its subcommittees, should better think of improving the quality of the environment in the area, starting off with mainting a decent level of cleanliness. The Council should first address basic issues rather than waste time and funds on some bright idea.
This whole initiative is also creating a great inconvenience to residents, has the Council thought of the serious parking consequences all this will create. The Police were right in their observations. Had the event been shifted to the Granaries, at least the event would not have created parking problems for residents who do not wish to remain trapped in Floriana but want to join friends elsewhere on the island. The streets adjacent to St Anne Street are already packed and residents are simply compelled to stay inside.
Not a bright idea indeed!
GiovDeMartino
Dec 31st 2009, 15:37
IMAGINE, JUST IMAGINE if we had a labour govt and someone decided to defy police orders. IMAGINE
annamaria xuereb
Dec 31st 2009, 15:19
Such a pity about the public transport!It would have reduced traffic and now all those intending to go will have to find a parking place somewhere close.Well done Floriana local council for the initiative, maybe next time a compromise would be reached with the association of public transport.
laurence schembri
Dec 31st 2009, 14:24
This is about Floriana Giovanni, keep out of it.
Andrew Cumbo
Dec 31st 2009, 12:53
@ Mr. Franco Davies
Thank you for the information. Wish you and the Floriana Council Good Luck for tonight’s event. As said before we are going to be there.
To the Editor, staff of timesofmalta.com, readers and bloggers.
Happy New Year
Stephen Baldacchino
Dec 31st 2009, 12:37
Listen everyone,
This street is closed for just a simple football game between Valletta and Floriana..... What the issue regarding this today. So what it's closed for a day. there is another road parrallel to it which the buses normaly use. my God Why do we have to make a sceen every time and for everything going on mamma mia!!!!!!!!!
Happy New Year to Everyone :-)
gaffarena joseph
Dec 31st 2009, 12:28
Mr. Galea,
In my opinion is is better to organize such a show where the major want, because it is more
suitable for such an evening.That main road will bring more atmosphere,and please do not forget all the retail outlets that cater in that road.
T he graneries are more suitable to hold a mass meeting.
Well hope you be there to night and welcome the new year .
Greetings to all of you,and especially to that gentleman from the times who take care of all our writings on this paper
c mifsud
Dec 31st 2009, 12:16
Prosit Mr. Davies. Hope that everything will go well and that it will be a great night and happy new year to everyone. See you tonight.
FRANCO DAVIES
Dec 31st 2009, 11:33
I WOULD LIKE TO INFORM ALL READERS THAT TONIGHT'S EVENT WILL GO AHEAD AS PLANNED AND PREPARATIONS ARE UNDERWAY AS NORMAL. CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINMENT STARTING AT 6:30, MAIN STAGE STARTING AT 9.
F.DAVIES
FLORIANA LOCAL COUNCIL
d briffa
Dec 31st 2009, 10:39
I think that we should actually thank mr holland for his initiative... such activities should be held every year!
Buses can easily enter towards valletta by driving from that road infront of the Scouts headquaters and along the granaries without any problems..
Why the hell are we causing all this havoc.. So New York manages to close down all of time square every year... don't tell me that we are not capable of closing down St Anne Street for a couple of hours.. incredible.!!
Lucia Davies
Dec 31st 2009, 10:12
To Mr. Marvin Mizzi,,, we might be just a suburb as you said but we are very proud of our Town which has such an important mark in our map with all the greatest events being held here. as for being the only road to valletta that is were your wrong because Floriana has four arteries to and out of Valletta. These people that are writing against Floriana, one can read between the lines that they are only writing not bevause the are against the party or feeling sorry for the rsidents but because they hate Floriana or have something againsst the Mayor, well to all those that would like to come to the Party the preparations are going ahead and half the road is closed as was proposed from the begining. thanks all those that are supporting us and Happy New Year to all off you out there weather you love us or hate.
S Sammut
Dec 31st 2009, 09:44
Anyone who is putting down floriana council for this nice initiative, should be ashamed! First everyone complains that is there is no activities being done! Then when an activity such as this is organised so the public can enjoy NYE, all these complaints! What do you want?? Such a fuss cause a street is being closed? Make up your mind ! No doom and gloom, cheer up and happy 2010! Hope it will be better one then 2009!
Lucia Dacies
Dec 31st 2009, 09:42
I do not know why some people keep blaming the mayor and his hardheadeness for not doing this party on the granaries( to me it seems like a personal thing). the decision to do the party at St Anne str, was taken by the council and the sub committe of which I am part, the reason was Mr Galea that the granaries are to big and open for the elements of which no one has control. apart from that st. Anne Street is much nicer and as it is a family venue we thought of shelter under the arches in case it rains. as for the road , yes we did ask to close half the road in the morning and the other half in the afternoon. I do not think we were asking for the skies or the moon.
B. Pollacco
Dec 31st 2009, 09:28
Ahna aw malta ghandna problema ghax lil xa hadd li jihu l-inizjattiva biex jorganizza xa haga li tista tkun xa haga annuali fil-kalendarju ta avvenimenti rridu bil-fors nikkritikawh.Jien qatt ma nara nies jgergru meta jkun hemm l-karnival ghax se jalqu t-toroq kolla tal-belt u tal-flurjana.Jien llejla sejjer l-Flurjana u hadt l-inzijattiva norganizza van ma shabi u mux noqod fuq tal-linja.
S-sena T-tajba lil Kullhadd
Noel Cutajar
Dec 31st 2009, 08:54
@GiovdeMartino - what has politics go to do with what happened more than 20 years ago in this particular case? Try to use your imagination and think that we are living in 2009 and almost in 2010 and you got stuck in the past. It is people like you that Malta needs...people with hidden agendas...
Well Done Floriana Council in defying the authorities and may I ask who will shoulder the responsibility if anything goes wrong? I like to know just in case...
Paul Farrugia
Dec 31st 2009, 08:42
Ma nafx ghalfejn dal pandemonju kollu, meta triq Sant Anna inghalqet fil " car free day" il puluzija ma ghamlet l ebda ogezzjoni min habba traffiku, u kienet gurnata matul il gimgha jekk hiniex sejjer zball, u mhux festa. Rigward il karnival ghax il karnival donnu qied fuq l istonku ta kulhadd, it triq tinghalaq ghal xi haga kulturali nazzjonali, li niftahru bih biex nipruvaw ingibu it turisti, hallija li mi certu dipartementi naqilaw fuq rasna biss, imma la tkun thobbu tibqa tahdmu hux
Is sena tajba lil kulhadd
Jon Vercellono
Dec 31st 2009, 08:41
To all those complaining about St. Anne Street; don't forget that this has been targeted as one of the most polluted streets in Malta. The plants, the buildings, and the people deserve one night free from the omnipresent car fumes as well - and I know many people are planning on walking to the event as well (which might set an even greater precedent for the New Year).
Roderick Micallef
Dec 31st 2009, 08:40
I am always surprised at the fact that no matter what the issue is, in Malta we never seem to find a consensus and we never agree. I don't know exactly why the Police wouldn't want to close the main road in Floriana, I am sure they have their reasons, but if it's true that the only reason why they will are not allowing tonight's party in Floriana is because they didn't let Msida close the main road for the annual Festa than I think that it doesn't make sense.
So will the police now not close ANY artery roads EVER just because they didn't allow Msida to close the road? Come on, this doesn't make sense.
I am a motorist too, but motorists can't have it always their way, at times roads have to be closed for a reason or another and motorists can simply deviate to other roads. Do we need to make a fuss each and every time? This event is there for every one to be enjoyed, it's New Year's eve, so stop moaning and join the fun, remember life is too short!
Public Transport afterwards? No problem there are alternatives, like walking or taxi!
Chris Spiteri
Dec 31st 2009, 08:26
According to Italian Media News Agency (TG4) an approximate 500,000 to 700,000 will be celebrating in Champs Elysees, Paris, and in Malta we still cannot organise something for EVERYONE on NYE.. what a pity hux. There is always someone hindering such events!
At some point, in France the authorities have to close the Champs Elysees Avenue no for traffic, which is used by far much more motorists than St. Anne Street. May I kindly ask, why is Champs Elysees allowed to be closed for traffic and in Malta there is a big chaos closing such road for a one off event?
WELL DONE FLORIANA COUNCIL FOR TAKING SUCH INITIATIVE!
GiovDeMartino
Dec 31st 2009, 07:18
In casae it's slipped your memory...there was a time when which represented MIORE than 50% of the electorate, was not given permission to hold a mass meeting. They went to court and permission was granted. But then the criminals came in.
Dave Alan Caruana
Dec 31st 2009, 01:53
definitely a good precedent for anyone whose party/activity risks getting called off by a lack of police permits ..
Joseph Attard
Dec 31st 2009, 01:41
@Micheal Neveille Cassar
There are alternative ways in and out of Vallettta , even with St Anne Street closed..........and then you can always have a swim.......enjoy life ....takeit with a pinch of salt...and yes let s party the night away..........Ill be there to support this initiative !
Joseph Attard
Dec 31st 2009, 01:36
Go for it.......let it happen with or without the police although however far the night is stretched, the presence of police is always an added assett to the event.
However it is a plunge like no other and it does take guts, but that s what a proactive Local council is all about........go on Floriana takes a role in that...and let s hope it is supported by the Public Transport Authority at the end tooo...... this could eventually turn out to be a yearly event......or a suggestion to Floriana Local Council........if no agreement is reached with PTA, get UBS and strike a deal with 25 buses/30 buses hitting various localites for a reasonable fee. Im sure there are other service providers ready to help you out......Go for it.....and last but not least......let see the retailing and catering communities stand up to help Floriana Council on the night make this a success story........and too every one out there......let s make this a success not just for Floriana but for MAlta.......let s go for it.........after all ...we deserve to party.....at least for a night...come on
Marvin Mizzi
Dec 31st 2009, 00:26
The police are right it is not acceptable to close a main traffic arterie. If the FLoriana LC are so keen to organise the even why do they not move to the Graneries...... at the do not obstrauct others go in an out of the CIty............... and by the way they can never be New York or London as they are just a suburb the only the road leading to the City!!!!!!!!!!!!
A. Borg
Dec 30th 2009, 23:27
Ma nafx jien ghaliex il-Pulizija qed toggezjona ghax Sta.Anna izjed maghluqa milli miftuha!
Gbajt insib Sta.Anna maghluqa din is-sena,jew minhabba l-Karnival,jew biex il-partitarji tal-Belt ma jghaddux mill-Furjana,jew ghax ikun se jghaddi xi ras kbira u tinghalaq minn sieghat qabel.Ghaliex dan l-ghageb kollu? Forsi ghax il-Furjanizi u mhux pajjiz iehor?
G.Micallef
Dec 30th 2009, 22:52
Yes, closing a main artery tomorrow between at 9 a.m. and 2 a.m. on New Year’s Day is NACCEPTABLE. Permiission for such an event on the site in question is irrational and irresponsible.
MBorg
Dec 30th 2009, 21:39
How can they go ahead if the police dis not issue a permit. What happens if people get drunk, as so often happens during these parties. Are wardens going to control people as well. Anything can happen ,the council must get OK from the police. What about transport,? How are people from other localities going home?
Galea. L
Dec 30th 2009, 21:22
gaffarena joseph
No one said not to enjoy yourselves joseph, but why not on the granaries? Isn't it the hardheadedness of the Mayor and Local Council not wanting to obey the Police that has started all this?
A .A. ZARB No need to Zarb. It only needs common sense which does not seem to be so common in Malta.
John Roy
Dec 30th 2009, 20:42
I can't understand why the police are objecting, The police close St.Anne Square for carnival And every time Valletta win a football match. And they are objecting for this?!
Andrew Cumbo
Dec 30th 2009, 20:05
What is the difference between a carnival parade and this parade with the celebrations that are going to be held? The objection from police does not feature in this case considering that Carnival Parade is held in this same street. Do the police need an extra effort to close this street in New Years Eve than Carnival? About St Venera Bypass I fully agree with the Police as this one of the main artery leading to Sliema, Paceville and Qawra the most frequented places in New Years Eve. Whatsoever we are to receive directives from the Police or Wardens my family, friends and I are going to be there, first to celebrate new year and more to give our support for such event, with hopes that next events will be organised on a national scale with no ifs and buts.
C Gerada
Dec 30th 2009, 19:32
P.S Jekk ma jintbghatux il-pulizija mhux xorta hemm is-suldati!
G. Mangion
Dec 30th 2009, 19:27
I have nothing against the party ! but without the Police in charge anything could happen, Mr Holland don't be stubborn, Everybody knows that without the police nothing works . Who is above the Law?
C Gerada
Dec 30th 2009, 19:21
I agree that streets should not be closed for Fireworks! that is something rediculous. Isn't there any other solution where the Msida people can let off the firework? and I think the council of Floriana should think about at least finishing the event at 1am and divert the traffic as usual.
Adrian Borg Cardona
Dec 30th 2009, 19:20
@C. Camilleri: are between 9 am tomorrow until 2am the next day 'silent hours'. I don't think so. Anyway, I hope that unlike last time there will be road signs placed in the appropriate places to guide traffic to alternative routes. At least this time we have been forwarned. Enjoy the party!
gaffarena joseph
Dec 30th 2009, 19:06
Re Galea L.. First of all I, have to congratulate the Floriana Local Council,for deciding to hold this new year celebration.This is something that other countries have been doing for a long time. About Mr. Galea,I, have to submit that this gentleman,is never satisfied with anything that is being said or organised in this country.Stay at home, and let us celebrate,we heard too much of your nonsense now.Wish you will have a new year of better understanding. With this, I, want to wish all of you a new year full of health and happiness .
A .A. ZARB
Dec 30th 2009, 18:06
I wish I could make Mr. Galea L. ( who is obsessed with critisizing, and finding fault in, everything ..!!!..but really, everything under the sun in this country..!!!...) the Prime Minister, or even the King, of Malta...may be we will have a better place to live in..!!!!
Kevin Chircop
Dec 30th 2009, 17:57
I would like to congratulate the Floriana Council for taking up to do something for the Maltese that the government doesn't have the guts to do due to pressure from the business community. As far as I know these events are the first to be organised for the Family without any business community ripping us off! Perhaps at last we will start celebrating New Year like other European countries. I only give one advice to the Local Council. Please avoid any speeches around midnight!
Mario Spiteri
Dec 30th 2009, 17:53
V.vassallo mela sewwa n-nies ta' L-Imsida jibelghu l-exhaust ta' kulhadd fuq 8000 siegha f'sena u skond int mghandhomx dritt ghall tlett sieghat f'sena jgawdu l-lokalita taghhom fil-festa. Tkunux aktar egoisti, jekk triedu ssibu argument iehor fuq din tal-Furjana imma tibqawx taraw l-affarijiet kif huwa tajjeb ghalikom biss. In-nies ta' l-Imsida ghandhom salib kbir b'Malta kollha u tlett sieghat f'sena rajt zejda. Viva l-ispirtu nisrani tal-milied
c. camilleri
Dec 30th 2009, 17:53
I still want to see the day when political demonstrations are refused permission Malta's main arteries for the same reasons given by the police to the Floriana Council.
Sergio Vassallo
Dec 30th 2009, 17:49
GOOD LUCK TO THE FLORIANA COUNCIL FOR THE INITIATIVE...DO NOT LET ANYONE SPOIL THE CELEBRATIONS PLANNED! @P.Agius Mr. Agius, I would gladly come to the parties you will be organising next year...I have my reasons to suspect that Mr. Pancratio or perhaps Publio Agius will not organise these parties...Do not let us down Mr. Agius....!! At least if you do we are sure that THE PRESENT FLORIANA COUNCIL WILL NOT LET US DOWN. WE ARE PROUD THAT FLORIANA PEOPLE AND ALL MALTESE WHO WANT TO CELEBRATE ARE BEING DEFENDED...others deem it fit to defend the MTV concerts and similiar events...at least our council is in favour of its citizens...under the guidance of the creative mayor and councillors.
Brian Fenech
Dec 30th 2009, 17:47
This is great news... sounds like the Floriana LC is above the law!!! I have to mention that clubs in malta have to close the doors at 11pm & lower the sound at 1am... there were previous articles with this regard & club owners are abiding by these laws... so why doesn't this apply to the Floriana LC too?? holding a street party amongst residents of the area till 2am... yes, it's inappropriate!! attracting 10000 ppl to an event is NOT a national event. there were several parties & concerts attracting 10000+, & all the laws were abided for! Shame on the police if they let this happen, the law is there for everyonen & no one is above it!
Galea. L
Dec 30th 2009, 17:43
M. Debono It is going to be closed for the whole day, from 9a.m. to 2 a.m. the following day, not for a few hours in the evening. As for arrogance and stupidity is not what I said true? How come the Local Council is disregarding the Police Authorities when it should encourage citizens to obey the law? Isn't this being stupid, arrogant and giving a bad example to all citizens? What is the problem of holding the same party on the granaries with a much bigger space for revelers?
GEORGE CACHIA
Dec 30th 2009, 17:22
To George Cutajar Just as a matter of interest, it is a known misnomer that Times Square is in fact a street and not a square.
matthew azzopardi
Dec 30th 2009, 17:15
let us hope that the Floriana Local council will shoulder ALL responsibilities before , during & also after this event. hopefully your dream will not turn out to be a nightmare for others, happy new year.
M. Debono
Dec 30th 2009, 17:06
@ Galea L.
According to you, everybody is ARROGANT and STUPID. Starting from the local councils, continuing with the government and last but not least all people writing on these blogs!
All you do all day long is critisize everyone and everything! Can you for once call a spade a spade?
If St. Anne str. is closed during carnival, then why shouldn't it be closed on New Year's Eve.
In my opinion this is an excellent inititive, that neither the PN or the PL, ever had the guts to organize! - except for the millenium!
Whether it be done on the granaries or in St. Anne str. makes really little difference to traffic management, cars can easily be deviated towards the granaries, going to Valletta, and through capuccini str. going towards Blata l-Bajda.
matthew azzopardi
Dec 30th 2009, 17:04
direspecting the police authorities is only heard of in this country!!!
i'm sure that there is a good reason behind this objection.
I hope that nothing serious crops up, which, after all will have to be dealt with by the police!
good luck guys!!
c. camilleri
Dec 30th 2009, 16:59
@ Adrian B. Cardona. St. Anne Street is not the only way to go to your work as Floriana is blessed with many other alternative routes . The time you mentioned affected many motorists going to work as it took the whole working day and night. On this occasion the street will be closed during so called silent hours and any motorist can use the alternative routes with no inconvenience at all. Traffic is not problem as all visitors will be using their own transport which easily find a parking place in Floriana. So why all this storm in a tea cup.Maltese gemem of course.
Christian Abdilla
Dec 30th 2009, 16:50
What happens when St. Anne str is closed for Carnival ? or for a mass meeting ? or a bus strike ? or a myriad other reasons ? very simple...drivers can detour via other streets such as Sarria going to Valletta or next to the Waterfront going towards Marsa - on the other hand when regional road used to be closed, one was just forced to wait in his car if stuck before the St Venera tunnels - no chance of a detour there !
Just this once a local council came up with an idea of something different for NYE celebrations, similar to what other european countries do, offering an alternative to people who don't feel like paying through the nose to attend a party with an 'open bar' (read people pushing and shoving to get a drink which tastes of anything but vodka) , overpacked venues and gatecrashers at the last minute !
More local councils should do the same !
victor pulis
Dec 30th 2009, 16:48
Since the police are 'objecting' to the closure Ipresume there will not be a police presence.
So what happens if a fight breaks out? will the traffic wardens be called in to stop it?! This could turn out to be the beginning of a right mess.
j camilleri
Dec 30th 2009, 16:46
Please all traffic and public order experts have a break. AND A BIG ONE INDEED. Floriana council should go ahead with the programmed activities. As to the all want-to-be-rich-fast party orgainizers, I would say "go to work if you want money". From now on I and my family will be not attending any more of your parties. Enjoy them alone. Thanks Mr Holland for allowing to celebrate 2010 for FREE.
Tonio Azzopardi
Dec 30th 2009, 16:40
If St. Anne Street , is closed, there still will be more then four roads that will lead in and out of Valletta!
Prosit Nigel! See you there!
To all you gloomers ....get a life!
Happy New Year!
c. camilleri
Dec 30th 2009, 16:16
I cannot understand the police's objection for this street party. Closing St. Anne street to traffic especially during that time will not hinder the flow of traffic which can be easily diverted to other roads with not much inconvenience to motorists . Every case should be treated on its own merit. Msida and St.Venera are two different cases as they present much more inconvenience to motorists. But in this case traffic flow should be normal. The police can stretch the argument further and do not allow Notte Biance in Valletta. We have not heard yet of foreign police preventing the New year celebrations held in Trafalgar Square, Time Square, and other main city centres. In opinion the police are raising a storm in tea cup.
Godfrey Camilleri
Dec 30th 2009, 16:13
If things remain without a police permit anyone can insist to go through in his car and nobody can stop him except brute force. Wardens have no authority to stop traffic from going through if not approved by the police and/or ADT. This situation is asking for trouble so better find a solution to enable people celebrate cheaply and safely.
Chev Chris Galea
Dec 30th 2009, 16:01
Floriana Local Council should obey the Police and put safety first.
Best Wishes to everyone !
Adrian Aquilina
Dec 30th 2009, 15:59
I don't think that anyone trying to compare Floriana with Msida lives on this island!!!! Floriana has alternative streets, just parallel to St. Anne's, not like Msida where all roads are closed. A policeman once told me "you're right to complain but what can I tell you? I was instructed to stop cars from driving further and that's it"
Good luck and best wishes Mayor Holland and Floriana council, all complaints are coming out of envy for a great idea
Lucia Davies
Dec 30th 2009, 15:54
Do all these people that are complaining about the closure of St. Anne street know that there are four other streets going into Valletta. Sa Maison, Sarria Street, St Francis Street, and from Marsa going out capuchini str, sa maison and Marsa, so what is the big deal, except that this event is being organized by Floriana,
RGatt
Dec 30th 2009, 15:53
I have one simple question for Mr. Holland. Why St.Anne Street and not the Granaries Square? Or is it just a question of starting an argument. You seem to enjoy them. The two examples you mentioned Trafalgar Square and Times Square have something in common.
Lucia Davies
Dec 30th 2009, 15:37
Vera maltese gemgem! insew in nies meta ghalqu il-Floriana u l-belt hadd ma jista jidhol jew johrog? Barra id-distorbju kbir li ghamlu u l pollution meta kien hawn it tlielaq tal karozzi, u dan kien avveniment li ma jinterressax il poplu kollu. Avveniment bhal dan huwa bhal karnival li ser jaghalaq st.Anna xorta wahda u huwa mmirat ghal familji. l'istorbju gewwa l'Floriana huwa mdorri bil-mass meetings politici u kuncerti li jsiru fuq il-fosos u madwar il-port, din l'attivita m'hi xejn gdid ghar-residenti.
EDWIN DE MARCO
Dec 30th 2009, 15:16
I just had time to go through the article & took a quick glance at the comments below. At some time or other unwise people - or to be precise, Floriana local council, is challenging police advice. I wonder what happens if a fight breaks out? Wlll the council call the police or will the give-only-traffic-tickets wardens handle it? And what if ALL local councils decided to organise a street party in all the main thoroughfares of Malta, unheeding & challenging police advice? It surely would be called car-free day! On a more serious note,the council should be reasonable and hold the party at Granaries square, with much room to spare. Anyway, Happy New Year to men of good will!*?!*!
michael fenech
Dec 30th 2009, 15:11
I have nothing against an event like this, as a matter of fact I think it’s great.
My only objection is that no body should have events in a public place without a police permit and without having public transportation after; we simply can’t take the law in our own hands and do as one pleases. With the wardens replacing the police you could have problems if there’s any public disobedience, wardens DO NOT, DO NOT have the authority to use force and to apprehend people in these cases.
I’m sorry to say that if St Anne Str. Is closed to-morrow, the people responsible should be charged according to the LAW.
Adrian Borg Cardona
Dec 30th 2009, 14:57
Closing a main artery as is St. Anne Street from 9 am till 2 am the next day is madness. I shall never forget when some three years ago the arrogant organisers of the Elton Joh concert closed off the same street. I was on my way to work and spent two hours sitting in my car, stuck in traffic. The roads in Floriana were total chaos. Unforgiveable. But some people in this country get away with murder.
Oscar Cassar
Dec 30th 2009, 14:40
Sta Venera bypass and Regional Road cannot be compared to St Anne Street in Floriana and the Police must know why. Sta Venera bypass and Regional Road have no other deviations while an easy deviation could be made from near Sarria Chapel when St Anne Street is closed. Such deviation is regularly done in the last day of Carnival each year.
Joe Cassar
Dec 30th 2009, 14:38
Can Mr Holland give us JUST ONE good reason wwhy the party cannot be held on the Granaries?
Just one?
J.Borg
Dec 30th 2009, 14:34
@ A.Attard
I abide by you as i think there was pressure from entertainment outlets.....as usual in Malta.
What's the problem here because the street is going to be closed for New Year's Eve........why doesn't these problems arise when there is the carnival organised in the same street......or this is another story.
The Floriana Local Council should try and see that public transport is provided as is done in Notte Bianca and if need be increase the price more, so as people attending the venue will take public transport.
This being on a small scale, vilages can be covered by the same bus leaving Valetta.
I with my family are going to attend as with the present situation we cannot fork out more than 30 euro per head......so we decide to go to Floriana have a nice evening and eat and drink something and welcome the New Year 2010 there.
Michael Neville Cassar
Dec 30th 2009, 14:08
Does this mean that Valletta residence is isolated and no one can go out or in with his car?
Galea. L
Dec 30th 2009, 14:02
Everyone knows of the ARROGANCE AND STUPIDITY of the Floriana Local Council. Why do they not want to organize such a party on the granaries with much more space in case of God forbid any accident where the people can still celebrate without the inconvenience of a closed ARTERIAL road all day?
I expect the police to take action against the Local Councilors and the Mayor and even arrest them if they go ahead with the party when they, as the Local Government, should be giving an example to all Maltese citizens of upholding the law.
They are right to organize such a party for the people even though as one commentator here referred to the thousands of euros anyone wanting to set up a food stand has to pay to the Local Council (no wonder prices have to go up), but they are not right to stubbornly refuse to listen to reason.
A Mifsud
Dec 30th 2009, 13:59
Prosit ta l-inizjattiva.... ahjar kien hemm naqra iktar reklamar anzi...
j williams
Dec 30th 2009, 13:57
prosit lill kunsill lokali f ahhar aw xi hadd ha jorganizza xi haga ghal kulhadd ghal ljliet l ewwel ta sena u b kbir hax anke fireworks u shows u dan b xejn prosit u nerga nijdlek prosit
Helen Attard
Dec 30th 2009, 13:48
"The council is being assisted by the parliamentary secretaries for dialogue and for tourism."
Where is all this "assistance"???
IF that is true, how come we have so many Govt entities working against each other??? I mean Ministries + Police Force + Mayor + Council vs Police Force... (3-1). Is it a show of force or a FARCE???
Ohhhhhhh by the way, how come the same St Anne Street is officially closed for Carnival's last evening??? Is it the same Police Force who permits that???
Hawduni iktar ha nifhem........
Audrey Callus
Dec 30th 2009, 13:45
Please come off it...this is an idea which should have been implemented by the Central Government and not by Floriana Council alone. In Malta we tend to try to destruct all those who have innovative ideas and then, if all goes in the best of ways, we will then ride the wave of success....prosit to the Floriana Local Council for taking this initiative and good luck to the organisers who are working full speed ahead on this event and who are also taking considerable risks (due to the weather factor). I sincerely hope that tomorrow will be a beautiful night that can be enjoyed by all without paying exhorbitant prices for the so called New Year's Eve parties that are organised by all and sundry on this night.
Dennis Zammit
Dec 30th 2009, 13:45
Although I agree with the Police's point of view, there is no comparison with the closure of an arterial main road that the Msida feast use to cause just to light fireworks in their thousands.
The roads closed for the Msida feast used to spread out on various neighbouring town and councils and closed all reasonable movement from one side to the other of the island and just for the fireworks and not the procession or other similar.
In this case, the closure will be for a one-off activity which I feel the country lacks. Pity is it all a dream of a Mayor. The alternative site, the granaries, are rather a cold solution whilst St. Anne Street is a closed area. Its closure will not cause a total stoppage of the movement of vehicles as they can use Sa Maison Hill or pass next to the Waterfront and the passage is only for Valletta residents.
Not withstanding this, if the weather continues to permit, I think I will attend and hope that the Police find a solution to attend to avoid a precedent where a warden takes over a crowd. Ommi Ma!!!
V. Vassallo
Dec 30th 2009, 13:16
@ daniel farrugia
Msida feast is for the msida people and this event is for all Maltese (except Maltese gemgem). Whoever is afraid of going should refrain from going to Floriana and possibly go to Cirkewwa to safehuard his/her safety.
J.Borg
Dec 30th 2009, 12:59
Ho ahead and organise the party, after all what the local council is doing is so that people who cannot afford to pay hefty sums for new year's eve parties can go and enjoy somewhere there.
I cannot see the problem because the main road is going to be closed between 9am and 2am. If there isn't going to be public transport, instead the police should have told the council to come into agreement with ADT so that late night transport is organised as in Notte Bianca.
Also St.Anne street is already decorated for teh festivities and organising the party on the granaries would entail decorations.
DR EMMANUEL BEZZINA,MAG.JUR.
Dec 30th 2009, 12:49
Dangerous Precedents are being created here when a most reasonable compromise was apparently recommended by the Police.The Police were correct on the MSIDA Arguement and I had backed up wholeheartedly the Police Commissioner`s position.The Hon.Minister for the Interior should show his mettle as rumours have it that this is a political compromise where ultimately VOTES & POLITICAL POWER are at stake.Let us call a SPADE a SPADE - the PEOPLE ARE NO FOOLS AS SOME MISTAKENINGLY DISCREDIT THEM.WHO ACTS IN THE INTERESTS OF HIS POSITION & PARTY ALLIANCES is an ENEMY TO THE OVERALL & SUPREME INTERESTS OF CITIZENS & COUNTRY.WE ARE A TINY PLACE AND NO COMPARISONS CAN BE CONCOTED WITH HUGE,OPEN SPACED AREAS WHICH ALL YEAR ROUND ARE CLOSED TO ORDINARY TRAFFIC.THE POLICE ARE BEING MADE TO LOOK LIKE A RIDICULOUS LOT.I AM SURE THAT THE FLORIANA LOCAL COUNCIL CAN COME UP WITH A COMPROMISE WITHOUT COMPROMISING THE COUNTRY & ITS CITIZENS AS WOULD BE THE CASE IF THIS STREET PARTY IS HELD.WE ARE RISKING A CHAOTIC SITUATION ARISING - ACCORDING TO LAW,THE PRIME MINISTER,MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR LOCAL COUNCILS,THE INTERIOR MINISTER SHOULD AUTHORITATIVELY & FORCEFULLY INTERVENE IN THE SUPREME INTERESTS OF MALTA & ITS PEOPLE.
A Attard
Dec 30th 2009, 12:41
Can it be possible that permits by the police was not granted because some leisure/entertainment enterpreteurs in other parts of Malta,objected because it will see their extraordinary income fall? Just an answer I want
Malcolm Zarb
Dec 30th 2009, 12:41
Mela biex tiehu xi stand ta l-ikel jew xorb fl-aveniment li suppost ser isir fir-triq Sant Anna fil Furjana ghas-street partyt ta' l-ewwel tas-sena trid thallas is-somma ta' eluf ta' Euros lill Kunsill u l-organizzaturi, imma biex il kunsill jhallas lill povru xufier tal linja li ser hajdem il hin twil ta matul il-lejl ta' s-sena l-gdida. Il kunsill ghed jarah difficli biex ihallas kumpens jew sara lill dawn in-nies. Ghara vera Kunsill Mejjet bil Guh u xejn izjed. U bill haqq jekk jigri xi incident f'min ser twahhal sur Sindku, fil pulizija, li ttawk parir biex taghmel dan l-avveniment fuq il fosos u b'hekk ma jinholoqx inkonvenjent ghal xi ambulanzi jew karozzi ohra ta' l-ordni, ser taghmel.. Prosett sur organizzatur tar-ras qiebsa l-ghandek......is-sena t-tajba
Chris Spiteri
Dec 30th 2009, 12:40
@ G Cutajar.
May I kindly point out that in London the NYE festivities are held at the Embankment. This is far more busy for motorists in the very Central London than St. Anne Street in Floriana for sure, and still it is closed for all vehicles on NYE!!
WELL DONE for Foriana Council for organising such an event. Unfortunately people, inclucing myself have to travel out of our own country to see such amazing events that attracts thousands and thousands of people! In Paris last year there were around 500,000, in London in 2007/08 there were a whopping 800,000 around the London Eye Area/Embankment, marking a new record after the Millenium.
Well, hopefully, with the Public Transport reform being held early next year, no one will face transport problems going back home. For example, in London on NYE, the public transport still goes on, without even a halt on that particular night, and the best issue is that it is for FREE!!! Mr. Victor Spiteri, please take note of all this!!!
Finally, Happy new year 2010 everyone!
J Farrugia
Dec 30th 2009, 12:33
This is ridiculous coming ffrom the Police Corps. Objecting to this once a year street party. So for Carnival we close everything and for an annual event which attracts people, is advantageous for business and sort of get-together we object. And to be more funny the Police are comparing Floriiana St Anne Street with Msida and Sta Venera. Truly ridiculous. If the police dont want to participate its their own problem. But the show must go on. And we look forward to it - with or without the police. If the police officials are an incompetent lot, let the stupid wardens take their place. As for the bus owners they will get their pay. Less patronage and less blundering buses. The time will come when they will fall on their knees to beg mercy when the reform starts. With or without them the show goes on.
ngafa
Dec 30th 2009, 12:32
This event must go on. Afterall during carnival St Anne square is closed le le! It's a shame that only Malta does not organise anything of this type on New Year's Eve. We have a great opportunity to have such great weather to organise such events. We are fed up of paying expensive dinners and party tickets just to celebrate the new year's eve. Such event is something different, and these are organised in many streets around the world. Why not in MALTA - ara vera only in Malta.
Floriana Local Council - keep it up!!! We'll be there to celebrate NYE.
c mifsud
Dec 30th 2009, 12:31
Well done to the Floriana Local Council. This event is for ALL the family and NO entrance fee is charged for this party like other parties charge and easily you can park at the park and ride or private car parks. Apart from that, the council is asissted by the parliamentary secretaries for dialogue and for tourism. Thank God the weather is going to be fine and I hope that it will be a success.
Clifford Spiteri
Dec 30th 2009, 12:28
Madoff xi stress!
Not even when the close Times Square in NY, or Trafalgar Square in London for NYE do people make such panic! Its just 1 tiny road for 1 night! I am sure everyone will be spending the evening going around in buses!
mhux ta b'xejn ma nimxux!!!!
happy new year to all!
Adrian Gouder
Dec 30th 2009, 12:19
Letting off fireworks in Msida was already a bad idea, BUT, letting them off in Floriana? The council must be having an un-intellectual moment to say the least!
If fire engines are needed, can they go through a panicked crowd? Without police assisrtance!?! And what if there is a brawl, will the wardens intervene? Should they? Do they have the right or training to intervene? Do they have an obligation to intervene? Where do they put people they arrest?!
I think it's tiem the government intervenes on this matter, after all, an arterial road is not the council's responsibility, but the government's.
victor pulis
Dec 30th 2009, 12:18
Do wardens have the same pwers as the police? Can they arrest someone or use force to restrain trouble makers? Doesn't one have to be trained for this kind of work? Just curious.
Jack Gauci
Dec 30th 2009, 12:13
Floriana Council are experiencing their usual disillusions of grandeur, causing nuisance to motorists who have to access St. Anne's Street and further exacerbating the already chronic parking and traffic problem.
Floriana Council - your only claim to fame is of being a periphary of Valletta! Enough of this inanity - concentrate all efforts to restoring your decrepit buildings!
GEORGE CUTAJAR
Dec 30th 2009, 12:10
'............................national event run on the lines of celebrations in London’s Trafalgar Square and Times Square in New York'. - What do the celebrations in London and New York have in common with each other but not with the Floriana Celebrations ?
Celebrations in London and New York are held in a SQUARE, the proposed Floriana Celebrations are to be held in ST. ANNE'S STREET.
It is not so much a matter of transport to ferry the people back home but more the logistical problem of closing a main artery.
Paul Caruana
Dec 30th 2009, 12:02
Why the pigheadedness?
What's wrong with using the granaries for this event (and keeping St Anne's Street open)?!!
Chris Fenech
Dec 30th 2009, 12:02
@ Joseph Sciberras
Madness?
THIS IS MALTA!!!
daniel farrugia
Dec 30th 2009, 11:57
@v.vassallo
an event organised by the floriana local council is for floriana people only, if the feast of msida is for the msida people only. local village feasts are enjoyed by many non village people every week so they become national activities as well. i do not understand how the floriana local council can go ahead without the police (not only traffic but for safety of the people in the square as well) while the village feasts have to sign hundreds of permits ervey year for the village feast and the commitiy people are held responsabile if somethings goes wrong!!
Emanuel Borg
Dec 30th 2009, 11:54
And what about the flowers and plants in the central strip that no doubt will be trampled upon for the most part? Will the Floriana Council foot the ELC bill to have them replaced? Also, what about those residents who need to sleep? Are they supposed to stay awake and forego their necessary rest just because the mayor wishes to fulfil his stupid dream on the excuse that it's only a one-time event?
Acachia
Dec 30th 2009, 11:53
There are many roads that one can take to get in and out Valletta if St Anne Street are closed. So i dont see what the problem is.
Close the road, have a party and then get back to normal life.
Madoffi, so much panic over nothing.
S Vella
Dec 30th 2009, 11:50
Oh come on all of you spoilsports!! Celebrations like this should have been organised on a national scale a long time ago! Do all of you have organised transport for celebrating New Year? If people want to attend they can use their own transport! It would have been a great help having organised transport but if this is not possible, m'hemmx x'taghmel jghid il- Malti! This is an event that can be enjoyed by all ages... Without paying exhorbitant charges as well!
Eric Psaila
Dec 30th 2009, 11:42
This is sheer mutiny. Lock up all those responsible to hold this event. That will teach them a lesson. Is this the example the local council wants to give to their citizens? Do you think you are above the law? If anyone goes against the law that person would be punished and that is the way to deal with whoever is responsible to organise such an event..
V. Vassallo
Dec 30th 2009, 11:31
Please don't mess things up. The Msida closure of the road was for the benefit of the people of Msida local festa) whilst the Floriana one is an event for all Maltese not only for the Floriana inhabitants.
victor pulis
Dec 30th 2009, 11:30
If the party goes ahead without police permission will steps be taken against the council? The answer should be obvious. I'm only asking because this law breaking is taking place in Malta and I have learnt to rule out nothing in this island of amateurs.
P Agius
Dec 30th 2009, 11:29
So one does not need a police permit anymore to close an arterial road? .... next year I will organise a street party in Regional Road and another one in Dicembru 13, without having to bother about getting police permits !!!
M. Debono
Dec 30th 2009, 11:28
Why do we Maltese object to everything?
We DO need a national event for New Year's eve, like all countries, and thanks to Floriana council, we are finally going to have one!!
It is true, it may have been done on the granaries, or at the football pitch like on the year 2000,
BUT let's face it, on New Year's Eve between 9pm and 2am in the morning, traffic through St. Anne str. is not extreme, and can be very easily deviated to granaries str. going to Valletta, and Capuccini str. going to Blata l-Bajda.
The only problem is the lack of public transport!!!
Good work and thumbs up.
jsammut
Dec 30th 2009, 11:18
WELL DONE FLORIANA LOCAL COUNCIL KEEP IT UP,WE WILL ATTEND TO THIS PUBLIC CELEBRATIONS, AS THEY DO IN OTHER STREETS IN THE WORLD
Joseph Sciberras
Dec 30th 2009, 11:16
This is madness! Have the Police no power at all? I
Joseph M.Aquilina
Dec 30th 2009, 11:10
IN SPITE of Police objections and lack of transport after the bash, He has decided to fulfill HIS dream and go ahead as planned, notwithstanding the fact that HE was given a more than adequate alternative. HE will be making use of the local wardens instead of the Police force, because the latter is overstretched.
Is the police force toothless ?
As things stand, I can finally fulfill my dream of holding my mother-in-law's wedding reception at the Blata l-Bajda main road at the height of rush hour .....................
Joseph Cauchi
Dec 30th 2009, 11:10
Another “republic” (banana)!
Keep it up!
JC.
A Zammit
Dec 30th 2009, 11:09
Dear Mr Spiteri,
in a free market and realistic economy, your 'compensation' should come in the form of increased business... but then again, this is the only way some people know how to do 'business'....subsidies...
in a real world, you should be thanking the council for providing you with increased business.....
the earlier this phyrric public transport arrangement is over, the better for all of us Maltese....
Franco Farrugia
Dec 30th 2009, 11:09
' “I’ve been dreaming about holding such an event for years.' So, is this the dream of merely one man?????? Let's hope things will not get out of hand. And since when to traffic-wardens take over police duties???? Let us remember that the Police belong to the State while traffic-wardens belong to a private firm!
D Vella
Dec 30th 2009, 11:07
One instance where the Police are right. It's kinda egotistic to close off the main street into Valletta and suburbs for a street party. I complained about Msida and this is hardly less of an obstacle.