The proposed relocation of the Tritons fountain does not make sense. It is a majestic monument which is designed to be surrounded by open space.

The proposed relocation site is not only too crammed for the fountain itself but also creates a clutter of monuments and diminishes the majesty of the RAF monument and the Christ the King monument. Downsizing it is definitely not a solution.

One should also bear in mind that on the site currently occupied by the fountain there were fortifications and the original gate to Valletta had a very small door. Thus, it was never intended for one to see what’s within the fortifications from outside them.

Also, the Tritons fountain currently serves as a backdrop to Republic Street when going out of Valletta and the sight of its waters provides a sense of freshness in what is otherwise a crowded and closed space.

The new structures of the old opera house and the new parliament building will be confining the sides of Republic Street in the City Gate area, and one needs to have something interesting to look at in the distance.

The Tritons fountain has over the years been insulted and disgraced.

It has been patched up and now needs to be restored and not downtrodden further: the bronze sculpture should be given back the form which Vincent Apap originally gave it (without the central pillar) and for which it was renowned.

The water jets need to be given back the necessary power to reach the drum on which the Tritons rest to create the cascading effect of the water falling back into the water basin.

The lights need to be reinstalled to give the fountain back its night- time glamour.

Removing the Tritons fountain from its current location would simply disturb a harmonious sequence of monuments leading to the ultimate monument which is Valletta.