Ministry hits out at 'negative' Water Park statement by 'Labour candidate'
Updated - Adds reaction by the Resources Ministry
The NGO Celebrities for Kids has expressed concern over the advertised opening times of the new Bugibba Water Park, saying children are being encouraged to play when the sun is at its peak and at its most harmful.
In a statement over the signature of paediatric surgeon Chris Fearne, who is the chairman of the NGO, Celebrities for Kids noted that time and again prominent health professionals had advised the public on how to protect children from the harmful rays of excess summer sun.
The Maltese Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate itselfhad advised keeping children out of direct sunlight between 11am and 4pm. (Infants younger than 18 months should be kept out of the sun altogether).
"Celebrities for Kids is therefore concerned that the recently opened Water Park in Bugibba is advertising opening times of between 10am and 7pm. These opening times encourage children to play in the sun in the harmful early afternoon hours.
"Whilst welcoming the concept of safe exercise parks for our children, CfK urges the relevant authorities to reconsider the water park's opening times, to allow children to utilize the park at safer times of the day."
CfK is to launch an educational campaign centered on how best to protect children from too much sun.
GOVERNMENT REACTS
In a reaction the Resources Ministry said it had noted the statement issued by Mr Fearne, a Labour Party election candidate.
“His negative statement goes contrary to the enthusiasm shown by children and their parents who have enjoyed this park, an innovation for our country,” the ministry said.
It said parents could take their children to the water park at any time they wished.
“No one expects the government to close access to the beaches when the sun is at its peak. It is always up to the parents, and that is why the government has conducted several education campaigns about the effects of the sun. In a free country such as this, the government does not intend to tell parents when they can take out their children and where to go.”
The ministry also pointed out that the children stay at the park for only 20 minutes each time. They are also encouraged to wear hats and use sunblock. Some shelters from the sun have also been installed.
“It is unfortunate that this Labour candidate has opted to be negative” the ministry said.
Popular Stories
Old buses, drivers to return
Former Judge Ray Pace found dead
Updated: Minister apologises for...
Three new Nationalist MPs elected –...
Where’s Everybody staff is given notice
Updated - Director of Prisons submits...
Update 3 - Woman trapped as car crashes...
Revealed...the face of a Maltese woman...
PL reacts as PN labels Franco Debono's...
In Discussion
Old buses, drivers to return
Updated: Minister apologises for...
PL reacts as PN labels Franco Debono's...
Updated - Director of Prisons submits...
Enemalta seeking minimum five year gas...
Protected birds shot and trapped as...
Mario de Marco, Zammit Dimech concede,...
PN postpones salaries as financial...
Updated - PM's offer to Opposition MPs...
90 Comments
Post comment
Please sign in or create your Account to post comments.
Joshua G Giordimaina
Jun 27th 2012, 10:18
This is a great idea and I can't wait to take my little girl. I really hope to see more such projects where families can take their children to have fun in a safe environment whilst interacting with others.
However, trashing other people's concerns (especially concerns coming from people with professional backgrounds) is amateurish to say the least. And using "children's enthusiasm" as a justification is even more so. Since when children judge their actions on potential long term consequences?
Yes, the responsibility ultimately lays with the parents/guardians. However, the government and its representatives should take a more paternalistic (for lack of a better word) approach. I'm not suggesting that the government should close the place down from 11am to 4pm, but there are other options as well. Potentially even options that could actually extend the opening hours, rather than restricting them, whilst at the same time protecting patrons from excess exposure to the sun.
Mr R.E. Saliba
Jun 27th 2012, 08:57
U hallina.
Feel free to deliver an educational campaign but it's our choice what time to go.
It's ridiculous to ask government to impose what time to go to the beach.
joe briffa
Jun 27th 2012, 08:05
Is there something positive about this? Worthless,useless, and what will they do in Winter with this wonderful water park....monkey play really
James Dewar
Jun 27th 2012, 23:05
Something positive? Yes, it's great fun for the kids. Winter use? Not sure but if it was in the UK it could double as an ice rink! Unlikely in Malta though!
Catherine Caruana
Jun 27th 2012, 07:55
To all those who wrote negative comments regarding the water park it seems that these people do not know about the use of sunblock Factor 50 for children.There is also on the market swim suits adapted for younger children that cover most of the exposed body.Then dear children go and have fun but see that you are well protected because these things never existed in our times.
Anthony Arpa
Jun 27th 2012, 06:39
Meta xi had immur ghall xi vista ghand tabib jew proffessur dan kwazi dejjem jajdlek fost ohrajn
"aqta jew naqqas kemm tista it tipjieb u xorb"
U hafna drabi xi issib li dak l'istess tabib jew proffessur ikun Chain Smoker kif ukoll alkaholiku ...
U nahseb li jekk xi hadd jiffolowja lil dawn kollha li il hin kollhu jeqidu u jbezzaw li nies min dan il cancer jara li huma stess u li it tfall u il familji taghom ukoll ikunu qed igawdu is-sajf sabieh taghna kemm fuq il beaches u kemm fuq il boats u il yacths taghom ..... Forsi jekk Alla jried dan is-sajf ukoll naraw xi itratti ta dawn in nies li ukoll ikunu juru li huma stess ukoll ikunu qed igawdu dan is sajf fix ix xemx u fuq il bahar sabieh taghna ...
Anthony Arpa
Jun 27th 2012, 06:04
Wonder why all this fuss is all about .... If one go out during Summer times one will note 1000's of children swimming everywhere and on our nice Sandy Beaches ....I am certain that these children's parents will look after them properly and protect them as they should ... Many people take their children to countries like Malta with one thing in their mind. This to see their kids enjoying our nice Summer times on our beaches .... They too take care about their children ofcourse
Victor Laiviera
Jun 26th 2012, 23:58
Here is an extract from the Electoral Manifesto of the Nationalist Party for the 1987 elections.
How times change!
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/525784_10150901262913127_665206111_n.jpg
Mr Ludwig Flask
Jun 27th 2012, 08:10
Bingo!
lilly vella
Jun 26th 2012, 23:06
http://www.doi.gov.mt/en/press_releases/1999/07/pr1172.asp
vincent a galea
Jun 26th 2012, 22:57
How pathetic!!
The water itself would protect children from the rays of the sun!! And whats wrong with wearing a hat?!
But this makes me so happy! The Pl has nothing to really criticise and is clutching at straws !!!!!
J. Debono
Jun 26th 2012, 22:49
Ghax ma naghmlux haga.
Min jaqbel mal-kandidat laburista, allura ma jmurx il-park.
Ahjar ghal kumplament tal-poplu, halli ma nsibux kju!!!!
Saret kampanja enormi kontra x-xemx - jekk taghmel sunblock tajjeb, f-20 minuti mhu se ssir l-ebda hsara fil-gilda, dejjem ahjar min gurnata shiha hdejn il-bahar, minghajr protezzjoni.
lilly vella
Jun 26th 2012, 22:46
ara vera gvern jghereq fl ilma ta , mela l ewwel ma sabx min jinvesti fi progett simili ghax mhux vijabbli u issa jikkritika lil specjalista li jrid it tfal jiehdu hsieb ghax il post hu esponut ghal hafna xemx.........bilhaqq dan il progett dejn fuq il pajjiz jew thallas?
vincent a galea
Jun 26th 2012, 22:18
How pathetic!!
Children are under the effect of water which should minimise sun rays... And what's wrong with wearing hats??!!
But this makes me so happy!! PL has absolutely nothing to critisize and are clutching at straws!!
Dream on PL........
George Cutajar
Jun 26th 2012, 19:51
Parents of young children know full well their responsibilities.
If this is the way the movement of liberals, progressives etc. etc. intends running this Island should they get to win the next election are we to expect to be told what to do as well? Remember this was the way Mintoff's regime treated us back in the seventies and early eighties. They told us what we should eat and drink, what toothpastes to use, what chocolate we should buy and what clothes we should wear. They even laid down rules and times as to when we could use water, rules about private schools, prices at which one could sell tuna and anchovies , guarantee of jobs in the dejma and the other labour corps etc. etc.
Before casting your vote at the next election think and think well as it may be too late.
John Dee
Jun 26th 2012, 19:31
Completely agree ! Children should only be allowed out to play between the hours of 9pm and 0230 when there is a minimal risk of exposure to sunlight. Unfortunately they must not be permitted to play in the new water park during these hours because of the risk of chilling due to the night air.
How on Earth did we all manage to survive our high risk childhoods?
Reinhard Azzopardi
Jun 26th 2012, 20:11
I tend to agree with your tongue-in-cheek comment however we must also be aware that the dangers of skin cancer are very real and they were unknown to us during our childhood. Smoking too was once recommended by doctors.
j dough
Jun 26th 2012, 21:42
i feel the responsibility lies with the parents. eg. we also know that certain 'foods' are not conducive to good health, but fast food restaurants are not shut down are they? it is up to the parents to do the best for their children - parents MUST take responsibility for their kids.
Mr Ludwig Flask
Jun 26th 2012, 19:20
If Hon Pulicino or the ministry or the government don’t know what a CONCERN is, no wonder why Hon Gonzi cannot understand that 2 resignations mean the immediate dissolution of parliament!
The problem here isn’t political, but a CONCERN from an NGO.
Having spent hundreds from our pockets because whether these have been sponsored by EU or not we’re the ones who have paid for this project, at least Hon Pulicino could have had the decency of putting warning signs explaining the importance of protecting the children from UV.
I have already pointed this out last week on the day of the inauguration. This isn’t a matter of keeping children secluded at home. Our kids need such projects, and get enthusiastic for sure, but we as adults and professionals should do our best to design and build appropriate structures and if possibly take the necessary precautions to safeguard our children.
I see other problems which for sure will be ignored for example regular maintenance, proper repairs or replacement if need. If one goes around our playing fields or parks he or she will remain disappointed and understands what I mean.
Another issue whether it is a ‘water park’ or not, having some pipes with water coming out of them on a little stretch of land you call this ‘water park’? Sorry, but to whom was involved in the project, "you are very dry of ideas!"
Getting back to the statement published, well done to CfK!
Joseph Cauchi Senior
Jun 26th 2012, 22:09
Sour grapes, all the way!
JC.
Edward Curmi
Jun 27th 2012, 09:54
Dear Mr.Flask so much negativity..I guess you are a PL appologist??
Charles Massa
Jun 26th 2012, 19:17
Jidru li tal PN ma ghamlrn. Ghax fethu water park mar il prim ministru u l ministri!!!!!!!!!!!!! Mur gibhom fethu xi entrapriza li thaddem eluf ta nies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Charles Muscat
Jun 27th 2012, 01:18
Il problema kienet tkun akbar ghax Malta ma hemmx eluf minajr xoghol bis sahha tal gvern presenti.
Edward Curmi
Jun 27th 2012, 09:55
Dik fethuwa ukoll..u mux fabbrika tal kappar!!
Edmond Micallef
Jun 26th 2012, 18:40
The government should lead by example.
Turning a professional health warning into political warfare is simply a sign of the siege mentality some government departments and partisan political PN party officials seem to have adopted.
Whilst parents are free to choose the time that they want to take their children to play even if it means contradicting international health organisation's scientific studies and warnings, the government is morally obliged to guide, teach and protect the general public accordingly. Hence it should lead by example.
C Sant
Jun 26th 2012, 18:38
Labour - doom and gloom!!
victor caruana
Jun 26th 2012, 18:31
What the childrens do not know is that they still will have to pay for that park when they grow up!
Ghadu kollu dejn li jithallas minn uliedna u wlied uliedna kien jghid ministru nazzjonalist!!
O Farrugia
Jun 26th 2012, 18:23
Before any more is said about this initiative being negative, the water park runs for 20 minutes at a time. Kids are only exposed for those 20 minutes and they have to queue again if they wish to re-enter the park. Queuing is sheltered from the sun, so any room for improvement would be to elongate the shelters if the demand generates longer queues.
I believe that parents have now become more conscious of what level of protection they should use for their children and that includes the harshest sun hours which are best avoided. What everyone fails to mention though is that the sun is a natural source of Vitamin D, so some pure exposure to the sun on our bare skin is of benefit rather than harm.
Let the kids enjoy themselves safely, they all love playing with water. And it's the season for it.
j dough
Jun 26th 2012, 21:45
we of course want to protect our kids...who is protecting the rest of us whilst we wait for the buses at valletta and other bus stops?? The bus 'shelters' are made of perspex affording no shade at all...
Joe Felice-Pace
Jun 26th 2012, 18:19
For years on end I used to go to the beach from 2 to 4 in the afternoon, April to October. Never had any problem.
Victor Laiviera
Jun 27th 2012, 00:09
Times change - and we have to adjust
http://www.epa.gov/sunwise/kids/kids_ozone.html
John Schembri
Jun 26th 2012, 18:18
Only yesterday we had another Labour candidate writing under the disguise of “the founding chairman of the Institute of Family Therapy Malta.”
This is what the learned unbiased Charlie wrote:”Today’s beggars have an identity card declaring which institution they are begging for, institutions without which many will probably be dying of hunger. The biggest beggar is in fact L-Istrina, which, in the name of the state and blessed by the highest authority of the country, collects grand sums of money to help the local poor. Which poor?"
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20120625/opinion/The-new-faces-of-poverty.425834
MALCOLM SEYCHELL
Jun 26th 2012, 18:10
At what time the people of these Ngos take their kids swimming?? At midnight????
Paroli fil vojt.
Steve M. Engerer
Jun 26th 2012, 18:00
May I suggest to the government to close all beaches, pools, piazza's, open air cafeteria's, in that case anything under the sun & order a curfew on all children between 11.00am & 4.00pm...
This will keep the usual moaners on this site happy!!
Get a life & please do stay at home, if possible not only between 11.00am & 4.00pm but at all times, thus leaving some space for those of us that wish to enjoy life!!
Yes, ofcourse in a responsible way!!
Manuel Mangani
Jun 26th 2012, 17:55
What are the Health Department's views on the matter?
Evarist Saliba
Jun 26th 2012, 17:48
WHAT A KILLJOY.
Is this what Labour Party parliamentary candidates have to offer to the nation?
Victor Laiviera
Jun 26th 2012, 20:54
Sound medical advice - not a bad thing to offer the people, is it?
http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/sun_safety.html#
j dough
Jun 26th 2012, 21:46
a sun hat, t- shirt and sun block will surely be enough protection for 20 mins....
Evarist Saliba
Jun 27th 2012, 11:32
@ Victor Laiviera
Offering advice is one thing, criticising the authorities for installing a public facility, is another.
For once, remove your political blinkers, and if you have nothing positive to say just keep silent.
Victor Laiviera
Jun 27th 2012, 14:35
@ Evarist Saliba
You must have misread the article - or else commented before reading. Only the opening times were criticised.
You can spare the invective - I have a very thick skin.
Victor Laiviera
Jun 26th 2012, 17:47
The typical "laager mentality" of an insecure and tottering regime. Even a simple safety suggestion is seen as a political attack.
joseph saliba
Jun 26th 2012, 18:25
Labourites have nothing to offer. They do not use spanners to construct machines, they excel in throwing them at the government's wheels.
victor bonello
Jun 26th 2012, 18:40
well said, but then what do you expect when the leader says " go attack the PL".. msiekenn il vera PN supporters fix gew...
Johanna Scicluna
Jun 26th 2012, 17:25
We are an island surrounded with sea .... True it's not always possible that the kids swim safely in the sea cause of jelly fish, but children should be encouraged to swim and not splash in the water. IF our country HAD the money to SPEND, this should have been used on i) swimming programme to all school children - this is one of the best form of excercise and we keep childhood obesity in check ii) keep all the public beaches clean and safe iii) invest in public indoor pools to be used in winter by school children and the general public.
KEEP KIDS AWAY FROM THE SUN BETWEEN 11am and 4pm - NO SUNBLOCK WILL PROTECT THEM BETTER
John Borg
Jun 26th 2012, 17:42
keep your kids inside and let others do what they feel is right!
O Farrugia
Jun 26th 2012, 18:38
I have to agree with John Borg here.
I send my children to indoor pools for swimming lessons in autumn/spring. In summer no child would want to swim inside and most swimming programs are held outdoors anyway. Moreover, indoor pools are still a source of various diseases which one should always be aware of.
I agree that the harshest hours of the sun are best avoided, but the sun is also a good source of natural Vitamin D through our bare skin. Hence sunblock protection, with all the chemicals being applied, may indeed cook something else, rather than Vitamin D.
Unfortunately the reality is that public beaches are not clean and not always safe enough for children. We have to teach children what to look out for and to always wear footwear, ideally both in and out of the sea. Children who love to swim also love splashing in water. So let them be what they do best - being kids.
Steve Attard
Jun 26th 2012, 17:21
So if they close it in the afternoon you think all the children are going to stay indoors!!?? mux they go to the beach instead.So put protection on them and let them have fun.. And stop moaning.
G Zammit
Jun 26th 2012, 17:17
What is wrong with this country? what is wrong with you people? Why is there always negativity when something is finally done for our children to enjoy the outdoors? THIS ISLAND LACKS AMUSMENT PARKS BIG TIME, for children. Not only should this water park be encouraged but more should be made around the whole island. During these hot summer months the park should be open from 9am-10pm.
CfK instead of urging the relevant authorities to reconsider the water park's opening times, how about educating the people on this island about skin care, UV protective swimsuits, sunscreens, hats, sunglasses etc etc. In Australia during summer you will see a commercial on tv at every commercial break reminding us to protect ourselves from the sun. Do you see that in Malta????
The children of Malta are deprived from amusment parks. So there is Ta Qali, and a few little parks with a few swings here and there, and popeye village which is a total disaster and an embarrassment oh and splash and fun which costs an arm and a leg. This is not enough!! Children on this island need more and more, It can never be enough.
Fenech MD
Jun 26th 2012, 18:09
Int bis serjeta? taf kemm taghmel hsara x xemx dawk il hinijiet? ghaliex ghandna nippoliticizzaw kollox u nammettu li fejn nistghu nirrangaw, nirrangaw.
G Zammit
Jun 26th 2012, 19:58
No... Int bis serjeta Fenech MD?? Where in the hell did you see me mention politics? 1st of all dear I do not give half a toot about the politics on this Island, not one way nor the other.
The sun only makes 'hsara' if you let it. My daughter is half dutch so one can only imagine her delicate white skin. Last saturday we spent the WHOLE day at the beach from 10am till 6pm and have done this for many yrs and never ever has she been sun burnt, infact anyone would think that she didnt even see the beach all summer.
Sarah Agius Bezzina
Jun 26th 2012, 17:11
The water park should be open either early in the morning example from 7.00am to 10.00am and from 5.00pm to 9.00pm. Other hours are not suitable for very young children. I am glad that the health authorities have raised their concern about the fixed opening hours.
Charles Muscat
Jun 27th 2012, 01:34
Why not organize this yourself with your kids if you have any? you made it sound very easy.
A. Schembri
Jun 26th 2012, 17:10
Fully agree with Steve M. Engerer
So much moanign and winging taking place. So if all below are moaning about this , why are they not doing the same about other outlets like in Bahar ic-caghaq. Whay are the beaches all empty during the said times
Is it beacuse this is an innovative idea.
I have kids and I keep them away from the sun at its worst times.
Let the people do what they want.
Maybe it might be a good idea to open it at night time and then see how the moaners below react.
Get a life guys and use your common sense instead of complaining about whatever happens in Malta.
Laurence Muscat
Jun 26th 2012, 17:38
AMEN
Edward Curmi
Jun 27th 2012, 09:58
It is because the outlet in Bahar ic Caqaq is not a government project..of course who is in opposition must always politicise everything!!!
Arthur Taliana
Jun 26th 2012, 16:54
It has been aptly said that parents have the responsibility to take care of their children. While this may sound as if parents have a choice on what to do, actually both as individuals and as a society we carry the obligation to take care of our children. Every summer, health authorities and cancer research centres remind us that staying out in the sun ups cancer, mainly malignant melanoma, which can be fatal if left untreated. Skin cancers can take up to 20-30 years to develop.They also tell us that studies suggest that around 80% percent of skin cancer are caused by exposure to ultra violet rays and that getting sunburnt twice in youth could double the risk of developing skin cancer in later life. They further advise, to cover up, wear UV protection sunglasses, use effective +15 sun cream, take extra care of children and to keep away from the sun between 11:00 hrs and 16:00 hrs.
J Borg
Jun 26th 2012, 16:51
Why is it that in this country we cannot even discuss a health issue without politicising it. If this guy happens to be a candidate so what? I think he has a point. We used to spend longs hours swimming in our childhood days, at the beach, but even in those days remeber my parents insiting we get inside during those hours. Life has become too hectic for many parents, and anything to get the kids out of the way!
Mrs diana cottis
Jun 26th 2012, 16:47
They only get 20 minutes play, hence 20 minutes sun. It would have been better to design the park with a shade instead of the huge street lights surrounding it. These are not needed if it opens between 10 and 7 anyway so are just an expensive waste of energy.
A. Schembri
Jun 26th 2012, 17:12
Have you ever been to a beach during the day?
Do you avoid the sun between the specified times? If yes I can assure yuo you are sensible and there are parents who are also sensible like you. Yuo please give up on trying to find a solution. peop;le have a mind of their own. All they have to do is use it.
Karl Consiglio
Jun 26th 2012, 16:36
The chlorine didn't do my son any good.
Darren Caruana
Jun 26th 2012, 16:45
if there wasn't any Chlorine you would complain that the water is dirty.
Karl Consiglio
Jun 26th 2012, 17:33
Chlorine, dirt...Two wrongs don't make a right.
Charles Muscat
Jun 27th 2012, 01:36
keep him inside then.
Laurence Muscat
Jun 26th 2012, 16:30
It is incredible how in our beloved country, even the most innovative and creative and fun activities are criticized...
is it a coincidence that Dr Chris Fearne, that signed this statement, is one of the Malta Labour Party New Super Candidates???
I rest my case ...
Darren Caruana
Jun 26th 2012, 16:44
You rest your case......qisek'x xi avukat.
it is a known fact that the sun is harmful, especially in certain hours.
So why promote it?? when there are so many campaigns that do the opposite
Laurence Muscat
Jun 26th 2012, 16:52
Dear Darren,
do parents take children to beaches between 11 and 4pm?
are you aware that the kids are let inside the water park for a maximum of 20 minutes a time?
are you aware that a good sun block cream protects your kids for 2 hours?
We live in a free country where Thanks God to the present Government we have Choices.
if you choose to keep your kids in , that is all up to you, but please do not impose anything on us.
Laurence Muscat
Jun 26th 2012, 16:30
It is incredible how in our beloved country, even the most innovative and creative and fun activities are criticized...
is it a coincidence that Dr Chris Fearne, that signed this statement, is one of the Malta Labour Party New Super Candidates???
I rest my case ...
M Mallia
Jun 26th 2012, 16:53
Hudhom it-tfal tijak fil-qilla tax-xemx. kuntent int, kuntent kulhadd..
Steve M. Engerer
Jun 26th 2012, 16:25
Please let us parents decide...
Responsible parents know what to do...
Un-responsible parents will take their children wherever & whenever not withstanding closure of the park!!
A Galea
Jun 26th 2012, 16:19
Why do we always have to find fault with everything? An initiative like this should be encouraged rather than criticised. And do we actually need an NGO to remind us how to take care of our kids?
Vince Deguara
Jun 26th 2012, 16:30
Don't you realize that who signed this statement is Chris Fearne, upcoming Labour candidate? Gets things into perspective doesn't it?
Rina Pisani
Jun 26th 2012, 18:46
AGREE WITH YOU 100%
A Galea
Jun 26th 2012, 16:19
Why do we always have to find fault with everything? An initiative like this should be encouraged rather than criticised. And do we actually need an NGO to remind us how to take care of our kids?
GEORGE S DARMANIN
Jun 26th 2012, 16:18
Children are allowed in for just 20 minutes. Therefore if appropriate sunblocks and, or UV protective suits are applied / worn, and a rest time until another turn is taken in the shade, the risk of harm will be controlled. Then it is the parents's responsibilities to care best for their kids.
I'm afarid that the much respected Dr. Fearne is becoming more of a politician. CfK and its' chairman would have been more sensible and credible of their intentions if they recommended or otherwise constructively criticised the absence of some sort of shade.
Robert Zammit
Jun 26th 2012, 16:17
Can make protective shelter (with high colour for kids ) alike protective shelter in Hagar Qim...
Charlene Bonnici
Jun 26th 2012, 16:16
instead of 7pm it should stay opened longer hours . till 10pm maybe???
Michael Camileri
Jun 26th 2012, 16:16
Sounds like a nanny state policy to me.... Parents need educating.
Reinhard Azzopardi
Jun 26th 2012, 20:27
In a nutshell, it sounds like the good old labour party. Halli lil poplu tuba u kkontrollah int.
Nicky Azzopardi
Jun 26th 2012, 16:15
Just let parents decide whether to take kids out in the sun or not, and what time to do so, there are many ways to protect us from the sun, I would suggest to extend the opening hours till 8.30 pm that way people have a choice. My kids are 2 years old and 4 years old and they love the sun and the sea/pool just like me, they are fair skin and have never burnt., UV swimwear, sunblock, hats, sunglasses lots of water to drink etc ..
David Bonavia
Jun 26th 2012, 16:14
I would rather suggest that some tents are put up for the parents to stay until they are waiting for their kids in the park.
The kids have loads of fun getting wet and are constantly on the move in the park. However, the parents wait for their kids in the sun for a long time. Obviously they should be put in a place where they can still observe their children from a close distance.
Adrian Zahra
Jun 26th 2012, 16:13
IMMA KIF F DAN IL PAJJIZ IIRRIDU NGERGRU GHAL KOLLOX ??? HALLUH MIFTUH IL GURNATA KOLLHA KIF INHUMA MIFTUHIN IL BAJJIET , IL GONNA PUBLICI U L BANDLI.
Norman Gili
Jun 26th 2012, 16:12
I absolutly agree that a good netting on top to shade is the best idea, because children absolutly enjoy playing in water and more water parks should open soon. This will help us parent to avoid taking children to beaches during harsh sunny hours.
N.Gili
Paul Azzopardi
Jun 26th 2012, 16:12
Seems some people haven't got any thing better to say....I would think there are more serious things to worry about. Besides, parents are well aware these days about the sun hazzards, most you could ask for is a poster at this water park warning them about what they already know, of whats obvious. I think the NGO should come up with more brilliant ideas of how to get kids outside as opposed to being glued to a PC game.
Victor Pulis
Jun 26th 2012, 16:01
During the inauguration speech the prime minister was reported to have said that the waterpark will help children appreciate the importance of water. In what way will the shooting of water from cannon and the running under gallons of the stuff help children apprecaiate the value of water? on the contrary, I fear this activity will give the wrong impression to children that water is a toy and can be wasted.
Adrian Zahra
Jun 26th 2012, 16:10
sur pulis, skont ma qrajt jien fuq din l istess website l ilma qed jkun riciklat jigifieri m hemmx hela t ilma, apparti li ghat tfal ija esperjenza gdida u sabiha. jien nghid li hija responsabilta tal genituri x hin johorgu t tfal.
Victor Pulis
Jun 26th 2012, 17:47
i did not say that there was any water wastage but are the children aware of this?Children may aquate these activities with wastage. As for the opening times, as you say no one is forcing parents to take their children during the harmful hours that'swhy I did not comment on this fact.
Marco Cremona
Jun 26th 2012, 22:55
Adrian Zahra, are you aware that a commercial swimming pool loses a significant percentage of its water every day through evaporation, carry over of water on bathers' clothes/skin and the frequent filter backwashes required to keep the water clean? By the very nature of the activities in the park, the % loss of water from this park is far greater than that of any swimming pool.
Yes, some of it will be recycled but the long and short of the story is that the powers chose to use precious fresh water for a park that is a mere 3 metres from abundant sea water. It is also very sad to note that the Minister who conceived this fresh water park is also the Minister responsible for water resources.
Yes, Victor, the message we are giving to kids (and their parents) about apparent (fresh)water abundance is even more damaging than the absolute waste of water.
William Borg Barthet
Jun 26th 2012, 15:35
That sounds ridiculous to me. People (or in this case their parents) should make their own decisions. What's next? Closing the beaches to stop people getting sunburned? Why don't we just lock people in their homes for their safety. The advice is there, take it or leave it, no need for the government to play nanny.
Anthony Arpa
Jun 26th 2012, 15:21
What about if the park put netting on top to shade a bit the park ... as if park clese from 11am to 4 pm it will only leave few hours of activity .... After all many parents still take their children to beaches and on their boats in Summer time and durng school vacations ... All they have to do is to add good quality sunblocks on their children and will give the opportunity to their kids to enjoy Summer time ....
L.A. Galea
Jun 26th 2012, 15:21
stay out of the sun between 11am and 4pm !!! why dont we just lock all the children in their rooms and feed them through a pigeon hole.
Please choose the reason of your report below: