Government cars are still parking illegally in Merchants Street, one year after the government pledged to immediately halt this practice in Valletta.

Vehicles from various ministries, including those used to escort the ministers themselves, have been parking along the top part of Merchants Street, close to Castille over the past few days.

In some cases the vehicles are left unattended, with a notice on the dashboard saying “Owner of this vehicle... is carrying out urgent works at the Office of the Prime Minister.” 

When contacted, Valletta mayor Alexiei Dingli reiterated there were no concessions for government or ministry employees allowing them to park in Merchants Street, which is pedestrianised.

He confirmed that the matter has been referred to the southeast regional committee, which should be taking up the matter accordingly.

Attempts to contact the committee proved unsuccessful.