Penning an article on peace and security makes one think about the Mediterranean issues that surround us.

Thus, I would like to have a close look at peace and security in our localities, especially in the ninth and 10th districts.

Take Swieqi, where residents protest on what goes on in the streets there, practically every day, because of the location.

People have a right to live peacefully and to feel secure. This, I believe, is a fundamental human right, which is being breached on a daily basis.

Summer attracts the most wanted and vital student traffic. As they move in groups, just one word from each leads to a lot of noise and this disturbs residents, who wish to sleep or rest, as well as the sick and the elderly.

Tourist wardens, an unfulfilled Labour promise, is the logical answer. They need not book offenders but, rather, coordinate a better living for all.

Blaring horns is a game some motorists play when they come at crossroads or in secondary roads in St Julian’s, Gżira and Sliema. They drive faster and also blow their horns at every junction, annoying residents.

Use of horns should be banned in residential areas and better driving and respect towards residents needs to be promoted.

Some signs in this sense may raise awareness as well as serve as a warning.

Ringing of church bells between 11pm and 7am is a nuisance. It once served a purpose but in today’s world it is just a 30-minute constant disturbance, especially when the church is near a hospital or a home for the elderly.

Playing the radio at a high volume is another, albeit less, noisy practice.

Local councils should step in, take the lead and issue by-laws to safeguard residents and their right to peace and security.