The Good Friday procession in Valletta has always been considered to be a devout pilgrimage. This year’s procession, however, was marred by the total disrespect, greed and arrogance of one of the noisy catering establishments that have taken over most of the streets in the city with their tables, chairs, waiters and other services.

The local council and the police seem to be oblivious to all the chaos created.

An example of this situation was evident throughout this year’s procession when waiters with platefuls of chips, drinks etc darted to and fro from the restaurant on one side of Merchants Street to the other side of the road where their outdoor tables and kiosk are situated, crossing the procession in front of the statues and the people taking part.

One particular waiter also fooled around when he realised his photo was being taken.

Is everything allowed nowadays? Or are these establishments given whatever they want because we have become so business oriented?

On the afternoon of the day of Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Mercieca ‘s funeral, barriers  and  police, rightly so, prevented people from crossing the streets even during the time Mass was taking place at St John’s Co-Cathedral and the streets were deserted and there was no cortege.

Many people had to go right out to City Gate to cross from one side of Republic Street to the other side and catering establishments had to do away with outdoor seating. So why was such a disgusting situation allowed on Good Friday in Merchants Street?