Prime Minister Joseph Muscat expressed dismay at the filthy state of the country and promised a “drastic change” by next year’s holiday season.

Speaking during a meeting with the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association, Dr Muscat said the issue was raised in Cabinet meetings, especially with regard to tourism zones.

Despite inconspicuous emergency measures undertaken, the Government was too late to effect any changes which would radically improve the situation, Dr Muscat admitted.

The system lacked coordination and ownership.

“We have spoken to a number of mayors, including those of St Paul’s Bay and St Julian’s. The reality is that the local councils do not have the budget to keep up the maintenance. The central government needs to intervene.

“The system is a letdown, not the people.”

He said he was amazed at the revival in Buġibba brought about by the opening of the National Aquarium, adding that the Government needed to invest in more such attractions.

Remarking ahead of what promised to be another record year in tourism, Dr Muscat said the meeting was part of a series with various social partners in the build-up to the forthcoming Budget.

He stressed it would not feature any surprises, adding that it would focus on the fundamentals of the economy.

The Government was seeking to address government-induced costs, which greatly affected the industry, especially tourism. Referring to the energy issue, Dr Muscat said the Government’s plan to reduce electricity and water tariffs was on track.

The plan aimed at reducing bills by March for households, and a year later for businesses.

The Prime Minister also referred to the memorandum of understanding signed on Monday with Libya, saying that the strategic agreement would address fuel costs.

The system is a let down, not the people

Once Libya resumed oil production and exportation, he continued, the agreement would serve as a cushion against price fluctuation in the international market.

MHRA president Tony Zahra also expressed satisfaction with the tourism record, adding that accessibility to the island was the name of the game.

He estimated that this year would enjoy a 100,000 increase in passenger traffic over last year. Mr Zahra suggested that weekly activities should be held during the winter and shoulder months to attract tourists.