I cannot but agree squarely with Raymond Chircop who wrote to the editor recently about abuse of blue card stickers. I too have been writing on the local papers, most unsuccessfully, regarding this widespread abuse. I had also writen to the association for the disabled and the local authorities, as well as the ADT.

Some reserved spaces available in Sliema are occupied by blue card carriers (abusive users) not holders - very often the actual blue card holder is in bed or at home. In the morning, these reserved spaces tend to be occupied by female shoppers or coffee drinkers, in the afternoon the same spaces are occupied by bathers and in the evening by those out for a pizza till late at night.

I just do not know why the authorities have never taken action on the matter. Why is it that fines for culprits who make abusive use of the blue card have not received some heavy fines, as they do in the UK, where I am told the penalty is a fine of £1,000 and forfeiture of the blue card?

Furthermore, blue cards should indicate clearly the sex and date of birth of the blue card holder, as well as the words "blue card can be used only when holder is in the vehicle".

It is a disgrace how anybody can take advantage of a truly disabled blue card holder - and this so as not to pay a parker a few cents.

Having joined the EU we must act like educated European citizens. It is about time authorities take the initiative and educate the public on this matter.