The authorities have issued 10,689 blue badges over the past decade.

The badges are issued upon the recommendation by the National Commission Persons with Disability to people with severe and permanent mobility restrictions.

They can also be granted to those who have a temporary lack of mobility which is expected to last for more than one year.

Permanent Blue Badge are normally issued for five years. In case of the death of the Blue Badge holder, it must be immediately returned to KNPD. If this is not done, two notices are issued after which it requests the Commissioner of Police to collect it.

Social Solidarity Minister Michael Falzon said in reply to a parliamentary question by MP Clayton Bartolo that 8,551 badges were returned, leaving 2,138 still current.

In a Facebook post, the commission said it worked hard to push the first legislation about the issuing and enforcement of the Blue Badge.

It said the fight against abuse was not easy but it was determined to clamp down on those who abuse the system.