From 1st June, Police officers, LESA officials and officers from the Environment and Resources Authority will be able to issue on-the-spot fines to foreign nationals who do not reside in Malta, including tourists, who break the law while in the country. These fines will allow officers to collect immediate electronic payment from the individuals concerned.

Introduced through new regulations by means of a legal notice, these measures aim to address a challenge Malta has faced until now, whereby such individuals often failed to pay their fines. This will not only strengthen deterrence, leading to greater order and enforcement across the country, but will also introduce consequences for those who refuse to pay.

The Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri, stressed that this measure was developed in response to the experiences of Maltese and Gozitan citizens, who deserve to be respected by those visiting the country. “We want tourists visiting our country to enjoy Malta's beauty while also showing respect towards the Maltese and Gozitan people and our society. Today, Malta is among the safest countries in the world and the safest in the Mediterranean, but this is an achievement we worked hard for and intend to maintain. Therefore, this is another step towards greater order and discipline. It complements other initiatives we have implemented, including the installation of cameras in areas where they were most needed, including Paceville, as well as the establishment of a specialised Police squad in Paceville."

Minister Byron Camilleri concluded that this law benefits everyone, including tourists and foreign nationals who come to Malta and respect its citizens. At the same time, deterrence will be strengthened by the introduction of on-the-spot fines, to enforce the law, for example in cases involving excessive noise or littering.

The introduction of on-the-spot fines was also welcomed by Tony Zahra, President of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association, who stated that the Government had listened to the Association's concerns. He added that the Association not only supports the measure but also looks forward to seeing it implemented effectively.

To ensure a fair system, foreign nationals without Maltese residency who pay an on-the-spot fine but disagree with it will still have the right to appear before a Commissioner for Justice before a specially established tribunal.

Photo: MHSE

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