Minister for the Economy Chris Cardona reassured the public that the monti stalls saga will soon come to an end and confirmed that the relocation to Ordinance Street will take place in the coming weeks. The Minister was speaking during the public consultation organised by the government, Gvern li Jisma’.

Minister Cardona said that one should consider the hawkers whose income depends on this trade. “Previous governments have ignored this problem, but this administration wants to protect this trade.” Dr Cardona said that the shop owners at Merchant Street and the government are the other two interested parties.

“We held a number of discussions with the hawkers and shop owners and confirmed that the relocation will take place.” He said that in the coming weeks, another meeting will be held with hawkers to discuss this relocation. “Stalls will all be of the same quality and we need to assure that they will have the same high standard quality. I also want the area to be kept clean.”

Dr Cardona said that an agreement was reached so that proper inspections will be held at the new site where the hawkers will relocate.

Back in March, The Malta Independent had revealed that the government was planning on buying off half of the monti hawkers to reduce the number by half before the relocation takes place.

Before the last general election, the Labour Party had promised that the Monti in Valletta would be relocated from Merchant Street to Ordinance Street. Part of the relocation would be between the new Parliament building and the Royal Opera House. However, many felt that Monti stalls were not aesthetically adapted for a site which had just been renovated.

Economy Minister Chris Cardona said that the changes in Ministerial responsibilities are a sign that the economic sector grew so much that it requires particular attention.

He said that international credit rating agencies have repeatedly confirmed that the local economy is growing, and this thanks to international investment and local consumption because the public has more money.

“Our role as politicians is to allow and pave the way for local economy to grow, to take the necessary decision to have the government move in the right path. Our Cabinet discussions are always centred on the future, on what measures and initiatives are needed for the economy to grow further.”

He said that the old rumour that it is the government that creates jobs is a lie. The government must create the right environment for economy and businesses to flourish, he said.

On the White Rocks project, Dr Cardona said that the government had issued an expression of interest for the €500 million project. He said 11 eligible consortiums showed interest and the government then issued a request for proposal with the government’s requirement. He assured those present that the project will be in national interest and will not allow for private investors to exploit public land. 

The government is not yet convinced on setting up 'floating islands' in Maltese waters, Dr Cardona said while answering a question by the public. He said there are a lot of studies which need to be undertaken, especially the effect on the seabed, marine biology and fauna. "The government should not be afraid of these kind of proposals. If the interest of the public is proved to be genuine, a project should be seriously considered."