In a joint operation conducted by the Malta Tourism Authority and the Lands Authority earlier today, a large quantity of deckchairs and umbrellas were removed from Armier and Little Armier Bay. The deckchairs and umbrellas, which filled 5 truckloads, had been found to be in breach of the terms and conditions of the applicable permits.

Prior to today’s action, the operators of establishments who manage these beach concessions were informed on previous occasions that they were not operating in accordance with the permit terms and were advised to comply. They were also warned that action would be taken if such non compliance persisted.

In a joint statement, the Malta Tourism Authority and the Lands Authority made it clear that "This joint action is part of the ongoing drive aimed at ensuring that regulations are respected in full. This should send a clear signal that the authorities are taking this matter seriously and that further abuse will not be tolerated.”

The operation came on the same day that the Kampanja Emergenza Ambjent issued a statement saying that public beaches were being turned into private property.