Recently a reform in the local enforcement system was announced. The accent of the intended reform, apart from the increase in the number of wardens, is in the educational aspect of the system. To this I would add that the education should not only be of the public but also of the wardens themselves. I also believe that some local council members also need to be educated as to the social and educational aspects of the warden system.

When councils see the whole enforcement system more as a potential source of income rather than an educational and enforcement tool, then problems will arise (and have arisen!).

One of the factors which apparently seems to be left to chance is the cordiality aspect of the enforcement system. Wardens must be taught to appreciate in the first place that what they are doing is a public service. Nobody is going to be grateful for having received a fine. However, service with a smile is utmost. As I understand, in the present system very little thought is given to this aspect of the warden’s work – the social aspect.

The idea of a warning system is excellent. Wardens must be taught to differentiate between simple negligence and blatant disregard for the rules. To err is human! It is unfortunate that in today’s day and age, to err results far too often in a fine!

I stress that I am in no way criticising the present wardens who do their best in very often difficult circumstances. We must always keep in mind that the enforcement system is intended to create a better living space for us all – no more and no less. To think otherwise is conceptually incorrect.

The above is also to be read within the context of the record number of traffic fatalities for this year. Each fatality is an unfortunate tragedy. Most can be avoided. In my mind, the best way to avoid traffic fatalities is the push further and further the educational aspects of driving. It is useless to think in terms only of enforcement. How many drivers out there appreciate the value of proper lookout in the real sense of the word? How many drivers out there drive when they are far too tired to do so? How many drivers out there fully appreciate and understand the rules of the road? How many drivers out there attend weddings and feel it is fine to drink above the limit?

There is an element of nonchalance on the part of far too many drivers which borders on criminal negligence. Far too many enforcement officials also appear to treat the rules of road with nonchalance. I re-iterate: enforcement is important but education is the only true long-term answer.

Simon Micallef Stafrace

Valletta