I am surprised that up until now no journalist has as yet highlighted in the press the lacuna which can arise next year as regards the implementation of the new rent laws, if the Ministry for Housing Accommodation fails to promulgate the Property Market Value Index.

According to the new laws, legislated under the previous administration, the new values for the rent of commercial premises as from 1 January 2014 should be established by one of two methods. The first of these is by an agreement between the parties concerned. However, I am still not convinced that a tenant will willingly agree to a rise in rent and start paying the current market rental value for premises he has been occupying for decades, particularly if the rent he is currently paying is a pittance.

The alternative method of establishing the new rent, if the tenant and the lessor do not come to an agreement, is to use the Property Market Value Index (PMVI) as a guide. Now this index was supposed to have been established this year by regulations issued by the Minister responsible for housing and accommodation.

As far as I am aware, these regulations have not, as yet, been published or come into effect. Can some PRO at the Ministry concerned explain what is impeding the promulgation of these regulations and say whether or not they will be available in time for next year, because the cherry on the cake in these rent laws is the final statement in the law which states that if the parties involved do not reach an agreement, and if this PMVI has not been established, the rent will – as from next year – only increase by five per cent a year until these regulations are published.

Having said all this, I would like to put forward my case as a typical example of the gross injustices endured over the years by property owners which, unfortunately, and in spite of the recent revision of our rent laws, are still being perpetuated up to this very day.

I own a shop which is at present being rented out as a hairdressing salon. These premises were originally let by my ancestors and because of our past archaic rent laws, they have, over the years, been handed down from one generation to another without any increase in rent.

At present, I get the paltry sum of €18 a year and unless the PMVI is set up this year, my income – come next year – will increase by the handsome sum of €0.80.

It should be pointed out that other commercial properties located in the same neighbourhood are at present being let for around €20, if not more, a day.

Is this the social justice so much pontificated by our politicians? It is they we have to thank for making such a mess of the postponed revision in rent laws.

Of course, it could be pointed out that, in 16 years time, property rented out will revert to the owner. But the crux of the matter is how many of us will still be around to finally start enjoying our properties, which have been usurped from us for countless decades?

George Farrugia

SLIEMA