Moviment Graffitti has welcomed the banning of sunbeds from Blue Lagoon's sandy beach in Comino and the news that those on the quay be limited, however has insisted on a number of other restrictions.

The announcement regarding the sunbeds was made by Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo, after last Saturday members of Graffitti removed deckchairs and umbrellas at Blue Lagoon, in a symbolic event aimed to raise awareness on how public beaches are being taken over by operators.

"We note with satisfaction that something has been done after our direct action last Saturday. However, we want to point out that our demands go beyond this because we have stressed that the commercial interests that have taken over this beach must be addressed," the NGO said.

Graffitti has said that, among other things, it is insisting that large boats, such as the catamarans pouring hundreds of tourists at once, are no longer allowed to enter Comino.

It is also insisting that the number and size of kiosks are drastically reduced and that they are not allowed to play music

"We have also stressed that there should be a holistic policy on Comino. Although this was promised years ago, in his statements, the minister mentioned that the studies and the design of this policy have yet to be begin. This is not acceptable!" Graffitti added.

Graffitti said that in the coming days and weeks, "we will be taking a closer look at the situation in the Blue Lagoon so that we can find out and inform you if there have been any significant changes following the minister's statements. By significant changes we understand that the beach will, in practice, be given back to the people, and that there will be the environmental protection that this beach deserves. Failing that, we are ready to take the necessary action again."