Another summer is fast approaching and as more people will flock to Gozo, community life and social events will increase - yet, one persistent problem which has plagued the sister island remains. This is the situation in St George's Square in Rabat, a heavily frequented area right outside the parish church dedicated to the saint.

For many, many months, if not years, the square has been occupied by chairs and tables belonging to the outlets surrounding the square.

The haphazard set-up makes access difficult, more so when church activities are taking place - such as weddings and funerals. What is equally bad is when emergency services are required on site, and it has often been reported that ambulances found it impossible to pass.

The parish itself has brought up the problem to the competent authorities, but so far no solution has as yet been found.

The Gozo Ministry says it is working to find a way to please all the interested parties, but as the months roll by no action is taken.