PN Head of Delegation in the European Parliament David Casa has written to the Commissioner of Police urging the Malta Police Force to strengthen enforcement in Valletta, particularly around churches and other sites of historical, cultural and religious significance.

The call follows concerns raised with Casa by residents and members of the public over the continued deterioration of public order in the capital. While recent incidents have once again brought these issues into focus, Casa stressed that the problems affecting Valletta have been building up over many years and require a sustained response.

"Residents have every right to expect that the laws enacted by Parliament are enforced consistently. For far too long, many have felt that parts of Valletta have been allowed to deteriorate, with unacceptable behaviour becoming increasingly normalised at the expense of residents, our heritage and the dignity of our capital," Casa said.

He noted that particular care should be taken to safeguard sensitive areas surrounding churches, including the Church of Ta' Ġieżu, and other places of worship.

The friars running the church have recently warned it risks being "lost forever" unless a new planning application for outdoor catering on the steps leading to the church is stopped.

In a public appeal, the church urged people to object to the proposal, saying years of noise from nearby entertainment venues have already made it "impossible" on many occasions to celebrate Mass with the dignity it deserves.

The planning application proposes to convert an art shop into "an outdoor catering area comprising tables and chairs located within a public open space".

In his letter, Casa says: "Valletta is Malta's capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It deserves visible and consistent policing that protects public order, safeguards our heritage, respects the wellbeing and quality of life of its residents, and ensures that places of worship are treated with the respect they deserve," Casa added.

In his letter, Casa urged the Malta Police Force to reinforce its presence in Valletta and to ensure that the law is applied consistently.

"The gradual degradation of parts of Valletta is neither inevitable nor acceptable. It is time to restore respect for our capital, for those who live there, and for the places that form an integral part of our national identity," Casa concluded.