Local Boatmen Up in Arms: Unregistered Group ‘Regulating’ Their Trade

In the bustling Marsamxett Harbour, where the iconic Three Cities’ skyline reflects off the water, boatmen have been left bewildered and frustrated. An unregistered group has been asserting itself as the regulator of their sector, leaving these traditional seafarers in a state of confusion and unease.

Uninvited Interference

For generations, boatmen in Malta have operated under the watchful eye of the Malta Maritime Authority (MMA). However, a new player has emerged, claiming to represent the interests of the boatmen and dictating terms. The group, which has refused to reveal its members or any form of registration, has been issuing directives and imposing fines, leaving boatmen scratching their heads.

“We’ve always dealt directly with the MMA,” says Joe, a seasoned boatman with over three decades of experience. “Now, we’re getting these anonymous letters and calls, telling us what we can and can’t do. It’s madness!”

Marsamxett’s Unwanted Intruder

The group’s interference has been particularly felt in Marsamxett Harbour, the hub of Malta’s traditional boatmen. Here, boatmen offer services ranging from water taxis to leisure cruises and fishing trips. The group’s directives have ranged from dictating pricing structures to imposing restrictions on operating hours, all without any form of consultation or recognition from the boatmen themselves.

One boatman, who wished to remain anonymous, showed Hot Malta a letter he received, demanding a hefty ‘fine’ for operating outside the group’s dictated hours. “I’ve never heard of these people in my life,” he says, “and now they’re telling me how to run my business?”

MMA and Government: Silent or Unaware?

The Malta Maritime Authority, when contacted, expressed surprise at the claims. “We are not aware of any such group operating in this capacity,” a spokesperson stated. “We urge all boatmen to continue dealing directly with the MMA for any regulatory matters.”

Similarly, the Ministry for Tourism and Consumer Protection, which oversees the sector, was unaware of the situation. A spokesperson stated, “We are looking into these claims and will take appropriate action if necessary.”

Boatmen: United in Confusion

Despite the confusion, boatmen have begun to unite, forming a loose collective to challenge this unknown entity. “We’re not against regulation,” says Joe, “but we want it to come from the authorities we know and trust, not some mysterious group.”

Hot Malta’s attempts to contact the unregistered group went unanswered. However, sources close to the situation suggest that the group may be linked to a recent influx of unregistered boats operating in Maltese waters.

As the situation in Marsamxett Harbour continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the boatmen of Malta will not stand idly by while an uninvited intruder dictates their trade. The waters may be calm, but the boatmen’s spirits are anything but.