Imagine this: you’re a seasoned boatman, plying your trade in the sparkling waters around Malta’s Grand Harbour. Suddenly, an unmarked boat pulls up alongside, and a stranger starts dictating rules, claiming to speak for the entire sector. This isn’t a scene from a Hollywood thriller; it’s the reality facing Malta’s boatmen today.

The Uninvited Regulators

For years, Malta’s boatmen have operated under the watchful eye of Transport Malta, the official regulatory body. But recently, an unregistered group has emerged, claiming to represent the sector and imposing its own rules. They’ve been seen enforcing their will in popular boat spots like Sliema and St. Julian’s, leaving boatmen bewildered and frustrated.

“We’ve got Transport Malta regulating us, and now we’ve got these unknowns telling us what to do,” says Joe, a veteran boatman who’s seen it all. “It’s like having two captains on the same ship. It doesn’t work.”

The Mystery Group

So, who are these mystery regulators? Attempts to identify them have been as fruitless as trying to spot a sunken treasure in the Mediterranean. They operate anonymously, with no official website, office, or even a business card. Their only calling card seems to be their unmarked boats and vague threats of ‘consequences’ for non-compliance.

“They’ve been telling us to keep our distances from each other, limit our hours, that sort of thing,” says Maria, another boatwoman. “But they’ve got no authority. They’re not elected, not appointed. They’re just… there.”

The Official Stance

Transport Malta, the official regulator, has been quick to distance itself from the group. “We are aware of the situation and are looking into it,” says a spokesperson. “Let us be clear: only Transport Malta has the authority to regulate the sector. Any other group claiming to do so is acting illegally.”

The Malta Boatmen’s Association, the official voice of the sector, has also spoken out. “We represent the boatmen,” says their president. “If anyone has any issues, they should come to us. This group is causing confusion and division, and it needs to stop.”

The Future of Malta’s Waters

So, what’s next for Malta’s boatmen? They’re calling for clarity, for the mystery group to step into the light and explain their actions. They’re also calling for Transport Malta to act swiftly and decisively, to protect their livelihoods and the safety of their passengers.

“We just want to do our jobs,” says Joe. “But we can’t do that when we don’t know who’s calling the shots. It’s like trying to navigate a storm without a compass.”

As for the mystery group, they remain silent, their motives and methods as elusive as a school of fish in the deep blue sea.