Republic Street shops oppose monti relocation

The Republic Street Business Community Association has come out against a government decision to move the monti stalls up right to the corner of Melita Street.

The association is joining opposition voiced by the Merchants Street Business Community Association.

Paul Fenech, president of the Republic Street association, said the association was calling for “a fair and equal solution” for all.

“We understand that in recent years, there has been a lot of investment in this road and at the same time creating many job opportunities,” Fenech said.

“It is our concern that if the monti is relocated in this street, it would be detrimental to both the shop owners and the prestigious firms they represent, as well as for the workers of these shops and to the City in general.”

Fenech said the shops “understood” that hawkers have a right to their living and we are therefore appealing for “a fair and equal solution for all”.

Associations objecting to the monti move include the GRTU, the Chamber of Commerce, the Malta Employers’ Association, the Merchants Street Business Association, V-18, Valletta Alive Foundation and the Valletta local council.