During a press conference in the Fajtata area of Marsaskala, the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, together with Transport Malta, launched the ‘Safety at Sea’ education campaign. This annual campaign is aimed at creating maritime awareness, particularly during the summer months, when thousands of Maltese people engage in sporting or leisure activities at sea.
The ‘Safety at Sea’ campaign will include various communication channels such as educational material, online information, social media campaigns, as well as collaboration with local communities, sports associations and tourism operators so that the message reaches everyone, from children to adults, and from Maltese to foreigners living in or visiting Malta.
Minister Chris Bonett said, “The sea is not only a beautiful natural resource but also part of our identity and lifestyle. Although everyone has the right to enjoy the sea, there is also an obligation to protect ourselves and each other. This campaign is important because we believe that with more awareness, we can reduce the possibility of accidents at sea and as a result, save lives.”
The Minister also praised the work of beautifying and improving infrastructure within swimming areas in various localities including Wied il-Għajn. He thanked the workers of Infrastructure Malta and the Tourism Zones Regeneration Agency, entities that fall under the direct responsibility of the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works.
Transport Malta CEO Kurt Farrugia remarked, “With a little attention from everyone, the experience in our waters can be a safer, more responsible and above all more enjoyable one. Therefore, in the coming weeks and months, Transport Malta will be further informing the public about responsible swimming and use of private boats, safe diving as well as against jumping into the sea from excessive heights.”
Transport Malta, as the authority responsible for safety at sea, will continue to increase its efforts to ensure that everyone is informed about maritime regulations. This will also be possible through collaboration with local communities, sports associations and tourism operators so that the message reaches everyone, from children to adults, and from Maltese to foreigners living in or visiting Malta. Through the enforcement section, the same authority will be carrying out a number of inspections in the seas and beaches to stop any abuse and violation of the rules.
Photo: MTIP/DOI
