‘Now is the time to review lessons learned from the recent storm’ – MHRA 

The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) has called for a post-mortem in light of the destruction of Storm Harry this week.

“Now is the time to review lessons learned from the recent storm and to focus on concrete actions that will reinforce Malta’s preparedness for extreme weather events and other disaster situations,” it said.

The discussion with MCESD members, “will prioritise collaboration across all stakeholders, strengthen coordination between public authorities and the private sector, and ensure that practical measures are in place to safeguard communities, businesses, and visitors in the future.”

MCESD stands for the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development. It is a state organisation that serves as a space for structured, serious, and constructive dialogue among the social partners.

The MHRA commended the swift and professional response of public authorities, ensuring that no one was hurt during this challenging period.

“MHRA expresses solidarity with all affected, particularly hotels and restaurants that sustained damages, and acknowledges the resilience of the tourism and hospitality sector in managing the immediate impact,” a statement read.

MHRA also appreciated the dedication and coordination shown by the Civil Protection Department, Malta Police Force, Armed Forces of Malta, Infrastructure Malta, LESA, the Cleansing Department, Enemalta, Transport Malta, the Hospital Emergency Response Team, and all other public entities involved. Their prompt action “safeguarded public safety and maintained essential services”.

“In this light, MHRA has called on MCESD to convene a discussion involving the tourism and hospitality sector, along with other parties represented by MCESD members. MHRA welcomes that MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef has acknowledged this request and confirmed that the discussion will take place.”

Storm Harry passed over the islands Monday night and Tuesday, with destructive gusts of over 100 kilmometres per hour affecting various localities. 

Image credit: Civil Protection Malta