that the scopes of the industry are being met . “ Approval from the end-client highlights the importance of the licence ,” he said .“ And our main objective is that the place is licensed and approved so as to be able to provide the required services to the clients ’ satisfaction .” He further explained that one must not forget that this also includes host families who take in students studying in Malta and Gozo , and that the contribution provided therefrom of 50c per guest per day ( up to Eur5 ) is reinvested into ancillary and important tourist products such as beaches , roads , heritage sites , and more .
The in-depth industry knowledge held by the Directorate
Andre replies with an unwavering “ Yes ” when we ask him if the industry likes the Directorate . “ We have a good rapport with the industry players because of how we perceive and administer our responsibilities .
our main objective is that the place is licensed and approved so as to be able to provide the required services to the clients ’ satisfaction
Being an Enforcement Officer is not an easy job . It requires at least a Level 5 ( higher diploma ) in hospitality management because it is quite technical . The Officer is also required to have had technical training in hospitality and tourism law . When necessary , officers are also required to testify in court .
“ As part of our CPD ( continuous professional development ) for Enforcement Officers , as well as for the Directorate ’ s management and staff in general , we are also holding Housekeeping management courses for them in 2017 as well as other courses in food and beverage management , and in front office management ,” he added .
Yet taking this kind of job means having a holistic approach and level of knowledge of the industry . Andre explains : “ For example - Officers visit Travel Agencies before they license them . If a Wedding Planner offers accommodation , transport , etc , they fall under the same law requisites of package travel and therefore need to ensure that they have the licence of a travel agency . Package travel is extensively regulated . As are the guides .
“ Destination Management Companies ( DMCs ) are also visited before being licensed to ensure good standards , a good workable web site and more .” A major help in coping with one ’ s financial responsibilities
Guides and their working languages are monitored .
was the Insolvency Fund that was introduced at end of 2016 . “ It was a much needed tool to safeguard and protect the client ” added Andre .
Work in progress
In 2016 the MTA Enforcement Directorate boosted its efforts and fined 77 infringements by unlicensed operators . 271 premises were also inspected and 20 further actions were taken . He added that “ though there are just 14 enforcement officers , there are always five teams of two on the road !” And those found to be unlicensed get immediately fined .
Andre explains “ We check guides . We check languages . If they are licensed for French and Italian speaking then they cannot guide in German as well . And a guide cannot have more than 52 tourists either .
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SEPTEMBER | 2017
HOSPITALITY MALTA