Angry residents protest against bylaws

RESIDENTS and business owners in Palma have taken to the streets to protest against a new civic ordinance decreed by Palma council.

The ordinance, brought into legislation in April of this year, covers, among others, matters like public congregation (outlawed), handing out leaflets (outlawed) and street artist performances (also outlawed).

A total of 17 different associations have made a formal request to the TSJIB (Superior Justice Courts of the Balearic Islands) to eliminate the new bylaws which, they say, go against their basic freedom of expression rights and beyond what the council should be legislating.

They are also claiming that the only reason for the new bylaws to exist is for the council to be able to levy fines and so line its pockets.

All of the associations have underlined the fact that the legislation, brought in to eliminate anti-social behaviour, has instead seriously affected businesses.