With reference to the numerous misleading reports appearing in the local media with regard to the bring-in sites issue at Zebbug, I feel duty-bound to make the following clari-fications:

1. After giving due consideration to the numerous justified complaints from Zebbug residents, Zebbug local council decided that the bring-in site in question was to be removed. An analysis of the situation showed without a shadow of doubt that rather than contributing towards a cleaner and healthier environment, this site was causing considerable inconvenience and hardship to nearby residents, notwithstanding the presence of the CCTV camera which was installed to prevent abuse.

For this reason, Zebbug local council initiated discussions with WasteServ (the company owning the skips) with a view to removing or re-locating the said sites. After lengthy negotiations it was agreed that Waste-Serv had to remove the skips in question by Saturday, 15 October.

2. On Friday, 14 October – that is, one day prior to the expiry of the term agreed with WasteServ – I received a phone-call from WasteServ informing me that the sites were… gone! I insisted with my caller that the local council had given absolutely no directive to anyone to remove the skips. These skips had effectively been removed by some individual or individuals without the knowledge and consent of either myself or WasteServ.

3. Contrary to what was reported in the local press, Zebbug local council did not issue any press release on the matter.

4. While reaffirming its commitment to work in the best interests of Zebbug and its residents, Zebbug local council makes it clear that it has always acted within legal parameters and that consequently it does not condone, solicit, or approve of any unlawful behaviour of whatsoever nature from anyone.

5. Finally, certain comments appearing in the local press were erroneously referred to as emanating from the local council. This is certainly not the case! The council wishes to make it clear that it has not officially commented on the matter and consequently any comments given to the media merely reflect the personal opinion of the person or persons making such comments and not the opinion of the local council.

Dr Paula Vella Sciriha

Zebbug mayor