An online petition initiated by CLC Malta calling on the Malta Government and the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) to protect the silence offered by Mount St Joseph Retreat House and opposing the development of land in the limits of Mosta known as il-Busbesija into a complex of shooting ranges, has attracted over 3000 signatures in its first hours.

The petition was launched after alarm was raised by the Jesuit fathers during a press conference called in response to the announcement by Hon Michael Falzon that the Government has reached the final stages before entering into a 45-year lease agreement for the development of some land next to the retreat house to be developed into a shooting range. Further investigations revealed that the actual proposed shooting range would cover a much larger area and would contain five sections, the nearest boundary falling within approximately 110m of Mount St Joseph.

The call to safeguard the silent atmosphere at Mount St Joseph Retreat House in Mosta followed requests by hundreds that something be done whereby they may show their support for the cause.

 Fr Patrick Magro sj, the Jesuit Provincial, said that the Jesuits were never consulted in any way before Hon Michael Falzon's announcement, and although they were not against professional shooting ranges in principle, any said shooting ranges should be located in a suitable area which will not cause disturbance to anyone. Having a shooting range within metres of a retreat house whose biggest asset and service to the public is that of offering an atmosphere of silence to those who seek it is unacceptable, he explained.

Mount St Joseph Retreat House has offered a place for silent reflection to thousands for fifty years. Last year alone, almost 10,000 persons, young and old, visited the house.

The petition may be accessed on www.change.org/p/government-and-mepa-save-mount-saint-joseph