Manoel Island could be developed into a natural park without the tax payer having to fork out a single Euro, Partit Demokratiku’s Marlene Farrugia said this morning at a press conference.
She explained that many concessions given to commercial entities by previous governments were done so under the arrangement that the land transferred to private parties would be developed into hotels.
Many have actually been developed into residential units, she said, meaning that if this government collected the just contributions from these commercial entities, costing more than hotel developments, Manoel Island could be developed into a natural park without the public having to pay for it.
Dr Farrugia added that many of these residential developments have remained hidden, and mused that the government might announce the change in use of pre-arranged deals after the election, implying that this news would not be received well by the public.
Governments charge more when giving concessions for residential units, because unlike hotel developments, they do not attract jobs, tourists or have an overall multiplier effect on the economy.
A previous PN government had awarded a concession to MIDI group for the development of Tigne Point as well as Manoel Island, under the agreement that the latter would have to restore the historic forts found within Manoel Island.
Last week, MIDI revealed there development plans which include retail outlets, residential units, a hotel as well as a casino.
PD’s Deputy Leader Anthony Buttigieg explained that this deal was carried out legally, with both sides of Parliament having scrutinised the contract and gave their approval. Dr Buttigieg stressed however that at the time the concession was being negotiated, Malta was a different place and that it probably made sense to set up such a major development.
Years down the line however, there is “a lot of work on the island and many tourists,” Dr Buttigieg said, however for the residents of Gzira, Msida, Sliema, San Gwann, should they wish to enjoy some free time in an open space, there is no choice but to drive to such a spot. There are no opportunities to walk towards an open space.
He also stressed that tourists come to Malta in order to experience the cultural elements that make the island what it is, rather than to see large developments everywhere.
Dr Buttigieg said that Gzira is experiencing unprecedented levels of development, and a green lung in the midst of such chaos is imperative.
“Money cannot be put before ensuring a good quality of life,” he said.
PD called on the government to take Manoel Island back into the public’s hands, and called on MIDI to act in good faith and sell the land back to the government.
Dr Farrugia stressed that the public has not been given anything back, and that the land could be used as an area for people to walk their dogs in peace, for children to play, could be used as a space were locals can showcase their art and culture. She added that with the backdrop of Valletta, the area could be made into a beautiful cultural space, and once again called on the government to do the right thing and give back to the people.