The lobby group was formed

during a meeting between local councils, from the southern

area – Marsascala, Birzebbuga, Marsaxlokk and Xghajra – and a number of organisations, with the aim of voicing their opposition to the positioning of tuna pens in the south of the island.

The proposal is being studied by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (Mepa). However, as Mepa carries out the necessary research, Front Marsaxlokk is working steadfastly to back its opposition by the widest representation possible.

The four organisations that form part of the lobby group are the Marsascala Shops’ Association – which is also an affiliate of the Malta Chamber for Small and Medium Enterprises (GRTU), Fishing Cooperative Ltd, the St Tomas Bay Association and the Marsascala Amateur Sailors and Fishermen Association.

Alternattiva Demokratika has also joined in the protest and another 17 local councils have been invited to join the movement. Many of them have already confirmed their support verbally and will send it in writing shortly, the statement continued.

Yesterday, Front Marsaxlokk began collecting signatures to a petition, a copy of which is available at all the local councils forming part of the lobby group for the public to sign. Any organisation wanting to join the protest may contact Marsascala local council or the Marsascala Shops’ Association.