Alternattiva Demokratika – said that prompt action by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority enforcement section had prevented the illegal dumping of construction waste at sea following reports made by AD’s Environment Committee.

“We acted on reports received by Marsaxlokk fishermen, who alerted us to the dumping and enquired of those responsible at Mepa whether a permit for this activity had been issued,” said AD’s environment and rural affairs spokesman Mark Causon. “We have been informed that the dumping is illegal, and has been made subject to enforcement procedures.”

“Our investigations showed that barges were unloading offshore at Marsaxlokk, causing alarm among fishermen whose fishing grounds are threatened by this activity,” said Mr Causon.

He said it was high time that construction people are made to realise that the sea is not their private rubbish dump, and that there are other legitimate interests in the country other than theirs. “We expect the emergency enforcement measures to be followed by a full investigation, followed by the publication of its results. Permits for dumping at sea should not be issued; excavated rock should be used and not dumped. The cost of construction, including dealing with the waste generated, should not be borne by the environment while speculators rake in their millions,” said Mr Causon.

“The AD Environment Committee constantly reports similar infringements to Mepa and only a small fraction of these reports are made public,” he said. “The situation is clearly becoming untenable and institutionally-recognised NGO coordination is required to serve as a national watchdog. AD will be glad to pass on its expertise in the field to such an organisation,” Mr Causon added.

“However, what is required first and foremost is effective enforcement that will discourage the most outrageous infringements, and at the same time reduce the workload of watchdogs and law enforcement agencies,” he concluded.