Speaking at press conference in Mosta, Alternattiva Demokratika chairman Harry Vassallo said that an AD councillor in Mosta is vital if the residents of the town want their locality to move forwards, not backwards.

“An AD councillor on Mosta local council will strive not just for more income generated from the attractions of this town, but also to improve such attractions using the income generated. AD would work for more guided tours for both tourists and locals of the various chapels found in Mosta and of the valleys, many of which, such as Speranza Valley, are home to indigenous and endemic plants. The income generated by this type of cultural and eco-tourism would be used for restoration of the same churches, and the maintenance and accessibility of the valleys”, he said.

Dr Vassallo reiterated that the Greens do not see economic activities as clashing with environmental protection. On the contrary, he said, “it is high time that Government realises that the economy and the environment can work hand in hand, and AD wants to propose this model in Mosta to serve as an example to other towns and villages in Malta and Gozo.”

Simon Galea, AD candidate for Mosta local council, said: “Mosta is facing a threat to its character, not just from development in the illegal newly-extended development boundaries, but now also by an application to build a supermarket and car park outside these development zones.”

He said that, following pressure from AD both in the media and through direct correspondence with the mayor, Mosta local council has now submitted its objection to Mepa, two days before the closing date.