The public’s condemnation and outcry following the vandalism attack on 3,000 trees at the Foresta 2000 afforestation project in Mellieha has led to the collection of a staggering Lm45,000, with which more than three times the number of vandalised trees can be purchased.

Speaking to The Malta Independent in an interview, Din L-Art Helwa’s president Martin Galea said that so much was collected because the “mindless vandalism” was not only directed at the trees but also at those who have the environment at heart. The planting of the new trees is scheduled to start in October.

When asked about what is being done to increase security in the area so as to avoid other possible vandalism attacks, Mr Galea said the organisation was in process of installing security cameras and the police patrols in the area have been stepped up.

Last week, Mr Galea said, vandals broke into the Santa Marija tower in Comino and destroyed the furniture there was inside.

In his interview, Mr Galea also spoke about the new Nature Park in Ghajn Tuffieha which has been entrusted to Din L-Art Helwa and Nature Trust to manage. He also reiterated Din l-Art Helwa’s opposition to spring hunting, to the proposed development at Ramla Bay in Gozo and spoke about the organisation’s plans for the future.

See full interview tililed " Environmentally friendly"