I write with reference to the article in your paper (TMID, 19 August) regarding the enforcement action by Lands Department officials against 600 metres of illegal trenching and irrigation pipes on public land in Mellieha.

The Parliamentary Secretariat for Revenues and Land strongly denies all claims of political motivation, as enforcement always takes place following the thorough investigation and verification of reports that are received from the public by the Lands Department.

Both the Parliamentary Secretary and the Commissioner of Lands are not aware, and are not interested in, the political beliefs of the said farmer. Partisan politics makes no part of the equation, as this is never an issue.

The Lands Department categorically denies that at the time of enforcement on Tuesday, 18 August, it was aware of any other farmers making use of similar irrigation systems, hence breaking the law. All other claims will be duly investigated, and action will be taken accordingly.

Edward Bonello

Communications Coordinator, Parliamentary Secretariat Revenues and Land