I refer to the letter from Mr David Pace (Smells in Marsascala, TMIS 17 November). While I thank him for his interest, I would like to clear some points for the benefit of your readers.

I do not know why Mr Pace said I have always refuted complaints from residents as regards persistent smells coming from the Sant’ Antnin plant. Actually, it is precisely the opposite. It was during the last legislature that I myself had proposed to the council that we engage an air quality specialist so that we could monitor these persistent smells. The council agreed unanimously to issue a tender in this regard and eventually Professor Joseph Buhagiar, who hails from Marsascala, was selected to conduct such monitoring.

Whenever a complaint regarding odours comes to the attention of the council, or me personally, it is always forwarded to Prof. Buhagiar, Mepa and WasteServ without delay.

I would also like to point out that, when I was contacted by your newspaper, I remember telling the journalist that I was shocked that now we are also having complaints from the St Thomas Bay area. Actually, I was the one who informed Prof. Buhagiar about this and I am sure that he has taken all necessary action, as is his custom.

As regards the closure of the park, I did not have any comments to make and I agreed with the Minister on his decision.

I have always put the interests of the public first.

Mario Calleja

Marsascala mayor