The Chairman of the Consultative Council for the South of Malta said he is pleased with the decision taken to have the campus of the American University of Malta divided between Marsascala and Cospicua.

In a statement, Labour MP Silvio Parnis said “this was another decision made by Government that strengthens the South of Malta, showing a belief that this zone has big potential and a lot to offer”.

Parnis goes on to say that with this decision, the government has gone ahead and proven that it will continue to honour its commitment towards strengthening and improving the South.

“This type of project helps to bridge the economic imbalance found between the North and the South, which came about from the previous administration”, Mr Parnis said.

He highlighted the different benefits to be gained from this type of project, stating that a positive impact on society within the intended zones is surely to be felt. In addition to social benefits, Mr Parnis also mentions job opportunities, better quality of life, better infrastructure, regeneration of historical buildings as well as new recreational facilities for all within the intended areas of investment.

The chairman applauded Government’s decision to reduce the development on ODZ land by 80% from the original proposal. He highlighted the fact that the new proposal uses abandoned land that will not leave a negative impact on the ecosystem, according to a report carried out in 2011.

“Through this project we have seen that this Government is open to dialogue and consultation, and is capable of taking a decision in a swift and effective way. The decision of this Government about the American University of Malta was one based on respect: respect towards the environment, respect towards the people of the Southern parts of Malta, and lastly, respect towards the freedom of speech”, Mr Parnis said.