Rigs which are currently sitting in Palumbo Shipyards representing an eyesore on the Grand Harbour landscape are set to be removed from the country by April this year, Transport Minister Ian Borg announced on Wednesday. 

These rigs have been subject to controversy because they have been laid up and static for a number of years as a result of the global crisis in the oil and gas industry, combined with the Covid-19 pandemic. 

However, according to a statement from the Transport Ministry, following discussions with rig owners and local representatives “who recognised the sensitivity and unique features of the Grand Harbour and the relevance of the harbour to residents in surrounding cities and the public in general”, it has been agreed that the rigs will be mobilised and leave Malta entirely. 

This is a huge operation and takes several months, the statement read. 

Due to the travel restrictions brought about by Covid-19, reactivation and mobilisation are even more complex due to the fact that the use of specialised machinery needs to be made and, furthermore, these need to be imported from the United Kingdom and Europe. 

 “This Government is aware of the potential and reputation that Malta has in the maritime sector and we are committed to maintain this standard as well as improve it. With this initiative and policy to clean the Grand Harbour from these ships, we will also be complementing other interventions such as the Grand Harbour Regeneration Plan as well as other projects such as the Grand Harbour Clean Air Project and the new wharf at Ras Ħanżir”, Borg said in the statement. 

“We are aware of the degree that the maritime industry in Malta is a pillar of the national economy and how it generates many jobs and so it is our duty to safeguard it and improve it.” 

The Minister added that the initiative to remove laid-up vessels will also serve to prevent potential damage to the surrounding marine environment and reiterated that both the government and the authority’s officials will be in contact with representatives of industry, NGOs, and all stakeholders so that the maritime sector flourishes while also being sensitive to social expectations and needs.