The Ombudsman has taken up the Opposition’s request for an investigation into illegal works being carried out on Comino, the Nationalist Party said.

The “illegal” roadworks near the Blue Lagoon were blasted by a number of environmental organisations. The Planning Authority has meanwhile said that the works do not require a permit and the Gozo Ministry said everything is being done according to an ERA permit.

Opposition environment spokesman Robert Cutajar said last week he would refer the case to the Ombudsman’s office. The Ombudsman has now confirmer that an investigation – led by the Environment Commissioner – is being carried out, Cutajar said.

Perit Alan Saliba has informed the Planning Authority and the Environment and Resources Authority that an investigation is underway, Cutajar said.

Pointing that the area is extremely sensitive and ecologically important, Saliba said he was concerned about the permanent damage caused by the works in such a sensitive and unique area.

He gave the two authorities a week in which to reply to his questions.

This, Cutajar said, proves how right the PN and the environmental NGOs were in criticising the works. It also showed that the government lied when it tried to justify the works.  

The Opposition will continue pressing on the message that environmental damage is unacceptable, Cutajar continued. Instead of protecting the environment, the government is the one that is leading its destruction, he said.  

Cutajar said he has asked the Ombudsman’s office to investigate environmental damage caused in other areas by government entities. These include works carried out at Dingli, Marsa, Attard, Dwejra Lines in Mosta, near the White Tower in Mellieha, in Pembroke and also in Imriehel.