The government has confirmed that a newly appointed landscape expert advising on works at the Ta' Qali picnic area stands to earn up to €9,000, excluding VAT.

The question, by PN MP Rebekah Borg, asked the government to state who provided expert advice both before and after gravel was laid over grass at the picnic area. However, the minister's reply did not mention anyone who provided expert advice before the gravel project took place.

It only mentioned the newly appointed expert advising after the works had already taken place.

Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Minister Chris Bonett said that Joe Schembri was appointed earlier this month as an expert to advise the ministry on landscaping matters related to the site. Bonett cited his more than 20 years' experience in greening projects across Malta. He is being paid €50 per hour for a maximum of 180 hours under a contract signed on 7 January 2026 and awarded in line with public procurement regulations, the minister said.

The Ta' Qali picnic area has drawn public criticism following the covering of the site with gravel, with concerns raised about environmental impact and the decision-making process behind the intervention.