Save Ħondoq before Gozo is destroyed (2)

Published on the Times of Malta on Wednesday 26th May, 2010 by David Pisani, PRO, Żminijietna - Voice of the Left, Valletta

The residents of Qala should unite with Qala's Labourite mayor, Paul Buttigieg, the Green Party and various environmental, social and political organisations to convey a united opposition, against the proposed project that will ruin one of the most beautiful natural places of public use in Gozo.

The proposed area is one outside the development zone, mainly frequented by the public both for swimming and hiking purposes.

A referendum conducted amongst the people of Qala showed clearly that 85 per cent of the people disagree with the proposed project.

The government should implement a clear policy for an "Eco-Gozo" that will lead to the rehabilitation of Ħondoq ir-Rummien, through public investment, with special attention to the natural environment of the area and the regeneration of the old quarry with the planting of trees.

It is in developers' interest to portray the project as environmentally sound, but this is very far from reality. The construction of a yacht marina at Portomaso resulted in the destruction of a historical wall trench and the area is no longer accessible to the public for swimming and other recreation purposes. The interests of the few is leading to the ruin of the natural beauty of the Maltese Islands. The same will happen in Qala if a permit is granted.

Tomorrow, Żminijietna will attend Mepa's public hearing to give its full support against the destruction of Ħondoq ir-Rummien.

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