In the article Eco-Gozo consultation with the public launched, the Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, made reference to “sceptics regarding the strategy” who said that Eco-Gozo is an excellent idea but which cannot be placed into practice. It’s about time Mrs Debono and the government woke up and smelled the coffee.

How can people be anything other than sceptical when they see what is happening to their beautiful island? The proposed marina at Hondoq, which will result in the destruction of one of Gozo’s most beautiful areas, enjoyed by Gozitans, Maltese and tourists alike, should not even be considered in terms of an eco island. The same goes for the proposed development at Ramla. Why is it that after nine months, this government has not lifted a finger to remove the abusive buildings there? Why is the developer’s appeal being allowed in November even after he defaulted on his payment? Would the ordinary citizen be afforded the same courtesy?

The people have every reason to be sceptical when, on the one hand, the government, through Mrs Debono, is talking about making Gozo an eco island and, on the other hand, it is in league with, and through Mepa giving support to, the developers who are hell-bent on destroying the island for profit!

The ordinary people of Malta must stand up and give their full support to NGOs such as FAA that do such wonderful work in keeping these issues at the fore.

James A. Tyrrell,
5 Lower Cairncastle Road,
Larne,
County Antrim,
N. Ireland BT40 1PG