MEPA denies Greenpeace claim

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority said it is engaged in discussions with Malta Drydocks and the Waste Management Services Agency over procedures used in ship tank cleaning operations.

Replying to a statement by Greenpeace, MEPA strongly denied that the Norwegian vessel Kronviken had specifically brought toxic material for dumping in Malta or that MEPA has not adequately inspected the ship.

MEPA said it was informed by the drydocks that the oil sludge which was removed from the Kronviken and dumped at Maghtab consisted of the sediment that remains after each tank cleaning operation.

It was usual for the material to be disposed of at Maghtab.

MEPA reiterated that no toxic material was found on board the Kronviken during two inspections it held on board the vessel. The only waste found was ash that resulted from the incineration of domestic waste, MEPA added.

Greenpeace claimed it had evidence to rebut assurances given by MEPA that there was no toxic waste aboard the Kronviken when it entered Maltese waters.

Greenpeace said it had taken samples of the waste at Maghtab for analysis in the UK.

Analysis results were expected in January.