For the record
In view of the misunderstandings that have arisen recently, we would like to bring to the attention of readers a press release agreed upon by all the 17 environment NGOs that participated in the environment rally. The press release, sent to the media...
In view of the misunderstandings that have arisen recently, we would like to bring to the attention of readers a press release agreed upon by all the 17 environment NGOs that participated in the environment rally. The press release, sent to the media on June 22 but never printed, read thus:
"The 17 groups that organised the national environment rally in favour of the protection of our rural and urban heritage, as well as to protest against the extension of building zones, would like to thank the public for turning up in their hundreds.
"Their attendance represented all walks of Maltese life and confirmed that the Maltese have a genuine interest in environmental issues and are keen to participate in decisions which affect them.
"The presence of politicians from all three parties also indicated their respective party's commitment to public consultation on a healthy environment. This should be handled free of partisan comment, above partisan politics and as a national and unifying issue.
"The rally organisers remind the public that the extension of the building zones means a further spread of Malta's built-up areas and a loss of landscape and agricultural land, as well as protected trees, ecological and archaeological sites. Therefore, the 17 NGOs urge the public to sign the environment petition which was launched at the rally.
"Members of the public who do not yet have a copy can print one from the website - www.ambjentahjar.org - and gather as many signatures as possible. Once signed, the petition sheets may be mailed to Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar, PO Box 41, Sliema Post Office, SLM 01."