Why stop at Bahrija?
Leo Brincat stated in last Monday's Bondi+ programme that the PL would act on windfarms according to the findings of a public perception survey. Politicians have to shoulder responsibility and offer guidance on matters of national importance by not shying away from difficult decisions. While public consultation is a cornerstone of the planning process which have to be upheld at all times, eventually politicians have to take the decision which best suits the national interest rather than being opportunistic and taking the most popular decision.
Environmental decisions are always bound to stir emotions in Malta in view of the high population density and hence the politician's role is to provide guidance rather than being opportunistic. Decisions have to be taken now since the 2020 deadline was fast looming and a national consensus is needed on renewable projects such as the windfarms one.
Especially flawed were comments made by PL leader Joseph Muscat who simply pegged government's choice of Wied Rini in Bahrija for the siting of wind turbines to political reasons, stating that the site was mainly inhabited by Labourites.
These were no more than hollow aspersions, since recommendations made by the Committee on Wind Energy (CoWe), which I chaired, were made purely on scientific and technical grounds. One could also argue that Sikka l-Bajda, chosen as the site for the offshore windfarm, abutted on areas inhabited by nationalist strongholds, such as Mellieha and St Paul's Bay. Hence, the argument should not stop at the Bahrija site - in addition, Hal Far lies in the midst of an industrial area and is not close to any residential area.
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Claire Bonello
May 21st 2009, 22:29
Alan, check out Bondi plus footage. You will hear the Opposition spokesman making reference to "rapporti teknici dment li jkunu dettaljati" and "studji dettaljati u perception studies". As you can see there was mention of technical studies. I know you wouldn't want to be "selective" in your choice of quotes.
Chris Ripard
May 21st 2009, 21:54
I hope you make it to the European Parliament, Dr Deidun - not that your fellow PN candidates are any less valid, of course.
It would show that we're not all bumbling incompetents who don't know which button to press!
@Pat - your Green fixation that only Greens can be green, when the entire basis for pro-environmentalism is that it affects one and all is contradictory and drives punters away.
Henry Jacobs
May 21st 2009, 19:50
Would vote Labour if they promised a survey on Income Tax.
J. Borg
May 21st 2009, 19:09
Dr. Deidun,
Did the committee REALLY consider setting up structures in Sicily and then transferring the power generated to Malta?
And if yes, could you kindly clarify what were the issues that dismissed such option......pls don't repeat the sensless excuse uttered by George Pullicino or the quasi undiplomatic comment by Prof. Mallia.
Thnks
Muscat.Pat
May 21st 2009, 16:37
The "hanfusa" and politics do not mix; not unless one is a committed "green". "Closet" nationalist with green camouflage does not an environmentalist make!
Victor Laiviera
May 21st 2009, 15:19
Mr Deidun, like Dr Gonzi, is misquoting Mr Brincat.
I watched the programma and what Mr Brincat said was that he would take cognizance of all studies INCLUDING environmental studies AND (not only) public perception studies.