Let us preserve our heritage

The government boasts of the millions it spends on restoring our heritage. However, millions could be saved if we just decided to preserve it instead. Prevention is better than cure, and much cheaper.

Our common heritage is sadly overlooked by the authorities and proof of this lies everywhere. Two such landmarks are a gate and a fountain in St Venera. These ­landmarks are not far from the Romeo Romano Garden which was targeted by vandals not long ago. Again, the authorities did nothing about it. These landmarks, dating back to the 17th century, were built by the Knights of St John.

Many people would think that St Venera is a relatively new town with little or no history. However, a small walk through the village would be quite revealing. What are we waiting for? Is the Malta Planning and Environment Authority powerless when it comes preserving our heritage?

Is the government waiting for these landmarks to crumble, so that it can reap a restoration headline a few years down the line?