Alternattiva Demokratika deputy chairman Carmel Cacopardo said it was “essential” and “necessary” that the gas used for the Delimara power station was stored outside Marsaxlokk bay.

Welcoming the use of gas, which, he noted, would improve the air quality in Marsaxlokk, Birżebbuġa and the surrounding localities, Mr Cacopardo said it was clear that the residents’ concerns were not being adequately addressed.

The risk assessment on the gas storage facility at Marsaxlokk bay “is far from convincing”, he added. It was important that there was no undue haste and that further studies were carried out.