Our association (the 3/11 Regiment RMA (T) Association), representing the last soldiers who actually served in Fort St Elmo, which throughout its history was a totally military establishment, is in complete agreement with the ideas mooted by Charles C. Brown (March 18) which essentially suggested a plan for the fort that fully safeguards its basic character, vis-à-vis that of a military locus.

Our ideas for Fort St. Elmo are very close to what Mr. Brown is proposing (including, but not exclusively so, having a constant military presence of some sort in the place, proper regimental museums, offices for ex-servicemen's societies, etc). And these ideas were extensively discussed earlier this year in a very cordial meeting during which we were invited to discuss the subject held with Mario De Marco, Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism. The fuller position of our Association with regard to St Elmo was also included in the memorandum which some years ago had been submitted to the Valletta Rehabilitation Committee, which then seemed to be the official government entity in charge of the repristination process, but whose role now in the process is anything but clear.

The ever kind Dr De Marco showed full appreciation for our suggestions and promised us that we would be kept informed of what is happening, as well as being constantly involved in the discussion process. Now we read that a steering committee has been charged with the drafting of a Master Plan for the Saint Elmo project. And some designs were even included with that article (In-Nazzjon, March 17).

Our feeling is that if this is the approach that is going to be adopted then certainly this is neither within the correct spirit, nor consistent with what normal etiquette would require.

Before any government committee comes up with any plans whatsoever, we feel that parties which have already shown their interest in and closeness to the Fort should first be formally consulted.