The European Commission will urge the Maltese authorities to take action against dumping on a Natura 2000 site in Gozo, after repeated complaints fell on deaf ears.

Nationalist MEP Therese Comodini Cachia yesterday told the Times of Malta the Commission had replied to an official question she had submitted after the dumping was brought to her attention back in June.

The illegal dumping of construction waste hit the headlines earlier this summer, when a large amount of building debris was seen being tipped onto a patch of land in Ta’ Slima’ in San Lawrenz, Gozo. The area is a designated Natura 2000 site known for its stunning views. It is also a popular spot with horticulturalists, as it is home to several protected plants.

The Commission will bring [Natura 2000 dumping] to the authorities’ attention

Despite this, a makeshift limestone wall has also recently been erected on the site and trucks are regularly seen accessing the area.

In her question, Dr Comodini Cachia told the Commission that the dumping had been reported to the planning authority several months ago but no action was taken. She urged Brussels to intervene.

In a brief reply, the Commission said it had not known of the dumping prior to the question, and while protection of Natura 2000 sites was up to individual member states, it would look into the matter.

“The Commission will bring this to the authorities’ attention, to ensure that the status of this site is retained and respected,” it said.