The government is failing to enforce the protection of Natura 2000 sites which are continuously under attack by illegal dumping of bulky waste, Nature Trust Malta said yesterday.

The NGO called on the government to ensure there is more commitment by the authorities involved to protect natural heritage after illegal dumping of household bulky waste was discovered at Pembroke.

The discovery was made by a Nature Trust voluntary ranger who inspects the Natura 2000-designated site twice a week.

While noting that €1.3 million has been spent through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development to co-finance the management plans and provide a legal framework for the management of these sites, NTM insisted that more frequent patrols and prohibitive punitive measures need to be implemented, since such sites are continuously under threat.

NTM also pointed out that two other Natura 2000 sites under constant dump-ing threat are Ballut ta’ Marsaxlokk (known also as Il-Magħluq), and Magħluq ta’ Marsascala.

Nature Trust insisted that more frequent patrols and prohibitive punitive measures need to be implemented,since such sites are continuously under threat

Illegal dumping of waste in Natura 2000 sites hit the headlines earlier this summer when building debris was seen being tipped onto a patch of land 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 European Commission said last week that it 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 told the Times of Malta the Commission had replied to an official question she asked after the issued was brought to her attention in June.