A crowdfunding campaign is being launched by Moviment Graffitti to appeal the Environment and Resources Authority permit for the uprooting of trees and construction works on the Comino Nature Reserve, as well as to finance future actions aimed at ”saving Comino from greed.”

The organisation said that people can donate by

1. Filling in this online form

2. Or via a bank transfer to this account (write Save Comino in the transfer’s description):

BOV

Name: Moviment Graffitti

IBAN: MT27VALL22013000000011799516027

Graffitti argued that ”ERA’s shameful decision last Friday to allow the uprooting of 800 trees and greenlight heavy construction works in a highly sensitive environment was a betrayal of its mission to protect our environment.”

”It chose to do the bidding of Hili Group and pave the way for its 44 swimming pools, 16 villas and 70-room hotel on Comino, rather than prioritise the safeguarding of the Nature Reserve and Malta’s national interest,” the organisation said.

Graffitti warned that ”unfortunately, ERA’s approval did not only accept the uprooting of trees and heavy construction works, but in practice also allowed Hili Group to start construction works while its PA permit is not definitive, with a Court process ongoing and the Court ruling in our favour on one major ground just last May, sending the case back to the Tribunal for reconsideration.”

The organisation stressed that ”although we are determined to appeal the ERA permit for the uprooting of trees and construction works, this alone will regrettably not stop Hili Group from commencing works, since works will not be suspended while the case is being heard.”

”We are therefore also inviting the public to remain on alert and give us their details – by filling in this form – so that other actions can be taken when needed. More information will be announced in the coming days,” Graffitti said.

Moviment Graffitti concluded by saying that ”we are aware that here we are up against some of the most powerful interests operating within our country. However, we are convinced that the people’s love for Comino can win over greed and complicity.”

Photo: Moviment Graffitti

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