Momentum has submitted a Freedom of Information request seeking detailed information about cleaning, rehabilitation and other works that have been carried out or are currently being carried out in valleys across Gozo.

In a statement on Saturday, the Party said that cleanup works have been undertaken in Gozo’s valleys, ”but they remain shrouded in mystery, with very limited publicly available professional information explaining what works have been carried out, why they were necessary, what methods were used, and what impact they may have on the natural environment.”

The works were highlighted by Minister Clint Camilleri, who shared a video showing works carried out during the summer.

In light of the importance of Gozo’s valleys as natural, ecological and rural areas, Momentum said it believes that the public should have access to proper documentation concerning such interventions. Through its FOI request, Momentum is asking for a list of the valleys and locations where works have taken place, together with the dates on which the works started and were completed.

The Party added that the request also seeks copies of technical advice, ecological and environmental studies, and reports prepared before the works commenced, together with the names, qualifications and roles of the experts involved. It is also requesting information on the machinery and methods used, including the type and quantity of material removed and where this material was transported or disposed of.

It explained that the FOI request further asks for reports, surveys, photographs and other documentation showing the condition of the sites before and after the interventions, as well as copies of all relevant permits, authorisations and environmental assessments.

Momentum stressed that ”of particular interest is how protected species were actually protected.”

Information is also being requested on the entities and contractors responsible for the works, the total cost of the works at each location, inspection and monitoring reports, and any plans for maintenance or restoration following the interventions, the Party said.

Graziella Spiteri, executive member of Momentum, said, “we have already had a bad experience with the Ta’ Qali National Picnic Area gravel saga, where, despite repeated assurances, no expert reports have been made public. Interventions in even more sensitive areas, such as our valleys, must be properly documented and subject to appropriate professional oversight. Transparency is particularly important when public funds are being used and environmentally sensitive areas are involved.”

Photos supplied by Momentum

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