The Gharb Local Council has expressed it’s sympathy and solidarity with the families of the victims of the tragedy which occurred yesterday at the Gharb Firework Factory explosion.

The council also said that it will be holding a referendum for the residents of the village, so that they may voice their opinion on whether or not to approve an application by the village festivities committee for the building of another fireworks factory close to the site where yesterdays tragic events took place.

The council said that it could not take a position on the issue itself because some members of the council have a conflict of interest. The issue had been discussed with the Department of Local Council and the council had been advised that, while it could not take a decision because of conflicts of interest, it could raise certain concerns, such as the proximity of residences to the proposed fireworks factory.

The council said that it was insisting that the authorities should enforce strict measures on how existing fireworks factories are operated and what materials were used, so as to ensure complete safety.

The council also said it had discussed property damages suffered by residents and would be considering further assistance through its legal adviser.

The council concluded by extending their thanks to the police, the civil protection and army members who arrived so quickly on the scene, the staff of of Gozo General Hospital and the volunteers of the Malta Red Cross Gozo Branch who also assisted at the scene.

Photograph is by Xavier Wambergue.

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