Local NGOs, the Ramblers’ Association of Malta, Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar, Friends of the Earth (Malta) and Nature Trust (Malta), in a joint statement this afternoon said that the “are deeply concerned at the news of the threatening letter received by Alternattiva Demokratika leader Dr Michael Briguglio in connection with his party’s strong stand over the boathouses at Armier and elsewhere.”

The three environmental organisations repeat that “they are against all abusive takeovers of public land and condemn the disgraceful inaction of successive governments in the face of such shameless abuse by a few hundreds.

The NGOs said that “the situation has now escalated to a deplorable extent while some interested individuals are doing their utmost to convince the public that the situation is out of control and cannot be remedied; that we all have to accept it, condone all past abuses and move on.”

“In plain language,” the NGOs stated, “those who have stolen what belongs to us all, and not to any political party, may enjoy it for the exclusive use of their present families and of their future generations. This tolerance of illegality is unacceptable, and encourages the mentality of abuse that is gradually pervading our country.”

The NGOs statement concluded, “people need to believe in the rule of law and to understand that retroactive laws, which restore to the people what was stolen from them, are just and necessary. NO political party should allow itself to be held to ransom by ANY bullies or pressure groups as this undermines good governance, the cornerstone of a country’s well being.”

Earlier this week AD Chairperson Michael Briguglio issued a statement to say that he had received a written threat on the Armier issue. This had been sent to his previous address and had passed the letter on to the Sliema police, where a report was filed.

Briguglio said: “I thank the Police for their cooperation. I am not intimidated by the threat which I received, and which also threatened my family. I will immediately inform the police if other threats occur.”

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