The GRTU has said that it once again “calls on Government to take a stand on the issue of Open Storage Facilities in Gozo.”
“Entrepreneurs have had enough of MEPA Enforcement Notice, having to transfer heavy plant vehicles in the middle of the night and other exigencies, because Gozo only exists for Eco-Gozo.” GRTU stated.
The GRTU added, “we as representatives of these entrepreneurs take a different approach. Why cannot the Authorities, MEPA in this case, sit down, study case by case, take decisions and move on.”
“Over three years ago, GRTU had made a stock-take of this situation. A file with all the sites pertaining to this issue was even given to ex-MEPA CEO Dr Ian Stafrace. After weeks on end on the shelf, MEPA came up with an idea, choosing two areas that MEPA believed could be used as open storage facilities,” GRTU said.
It pointed out that “during a public hearing by MEPA officials in Gozo organised organised by GRTU, the idea was strongly opposed by one and many including the Ghajnsielem Local Council which would have been mostly affected if this had actually happened.”
“Architect Frans Mallia of MEPA is aware of these sites and of the current situation,” GRTU said.
GRTU went on to say that it “has requested a meeting with the Gozo Ministry in order to try and build a time frame for coming to terms and deciding on each case on its own merit. No date has as yet been set.”
“Time for SMEs is precious and costly. We cannot wait another five years for a solution to come along. The Minister for Gozo, Dr Anton Refalo needs to stand up and be counted over this issue now,” the GRTU concluded.