The University of Malta, in a statement today said that "it is very disappointed and deeply regrets the unfortunate outcome resulting from the extreme pruning of the olive trees at the University race track."

"This was a serious misjudgement and care will be taken in future to ensure that such actions will never be repeated," the University said.

"The olive trees had grown inordinately high and the upper branches had dried up. The University had received complaints from the Gzira Local Council which raised residents' concerns about safety and security issues following burglaries in the area. The residents suspected that the dense overgrowth of the trees could provide cover for unwelcomed prying. There were also complaints about falling twigs, olives and leaves on cars parked below."

The University said that in an effort to address these complaints and to rejuvenate the trees, the University staff responsible requested four quotations for the pruning of the olive trees and removal of debris.

The quotations were evaluated by the Precincts Office in accordance with the standard procedures established by the Procurement Directorate, and the most favourable offer was chosen.

The contractor had previously done satisfactory pruning work on Campus, UoM said. "The service provider was meant to prune the trees in such a way as to limit their eventual height after regrowth and to strengthen them over the next two years"

Another thirty olive trees will be planted in the same area, at the appropriate time later on in the year.

This serious matter is being looked into in detail by the University authorities, it said, to determine whether further action should be taken.

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