Ramla Bay sand-sifting postponed due to sensitivity of turtle nest site

Sand-sifting, which was due to be carried out for the first time this week at Ramla Bay beach in Gozo, has been suspended because of the turtle nest site.

The sifting was to clean the sand of materials such as cigarette butts and plastic, the Ministry for Gozo said.

Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri and Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia visited Ramla beach, where for the first time in 70 years a Loggerhead turtle came ashore to lay her eggs.

“The Ministry for Gozo took immediate action for 24-hour surveillance of the nest, and will be following developments,” said Minister Camilleri, while appealing to those who visit the beach to keep their distance from the nest site.

While thanking the Environment Authority and Nature Trust for taking immediate action as soon as they were informed early on Saturday morning, Minister Aaron Farrugia said that the site will be given direct protection through an Emergency Conservation Order to ensure that the nest is not in danger.

He explained that this turtle, which plays an important role in the marine ecosystem, is protected globally through the World Conservation Area as well as various types of national and international legislation.

Minister Farrugia concluded by stressing the need to protect the natural biodiversity of our country.