AD’s spokesman for sustainable development, Carmel Cacopardo, addressed a news conference on site at Mistra this Saturday. He said that the work already done on land in Mistra and the MEPA permit for the activity are in breach of the Habitats Directive of the European Union, which is a basic tool for environmental protection which safeguards eco-systems.

The land at Mistra was part of Natura 2000 and was a special area of conservation. According to the directive, the only activity that could be carried out on site was that which is necessary for its management.

AD chairman and MEP candidate Arnold Cassola said that this is a challenge to those who wish the country to abide by the environmental rules of a civilized country and therefore AD, on Monday, will ask Commissioner Dimas to investigate the repeated infringement of the provisions of the Directive, not only at Mistra but also at Buskett and other localities. Once zones were declared special areas of conservation, regulations had to be followed, he insisted.

Prof. Cassola said it was clear that, in spite of rhetoric, the real European and modern mentality when it came to safeguarding the environment was still lacking in some people. This was another case where the Prime Minister, who was responsible for the environment, was allowing a blatant breach of EU legislation.

MEP candidate Yvonne Arqueros Ebeyer said that the case reflected the urgent need for AD to have a seat in the European Parliament to represent the many Maltese and Gozitans who wanted to safeguard their environment.

AD added that Dr Pullicino Orlando could be seen following the conference from behind its officials for long periods of time, he can be seen in the photograph above, sitting on the wall.

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