Respiratory problems in Naxxar likely caused by quarry dust - AD

Altnernattiva Demokratika candidate Silvan Agius said the large amount of dust blowing over Naxxar from surrounding quarries is causing the area’s air quality to be in a very bad state.

Agius said that Naxxar is effectively surrounded by quarries, with one large quarry also along Triq il-Fortizza, another between Naxxar and Gharghur and yet another quarry along Vjal il-Labour.

“A significant number of Naxxar residents are suffering from respiratory problems, such as asthma, and it is likely and probable that the rate of such problems is higher here in Naxxar than in other parts of Malta,” Agius claimed.

He said that it is high time that proper action is taken in order to stop the spreading of quarry dust over the area. Agius said that MEPA needs to be consistent with both the citizens who are asked to adhere to certain regulations when carrying out renovations works on their houses, and with quarry owners producing limestone slabs.

“Citizens’ health should be given priority over everything else,” he added.

Echoing Agius’s statement, AD spokesman on Sustainable Development Carmel Cacopardo said MEPA should focus more on regularising quarries. He said that their operation is not compatible with the residential zones developed around them.

“Those quarries which are not able to control the dust produced from their operations should be closed,” Cacopardo said. “Since MEPA gave out those permits for residential zones, it now has the obligation to create the necessary conditions for quarries to function in zones where people can live without problems.

AD chairperson Michael Briguglio said the Green Party will continue to work in favour or resident rights in both Malta and Gozo.

“In Naxxar we find a precarious situation for the residents there, due to the lack of legislation with regards to quarry dust,” he said. “The election of Alternattiva Demokratika brings with it real commitment towards the introduction of clear legislation in this regard.”