Public consultation on management of Natura 2000 sites launched

New management plans aimed at conforming developments in Natura 2000 sites, not completely freezing them - Michael Falzon 

Parliamentary secretary for planning Michael Falzon said that the public consultation over the management plans for 22 Natura 2000 sites had been opened until the 30 September . 

"The public is urged to view the management plans and make suggestions about them on www.natura2000malta.com.mt," environment protection officer Stephen Saliba said.

Falzon said that the management plans were not aimed at completely obliterating development in the sites but to regulate development so that it was in line with the law and with the surrounding habitats and species.

Asked how the authority would be addressing any past illegalities on these sites, Falzon said that this was under an altogether different authority and that the plan stated that development would have to conform to certain rules. 

"Planning laws do not entail regularizing or legalizing illegal developments in Natura 2000 sites but it doesn't refer to already existing illegalities," Falzon said.

MEPA CEO Vincent Cassar said that illegalities had all be issued with legal notices and that they would be dealt with accordingly. He added that further research into existing sites would also be taking place.

Falzon added that the government's seizure of the Munchies bar at Golden bay had been a result of work in this particular field. 

The management plans had been identified and approved by MEPA to protect and conserve particular species in the area, but they would be open for consultation unti the end of September, with two information meetings taking place on the 7 and 10 August, to inform the public about the individual sites. 

"The identification of these sites was in fulfilment of the EU's Habitat and Birds directives," Saliba said, adding that MEPA had chosen some 34 land-based sites and five marine sites.

Saliba explained that the areas chosen were mostly bays, cliff areas and some small areas like Comino, Selmunette and Ghar Dalam, where a conservation order was enough. 

Falzon added that the environment should be protected for all generations and that we should treat certain areas with respect and allow them time to recuperate.

Some of the proposals made include the expansion of habitats such as the sand dunes in Ramla l-Hamra, Gozo, and the control of alien species, among others. Saliba added that further proposals centred around better monitoring of specific areas, research into species as well as raising awareness and educating the general public about the Natura 2000 project.

Falzon stressed the need for research, backed by the necessary commitment to make a change and create a better awareness.