ERA to launch management plans for 34 Natura 2000 sites

Environment minister Jose Herrera said that the Environment and Resources Authority will be launching its management plans for some 34 Natura 2000 sites.

The sites cover some 13.5% of land in Malta and Goso and the plans follow months of consultations involving stakeholders in the sector.

Herrera and animal rights parliamentary secretary Roderick Galdes, were speaking during a visit to events held on occasion of the World Environment day.

“ERA will also be proposing eight new sites for marine protection,” Herrera said, adding that cooperation in preserving biodiversity is essential.

Galdes, praised the government’s zero-tolerance policy against illegal sale of wildlife, and added that Malta was playing its part to fight the illegal slaughter and sale of wild or protected birds.

 “The Wild Birds Regulation unit will be launching a new fund for the conservation of wild birds to support conservation projects financially,” he said, adding that the government would continue to be proactive to ensure that biodiversity is properly safeguarded.