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Gharb says no to fireworks factories
60 per cent of Gharb residents have voted against having more fireworks factories in their locality.
In a consultative referendum called by the local council following last September's fireworks factory explosion that killed six, 60 per cent of voters expressed themselves against the granting of new permits. Only 40 per cent were in favour, Mayor David Apap said.
A total of 491 people cast their vote in yesterday’s referendum.
The small picturesque village of Gharb has some 1,200 registered voters, with a turnout usually standing at about 800. The remaining registered voters do not ordinarily live in Gharb, most f them being Maltese with homes there or foreigners.
Gharb residents were asked whether new fireworks factories should be allowed.
There is currently one pending application for a new fireworks factory - submitted by a group of Gharb residents.
Mayor David Apap said the vote would now be discussed in the council.
Monique Cauchi •
I fail to see what there is to discuss. If the majority of the people say they don't want a fireworks factory in the vicinity of their village then that should be the end of it.
