Gozitan NGO Għawdix criticised Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo for failing to deliver on promises for Comino’s management, highlighting ongoing issues with plastic waste, sunbeds, and inadequate enforcement despite the island’s protected status.
Għawdix inspected Comino on 13 July and 3 August to assess whether the promised changes had been implemented. While they noted some improvements, persistent environmental and management issues remained. Their findings reveal inadequate efforts to address the island’s challenges.
The NGO shared its findings on social media, noting enforcement was inadequate, with no presence from Transport Malta, the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), Visit Malta or the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) on 13 July from 8am to 10 am.
On 3 August, only one Visit Malta officer was present at around 10am. Għawdix deemed this insufficient, emphasising that the quantity-over-quality approach to tourism on Comino required better enforcement.
The NGO raised concerns about the use of the foreshore on a Natura 2000 site for sunbeds, which has destroyed local flora. Sunbeds were set up as early as 8am on both days of the NGO’s visit.
Għawdix pointed out that the ERA’s Natura 2000 Management Plan for Comino, published eight years ago, called for a tourism carrying capacity assessment, which remains unimplemented.
Despite Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo’s pledge that a comprehensive plan would be in place by summer 2024, plans have remained shelved.
The promise of reducing the number of sunbeds and deckchairs at the Blue Lagoon by 65% has not materialised. Instead, they were moved to other parts of the bay, which did not address the problem.
Għawdix pointed out the minister’s assurances that the garigue would be protected and sunbeds placed only on rocks, but photographic evidence from their visits contradicts this claim.
The NGO noted that previous efforts and press releases have had limited impact, highlighting the need for more robust enforcement and proactive measures.
The organisation acknowledged some positive developments. Għawdix commended the increase in waste management infrastructure, noting the addition of more bins around the island and the use of visible stickers indicating the type of waste, making waste separation easier. It also praised the work of cleaners on site.
Members also observed reduced noise pollution from kiosks.
However, the NGO also noted plastic and other single-use waste remained a problem, especially around the Blue Lagoon.
Għawdix stressed that despite previous clean-up efforts, including the removal of over 210 garbage bags from iconic locations and ongoing dialogue with governmental bodies, substantial progress remains elusive. The NGO urged all stakeholders to take swift and collaborative action to address these challenges.
Għawdix emphasised that Comino’s approach to tourism should prioritise quality over quantity, ensuring sustainable practices that preserve the island’s natural beauty and heritage.
its called M …. afia
I have learnt that this government and its ministers will sweet talk everyone, appease all, and do the exact opposite of what they said that they would
They (PL) figured out that the Police Farce and the law courts could not keep up with the institutionalised corruption and crime. To the extent that cases will drag on beyond their children’s lifetime, or people’s memory, as there is too much of it.
However righteous the NGO’s anger and however strong and persuasive the justified objections raised, they can never outdo the tingle of abundant, easy and monopolistic lucre enjoyed by the Minister’s friends, can they!
If anyone don’t follow the rule.
If someone don’t respect his oath.
There is only the way to the judge.
Because:
The standard tsar is just s funny guy, will never work for the Maltese.
BTW: Very very low standard.
Because:
Unfortunately the police will never be helpful.