Gozo tunnel: proper consultation, real discussion, and respect for environment lacking - PD

PD will launch its policy for Gozo in the coming days, it said in a statement, while insisting that Gozo's insularity needs to be tackled with a completely different approach to that presently promoted by government.

Recent public statements indicate that the Gozo Tunnel, as currently proposed, is a done deal, PD said. "The total lack of a public participation process is incredible considering that this is a major project with far reaching effect on Gozo's life fabric. The island's environment, way of life, physical capital and social milieu will be forever changed and for the worse," said MEP candidate Camilla Appelgren.

PD stands for a structured plan that, through positive discrimination proposals, leads towards a level playing field for Gozitans and brings real meaning to its Poplu Wieħed (One People) call, the statement read. The issue of connectivity does not need a permanent link to be solved. "Decision makers need to think out of the box," said MEP candidate Martin Cauchi Inglott, "and PD will soon be launching a series of proposals on how Gozitans can get better access to opportunities and better connectivity."

Whilst acknowledging that government has an electoral mandate for a permanent link, it needs to be ensured that all the necessary studies on the environmental impact and on the technological issues are carried out and presented for public consultation, PD said.

PD asks whether government has considered other technologies besides seabed tunnelling, which do not impact so negatively on the environment. PD questions the decision why the tunnel being proposed is earmarked for car use rather than some form of mass transportation which could eventually be integrated into a broader network in Malta as well.

"The feeling that such major projects are being presented to the people when all major decisions have been taken generates a sense of resignation, which needs to be resisted. We cannot allow such projects to be presented as a fait accompli," said MEP candidate Anthony Buttigieg. 

 

from The Malta Independent http://bit.ly/2t3Vw0l
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