Activists welcome access to Manoel Island foreshore: 'Taking back what is rightfully ours'

Activists Kamp Emergenza Ambjent (KEA) have welcomed MIDI’s decision to restore access to the Manoel Island foreshore, noting that direct action in favour of the environment has led to a tangible victory.

“This was possible because many have shown that they are not ready to have their rights breached, and their land and sea taken away by the greedy and the powerful,” the activists said.

“Let it be clear that this is no concession from MIDI but it is simply a matter of taking back what is rightfully ours.”

In a reaction to MIDI’s press statement, KEA reiterated that access to Manoel Island should not be limited to its foreshore, since the terms of the contract MIDI signed with government state that access to all areas of the island should be guaranteed.

“The contract clearly states that this can only be temporarily closed by government itself (as the Grantor) during construction (see clause 15.1 of attached contract),” KEA said.

“Thus, MIDI has no right to close access to the rest of the island and the public is under no obligation to keep to the foreshore.”

KEA said activists and organisations will remain vigilant to ensure that access is restored to the full.

“If access is hindered once again, we will be ready to take action,” they pledged.

KEA went on to add that it will also keep exerting pressure on other environmental issues affecting the island, ranging from absurd high-rise projects to fish-farm pollution and the American University of Malta’s campus in Żonqor. “We shall be active in resisting those who want to damage our environment and quality of life, for their own private gain.”