ADPD has called out Maltese authorities for its lack of action against the Bitmac plant, calling them “toothless” and asking whether they are waiting for someone to “fall ill” to take action.

“It is a cause for great concern that one of Bitmac’s owners was a canvasser of an ex-Minister from the eighth district,” Chairperson of the Greens Party Sandra Gauci said. 

Residents of San Ġwann, Iklin, Għargħur, and Ħal Lija who live in the vicinity of the plant have issued complaints which have been “consistently dodged” by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) by claiming that it has no regulatory remit when it comes to such industrial plants. , according to ADPD.

ERA further advised the residents to take the necessary remedial action according to the political party.

“Such a response shows the complete indifference to the residents’ plights. According to the Environmental Health Directorate (EHD), action can only be taken if residents provide evidence that their health has been negatively affected.”

“The health of our citizens cannot be treated as a trivial matter. Our regulatory bodies have a preventative role –  to act to prevent damage to people’s health”, Zerafa said.

The pollution inflicted on residents includes “unbearable and volatile smells”, still pungent when the windows are closed, and incessant dust which both indicate a disruption in the air quality.

“The dispersion of various types of industrially produced dust due to the open storage of construction aggregate material is having negative impacts on air quality and the quality of life. ”

Meanwhile, co-Chairperson of ADPD’s youth wing as well as a resident in the vicinity of the plant lamented the fact that “this plant is being allowed to operate sends a clear signal that it has no regard for people’s health, including that of young persons.”

“The state has failed in its obligation to protect its citizens through the state’s own institutions.”

“Where is the government which takes false pride in claiming that it works for our youth?” Scientific and medical research shows that this pollution damages the respiratory system and is carcinogenic. This affects us all. The contamination of our air does not discriminate,” he continued.

Similarly, Gauci deemed the authority’s renouncement of their obligations unacceptable. 

“Priority needs to be given to people’s health above any commercial interest, without any further delay. Our institutions have to be proactive. Passing the buck and providing silly excuses is not acceptable.”

A parliamentary petition has been filed by residents close by calling on authorities to “step in” as “toxic fumes” keep being poured into the homes of families.

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