In an article published in the Times of Malta, the vice-president of the Marsascala Residents Network, Zachary Mifsud has argued that a ferry terminal is not a green solution because it is an excessive source of pollution and stated that on average, a person using a ferry for transport uses seven times more carbon-dioxide emissions per kilometre than a person who is driving.
Zachary Mifsud also said that infrastructural projects should not exclusively cater for tourists and the economy but should also address the concerns of residents. Zachary Mifsud also argued that the ferry terminal will continue to erode Marsascala’s unique identity.
Local residents’ associations are up in arms against a proposed ferry terminal which will ruin the pristine bay of Marsascala located just before the townโs old and traditional fishing port. ADPD – The Green Party is also demanding the government to hold consultation meetings the residents before going ahead with the project. Transport Malta said that it is still conducting a studyย on the ideal location of a ferry terminal.
Criticism of the project has been wide-ranging, with opposition arising for numerous reasons, including its environmental impact, the continued erosion of Marsascalaโs unique character, and its lack of economic feasibility, unless the town is geared toward mass tourism. This, however, runs counter to the governmentโs supposed and current goal of pursuing high-quality tourism.
The Mayor of the locality, Mario Calleja is in favour of the project but the Local Council, which has a Labour majority hasn’t taken an official position, yet.
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