Prime Minister Robert Abela, accompanied by Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Owen Bonnici, marked the agreement that sealed and made a reality the dream of the Maltese and Gozitan people, that of Manoel Island and Fort Tigné returning to the people.
Through the agreement reached between the Government and MIDI plc, these sites of historical and national importance will be transferred under the responsibility of Heritage Malta.
Children from schools in Sliema and Żejtun were among the first to tour the beautiful historic building on Manoel Island this morning, along with the Prime Minister and Minister Bonnici, which is now officially back in the hands of the people.
The Prime Minister described this moment as a historic one.
He stressed that the Government will be making changes to the local plan to ensure that no development can take place on Manoel Island, thus ensuring that this area remains protected for future generations.
He added that from now on, a process will continue to transform this area into a national park designed around the wishes of the Maltese and Gozitans. A national park that preserves and brings out the natural aspect of the landscapes and beaches, while also taking care of the historical heritage found on Manoel Island.
Dr Abela stated that during the consultation process there were thousands of submissions from Maltese and Gozitans about what they would like for this site. “People want a project that takes care of the landscape, where the public benefit always wins and we ensure that there is total accessibility for our people,” said Dr Abela.
He added that in the next legislature, the three national parks, namely those of Manoel Island, White Rocks and Fort Campbell, will be a priority, and stated that this is one of the best legacies that this Government will leave for future generations.
The Prime Minister concluded by saying that with this decision the Government has put people’s health and time before money, “Something we were able to do because today we have a strong and stable economy, which we must build on in the coming years so that we can take more decisions like these,” stressed Dr Abela.
In order for this Government vision to be successfully realised, Heritage Malta will continue to work in close coordination with other government entities and all stakeholders, in order to design a management model that respects the unique identity of Manoel Island and Forti Tigné and responds to the expectations of the Maltese people.
Photos: OPM/DOI
