In a conference, where the rigs located in Palumbo Shipyards were discussed, Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Ian Borg said that it is expected that these rigs will leave Malta at the end of April of this year.
These rigs have been subject to controversy because they have been laid up and static for a number of years. This is due to the global crisis in the oil and gas industry, combined with the Covid-19 pandemic. However, following discussions with rig owners and local representatives who recognised the sensitivity and unique feature of the Grand Harbour and the relevance of the harbour to residents in surrounding cities and the public in general, it has been agreed that the rigs will be mobilised and there are plans for them to leave Malta.
This is a huge operation and takes several months. Due to the travel restrictions brought about by Covid-19, reactivation and mobilisation are even more complex due to the fact that the use of specialised machinery needs to be made and, furthermore, these need to be imported from the United Kingdom and Europe.
Minister Ian Borg said, “This Government is aware of the potential and reputation that Malta has in the maritime sector and we are committed to maintain this standard as well as improve it. With this initiative and policy to clean the Grand Harbour from these ships, we will also be complementing other interventions such as the Grand Harbour Regeneration Plan as well as other projects such as the Grand Harbour Clean Air Project and the new wharf at Ras Ħanżir. We are aware of the degree that the maritime industry in Malta is a pillar of the national economy and how it generates many jobs and so it is our duty to safeguard it and improve it.”
The Minister added that the initiative to remove laid-up vessels will also serve to prevent potential damage to the marine environment and reiterated that both the government and the authority’s officials will be in contact with representatives of industry, NGOs, and all stakeholders so that the maritime sector flourishes while also being sensitive to social expectations and needs.
