Concerns Rise Over New Ranger Service for Ċirkewwa Marine Park
· Updated
In brief
- The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) plans to introduce a new ranger service for the Ċirkewwa Marine Park.
- The Nationalist Party (PN) has questioned the exclusion of the Malta Ranger Unit from the new management agreement.
- Diving schools and the Professional Diving Schools Association (PDSA) have also raised alarms about the end of previous ranger monitoring.
The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) is set to introduce a dedicated ranger service to manage the Ċirkewwa Marine Park. This development comes amidst concerns raised by various groups regarding the protection of the marine area.
The Nationalist Party (PN) has called for an explanation regarding the exclusion of the Malta Ranger Unit from the new agreement for the marine park. The PN stated that the government must provide clear answers on why the unit, which previously monitored the area, is no longer involved.
Separately, the Professional Diving Schools Association (PDSA) has also voiced its alarm over the cessation of ranger monitoring at the Ċirkewwa Marine Park. The association emphasised that the park must not be left unprotected, highlighting the importance of continuous oversight for the marine environment.
The Diving Schools Association echoed these sentiments, stating that the Ċirkewwa Marine Park requires robust protection. The area is a popular site for divers and is home to diverse marine life, making its conservation a priority for environmental and tourism stakeholders.
Nature Trust will continue to monitor the Ċirkewwa Marine Park on a temporary basis. This interim arrangement will last until a new management contract for the park is officially awarded.
Nature Trust is currently responsible for managing the site, which is overseen by the Malta Tourism Authority. This update follows earlier concerns raised regarding the proposed new ranger service for the park.
The Spin Room
Low media divide. Times of Malta reported on the interim monitoring arrangements for the park.
Updates
- : Nature Trust will continue monitoring the Ċirkewwa Marine Park temporarily until a new management contract is awarded.