Who’s harming the economy? by A. J. Tabone - 13.09.05

One expects balance and objectivity in contributions by editorial staff of an independent newspaper. Unfortunately, neither of these qualities was present in “environmentalists’ action ‘causing great harm’ to economy” (TMIS, 6 September). The article’s tone and content were more appropriate to a broadsheet issued on behalf of developers and estate agents.

Entrepreneurs were reported to be holding back from projects because of the actions of a few environmentalists with consequent harm to the economy. The same (or different?) sources, according to Mr Calleja, hold that the government is giving too much importance to what a few “environmental hotheads” say about each and every project.

What is surprising about the article is the mix up between Mr Calleja’s views and those of his entrepreneur (developer) sources. What is not surprising is that the good of the few is presented as the good of the many. Those involved simply do not seem to realise that in any civilised society there must exist a balance between the public good and private interests. In Malta, as far as development is concerned, the balance has been skewed for far too long in favour of private interests.

Are Mr Calleja and his sources so naïve as to believe that the continued construction all over Malta would have no adverse effect on tourism, which provides employment to thousands and is a foreign exchange earner. How could fewer tourists ever possibly benefit the economy long-term? No Mr Calleja, environmentalists are not hotheads. They want a strong economy as much as you and your developer sources. They want this to happen in an attractive environment for the good of the people of this country and of the tourists who visit. What they do not want is an economy built on the shifting sands of untrammelled development.