Malta Motorsports Federation disappointed with Church Commission’s call against Ta’ Qali racetrack

The Malta Motorsport Federation yesterday expressed its disappointment with The Church Environment Commission’s suggestion to the government to cancel the car racetrack project in Ta’ Qali.

The Church Commission had recommended planting more trees instead.

The Federation said it agrees with the Commission’s suggestions for other areas, such as in the case of Comino, and said that the planting of trees should be included in the construction of roads being rebuilt, adding that safety must also be taken into consideration.

The Federation said that enthusiasts deserve the facilities to get the necessary training: “Although all previous governments never made serious investment in motorsport, it is one of the most popular sports and enjoyed success in the country. The sport can grow, as it is a sport in which Maltese athletes have made a name for themselves and for the country. These athletes must have the necessary fa- cilities to practice their sport safely.

“It is a disservice for the Church Environment Commission to suggest that the Maltese government put the project aside, as there is already agreement between the government and the Opposition that the project is a necessity for the country and both parties included the project in their manifestos.

“In doing this, the commission put aside the interests of thousands of car enthusiasts and motorcyclists when the first and foremost aim of the Church Commission should be to contribute to creating a fair society, in this case including motorsports enthusiasts and drivers requiring further training.

“The Church Environment Commission should have requested a meeting with the Malta Motorsport Federation, the main promoter of the project, to learn about the proposal, and only then could it arrive at its conclusion.”

The Federation also invited the Commission to meet over the matter.