Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1544188
4 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 2 APRIL 2026 NEWS Unregistered trapping site dismantled in Gozo GOZO Police, assisted by the Malta Rangers Unit (MRU), dis- mantled an unregistered trap- ping site today at the boundary of the Dwejra Natura2000 and Bird Sanctuary. The site con- tained nets and decoys targeting protected bird species, including Godwits. The location had no registra- tion for a trapping license with the Wild Birds Regulation Unit (WBRU). Authorities confis- cated all nets and decoys and reported the illegal construc- tion on the site. The land is registered as agri- cultural but was being used for trapping and other activities. The Malta Rangers Unit has al- so filed a report with the Plan- ning Authority regarding the illegal change of land use. Officials said the operation highlights widespread illegal activities in remote areas of Gozo, where offenders often operate outside regular police patrols. MRU added that the incident demonstrates the need for a dedicated environmental po- lice force to protect Gozitan Natura2000 sites, which are currently designated but not actively protected. Gozo Police and the Malta Rangers Unit dismantled an unregistered bird- trapping site at Dwejra, confiscating nets and decoys and reporting illegal construction Nets and decoys targeting protected species were confiscated, and authorities reported illegal construction and land-use changes Il-Hagar Museum in Rabat, Gozo upgraded as modern conference and event hub THE Il-Ħaġar Museum and Cultural Centre in Rabat has been upgraded into a modern, secure, and technologically ad- vanced venue for conferenc- es and events under the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Confer- ences, Exhibitions) Restoration Scheme, officials announced on Tuesday. The initiative is expected to generate increased econom- ic opportunities, attract high- er-quality visitors, and ensure year-round activity on the is- land. The inauguration of the up- graded museum, branded "Heart of Gozo," was led by the Minis- ter for Gozo Clint Camilleri. The Minister said the improvements position the venue as a profes- sional, high-quality destination for cultural, business, and inter- national audiences. "This investment clearly demonstrates how collaboration between the Ministry and local organizations can deliver tan- gible projects that add value to Gozo," Camilleri said. "We are continuing to build high-quality infrastructure that strengthens the cultural sector while open- ing new opportunities in the MICE industry. Gozo has enor- mous potential, and we are com- mitted to investing so that this potential is translated into sus- tainable, high-level experiences available throughout the year." Camilleri added that the up- grades not only enhance the museum as a cultural hub but also create a fully equipped space for meetings, conferences, incentives, and exhibitions, gen- erating economic growth and attracting higher-quality visitors year-round. The project included substan- tial improvements to the muse- um's infrastructure, including air-conditioning and lift sys- tems, enhanced access control, and upgraded audiovisual and technological equipment such as streaming systems, projec- tors, and professional audio setups. This allows events to be followed both in-person and remotely by international audi- ences. Furniture and conference equipment were also added to provide flexible, professional setups. Security was strength- ened with a comprehensive alarm system to protect both visitors and the museum's valu- able collections. Managed by the Fondazzjoni Belt Victoria, the Il-Ħaġar Mu- seum has been a key cultural centre since its opening in 2013, hosting exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and community ac- tivities. The museum preserves Gozo's cultural heritage while serving as a bridge between the island's past and contemporary cultural life. The total investment in the project amounted to approx- imately €37,000, with over €18,300 provided by the Min- istry for Gozo and Planning through the MICE Restoration Scheme. The Ministry has con- tinued funding the development of high-quality facilities on the island, offering up to €50,000 in support for projects that mod- ernize and enhance venues to attract local and international events. The inauguration of the upgraded museum, branded "Heart of Gozo," was led by the Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri