The ESG and GONHS are dissatisfied with the manner in which the vessel, Wilmington, has been allowed to continue in her existing role in light of her single hull status, subject to a judicial review. This 11th hour application suggests a careless indifference to compliance by private industry and lack of proper enforcement by our Government. The ESG and GONHS are deeply concerned to see how this Government intends to comply with this and other environmental legislation in the future.

This recent delay tactic is rightly “fuelling” criticism against Gibraltar for not abiding by several environmental directives due to its financial status and considerations. To defer decision to the court is passing the buck, irresponsible and, we have to say, symptomatic of how this Govt has behaved in many areas regarding an overall lack of adequate environmental management.