Mdina paving

I refer to Roderick Galdes' article (March 28) and wish to comment only on those parts that concern this office.

In the first place if any illegal development is made in Mdina this is reported to Mepa.

He stated that the streets of Mdina are being "paved with imported limestone from Sicily". Mdina is being paved with hard stone from Sicily which, in texture and qualities, is very close to the Maltese hard stone but is far more durable and resistant. Mdina was not, as he stated, paved with Maltese hard stone in the past: we have no trace of such paving. The decision to use the Sicilian hard stone was taken after extensive studies and expert advice.

With regard to Vilhena Palace, all the preliminary studies have been completed. Everyone knows that the cost of stabilising the palace is very high. We are looking at the possibility of EU funding to be able to solve this very old and serious structural problem.