---

Malta Freeport Terminals is deploying a temporary boom outside Birżebbuġa’s Pretty Bay this evening as a precautionary measure to protect bathers, after a container was damaged and leaked crude corn oil into the Terminal’s basin.

Inspections have shown that the oil spill has not spread to bathing areas, but Malta Freeport did not want to take any risks and have taken the decision to deploy the boom. There is no danger to bathers and they can continue swimming with peace of mind.

The incident happened when the container was hit and the crude corn oil which can serve as the refined raw material for margarine, salad and edible oil leaked onto the quay and into the terminal.

This lightweight rapid response boom, which is worth a €30,000 investment, prevents any liquid from entering the bathing area and protects the sandy beach from any contamination — it will remain in place until the spill is cleared.

---