Iblei National Park proposal sparks debate over protection and local economy in Sicily

Regional deputy Carlo Gilistro (M5S) told the Sicily Assembly's Parks Committee that a new Iblei National Park must balance environmental protection with sustainable development, urging a permanent dialogue table with local authorities and stakeholders. He warned against letting administrative courts decide matters that political dialogue should resolve and cited past difficulties with the Libero Consorzio Comunale di Siracusa.

Senator Salvo Sallemi and regional deputy Giorgio Assenza (Fratelli d'Italia) also voiced concerns, stressing that park measures should not be imposed from above. They highlighted the need to safeguard agriculture, livestock and traditional food production, warning that overly strict perimeter and zoning could threaten the region’s agro‑food excellence. Both called for transparent governance and full involvement of municipalities, citizens and sector associations, noting a proposed meeting in Buscemi hosted by mayor Michele Carbè.