Press Releases – Environmental Agency Gibraltar

Exercise “Rocky Pigeon” tests Rock’s preparedness for radiation incident – 803/2025

csegovia — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 14:38:00 +0000

HM Government of Gibraltar is pleased to confirm the successful completion of Exercise Rocky Pigeon, a triennial joint emergency preparedness exercise carried out yesterday in partnership with the Ministry of Defence.

The exercise tested Gibraltar’s multi-agency response to a simulated radiation-related incident. It was designed to ensure that existing plans remain effective and that all responding organisations can work together efficiently should such an event ever occur.

Rocky Pigeon 2025 tested all levels of the emergency response, from immediate on-site attendance to the distribution of stable iodine tablets to the whole population, and culminated in a simulated press conference.

Observers praised the high levels of professionalism demonstrated throughout, as well as the robustness of the plans and the smooth execution of each stage of the exercise. The coordination between operational teams, command centres and supporting agencies was described as exemplary.

The Government is grateful to all who took part in the exercise and to the Ministry of Defence for their close cooperation. The lessons learned will help to further strengthen Gibraltar’s resilience and emergency planning.

Civil Contingencies Coordinator, Ivor Lopez, said:
“I am very pleased with the way the exercise went. The professionalism, discipline and teamwork displayed by all participants were excellent. Exercises like this are essential to ensure that our response arrangements are effective and that everyone knows their role should we ever face a real emergency.”

Commander British Forces, Commodore Tom Guy, said:
“I am delighted with the way that this year’s Exercise Rocky Pigeon was conducted. Gibraltar has been re-authorised as an Operational Berth for another three years. This is a strategic capability for the UK and our Allies, and it is significant that we have demonstrated that we are capable custodians and, alongside the Government of Gibraltar, have been deemed by the Nuclear Regulator to be fit to operate the berth.

“I recognise that a lot of hard work went into the preparation and execution of the exercise, not only by our Nuclear Department and members from across British Forces Gibraltar, but also by Minister Cortes, and Ivor Lopez and the whole team who were involved to make this achievement happen. I would like to emphasise that this is simply a part of the continuation of our preparedness; there is more to do, and there will be further regular training.”

The Minister for the Environment, Professor John Cortes, chaired the exercise’s Strategic Coordinating Group and added:
“Although the likelihood of a radiation incident in Gibraltar is extremely low, it is important that we never take our preparedness for granted. Yesterday’s exercise demonstrated not only the strength of our contingency planning, but also the commitment and capability of everyone involved. I want to thank all the teams for their dedication and professionalism.”

ENDS

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Gibraltar Hosts UK and Ireland Drinking Water Regulators Meeting – 746/2025

csegovia — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:35:00 +0000

As Gibraltar’s drinking water regulator on behalf of the Government, the Environmental Agency regularly participates in the UK and Republic of Ireland Drinking Water Regulator Meetings. These gatherings bring together officials from England and Wales’ Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Guernsey’s Office of Environmental Health and Pollution Regulation, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the Drinking Water Quality Division of the Scottish Government, and Gibraltar’s Environmental Agency.

Last week, Gibraltar hosted the latest meeting of the Regulators at the Rock Hotel. These forums serve as a vital platform for regulators to exchange insights on legislation, enforcement, research, and operational matters concerning potable water supply. They ensure Gibraltar remains aligned with the highest British and international standards and stays informed on emerging guidance and best practices.

The Minister for Environment, Sustainability, Climate Change, the Hon John Cortes, welcomed the delegates. He expressed his appreciation for the collaborative spirit of the forum and the inclusion of Gibraltar’s regulators in these important discussions. The Minister highlighted the critical role of water regulation in public health and environmental stewardship, especially in the context of Brexit and Gibraltar’s evolving infrastructure.

Minister Cortes also commended the Environmental Agency’s representatives, Chief Environmental Health Officer Christopher Segovia and Senior Environmental Health Officer Ilan Williamson, for their work in maintaining local compliance and for representing Gibraltar’s unique context among British counterparts. Drawing on his background in Biology, the Minister reaffirmed his commitment to supporting scientific and regulatory cooperation across jurisdictions.

“These meetings are more than technical exchanges,” said Minister Cortes. “They are a testament to our shared commitment to safeguarding one of our most essential resources. I encourage all participants to continue this valuable dialogue and collaboration.”

For more information on drinking water quality in Gibraltar, visit https://www.environmental-agency.gi/ or contact the Agency directly at 20070620 / admin@eag.gi.

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Fight the bite! Protecting Against Mosquito Bites – 395/2025

csegovia — Wed, 28 May 2025 14:38:00 +0000

The Environmental Agency and Public Health Gibraltar would like to remind the public about mosquito bite prevention which should always be your first line of defence. Different species of mosquitoes are active at various times and can transmit a range of infections, so it is wise to take precautions.

The common Culex mosquito primarily bites in the evening and nighttime. While this species does not transmit serious diseases, it can cause painful swelling, particularly in sensitive individuals, which may lead to infections.

The Asian Tiger Mosquito, which has established itself in Gibraltar, is a daytime biter. This mosquito prefers humid environments and breeds in water containers such as inflatable baby pools, plant pot dishes and other discarded items which can hold water, even if small. Although diseases like Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and West Nile Virus are not likely in Gibraltar, it is advisable to remain cautious, especially when visiting regions where these diseases are prevalent.

Tips for residents visiting neighbouring areas:

Gibraltar residents often enjoy day trips to neighbouring areas, including nature and dog walks, hiking, and visiting wetlands. These environments, such as marshes and other waterlogged areas, provide ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed. If you are planning to visit these areas for leisure or outdoor activities, it is important to take extra precautions:

1. Mosquito Activity in Wetlands and Marshes

Mosquitoes thrive in wetlands and marshes due to the standing water where they breed. These areas are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to limit outdoor activities during these times, or take extra precautions if you are outdoors.

2. Protective Measures for Nature Walks and Hiking

Wear long sleeves, trousers, and socks, especially when walking through marshy or wetland areas. Choose light-coloured clothing, as mosquitoes are often attracted to dark colours.

3. Insect Repellent for Nature Walks and Hiking

When visiting wetlands, marshes, or other outdoor areas in neighbouring regions, it is essential to apply a good insect repellent to exposed skin. Choose a repellent containing at least 20% DEET or another effective active ingredient to protect against mosquito bites.

Tips for travellers:

Consult a Healthcare Professional

Before traveling to areas where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent, seek advice from a travel clinic, especially if you have health concerns. Note that the GHA does not offer any travel advice or offer any travel vaccines, unless it is essential for a Civil Servant or Public Sector employee to travel as part of their professional remit. Private medical clinics can provide travel advice and vaccinations.

Pregnancy Considerations

If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, consider postponing non-essential travel.

Use Insect Repellents

While in mosquito-prone areas, apply mosquito repellents and adhere to bite prevention measures. If you experience symptoms within three weeks of returning from an affected region, consult a doctor.

Post-Diagnosis Precautions

If diagnosed with Zika, Dengue, or Chikungunya, implement strict mosquito bite prevention measures for ten days after fever onset.

Repellent Recommendations

DEET is the active ingredient in many repellent products and is recognised as the most effective broad-spectrum repellent. Apply insect repellent containing at least 20% DEET on exposed skin.

Other tips to prevent bites:

Clothing Advice

Mosquitoes cannot penetrate loose clothing. Wearing long sleeves and trousers or skirts reduces exposed skin. Lightweight and breathable fabrics are suitable for warm climates.

Nets

Use bed nets at night, ensuring they are tucked in to prevent insect entry. Leave enough space to avoid direct skin contact with the net. Use netting on windows and doors for added protection.

Room Checks

Inspect window and door screens for holes or gaps that could allow mosquitoes inside.

Pyrethroid Products

Consider using plug-ins, candles, or coils alongside nets and screens, but do not rely on them exclusively.

Check for Standing Water

Empty any containers that hold standing water in your vicinity.

Maintain Airflow

Use fans or air conditioning to deter mosquitoes and improve indoor air quality.

Avoid Peak Mosquito Activity Times

Mosquitoes are most active during dusk and dawn. Minimise outdoor activities during these times or take extra precautions.

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