AD says MRA and MEPA should become one authority

Alternattiva Demokratika has reacted with harsh criticism to the proposals announced by the Labour Party on MEPA, accusing the political parties of have "relegated the environment to second division status".

"Labour's proposals on MEPA reform show that the environment is relegated to second division status, as is the case with the Nationalist Party," AD chairperson Michael Birguglio said.

He said that instead of promising amnesties to building irregularities and to further weaken the environment section, AD was expecting a proper reform of MEPA.

"Only a proper reform can truly protect the environment and common citizens against overdevelopment," he said.

Briguglio added that MEPA's decision-making structures and the Directorate for the Protection of the Environment need to be strengthened.

"PL is proposing to further isolate the latter, thus adding more uncertainty in the process. In parliament AD would propose that MEPA and the Malta Resources Authority are brought together in one authority. In a consolidated authority the environmental function should be central and should lead the Planning Directorate to take a secondary role," Briguglio said.

AD is also proposing that while government would retain the right to appoint members of this consolidated Authority, this would take place only after Parliament, though a Select Committee, consents to the proposed appointments.

"Parliament would be in a position to consider whether to give its consent after its Select Committee examines in a public hearing the proposed candidates," Briguglio said.

AD has suggested that every candidate would be examined in public on his experience and qualifications relative to the proposed post.

With reference to the representation of civil society sitting on the Board of the Authority, AD said nominations should come directly from the affected bodies such as environmental NGOs.

"There should be no members of parliament, less public officers and more representatives of civil society in the consolidated authority," Briguglio said.

AD's chairperson insisted that "all elements of the environment - air, water and land deserve a stronger vision, that address the needs of the Maltese public for health and quality of life".