Austin Walker, a former chairman of the Malta Resources Authority, has been appointed executive chairman of the Malta Environment and Planning Authority which, according to the Department of Information, the government wants to reform.

The aim is to improve efficiency and eliminate red tape, make Mepa more transparent and accountable, make it consistent in its decisions, and improve enforcement.

The DOI said the government has already introduced legislation in parliament in view of the reform. To date a person who built a structure illegally in areas not meant to be developed could subsequently apply for a permit. This would not be possible any longer. Other amendments relate to the procedures of building applications.

Mr Walker’s appointment became effective yesterday.

Mr Walker is an accountant and auditor and has held various positions in the private sector over the past 35 years. He has also served as administrative secretary of four farmers’ cooperatives and was, among others, chairman of the Cooperatives Board and chairman of the Agricultural Export Marketing Board. He is also a director of Malta Shipyards Ltd.