Reference is made to the letter penned by former Curia PRO Charles Buttigieg titled “Accountability and transparency in dealing with the environment” (TMIS, 28 June).

The author claims that Mepa recently approved a development project partially outside the development zone (ODZ) at Tal-Marga Valley in Qala, Gozo. This fact is incorrect. The development application (PA7697/06) Mr Buttigieg is referring to, was deferred by the Development Control Commission (DCC) on 10 June.

During the meeting held in public, the DCC requested the Malta Resources Authority to give its feedback on this proposed development and also gave the applicant’s architect a chance to comment on the two reports submitted by a hydrologist.

The Authority would like to publicly thank the Kummissjoni Ambjent and other similar and sincere NGOs that work tirelessly in the environmental field for their sound contributions, participation and efforts in helping bring about a change to the way we as a nation perceive and respect our environment.

Peter Gingell

Mepa - Communications Office