The Nationalist Party said that the environment is being demoted in MEPA’s split because the environment authority will only be asked to act as a consultee when needed.
Addressing a press conference this afternoon, Nationalist MP Ryan Callus explained that at present, the environment directorate has a permanent seat in the board taking decisions on applications, plans and strategies and MEPA policies.
Following the demerger, policy decisions will be shifted from the board to a consultative council, whose members will be appointed by the government. The council will not be obliged to consult the new environment authority.
The Opposition is to present a letter to Marlene Farrugia, President of the Environment Committee insisted that the three bills related to the demerger are discussed at committee stage before being presented in parliament.
Shadow Minister for the Environment Marthese Portelli said that the government is trying to rush the legislation before parliament rises for summer recess, without the proper public consultation is held.
The shadow minister accused the government of wanting total control on environment decisions, giving way to more abuse and scandals. The Oppositions request, she said, will allow also allow environment NGOs to raise their concerns before the bill is tabled in parliament. “
The three bills will completely change the way MEPA works, and the government wants to streamroll over everyone, “Mrs Portelli said.
“Following the result of the spring hunting referendum, the Prime Minister promised to prioritise the environment, but it is evident that it is not the case,” Mr Callus added.
Government reacts
In a reply, the government said that the new legislation will provide power for the planning authority to monitor application decisions and to form part of the executive council where policies and applications will be decided upon.
The environment authority will therefore ensure that policies reflect environmental needs and that a balance between the environment and development is found. It will also have the power to appeal an application decision.
The government said that before the Opposition’s press conference, the Minister for the Environment and the Parliamentary Secretary for Planning had already sent a formal request for the environment committee to meet, allowing NGOS and stakeholders to express their views on the three bills.