New Environment Minister Jose Herrera yesterday visited the employees of the Environment and Resources Authority at Hexagon House. Dr Herrera became environment minister in the recent cabinet reshuffle.

He noted that the ERA was set up in the MEPA demerger process, which has also set up of the Planning Authority.

The setting up of the ERA, he said, showed that the environment was a priority for the government.

Dr Herrera also met with ERA chairman Professor Victor Axiak and the members of the board.

He thanked the workers, management and the unions for their cooperation and continuous support.

The Environment Minister said he wanted to pick up where his predecessor (Michael Falzon) left off so that the authority becomes truly professional, efficient and dedicated. There was much work to be done, Dr Herrera said, especially with regards to employment, the IT system migration and improvements to the building infrastructure.