We are hearing lots of words about failed institutions and it is important that the common citizen worries about this situation. Even a good Christian should use the following yardstick to see whether one loves Christ or not: whether one is actively participating or not in our democracy and airing one's opinion for the common good and for social justice. Just participating in the sacraments and acting complacent because one is saved does not make you a good Christian.

Has not Mepa, and now its successor the PA, failed miserably as an institution? Under the previous and this administration, the public opinion that some can away with everything while others cannot even break an insignificant rule, is still prevalent. And this is because they have taken the brunt of the injustices. Many I speak with are of the opinion that in some way, the Authority sides with the powerful and does not decide according to the spirit of conserving the natural environment and regulating planning.

Therefore, I would like to see those whose ambition is to lead the government in the next legislature, make the Planning Authority worthy of its name by producing more clear rules and give more power to those who wish to object to illegal development. I would like this Authority to work according to the spirit of the law which defines it: the protection of our environment.

I invite the common citizen to speak out and vote for and demand that the Planning Authority or its successor be truly a protector of the natural environment. Otherwise, you will be guilty of this social sin.

Joe Portelli

Nadur