PN MP Marthese Portelli has resigned from the Planning Authority board, saying the Opposition is not willing to participate in an entity that does not show respect to the people.

The resignation, which was endorsed by party leader Adrian Delia, comes after the PA board approved a controversial permit for a disused rural room in Qala to be turned into a sprawling villa. The developer has since said he is withdrawing the application but NGOs have pointed out the permit is, in the meantime, still valid.

In a statement, the PN said the PA has been taken over by forces and people who only consider political convenience and personal friendships.

In a letter to the minister responsible for planning, Ian Borg, Portelli said it was becoming increasingly clear that the board was being hijacked by people who, instead of working for the common good were only serving the interests of a few.

“We have before us circumstances, facts and situations that are leading to a systemised institutional breakdown.”

Portelli said she was resigning with conviction and absolute loyalty towards the oath she took as a Member of Parliament and after discussing the matter with Adrian Delia, who showed his full support.