The Nationalist Party on Saturday condemned the way in which the Government is attempting to introduce fundamental changes to Malta's planning system - changes which, if approved, could have "disastrous consequences" for our environment and the quality of life of all citizens.

Yesterday, two bills were tabled in Parliament without the slightest form of public consultation, the PN said. Environmental NGOs, professionals, local councils, communities and the general public have all been sidelined. This is a direct affront to the principles of transparency and participation that should underpin any serious legislative process.

The PN questioned the timing and urgency behind these bills being presented right in the middle of summer. The Government has ignored the growing calls for a reform of the planning and appeals process for years - so why the sudden rush now, after years of inaction?

Ironically, all this is happening during a week in which the Government chose not to convene Parliament for two days, only to then hastily push these laws through under the pretence of discussion before Parliament breaks for summer recess, the PN said. This is a clear sign of the Government's lack of direction and serious planning. It has once again chosen to bypass the democratic process and act in secrecy, when what is needed is an open and transparent approach.

This same arrogant attitude is reflected in the bills themselves, the PN said. Through these proposed laws, the government would be removing the last remaining legal safeguards protecting citizens. It would grant unchecked powers to the Planning Authority and the Environment and Planning Review Tribunal (EPRT) while restricting the public's right to appeal planning decisions. Even worse, it would remove the Courts' ability to revoke planning permits, the PN said.

The truth is that the public has long been waiting for a planning reform that puts the public interest first. Instead of an open and inclusive process, we are faced with proposed laws that reduce environmental protection and further weaken the voice of the citizen in planning matters, it added.

The PN said it will be putting forward concrete proposals, including a fair mechanism for transparency and dialogue to take place before decisions are made on controversial applications. This would eliminate confusion, avoid unnecessary conflict, streamline the process, and restore trust in the planning system.

The party urged the government to change its approach and launch a serious process with genuine, open consultation - one in which everyone is given the space they deserve to defend the future of this country.