The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the publication of the Legal Notice that will establish White Rocks as a National Park, the government said in a statement on Wednesday.

“This will ensure that the site is protected and safeguarded, with public access, recreational use and conservation being given the highest priority. Project Green will be responsible for the administration of the Park,” the government said.

This also fulfils the commitment that public parks and gardens developed in recent years will be legally protected through legislative amendments to safeguard them from any future development.

The government said that this step marks not only the beginning of the implementation of another electoral manifesto pledge, but also builds on the Government's commitment demonstrated during the first five weeks of parliamentary work in this legislature.

During this period, the Government advanced seven major reforms, all of which either came into force or reached completion before Parliament adjourned for the summer recess. These reforms had been identified by Prime Minister Robert Abela as Government priorities when he addressed Parliament in his reply to the President of the Republic's speech at the opening of the 15th Legislature.

In recent days, Parliament approved constitutional amendments recognising disability as a protected characteristic under the country's highest law. At the same time, the Government advanced to the third reading a Bill establishing the National Human Rights and Equality Commission.

The parliamentary process also commenced for reforms aimed at creating a fairer planning system in Malta. The first reading of a Bill was presented which would prevent any new development or construction from commencing while a planning permit remains under appeal, while also introducing clear timelines to provide greater certainty for all parties concerned. This parliamentary process is running in parallel with the public consultation period.

The first reading was also presented of a Bill aimed at strengthening the legislative framework governing the voluntary sector. Among other measures, it seeks to reduce bureaucracy for voluntary organisations and support the important work they carry out in building a strong and inclusive society.

In recent days, the commencement notice was published bringing into force two new laws that will further strengthen the rights of persons with disabilities: the Personal Autonomy Act and the Protection of Adults in Situations of Vulnerability Act.

Through a Legal Notice, the list of genetic conditions eligible for Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M) has also been expanded, representing another step that confirms the Government's commitment to showing greater empathy towards individuals undergoing the IVF process.

Finally, in recent hours, Parliament approved two further Bills aimed at strengthening the rule of law through greater independence, transparency and access to justice.

These include a new independent system for appointments to the Specialised Administrative Tribunals, thereby fulfilling another electoral pledge, as well as increased scrutiny of decisions taken by the Attorney General when deciding, under criminal law, not to institute criminal proceedings.