The government has been accused by the Nationalist Party of stripping the Planning Authority of its decency and rendering it ineffective in making quality planning decisions. According to shadow ministers Stanley Zammit, Rebekah Borg, and Julie Zahra, the PA has devolved into a mere „Permits Authority“ that operates with a level of arrogance, believing itself to be above the law.
The PA’s actions have raised concerns as it has been accused of breaking the law, disregarding the Ombudsman’s recommendations, undermining entities like the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, and even defying court rulings that have deemed certain developments illegal and in violation of the PA’s own policies. This behavior has led to a lack of trust in the PA’s decision-making process and has created a breeding ground for corruption.
The Nationalist Party has criticized the Labour government for dismantling the PA’s capacity and expertise, resulting in poor decision-making and a lack of accountability. They argue that the government’s inaction in the face of these issues only serves to perpetuate a culture of impunity, where those with power can flout the rules and escape with minimal consequences.
The PN has called for a change in leadership, advocating for a more proactive and transparent approach to planning and environmental issues. They believe that the current system rewards the powerful and punishes the weak, and they are committed to fighting against unjust policies and systems that harm the environment.
In conclusion, the Nationalist Party is calling for serious, transparent, and consistent decision-making that prioritizes the well-being of the people and the environment. They are committed to advocating for change and ensuring that the environment is treated as a fundamental right for all. It is clear that there is a need for reform within the Planning Authority to restore trust and integrity in the decision-making process.
