AD wants to restore democracy to planning system

Alternattiva Demokratika chairman Harry Vassallo said his party believed in restoring democracy to the planning system by, among others, proposing a referendum on big projects so that the residents can decide whether to allow it or not.

Speaking at a press conference at the St Paul's Bay bypass, Dr Vassallo said Malta needed a mentality change whereby the inconvenience motorists and residents suffer is also taken into consideration.

"Over the years, we have witnessed rampant disrespect towards citizens and, in the meantime, contractors and developers are being spoilt even more every day as if it were part of our culture," he said.

Dr Vassallo spoke about the party financing issue, claiming most contractors are financing the political parties. He said this was why AD has been calling for the introduction on a law on party financing.

With regard to the repair works on the bypass, Dr Vassallo said the job was at an advanced stage. However, he complained about the inconvenience the project caused to motorists and residents of neighbouring villages.

When asked to comment about the appointment of members to sit on the Development Control Commission to replace those who resigned earlier this week, Dr Vassallo and AD spokesman Carmel Cacopardo said it was not opportune to comment.

However, replying to a question by The Times, they confirmed that, as customary, the DCC members will have to submit their resignation after the election like all other government-appointed board members.