Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar (FAA) has expressed its appreciation for the action taken by the Minister for Rural Affairs and the Environment, George Pullicino, in demanding the resignation of Catherine Galea, Mepa deputy chairman.

This episode, a potential watershed, was triggered by reports to FAA from concerned residents in Mellieħa where a bungalow development had been approved in violation of several Mepa regulations, it said. The architect involved was none other than Mepa's own deputy chairman.

FAA reiterated its determination to bring to the fore any case relating to improper or illegal development affecting the limited land area and the rights of residents.

It said its praise for the minister's decision was in particular due to two main reasons: Malta does not have a culture promoting resignations and Mr Pullicino had placed his trust in Ms Galea as an appointee to the Mepa board but was ready to withdraw it when her position was no longer tenable.

The group said it looks forward to a new era of better relations between the government and residents where questionable practices or developments are concerned.