Monday 27th October | 5:30 PM | Valletta – From Law Courts to Parliament
Malta’s environmental and civil society organisations are uniting once again to oppose the government’s proposed Planning Bills 143 and 144, which would hand sweeping powers to developers while limiting citizens’ right to challenge illegal construction.
These bills threaten to dismantle Malta’s planning system. Bill 143 would allow the Planning Authority to override established plans and policies based on vague “contextual considerations”, undermining the entire framework of long-term, transparent planning. It also gives the minister power to reinstate expired permits without public consultation, opening the door to political interference.
Bill 144 would go even further, restricting the courts’ ability to revoke illegal permits and making it harder for citizens and NGOs to appeal decisions. New fines of up to €5,000 for so-called “frivolous” appeals would silence public dissent, while the proposed amnesty for illegal developments rewards those who built without respect for the law.
This legislation represents a direct attack on Malta’s environment, heritage, and democracy. Civil society organisations including Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar, Moviment Graffitti, BirdLife Malta, and Din l-Art Ħelwa are calling on government to withdraw these bills and instead open a proper consultation through a White Paper process.
On Monday 27th October, citizens from across Malta and Gozo will gather in Valletta at 5:30 PM, marching from the Law Courts to Parliament on Budget Day. We will meet outside Capitol Café next to the Law Courts.
FAA t-shirts are still available for supporters – if you already have one, wear it with pride!