Green co-options

First of all I have to say that from the little I know her, Petra Bianchi is a rational, decent and principled person especially in her opposition to unsustainable big business projects like the proposed villas at Ta’Cenc. So the question raised are in no way related to her integrity and professionalism which are beyond reproach.

That said I have to ask; what happened to the PN’s electoral manifesto promise that public appointments are made following a call for applications? Her predecessor Martin Seychell chosen after a competitive albeit controversial selection process which was even scrutinized by the ombudsman following protests by one of the contestants.

Secondly, my understanding is that this strategic post is a technical one which requires knowledge in environmental field which goes beyond land use issues but also comprehends issues related to pollution, hazardous waste and carbon emissions.  Are we so short of technocrats with a passion for the environment?  I don't think so.  

Bianchi holds a doctorate in English literature from Oxford as well as a doctorate and obtained an MBA from the Maastricht School of Management. She also graduated with a Masters and Bachelors Degree (Hons) from the University of Malta. Surely an impressive curriculum but how related is this to these issues?  One may argue that it is always better to have a fresh mind with strong management skills to start with a clean slate. I hope that this is the case.

Surely MEPA has moved in a positive direction in land use and planning issues-thanks to the appointment of decent persons like Philip Manduca and former European court judge Giovanni Bonello on its board. But its performance in other sectors like hazardous waste and pollution especially in dealing with entities like Enemalta is still lacking.

Thirdly the appointment of an NGO president reinforces the perception that the Nationalist government is once again excelling in the art of co-opting the moderate NGOs. It is nothing short of a political coup.  It send the message that moderation is rewarded.  But should  not forget  that the change in the government's green conversion on the eve of the last election only came because of fear of losing votes to AD  and because of the protest movement personified by the likes of Astrid Vella and Lino Bugeja against the extension in ODZs. 

I do not in any way dispute the credentials of those who try to change things from within. Without such people the country would go to the dogs. But the country also needs critical minds remaining outside the institutions.

And what remains outside, with the notable exception of all rounders like Professor Edward Mallia and engineer Marco Cremona, is singularly focused on land use or heritage issues as is the case with the  Ramblers and FAA, with the latter taking stands  like that against the Piano project which have nothing to do with being green or not.