Regarding today's publication in relation to the evaluation of the Akamas Local Plan, the Directorate of the Environment Department clarifies the following:
The Department continues to evaluate each parameter and topic group of the Planning Board's proposals in a manner that ensures that the cumulative impacts of the Local Plan are properly assessed. This is done having regard to all species and habitats protected whether within or outside Natura2000 sites.
As assured at the recent meeting of the House Environment Committee, the assessment of the provisions of the Akamas Local Plan takes into account the uniqueness and natural wealth of the Area.
With regard to reports that the Department is under considerable pressure to vary its assessments and/or positions, it is assured that no pressure whatsoever has been brought to bear on the Department and that cooperation and communication with Ministers as well as with other government departments and agencies is excellent and the time needed to properly complete the assessment process is given. The need for a fully comprehensive and valid assessment of the provisions of the Local Plan, which will first and foremost ensure the protection and conservation of the unique natural environment of the area, within the framework set by the relevant European directives and national legislation, has been stressed many times by our political supervisor.
(IK)
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