The members of the Productive Activity Commission have acknowledged since the first online hearing that the draft law on Protected Areas requires in-depth review and expertise. However, this does not constitute an official withdrawal from the draft law.
The draft law, which undermines the essence of Protected Areas legislation by prioritizing economic and developmental interests over conservation, is currently awaiting the official position from the Council of Ministers.
Yesterday, a DCM was made to provide an opinion to the Assembly:
DECISION ON PROVIDING AN OPINION TO THE ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA ON THE NON-GOVERNMENTAL DRAFT LAW “ON SOME ADDITIONS AND CHANGES TO LAW NO. 81/2017, “ON PROTECTED AREAS””
In accordance with articles 82, point 2, and 100 of the Constitution, and with the proposal of the Prime Minister, the Council of Ministers
DECIDES: to provide an opinion to the Assembly of the Republic of Albania on the non-governmental draft law “On some additions and changes to Law No. 81/2017, “On protected areas””, as per the attached text to this decision.
This decision takes immediate effect.
While awaiting the official position from the Council of Ministers, pressure from environmental protection organizations is increasing, especially with the approaching plenary session on February 15th for voting.
During the latest online hearing, Commission representatives emphasized the need to revise their proposals, referring to it as a “defective draft” following increased pressure from environmental protection organizations.
Following concerns over proposed amendments to the Protected Areas law by socialist MPs and the need to align with EU standards, civil society received an invitation. The Chairpersons of the European Affairs Commission and National Council of European Integration called for a joint meeting at the Parliament’s Presidency on February 9. The agenda will address concerns raised in civil society’s letter to the Assembly regarding socialist deputies’ proposals. This meeting underscores the importance of inclusive dialogue in shaping legislation, particularly concerning environmental conservation and EU integration efforts.
However, we are still awaiting the “verdict” of the Council of Ministers, which must provide its official position after yesterday’s DCM.
In light of these developments, will the Council of Ministers address the concerns raised by environmental protection organizations, or will they proceed with the initial draft proposed by the Majority, potentially risking the integrity of Albania’s Protected Areas?
https://www.kryeministria.al/newsroom/vendime-te-miratuara-ne-mbledhjen-e-keshillit-te-ministrave-date-7-shkurt-2024/