The cabinet on Sunday approved a second five-year term for Israel Nature and Parks Authority Chairman Eli Amitay, despite criticism of his management.

Extension of Amitay's tenure by five years came under broad opposition from environmental organizations as well as many scientists.

Various groups have chargde that during his first term, Amitay encouraged commercial development in nature reserves, ignored the opinions of professions and agreed to compromises that involved conceding protected lands.

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Anonymous sources have also made claims of mismanagement at the INPA, allegations that Environment Minister Gideon Ezra (Kadima) rejected as unfounded during the meeting.