News • 09 FEBRUARY 2003

Uncertain future for companies with Libyan connections - Sant

Several of Malta’s large companies have joined forces to compile a detailed report on how EU accession would affect about 2000 of their employees working in Libya, Dr Alfred Sant said yesterday.

Among the companies commissioning the report were Airmalta, the Corinthia Group of Companies, Salvo Grima & Sons and the Libyan Arab Maltese Holding Company.

The Opposition leader participated in a discussion in Valletta and was replying to a question on how EU accession could affect or endanger the livelihood of Maltese workers in Libya.

"The report was compiled by EU friendly consultants, but gives an indication of the huge problems that could arise should we become EU members," the Opposition leader said.

Dr Sant reiterated that should Malta join the EU, visa permits would have to be issued for Libyans travelling to Malta. Likewise Libya would request visas for Maltese travelling to Libya, whether for work purposes or not.

"With partnership these complications will not arise as Malta would not have to embrace Schengen visa regulations. Maltese companies with Libyan connections are worried about the outcome of EU accession, especially those that depend strongly on work and investment in North Africa."