PM urges whistleblowers to come forward over Gozo free construction case
Labour leader reiterates ‘yes’ vote for spring hunting referendum but claims that all hunters would have to shoulder responsibility for ‘criminals’ shooting protected birds
14 March 2015, 7:07pm
Staff Reporter
Staff Reporter
2 min read
Labour leader Joseph Muscat with the Gozo local council elections candidates
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat called on anyone with information over the Gozo free construction case to come forward, assuring that these would be protected under the Whistleblower’s Act.
Addressing a political activity in Xaghra, Gozo, Muscat urged anyone with knowledge on the case to tell the truth.
“Let justice be done. Come forward with any information you might have and we will investigate. As per the provisions in the Whistleblower’s Act, those who were involved but tell the truth will receive protection,” the Labour leader said.
A whistleblower has come forward, revealing how a scheme involved private Gozitan building contractors who were commissioned by Anthony Debono, who was employed at the Gozo ministry, to carry out cement, concrete and construction works on quarries, private homes, roads and garages to constituents at no cost to them.
Debono was Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono’s husband.
No tenders were issued for the work carried out and neither did the contractors have a letter of acceptance to show for the work done.
To be paid, the private contractors would have to invoice the Gozo ministry on work which they did not carry out but under other projects that falls under the remit of the works department of the Ministry for Gozo, where Anthony Debono was in charge.
All the material for these works was provided by the Gozo ministry itself – including cement, stone and metal mesh.
Addressing the Gozitan residents, Muscat reiterated that he would be voting ‘yes’ in the spring hunting referendum.
“It would be very easy for me if the abrogative referendum were to pass, relieving me of a massive headache,” he quipped.
Calling hunters who target protected birds “criminals”, Muscat said all hunters were responsible for the illegalities committed by others.
“I believe that we should continue derogating because this is a government strong enough to close the season when illegalities and abuses occur.”
Muscat added that the Labour MPs were given a free vote.
